Hand holding a clear gel-like skincare product. Hand holding a clear gel-like skincare product.

Skincare Q&A: Top 10 FAQs

Skincare can be simple and effective. A few minutes each day with the right products can make a noticeable difference. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about skincare:

What causes acne?

Acne is primarily caused by excess sebum (oil) and clogged pores. While the exact reasons why some individuals experience acne and others don't remain unclear, hormonal fluctuations likely play a significant role. Acne is most prevalent during puberty and young adulthood, affecting about 80% of people before age 30. While stress may contribute due to its impact on hormones, definitive links between stress, diet, or light makeup and acne haven't been established. Gentle cleansing (no more than twice daily) and avoiding harsh scrubbing, exfoliation, and touching affected areas are recommended.

Person with blemishes on their face.
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What are the most important parts of a skincare routine?

Daily sunscreen use is paramount to protect against sun damage, which can lead to skin cancer, wrinkles, and dark spots. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher is essential. A basic routine should also include gentle cleansing and moisturizing of the face and neck, both morning and night.

How can I avoid wrinkles?

While wrinkles are a natural part of aging, limiting sun exposure, daily sunscreen use, and using products containing antioxidants and retinoids can help delay their onset and minimize their appearance.

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What should I do about dark spots?

UV exposure and hormonal changes can cause dark spots. Sun avoidance and sunscreen use are crucial for prevention. Exfoliation, prescription medications, or specific dark spot correctors and moisturizers can help treat existing spots. Choose products formulated for your skin type.

How can I prevent aging skin?

Skin naturally loses elasticity and collagen with age, leading to wrinkles and sagging. Daily sunscreen, eye creams, and topical products containing retinoids and antioxidants can help mitigate these effects.

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What’s the best way to handle sensitive skin?

Gentle cleansing with non-irritating products is key. Avoid harsh cleansers and products containing potentially irritating ingredients. Look for products specifically formulated for sensitive skin.

How do I know if a product is right for me?

While trying a product is sometimes the only way to be certain, checking the label and ingredient list can help. Opt for fragrance-free products with minimal alcohol content and labeled as suitable for sensitive skin.

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Do I really need to wear sunscreen every day?

Yes! Daily sunscreen use is crucial for protecting against skin cancer and other sun-related damage, including wrinkles, fine lines, freckles, and uneven skin tone.

How can I fix an uneven skin tone?

Uneven skin tone, often caused by uneven pigment distribution, sun exposure, or hormonal changes, can be addressed with serums, creams, or moisturizers containing ingredients like vitamin C. Regular exfoliation can also help by removing dead skin cells.

Close-up of a person's face with an uneven skin tone.
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How do I find out my skin type?

Skin types are generally categorized as normal, oily, dry, sensitive, or combination. Skin type can change over time and be influenced by hormones, medications, and diet. To determine your skin type, wash your face gently and leave it product-free for several hours, then observe its characteristics in different areas. Paying attention to your skin's appearance, feel, and reactions to products is crucial for developing an effective skincare routine.