We all learned the alphabet back in pre-school, but did you know there is another that you may want to memorize? Renowned dermatologist and psychologist specializing in the mind-beauty connection, Dr. Amy Wechsler, has reinvented key letters of the alphabet with things you should consider, consume and keep in mind throughout your day, leaving your skin and mood in tip top shape.

• A is for Antioxidants: We all know the importance by now of antioxidants. They play a critical role in protecting skin against free radicals and fighting premature skin aging. Look for skincare products that contain antioxidants to work into your daily routine.

• E is for Exfoliate: Exfoliation is one of the most important steps in a skincare regimen. This process helps to slough away dry and dead skin cells that have adhered themselves to your face or other parts of your body leaving you with brighter looking and smoother feeling skin.

• M is for Moisturizer: I always say the cheapest anti-ager on the market today is a good moisturizer. Dry skin can not only appear dull but also heighten the appearance of fine lines. Be sure to use a good moisturizer daily to help plump skin and maintain its youthful appearance.

• Q is for Quality Time: Spending time reconnecting is critical to reversing signs of stress aging. Hanging out with friends, or cuddling and having sex with a partner releases all kinds of feel-good hormones within the brain that trigger relaxation.

• R is for Retinoids: Retinoids are prescription strength anti-agers than help with skin regeneration. In addition to helping minimize the appearance of sunspots and skin discoloration, they also help improve skin’s elasticity. They also can act as a great acne treatment, reducing the appearance of acne and shrinking pore size. Talk to your doctor about whether these are a good option for you.

• S is for Sleep: Sleep is free cosmetic medicine, plain and simple. Allotting the necessary time needed to catch some zz’s is critical to reducing signs of stress aging, not to mention allowing your body time to recharge and rev up again for the day ahead. There is also a link between sleep and weight gain, so hitting the sack for at least eight hours a night can also help keep you slim and trim.

• U is for UV Protection: Skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer today, but when caught early can be treated 99% of the time. Avoid the risk by slathering on sunscreen before heading outside every day. When you are outside, be sure to cover up and seek shade, both of which will minimize your risk.

• Y is for You: Most importantly, be sure to take care of yourself. You have an active role in your health and appearance. For many of us, taking care of our skin helps us to not only look but feel good. Be sure to stay on top of your annual visits to your doctor, and remember there is no question too small.

The new and improved ABCs – a perfect formula for a skin-savvy you.

Bio: A dermatologist practicing in New York City, Dr. Amy Wechsler is board certified in both dermatology and psychiatry. She is the author of the Mind-Beauty Connection: 9 Days to Reverse Stress Aging and Reveal More Youthful, Beautiful Skin. With a philosophy that draws on her unique and diverse experiences, Dr. Wechsler is recognized for being as approachable and progressive as she is professional. 

The post Skin Care Alphabet appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.

Fashion Week (or Fashion Month as it’s called by many insiders) is the ultimate in glamour, but as any editor, model, blogger or fashion guru will tell you, it can also wreak havoc on your skin. Early mornings, late evenings, less than healthy meals – when you can find the time to eat at all, and makeup, makeup and more makeup can all leave their telltale marks at the end of the festivities. Renowned dermatologist and psychiatrist Dr. Amy Wechsler recommends you recover by treating your skin to a little R&R. Here, she shares her top tips to get you back to your old self in no time flat.

Catch Some Zzzzs: Start shifting your thoughts on sleep. Rather than an unnecessary time waste, consider sleep free cosmetic medicine. While you’re sleeping your body is recovering and preparing for the day ahead. Your cortisol levels for example, lower as you prepare for bed, indicating that it’s time for some much needed rest. As you catch those zz’s your body releases growth hormone which helps with cell regeneration, leading to a younger looking you.

Eat Clean: We’ve heard it since we were children – you are what you eat. While getting your healthy habits back on track why not reach for some super-foods that have a major impact on your skin? For breakfast indulge in some fresh berries that are packed with antioxidants, critical ingredient for fighting free radicals that show on your skin. Need a mid-afternoon snack? Opt for some guacamole. The B vitamins which stress quickly depletes help maintain nerves and brain cells and the monosaturated fats are an added boost to your skin!

Indulge: Treat yourself to a soothing and ultra-pampering milk bath – if it was good enough for Cleopatra, it will probably work for you! The proteins in whole milk cause it to sooth dry, irritated or chapped skin while the lactic acid helps break down dead skin cells on the surface that are leaving your skin looking dull or dry. Simply add two – four cups of whole milk to a warm bath and soak for twenty minutes.

Reconnect: Spend some time with friends, it’s amazing what a difference a few hours laughing or talking with your gal pals can do for your stress levels. If you’re in a relationship, spend time cuddling or having sex with your partner. A good session between the sheets releases all kinds of feel-good stress-busting hormones, not to mention the natural oils that are generated from getting a little sweaty act are great for your skin.

After all – even the hottest autumn trends fall flat when you can’t put your best face forward (literally).

Dr. Amy Wechsler

A dermatologist practicing in New York City, Dr. Amy Wechsler is board certified in both dermatology and psychiatry. She is the author of the Mind-Beauty Connection: 9 Days to Reverse Stress Aging and Reveal More Youthful, Beautiful Skin. With a philosophy that draws on her unique and diverse experiences, Dr. Wechsler is recognized for being as approachable and progressive as she is professional.

The post Skin SOS! appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.