Cursed Complexion? Break the Spell With These 3 Skincare Remedies
Do you look in the mirror and start to poke and prod at your skin? Are you constantly Googling ways to have better skin? Are you the first in line to buy every new skin and makeup product launch? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, then you’re in the right place.
From acne to dullness to hyperpigmentation, there are various skin issues that could be affecting your complexion. Here’s how to break the spell of these common skincare problems.
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1. Say Goodbye to Acne With Prescriptions
If acne is your biggest skincare woe, then you’re probably well versed in drugstore offerings. Your medicine cabinet may be overflowing with gels, creams, and serums promising to provide clear skin. While some may experience good results with these over-the-counter options, others may need something a bit stronger.
Prescription acne medications range from topicals to oral medications. Many can be used in combination with one another for maximum results. Tretinoin, for instance, is a retinoid cream that unclogs pores and increases collagen production. Because it improves skin turnover, you get to experience a fresh face quite often. Tretinoin is often prescribed along with oral antibiotics like Minocycline, which prevents the growth of bacteria, also reducing breakouts.
Getting an online acne prescription is easier than ever thanks to telehealth. After an online consultation with a healthcare provider, you can get a personalized skin treatment plan that works for you. Best of all, these prescriptions can be sent directly to your door so you can start feeling better in your skin in no time. And if your plan needs to be adjusted, your healthcare provider is always available for another consultation to make additional recommendations.
2. Brighten Tired, Dull Skin With Proper Nourishment
Glowy, dewy skin is “the look.” Celebrities like Hailey Bieber have been touting their “no makeup makeup look” since last year. However, achieving this look takes more than a swipe of a celebrity-endorsed makeup product. Having radiant, supple skin starts with incorporating some simple habits into your everyday routine.
Having bright skin starts with being properly hydrated! Dehydration reduces blood flow to the skin, resulting in parched, itchy skin. You may even notice your complexion is uneven and see more fine lines and wrinkles. If you’re thirsty, then you’re likely already dehydrated. Drinking half of your bodyweight in ounces of water is a good start to ensuring your body — and your skin — is hydrated.
In addition to hydration, proper nutrition is essential to radiance. A diet full of processed, sugary foods can increase inflammation, resulting in an excess of toxins in the body. Just like eating an abundance of these foods makes you feel sluggish, your skin can look lifeless too. Too much caffeine and alcohol can also be detrimental, pulling moisture out of your skin barrier.
Instead of going through the drive-in again, focus on filling your plate with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant rich foods. Think dark, leafy greens, nuts and seeds, fatty fish like salmon, and vitamin-packed berries. Not only will these foods fuel your body, but your skin will start to glow from the inside out.
3. Reduce Hyperpigmentation With Serums and Special Procedures
Dark spots, often referred to as hyperpigmentation, are another common skincare concern that many individuals face. Hyperpigmentation can be caused by too much sun and acne scars. Many pregnant women often see an increase in dark spots during and after their pregnancy due to a condition called melasma. While you can’t scrub these spots away, there are treatments that will lessen their appearance.
First, you’ll want to start incorporating a vitamin C serum into your daily routine. This topical antioxidant blocks free radicals and prevents melanin production. Vitamin C won’t eliminate hyperpigmentation, but it will help the spots seem less noticeable. Apply the product in the morning, after you cleanse but before you moisturize. Also, be diligent with your sunscreen, as missing this step could lead to further sun damage.
To take it a step further, you may want to consider getting either a laser treatment or a chemical peel. Lasers use targeted beams to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation. Ablative lasers remove layers of skin, and non-ablative lasers stimulate new skin cell growth. Both types of lasers can address hyperpigmentation, but you may need to repeat a non-ablative laser treatment several times before you see results.
Chemical peels work similar to ablative lasers in that they remove the outermost layer of skin. Some peels can be done at home, while others require going to a dermatologist. At home peels aren’t as powerful as those done by a professional, so they may be a waste of your time and money. Always do your research before getting a procedure to ensure you feel comfortable with the dermatologist who will be performing it.
Takeaways
Getting the flawless complexion of your dreams doesn’t mean copying what everyone on TikTok is doing. What works for one person may not work for you. That’s why it can be beneficial to speak with a healthcare provider or licensed dermatologist. These professionals can help curate a skincare regimen and suggest procedures that will address your skincare woes.
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The 3 Remedies at a Glance
| Concern | Remedy in this article |
|---|---|
| 1. Acne | Prescription medications, from topicals to oral medications, often used in combination. Tretinoin is a retinoid cream that unclogs pores and increases collagen production; oral antibiotics like Minocycline prevent the growth of bacteria, reducing breakouts. A telehealth consultation can produce a personalized plan. |
| 2. Tired, dull skin | Hydration and nutrition. Drinking half of your body weight in ounces of water is a good starting point. Fill your plate with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant-rich foods: dark, leafy greens, nuts and seeds, fatty fish like salmon, and vitamin-packed berries. Limit processed, sugary foods and excess caffeine and alcohol. |
| 3. Hyperpigmentation | A daily vitamin C serum, plus laser treatment or a chemical peel for a step further. At-home peels are not as powerful as those done by a professional, so research the dermatologist before a procedure. |
Related Reading
- Kojic Acid Soap: Unlocking Brighter, Clearer Skin
- Hydration Hacks: 7 Tips to Drink More Water Throughout the Day
- Repairing Your Hair: Essential Hair Care Tips for Damaged Hair
Frequently Asked Questions
How do prescription acne medications work?
Prescription acne medications range from topicals to oral medications, and many can be used in combination. Tretinoin is a retinoid cream that unclogs pores and increases collagen production, while oral antibiotics like Minocycline prevent the growth of bacteria, reducing breakouts.
How much water should I drink for brighter skin?
This article suggests drinking half of your body weight in ounces of water as a good starting point, since dehydration reduces blood flow to the skin and can leave it parched, itchy, and uneven.
What helps reduce hyperpigmentation?
Start with a vitamin C serum in your daily routine. To take it a step further, consider a laser treatment or a chemical peel. At-home peels are not as powerful as those done by a professional.
Do I need a dermatologist or healthcare provider for these remedies?
For prescriptions, an online consultation with a healthcare provider can produce a personalized plan. For procedures, speak with a licensed dermatologist and do your research before getting a procedure.
This article is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information presented is researched from trusted sources including peer-reviewed scientific journals, CDC, NIH, WHO, and recognized health organizations. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet, exercise routine, or health regimen.
