Did you know June is officially "Beautiful in Your Skin" month?
Summer is practically here, so it's a great time to adopt healthy skin care habits, such as wearing sunscreen, staying hydrated, gentle cleansing, and scheduling regular visits to the dermatologist. It’s also time to embrace the beauty of our beautiful and unique skin types. Here's how loving your skin type can keep your skin beautiful in any season and at any age!
What is Beautiful in Your Skin Month?
How often do you think about the health and integrity of your skin? Of course, we notice our skin when there are aesthetic changes like acne, rashes, wrinkles, or problematic growths. However, we don't necessarily think about what the changes mean about our overall health.
Your skin is your body's largest organ. It's your first defense against harmful elements; it shields your internal organs from pollutants, ultraviolet radiation, traumatic injury, thermal injury, and microbes. Moreover, it regulates your internal temperature and prevents the loss of fluids.
In short, skin is irreplaceable. It deserves all our love and respect!
Beautiful in Your Skin Month is an awareness initiative launched to help people appreciate the vital importance of skin health by recognizing the diversity of skin textures, types, and shades. Everyone is different, and every skincare routine should be tailored to those unique differences.
In addition to promoting healthy skin care habits, Beautiful in Your Skin Month also provides an opportunity to celebrate diversity and inclusivity. The initiative encourages people to embrace their unique skin tones and textures rather than feeling pressured to conform to unrealistic and continually changing beauty standards.
What is my Skin Type?
The American Academy of Dermatology recognizes five skin types:
- Dry skin. Dry skin, or xerosis, occurs when the skin loses its natural moisture and becomes tight, rough, and flaky. Lack of moisture can lead to itching, scaling, cracking, and even bleeding in severe cases.
- Combination skin. Combination skin is a common skin type characterized by having both oily and dry areas on the face. This condition causes parts of the face, such as the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin), to be oily, while others may be dry.
- Oily skin. Sebum is a natural oil produced by the sebaceous glands located in the skin's pores. When these glands produce too much sebum, the skin appears shiny and greasy.
- Sensitive skin. Sensitive skin refers to a condition where the skin is more reactive than normal skin, meaning it is more prone to irritation, itching, and other uncomfortable sensations. Irritants like certain chemicals, fragrances, and cosmetics exacerbate the condition. It is most commonly found on the face, neck, and hands.
- Normal skin. Normal skin is characterized by a smooth and even texture and a healthy and clear appearance. It is neither oily nor dry, with small pores.
While most people's skin falls under one of these five categories, there are also numerous additional qualities that affect the appearance, comfort, and health of our skin. Though traditional skin type classification is easily understandable and accessible, it doesn't address the full scope of skin types, which can include the following:
- Melanin-rich skin
- Sun-damaged/environmentally damaged skin
- Aging skin
- Thinning skin
- Tattooed skin
Moreover, facial and body hair can significantly affect the texture and clarity of our skin.
The best way to determine the most effective skincare routine for your skin type is by consulting a dermatologist and undergoing a comprehensive evaluation of your skin.
How a Dermatologist Can Help You Discover Your Skin Type
Consulting a dermatologist for a skincare routine is essential for maintaining healthy skin.
A dermatologist can help determine the right skincare routine for your unique skin type and concerns. For example, did you know that
lower ceramide levels is common in darker skin tones?
Dermatologists have specialized training in diagnosing and treating various skin conditions, including acne, eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea. They can also identify any underlying skin issues contributing to your skin concerns.
A dermatologist can recommend skincare products and prescription medications that address your individual skin type. Dermatologists can also design a customized skincare routine that addresses your needs.
Consulting a dermatologist for an appropriate skincare regimen is especially important if you have sensitive skin or are prone to allergies. They can help identify any ingredients in skincare products that may be causing irritation or allergic reactions.
Stay Beautiful in Your Skin!
Visiting a dermatologist during Beautiful in Your Skin Month will empower you with the information and support you need to keep your skin healthy and radiant.
