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Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and while we’re all gearing up to celebrate love and affection, it’s essential to be mindful of the sweet treats that often accompany this romantic occasion.
It’s no myth that overindulging during holidays can accelerate the aging of our skin. Our skin is composed of collagen and elastin which support our dermis. Glucose and fructose in sugar cause cross-linking of collagen which makes them incapable of easy repair. This leads to stiffening and loss of elasticity of our skin, leaving it dull, dry, and saggy.
Beyond its aging effects, Jelena Eddy, PA-C says, “There are many ways that sugar can take a toll on our skin, including worsening acne, premature aging, slower healing, and psoriasis flare ups.” In this blog, we will offer 5 tips on how to strike a balance between enjoying Valentine’s delights and maintaining a radiant, healthy complexion.
Tip 1: Fight Back Against Sweets with Antioxidants
One of the best ways to keep your skin healthy is to ensure that antioxidant products are part of your daily skincare regimen. Products such as Essential C and Daily C will help reduce oxidative stress, rejuvenate the look and feel of your complexion, and support the benefits of your favorite sunscreen. Additionally, antioxidant products help rejuvenate the complexion and provide a natural and healthy-looking glow.
Tip 2: Reduce the Risk of Acne Breakouts Brought on by Sweets
There are many factors that contribute to acne, and one of the most common is sudden changes in diet, particularly when those changes include an influx in sugar consumption. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, spikes in blood sugar cause inflammation throughout the body. The spikes also cause your body to make more sebum (an oily substance that the body produces naturally to moisturize the skin). Both inflammation and excess sebum can contribute to acne breakouts.
To combat acne this Valentine’s Day, it’s best to use products such as Retexture and Purify, which are specifically formulated to treat active lesions and reduce the presence of acne-causing bacteria, oil, and debris in the pores.
Tip 3: Sweeten up Your Moisturizing Routine Based on Your Destination
If you are planning a romantic getaway this Valentine’s Day, consider switching up your usual moisturizer based on how humid or dry your destination is. Dry skin, in addition to being itchy and unsightly, can damage the skin barrier—our outermost line of defense. When this happens, our skin becomes susceptible to an array of diseases and conditions that can wreak havoc on our complexions.
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Tip 4: Be Mindful of the Sweets You Eat
Remember, skin is the largest organ in your body! While skincare products can help fight the effects of sweets, it is important to be mindful of what we fuel our bodies with over the holidays.
Jelena Eddy. PA-C explains, “If you consume more sugar than your body needs, it can be stored for later use. Over time, this may cause a rise in insulin and in return causes an increase in inflammation and hormones which lead to greater amount of pore clogging oil production, leading to acne.” It is recommended to not consume more than 12 teaspoons of sugar a day. Try to stick with natural foods: fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Instead of adding flavor to water try adding fresh fruit like limes and lemons.
Tip 5: When in Doubt, Consult Your Skincare Professional
If you are having trouble adjusting your skincare regimen on your own, or if you would like addition tips from one of our trusted skincare professionals, contact Vanguard today at 719-355-1585 or fill out our online appointment request form.
