What's Really Behind Healthy-Looking Skin

Having healthy skin goes so much deeper than how it looks on the surface. In recognition of National Healthy Skin Month, we thought we would take the opportunity to share a few skin care insights from our researchers to help you achieve hydrated, healthy-looking skin all year long:

Be gentle to your natural skin mantle

Behind every healthy and vibrant complexion is a fully intact natural acid mantle, which sounds a bit strange, but it merely refers to a protective layer of your skin which helps to lock in moisture and nutrients while keeping environmental toxins out. Your job is protecting this natural acid mantle by avoiding overzealous scrubbing with harsh cleansers and exfoliating agents, which can strip your skin and undermine its integrity. When the waterproofing barrier is damaged, moisture is no longer retained in the skin, resulting in dehydrated skin that feels dry, tight, and irritated. Ultimately, skin becomes thin and compromised, leaving it vulnerable to environmental stressors such as sunlight, cold, heat, various chemicals, and pollution. 

It's never too late to have healthy-looking skin

If you’ve overdone it and your skin is parched, dull, and drab, it’s never too late to restore your skin to a vibrant, balanced state. Your first step is wearing a physical sunscreen every day of the year to protect your skin from UV rays, your skin’s #1 enemy. Limit face washing to twice a day in the morning and evening and apply a non-comedogenic moisturizer immediately following your cleansing to help seal in moisture. Whether you are prone to breakouts or suffer from dry, tight skin, scientifically proven, results-driven skin care formulations suit a wide range of skin types, and skin care professionals are at the ready to help you find the ideal products for your skin.

Skin care is a rewarding journey

As they say, Rome wasn’t built in a day. Your skin is constantly under construction, so it can take months to fully see the benefits of your skin's journey to a vibrant, balanced appearance. Diligent, proactive skin care is key, applying your carefully chosen skin care products on a daily basis. But beyond that, taking a “hands off” approach is wise. In other words, avoid picking, scrubbing, and fussing with your skin. If you treat your skin tenderly, you should start to notice improvements in no time!