Whole-body, science-based SKINCARE
By Leslie Peck / Photo by Getty Images
Summer heat means showing off more of your skin, and the key to an overall radiant glow is full-body skin health — not just focusing on the face and neck. Science-based ingredients that we look for in our facial skincare are now making their way into body care. The three things necessary to improve the appearance of skin are: exfoliation, hydration and barrier support. This goes beyond simply grabbing your go-to body lotion at the drugstore to apply after a shower. Dive into some of the high-tech ingredients that are being used in all-over body care. Soon, you will have the dewy finish we all love on our faces from head to toe. If you are having skin issues beyond normal dryness or redness, or if you have any other concerns, always consult your dermatologist for further direction.
Cleansing and Exfoliation
It is always best to use lukewarm water instead of hot to keep the skin from losing moisture. When choosing a body wash, look for ingredients that target your skin’s needs. Cleansing with serum-based products will relieve issues with intention and change the appearance of your skin.
Cleansing dry or sensitive skin
Look for body wash that has ceramides, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, colloidal oatmeal and plant oils. Avoid sulfates, parabens, fragrances and dyes. Glycolic acid and lactic acid (alpha-hydroxy acids) will improve the appearance of skin by exfoliating and removing dead skin cells.
Cleansing oily or
acne-prone skin
Use a wash containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid (beta-hydroxy acids). This will help clear acne on the back or chest and is also helpful for keratosis pilaris. If only certain areas are oily or acne prone, spot treat those areas with these ingredients.
Chemical exfoliants can be used 2-3 times per week for best results. Manual exfoliation can also be incorporated, such as dry brushing, exfoliating mitts and scrubs. Be mindful to use milder exfoliants on more sensitive skin and areas.
Hydrate, Stimulate and Repair
Many ingredients that we typically see in facial products are moving into full-body care. These include, retinols, exosomes, peptides, niacinamide and PDRN.
Retinol has been a staple serum for decades. It is a must in skincare to help with fine lines, texture and unwanted pigmentation.
If you really want to turn back time, try adding exosomes into your treatments. These tiny groups of proteins, growth factors and genetic particles wake up old cells, encouraging them to behave like younger ones. Your cells will receive a collagen and elastin boost, wound healing, scar repair and barrier support, along with calming properties for eczema, psoriasis and rosacea. Exosomes can be used with microneedling or post-laser treatments for increased absorption and healing.
Peptides, which have been around for years in various forms, are now making their way into more and more skincare products. They are short chains of amino acids that send signals to cells to produce collagen, generate firmness, reduce inflammation and improve elasticity.
Niacinamide is a favorite science-based ingredient because it produces proteins and ceramides and is tolerated by most skin types. It brightens and evens skin tone and calms inflammation in sensitive skin.
