How often do you think about your skin? Not just the surface, but how it’s working below the surface from day to night. Skincare is a big deal for many people: In fact, according to The International Dermal Institute (IDI), “Americans spend more than $6 billion annually on dermatological treatments and products.” Whether you’re looking for prevention or correction of an issue with your skin, skincare should be a part of your daily routine. This blog post will discuss 11 steps that can help keep your skin healthy!

1. Always use a sunscreen with broad spectrum coverage when you go outside for long periods of time, rain or shine…even in winter! My personal sunscreen tip- let your SPF act as your morning moisturizer. Apply it every day, no questions asked!
2. When you’re trying to prevent wrinkles, ensure you’re using a daily facial serum and moisturizer that is formulated for mature skin. Serums can “challenge” the skin cells underneath and awaken them to come up to the surface to repair the skin. This is a GREAT thing! Then, apply your moisturizer to feed and protect these new cells.
3. Maintain hydration throughout the day by drinking lots of water and applying your sunscreen and moisturizer every day. The skin needs internal hydration as well as surface hydration. If you’re sweating heavily during the day, or had a little too much vino with dinner, be sure to compensate by drinking MORE water.
4. Don’t neglect the backs of your hands! Always use a daily moisturizer to protect this vulnerable area. Also using a SPF on the hands will prevent sun damage. The skin on the back of your hand is not protected by clothing and typically shows signs of aging sooner than other areas due to thinness, dehydration, etc.
5. Never go to bed without washing your face. Sleeping with makeup on creates a thriving environment for dead skin cell buildup, oil and bacteria waiting to wreck havoc on your face. Trust me! It takes a LONG time to correct the negative impact of going to bed with a dirty face. So, girl- wash your face!
6. Try to avoid touching your face throughout the day. We carry a ton of germs on our hands! Touching our face can cause skin irritation and possible infection from germs being transferred onto sensitive areas of the face.
7. Use a mask once or twice per week depending on your skin type; there are specific masks for every skin concern that you can use. Including masks to address breakouts and aging skin. Masks are not only result driven, but also relaxing.
8. Use a retinol anti-aging serum or cream for early wrinkles so you can start today to delay the signs of aging! When using a retinol, a good moisturizer and SPF is pertinent. Retinol can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Let the retinol work its magic and be sure to protect your skin!
9. Use a gentle but result driven skin care line for your face to prevent damage and irritation from harsh products or ingredients. You are worth it! Investing in quality skin care is the best way to keep your skin healthy, radiant, and glowing with health. At Nicole LaCroix Skin Care, we focus on safe and effective products. You can always shop here for product needs.
10. Exfoliate at least once per week on clean skin. Exfoliating helps to loosen dead skin cells by breaking down the goo that bonds them together. This allows new cells to surface, giving your daily glow an instant boost. Exfoliating also whisks away any dirt and debris deep within your pores that your cleanser may have missed. The result is a smooth, vibrant complexion.  Ooh, your products also penetrate better when the skin is well exfoliated!
11. Don’t forget about your neck and chest area! As we age, these are the areas that begin to show signs of aging first, so take good care of them when you’re taking care of yourself. It’s easier than correcting wrinkles after they become deep-set or permanent lines.

Be proactive with your skin care routine and you’ll see a noticeable difference in the quality of your skin! It will look more youthful, smooth, radiant, and healthy. Prevention is easier than correction.

To end, don’t forget…a good night’s sleep gives our body time to repair itself from daily wear and tear while we are resting. So, sleep well my friends!

With Love,

Nicole