Healthy Foods for Dry Skin

Parched or dry skin is caused by its inability to retain moisture - It usually has a low level of sebum and can be prone to sensitivity. Chapping and cracking are signs of extremely dry or dehydrated skin which can be exacerbated by wind, extreme temperature and air conditioning which cause the skin to flake and feel tight. 

There are many products that will help you care for dry skin but here are some recommendations that are more diet based to revive your skin...Hydrating your skin can prevent wrinkles and other signs of premature aging so get to it!

1. Avoid alcohol and caffeine - These substances have a diuretic effect that cause the body and skin cells to lose fluids and essential minerals.

2. Drink at least 2 quarts of *quality water* every day 

3. No soft drinks! Do not eat sugar, chocolate or potato chips - These foods are not healthy to consume when you have dry skin. Also try to avoid fried foods, animal fats and heat processed vegetable oils which can produce free radicals.

4. Eat a balanced diet that includes veggies, fruits, grains, seeds and nuts - And increase your intake of healthy raw foods. Consume plenty of yellow and orange colored vegetables as these are high in beta carotene.

5. Garlic, Onions, Eggs and Asparagus are high in Sulfur which keeps the skin smooth and youthful.

6. Eat Fish about 3 times a week - This healthy food has no competition when it comes to antioxidant Omega 3.

Over-Exfoliation

How much is too much exfoliation?

Exfoliation delivers a tighter, firmer, smoother look and feel of the skin and can reduce breakouts and pore size, but because the results are so noticeable many of us will easily fall into the trap of over-exfoliation.  This over zealous approach can actually reduce your skin's vitality and make it more susceptible to damage from UV light as well as lines and wrinkles. Over-exfoliation can lead to a compromised lipid barrier that increases skin sensitivity and accelerates premature aging.

If your skin is noticeably dehydrated or has patchy areas of dryness, is overly taught, itchy or red, if you have increased sensitivity or inflamed acne or irritation you may be over-exfoliating. In most cases a calming cleanser and toner and a protective moisturizer will start the recovery process for skin healing from over-exfoliation. And as usual sun protection is a must!

After your skin has recovered you can begin exfoliating again with a gentle exfoliant designed for daily use or a more intense non-abrasive chemical exfoliant like Salicylic Acid or Lactic Acid - To enjoy smoother skin without without the undesirable side effects pair a more gentle regimen with professional exfoliation treatments from your professional skin care therapist.

If you're suffering from over-exfoliation and need product help or are interested in booking a series of exfoliating microderm-abrasion treatments or peels please give us a call to schedule your next appointment with one of our highly trained skincare professionals (310) 577-2211.