8 Steps for Guarding Your Skin Against the Environment

 

8 Steps for Guarding Your Skin Against the Environment

1. Try a Mineral Sunscreen to Avoid Sun Damage

Wearing sunscreen is the No. 1 goal, but many dermatologists like Chwalek prefer SPFs that contain titanium dioxide or zinc oxide, which are ingredients that physically block UV rays. “Chemical sunscreens allow some absorption of light, which is why I think physical blockers are superior. They’re a bit more aggressive in protecting you from UV rays,” she says. You’ll find these in sunscreens that have “mineral-based” on the label.

2. Pick a Tinted Sunscreen for a Product That Does Double Duty

To better block blue light, look for a tinted moisturizer with SPF, says Garshick. Iron oxides, which are formulated into tinted sunscreens, are the ingredient that shields skin from this type of light spectrum. (It’s what provides the tint.) She likes EltaMD UV Daily Tinted Broad-Spectrum SPF 40 or SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50.

3. Pick a Functional Powder for On-the-Go Sun Protection

Visible light can aggravate existing pigmentation problems, says Garshick, and you should have a product that you can reapply when indoors. Powders with a built-in SPF are great options because you can dust these on over existing makeup. They’re particularly useful if you work in an office and need a midday touch-up. Try Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50.

4. Ramp Up on Red Algae to Guard Against Blue Light

If you don’t like tinted primers, another option is to look for a product with red algae, which is designed to protect against blue light, says Garshick. She likes Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen.

5. Go for Vitamins C and E in the Morning

“Antioxidants neutralize the free radicals that are prematurely breaking down collagen and elastin,” says Garshick. Vitamin C often works better with the addition of vitamin E, according to research, so you’ll find them together in certain formulations, she says. One frequently recommended by dermatologists: SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic. Use this serum in the morning to prep skin with the defenses it needs during the day.

6. Opt for Antioxidants Like Glutathione and Resveratrol

Antioxidants have their place at night, too, as they can help repair damage done during the day, says Garshick. Look for resveratrol (which research has shown is a powerful antioxidant found in red wine that sops up free radicals) in SkinCeuticals Resveratrol B E. Garshick also recommends Good Science Beauty Skin Brightening Cream, as it’s packed with glutathione, another potent antioxidant that addresses dark spots to even tone, according to one study. You can also get antioxidants through supplements like Heliocare, which derives its sun-damage-fighting effects from the research-backed Polypodium leucotomos extract. However, it’s important to note that oral supplements are never a replacement for wearing sunscreen

7. Wash Up Carefully Before Bed

“It’s important to wash off the daily buildup of dirt and grime. That’s why a part of every good anti-aging routine is a gentle cleanser,” says Garshick. A mild wash like Dove’s Deep Moisture Body Wash will clean skin while keeping the skin barrier intact, lessening the chance of irritation.

8. Protect in the P.M.

Use products that help clear out the dust and debris that build up on the skin’s surface, says Garshick. She likes Good Science Beauty Purifying Face Cream, which targets toxins with oligopeptide-10, a plant-based antimicrobial peptide, the product website notes. Another recommendation is Elizabeth Arden Prevage Hydrating Fluid, which uses idebenone, an antioxidant that clears up environmental damage.