Are You Being Kind Enough to Your Skin?

Your skin is the first line of defense against bacteria and other negative organisms. So naturally you want to take the best care of it!

The well-being of your skin influences more than your physical health; it affects the way you live your life. We at the office of Dermatology for the Family understand this and are here for you. We listen to your needs and help your skin stay in its best shape.

Despite all of your efforts to care for your skin, you may be making some unintentional missteps. Here are some common mistakes. 

Using the wrong type of cleansers. Facial skin is delicate and sensitive. Stick with gentle, unscented face washes that clean yet moisten. Antibacterial soaps will handle your armpits, but if the rest of your skin is on the dry side, use a shower gel with added moisturizers. 

Bathing too often. No matter which you prefer—showers or baths—you might not need one more than a few times per week (unless you get sweaty or grimy, of course). This is particularly true if you live where winters are cold. Washing, especially with hot water, erodes your skin of its healthy oil; frequent bathing could make your skin dry, cracked and itchy. P.S.: Continue to wash your hands often.

Not moisturizing right after bathing. Apply a nourishing cream, lotion or balm shortly after you dry off. 

Not laundering your bath towels and washcloths often. Nasty stuff such as viruses, mold, yeasts and bacteria thrive on damp towels, particularly in humid environments. Icky towels and washcloths offer up ringworm, warts, athlete’s foot, jock itch and toenail fungus. Spread them out to dry after each use, and wash or change them weekly. 

And speaking of “nasty,” that’s how loofahs get if you don’t blast the germs from their nooks by soaking them in diluted bleach for five minutes and rinsing them well. Between uses, wring it out and hang it somewhere cool to dry. Replace a natural loofah every three to four weeks and a plastic one every two months.

If you suffer from any skin issues, the office of Dermatology for the Family is here to help. Your care and comfort are our top priorities. We will take the time to address your every concern and explain your options in care. For more information about our many services, please don’t hesitate to call us today.