10 May Medical Grade Skin Care for a Better Summer Routine
It’s the time of year when everyone starts applying sunscreen with a new ferocity, and while we at Parson Skin Center wholeheartedly support that decision, we also want to remind you there’s much more to it than that! Keep in mind that the sun’s dangerous UV rays are prevalent year-round and are present even in rainy or cloudy weather, so properly applying quality sunscreen 12 months out of the year is a must. But what exactly is “quality sunscreen” and how can you tell? It’s actually pretty easy: strictly use medical-grade skin care products.
The difference between medical grade and non-medical grade products has to do with the quality and concentration of active ingredients. Legally, only medical-grade skin care products can carry specific levels of active ingredients (the list is vast, but a prime example is retinol). This means you need to use less of medical-grade products to get optimum results. This is also why you see economy-sized jugs of so-called skin care products at grocery stores but not at your dermatologist’s office.
Simply put, medical-grade products have gone through rigorous testing, are backed by science, and have more of the active ingredients that actually help your skin.
The Many Options in Sunscreen
Since summer is nearly here, one of the most popular skin care products at the moment is sunscreen. When choosing a sunscreen, it’s paramount that you get broadband protection, which shields your skin from both UV-A and UV-B rays. Both are harmful to the skin, but some non-medical sunscreens don’t protect you from both. You’ll also want a sunscreen that’s at least 30 SPF.
How you apply sunscreen and how often is just as important as the quality of your sunscreen. Even a medical-grade sunscreen is pointless if not applied correctly. You’ll need to liberally apply sunscreen 30 minutes before you’re exposed to UV rays and reapply every 75 minutes. If you plan on spending over an hour outdoors or sitting next to windows, it’s a good idea to set a timer. Also be mindful to apply sunscreen around the eyes, which studies have shown is one of the most common places missed by people during sunscreen application.
What About Other Skin Care Products?
Sunscreen is a critical part of your daily routine, but it’s not the only important skin care product. Sunscreen prevents skin cancer and signs of aging, but medical-grade products from ZO Skin Health, SkinBetter Science, SkinMedica, and other reputable lines offer a variety of options to further improve the health and quality of your skin. Establishing a daily routine under the guidance of skin experts is the best way to get the clear, bright, youthful skin you desire and deserve.
However, creating a skin care routine isn’t a one and done task. Your skin changes, and as the seasons change you’ll also need to adjust your approach. For most people, a daily cleanser and moisturizer is the bare minimum (along with a sunscreen of course). Additional add-ons can address unique challenges whether it’s acne, dark spots, fine lines and wrinkles, puffiness, poor skin tone or texture, or any other concern.
Creating the Best Skin Care Routine for You
With so many products out there, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. You can easily narrow down your options by strictly treating your skin with medical-grade products, but even then you’ll be faced with quite a few options! Parson Skin Center is here to help you create the ultimate skin care routine for you based only on what will benefit your skin and nothing more. Simplicity is often the best approach for numerous reasons, from not overloading your skin to ensuring you have a routine that actually works with you and your lifestyle.
If you have non-medical products, products that don’t seem to be working, or products that have expired, you are not doing yourself or your skin any favors. Take this time to “spring clean” your routine and connect with Parson Skin Center today. Book your appointment online right now and let’s work together to create the best skin care routine for you.