New Year, New You! Make Healthy Skin Your Focus in 2023

The New Year is almost upon us, and it’s time to take a look toward the future – the future of our skin. 

We don’t often think of skin health as distinct from overall health, but skin cancer is the most widely diagnosed cancer in the United States. Because dermatologists are uniquely experienced and trained in identifying potentially serious skin abnormalities, having a regular skin cancer screening gives you the best possible chance of a quick and easy recovery if any suspicious moles are found. 

Of course, everyone needs more than one resolution! In addition to scheduling your annual skin check, here are a few other skin-related goals you should consider in the coming year. 

Have a skin check. 

Let’s be clear: everyone should be screened for skin cancer. However, if you have a family history of skin cancer, multiple moles, or a history of intense UV exposure, you are at a particularly high risk. 

A skin check is a comprehensive evaluation of your entire body, including your scalp, face, behind your ears, and every crack and crevice of your body down to the soles of your feet. 

But before your appointment, you should examine your entire body to see if there are any unusual growths or changes that might be of concern. If you notice anything different, alert your doctor before the examination begins. 

Keep it simple, sweetie! 

The sheer number of skincare products on the market can seem overwhelming, especially because there are so many different options for addressing common issues. However, more isn’t always better. 

Regularly layering on multiple skin care products can leave skin irritated, inflamed, and more susceptible to sun damage and accelerated aging. You might not even be experiencing the benefit of the active ingredients because different, incompatible products could interfere with other products’ efficacy. 

Instead, give your skin’s barrier a boost by getting out of its way. The outermost skin layer – commonly known as the barrier – protects the skin’s internal layers from environmental toxins, helps prevent water loss, and shields you from bacteria that could cause breakouts. Sticking to a simple routine and using a line of products designed to work together for enhanced effectiveness is your best bet. 

If acne is your primary concern, WestDerm’s Acne Kit is a fantastic, medical-grade product line that gently exfoliates while protecting your skin from oxidative damage.

For skin that can use a bit more hydration, the Ultimate Hydration Regimen is a comprehensive kit that helps skin retain needed moisture with Green Tea Polyphenols and Hyaluronic Acid. 

Don’t ignore your body! 

Of course – we don’t ignore our body skin, exactly. However, many of us take greater care with our selection of facial products than we do with our choice of body wash. 

This new year, give your whole body the love you give your face! Our Glycolic Skin Softening Body Lotion with 15% Glycolic Acid is an oil-free, light, and highly moisturizing product that smooths out rough patches and leaves skin buttery soft. 

If you struggle with occasional breakouts on your chest, back, and shoulders, WestDerm Body Acne Clearing Spray delivers a Salicylic Acid and Glycolic Acid formula that helps unclog pores and slough away dead skin cells that lead to inflammation and breakouts. 

Be vigilant about sunscreen. 

Wintertime is no time to be slack about sun protection. Even if your body is mostly shielded from the cold, your face and neck are still exposed to the sun’s rays. Make sure your New Year’s resolution is to apply a generous layer of sunscreen to your face and lips daily. One of our favorites is WestDerm’s Antioxidant Moisturizing Sunscreen with SPF 50. 

As for your lips, WestDerm’s Plumping Lip Treatment with SPF 30 protects your lips from damaging UV rays while giving them a luscious volume boost with Hyaluronic Acid. 

Schedule your New Year skin check with us today! 

One of the best holiday gifts you can give yourself is a complete skin check by a qualified dermatologist. Begin 2023 with a focus on your skin’s health and radiance!