5 Ways to Love your Skin
The skin is the largest organ in the body. It is important in barrier function (regulating water loss and protecting against external insults - including pathogens), temperature regulation, and implications in quality of life. Here are some general approaches to take care of your skin.
1. Sun protection
Cumulative exposure to UV radiation accelerates the aging process of skin and also increases the risk for both benign and malignant lesions. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States and is correlated with UV exposure from the sun or tanning booths. It’s not surprising, given how much surface area gets exposed to toxins and radiation.
You can prevent skin cancer and photoaging by wearing SPF 30+ sunscreen regularly, especially whenever you go outside. Even if it’s cloudy, even if your daily exposure is only during your commute to/from work, and even if your foundation has SPF. If you are outside for an extended period of time, make sure to reapply frequently — every 2 hours, or more frequently if the sun is strong. Don’t forget to protect your lips, ears, eyelids, and nasolabial folds (laugh lines). Wear sunglasses and a hat for extra shade, too. If you are out on the beach, do not ignore the feet.
Regularly examine your skin for any changes. If you notice a new mole, you can use the ABCDE guide to assess for suspicion of melanoma:
Asymmetry
Border irregularity
Color heterogeneity
Diameter > 6 mm (the size of a pencil eraser)
Evolution over time
This guide applies for common forms of melanoma, but not for basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas, which are more common. If you are suspicious about a new growth, consult a health professional.
2. Nightly facial skincare
Acne develops when pilosebaceous units (hair follicle & shaft + sebaceous gland + erector pili muscle) clog up with sebum. Propionibacterium acnes bacteria can proliferate and cause inflammation. To prevent breakouts, wash your face at the end of the day with nonirritating soap in order to get rid of oils and debris that have accumulated.
Topical retinoids (isotretinoin, tazarotene, retinol) have been shown to effectively treat and prevent several skin conditions, including acne, photaging (wrinkles), psoriasis, and scars. These are vitamin A derivatives that enhance repair from UV damage, improve collagen synthesis, and much more.
Finally, facial massage with a jade roller or gua sha is a great way to relax at the end of the day. Massage increases blood flow to the skin and stimulates collagen production. Used consistently, topical retinoids with massage and sun protection make the ultimate combination for youthful skin. Lanshin provides excellent online tutorials on facial gua sha.
3. Moisture balance
Healthy skin is hydrated skin. Without enough water, skin can get dry/rough and lose its elasticity. For other reasons, drinking enough fluids is important. In addition, lotions and creams provide extra lubrication and an extra barrier on the skin to fill in gaps between peeling (desquamating) skin cells.
Too much moisture, however, can destroy the skin’s barrier function and cause erosion, known as intertrigo. The groin and other skin folds are warm, moist environments with skin-to-skin contact. These conditions are also perfect for certain fungi to grow. Powder absorbs moisture and can therefore reduce inflammation and odors.
Recommended products:
Weleda Skin Food - excellent for dry skin, especially on the feet
Man1 Man Oil - for penile health and general healing
BeeFriendly Organic Vagina Moisturizer - for vulva health, especially great for chafing
4. First aid wound care
Any break in the skin can allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream. For minor injuries, immediately rinse the wound then apply antibiotics and a bandage. Some notable healing wonders include: aloe vera, manuka honey, omega-3, and guava leaves. Aloe vera, especially if home-grown, is the cheapest complementary approach. It has been shown to induce growth factors that stimulate collagen synthesis, which is necessary for healing. And of course, it’s great for sunburns and bug bites.
5. Chemical protection
Don’t forget about the basic things that your skin contacts. As with UV radiation, toxic compounds can cause oxidative damage to the skin and accelerate aging or cause disease. Aside from using skin products without harmful chemicals like PABA, phthalates, sulfates, and talc, you can maximize your skin health with clean air and water.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the lung network is associated with skin — this is intuitive because the lungs and skin both share the barrier function. Particulate matter in the air has been linked to many diseases affecting the lungs, heart, and skin. Smoke, for example, is known to trigger psoriasis and increase the risk of squamous cell carcinoma. Tap water is contaminated with minerals and can leave your skin dry and rough. Search the Environmental Working Group’s database to see what substances are in the water in your zip code. If you can afford it, consider investing in a shower filter for softer skin. If you have a HVAC system, make sure to use high quality HEPA filters. If you don’t have HVAC, you can buy an air purifier for your bedroom or office. And if you commute on public transport and/or live in a heavily polluted city, wear a face mask.
Recommended products:
IQAir Atem Personal Air Purifier - for a splurge
Levoit Air Purifier - alternative
The bottom line
Wear sunscreen
Use topical retinoids and massage your face
Stay hydrated, use lotion/cream for dry skin, use powder for moist skin
Treat wounds with proper first aid technique, use aloe vera or honey to enhance healing
Shower in clean water, breathe clean air
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References:
! Koohgoli R, et al. 2017. Bad air gets under your skin. Exp Dermatol. 26(5):384-387.