Derm School: 5 tips from a Consultant Dermatologist for glowing skin

Here are Dr Ophelia Veraitch’s expert tips and tricks to help your skin stay gorgeous, glowing and blemish free all summer.

Your skin is your biggest organ and the largest barrier you have against infection and harmful pollutants. It does an amazing job of keeping you healthy from the outside in, and yet it’s so easy to damage skin. However, the things that often harm skin – from unwashed make-up brushes to allergic reactions to ingredients – are often easily rectified with a few small changes to your beauty routine.  

Ditch the make-up

‘Typically when people stop wearing make-up, especially if the make-up they were wearing was occlusive or comedogenic – i.e. pore blocking – they notice after a week that their skin looks a lot better,’ says Dr Ophelia. ‘A skin cycle is typically around 28 days – meaning it takes that long for old cells to shed and new ones replace them. If you can avoid wearing make-up for at least 28 days, your body will be in a much better position to regulate your skin’s temperature, oil production, hydration level and natural exfoliation process,’ she adds. 

During the lockdowns it has been easier to go make-up free, but for those increasingly getting out and about Dr Ophelia recommends ‘non comedogenic coverage, ideally with an SPF’.

Choose the right cleanser

Even when not wearing make-up, it’s still important to cleanse properly day and night. But the ingredients in some cleansers and toners can cause irritation, especially to those with inflammatory skin conditions such as rosacea or contact dermatitis. 

FOR DRY SKIN: Dr Ophelia advises to look for gentle products if you are prone to dry skin. ‘Foaming agents, astringent products including toners that remove oils, as well as scrubs and acids containing alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) can be too strong for dry skin types,’ explains Dr Ophelia. ‘Instead, hypoallergenic formulations and perfume-free products that specifically target sensitive skin are a good choice.’

FOR OILY SKIN: Dr Veraitch advises you look for products that are oil-free, alcohol-free and with a water base. ‘Oil-based and ointment-based make-up is much more likely to clog pores.’ 

Use the right moisturiser

As much as 300ml of water can be lost through your skin each day. This is known as trans epidermal water loss, or TEWL for short. This is why a regular moisturiser is vital to maintain your skin’s barrier function. ‘Choose a moisturiser that suits your skin type,’ says Dr Veraitch. ‘For oily, acne-prone skin, go for one that won’t clog pores. For those prone to eczema and rosacea, choose a thicker moisturiser.’

Drink up and the wonders of hyaluronic acid!

It’s worth noting that natural hydration ultimately has to come from within your body: skin dehydration cannot be solely reversed only by applying moisturiser. ‘Dehydration has been found to affect cognition, concentration and your ability to think clearly and control mood,’ says Dr Ophelia, ‘Drinking plenty of water is not only essential for your brain to continue to function well, it’s also essential for your skin. Advice on how much water you drink a day continues to vary, but most experts believe that around two litres a day is the optimum. Swapping your coffee for water with lemon, or your normal tea for a mint tea helps to reduce the caffeine intake and insure your body, and skin, are getting the hydration they need. This will not only keep your mind and body healthy, but also make sure your skin is hydrated, which results in it looking smoother, plumper and more youthful.’

Dr Ophelia also recommends injectable hyaluronic acid, such as Profhilo. She says that ‘this is one of our most popular treatments as it gives patients a natural, plumped and glowy appearance’.

Wear sun protection 

‘There is no such thing as a safe tan,’ says Dr Ophelia. ‘When cells are exposed to UV light, collagen degenerates. This causes loss of volume, fine lines and winkles. Apply a broad spectrum SPF regularly throughout the day and reapply it if you do sport or get your skin wet.’  

If you are suffering from a skin condition and need support from an award-winning and highly respected Consultant Dermatologist, book an appointment today at Dr Veraitch's London Clinic.

Shop the full Dr. Ophelia skin care range here.