A few changes to your daily skin-care routine can make a big difference in how your skin looks and feels. Here’s what dermatologists suggest.
Don’t scrub too hard.
It might feel good to exfoliate with a rough sponge or loofah, or to use a scrub made with grains, seeds, or other tiny particles. But these can cause redness and tiny tears in your skin — especially if you have sensitive skin.
“The body can perceive these as injuries,” says Leila Tolaymat, MD, a dermatologist at the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, FL. “For a lot of people, it’s better to use a gentle washcloth and work up a nice lather of soap or cleanser.” Tolaymat also likes washcloths because you can wash them regularly, which can help keep bacteria away.
If rough-textured scrubs don’t bother your skin, it’s fine to use them occasionally, says Temitayo Ogunleye, MD, assistant professor of clinical dermatology at the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine.
“If you’re looking for something more luxurious, they can be nice once a week or so,” she says. “But on a daily basis — especially in the winter when skin tends to be drier — I recommend a mild soap or cleanser.” Read more
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