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.

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Moisturize Frequently

Choose oil-based moisturizers over water based for winter. Use thick creams (usually found in jars or tubs) or greasy ointments like Aquaphor or Vaseline petroleum jelly for your elbows, knees and feet instead of traditional lotions. Look for one with ingredients like petrolatum, glycerin, hyaluronic acid and cyclomethicone—all of which help prevent water loss from your skin.

 Humidify!

Humidifiers aren’t just for colds. Heating your house with central heat, space heaters and fireplaces all contribute to drying out your skin. Putting a few humidifiers throughout your home can help keep your skin moisturized.

Avoid Hot Showers and Baths

This is hardest during cold winter months but hot showers and baths will strip skin of it’s natural protective oils that help seal in moisture. Instead, set your water to warm and moisturize as soon as you get out. Also, be sure to use a mild soap or oil infused shower gel when sudsing up, exfoliate at least once a week and gently pat, don’t rub when drying off!

Sunscreen

Don’t pack away your summer sunscreen; winter sun and snow glare can damage your skin too. Protect your skin by applying it 30 minutes before you head outside and reapplying every 2 hours while outdoors.

Don’t Scratch!

Scratching irritates dry skin. When you feel the need to scratch coming on, grab your moisturizer. Your skin will thank you!

Drink Plenty of Water

Water will keep your skin hydrated and provide moist environments for your ears, nose and throat. Limit your soda and caffeine intake. Caffeine is a diuretic, which will promote urination and tend to dry out the body overall.

The post Keep your Face Moisturized & Protected appeared first on AKAMom Magazine.