Having a perfect, smooth and glowing complexion is something every woman dreams of. Everyday we are bombarded by information on how to care for our skin. However practicing these hearsay methods mostly do more harm than good. This is why it is essential to listen to a specialist’s opinion before starting any skincare, even if the products are completely natural. Anadolu Medical Centre Dermatology Specialist Dr. Figen Akın provides information on the wrongs we come to think as right in skin care.

Skin aging is a result of both internal and external reasons. Internal process is defined by the person’s genetic makeup. External aging on the other hand is an outcome of several factors including smoking (inhibits surface blood circulation), excessive alcohol consumption, poor nutrition, exposure to sunlight and adverse environmental conditions (bad lifestyle).

According to Anadolu Medical Centre Dermatology Specialist Dr. Figen Akın skin care must concentrate on delaying the aging process. She provides the following information on the issue:

“Ultraviolet rays are responsible for almost 80 percent of external skin aging. This is why it is imperative to use sun block cream throughout the year (including winter months) to protect the skin from the damaging effects of ultraviolet rays. Maintaining skin moisture is important at all ages. This is why drinking at least 2.5-3 litres of water a day is very important in sustaining a healthy complexion. Keeping to an antioxidant rich diet (especially in older ages) and regular exercise play an equally important role in retaining a healthy diet.

The flaking process of skin’s top layers (cell renewal period) gradually slows down with age. Skin appears pale and becomes rougher as the top layers remain intact. It is important to use a suitable cleansing product twice a day (morning & evening) to tackle this pale appearance. Prefer gels for oily skin and creamy textured products for dry skin types. Should there be no apparent skin sensitivity it is a good idea to use stronger exfoliant products that contain hydroxic acid (AHA) or retinoid. Skin cleansing using water and soap alone will dehydrate the skin.

It is crucial for proper daily skin care to use a suitable moisturiser twice a day (morning & evening) following cleansing. Supple and moist skin is always softer and more glowing. On a similar note it is equally as important to properly determine personal skin characteristics before purchasing skin care products.”

Always consult a dermatologist before purchasing skin care products

One of the most common mistakes in skin care is using products before determining skin type and its characteristics. There are a great variety of products on the market. Dr. Figen Akın had the following to say about these products:

 “People who purchase products not knowing their skin type are likely to experience skin dryness and irritation. On the other hand, facial and body care products including fragranced products, bath oils, moisturisers, shampoos and other cosmetic products contain a large number of essential oils like jojoba, tea tree and lavender whilst skin care products contain amount of metals (including nickel, cobalt, chrome), preservatives (including lanolin, PABA and derivatives) as well as additives like propylene glycole which all can cause the person to develop allergic contact dermatitis. This is why it is best to use products according to specialist recommendations following determination of skin type.”

Skin stain removers may cause further stains

It is common knowledge that coconut oil propagates formation of blackheads. Your skin may in fact have no need for the applied herbal products. For instance applying vinegar, yoghurt or certain acids on the skin stains coupled with poor protection from sunlight may even increase the extent of discoloration.

Getting skin care and facials at inexperienced beauty parlours are known to have side effects like acne and discoloration. Employees at beauty parlours are usually misinformed about skin type and their characteristics. Getting skin care at these places without the supervision of experienced dermatologists can lead to several problems like acne, skin stains and contact reaction towards the products they use. It is much wiser to start skin care once puberty is over in lieu with physician’s recommendations following determination of ski type and its needs.