ANGIE SHEEP
<Staff Writer>
Happy New Year Ozzies! It’s always nice to see how well the holidays update a student’s wardrobe. I am particularly pleased to see that the unique and classy style of 2012 was not lost in the blur of the snowy season. The fabulous back to school outfits have been expertly accessorized with accounts of sun vacations, ski getaways, and serious lounging around. But, no matter what we ended up doing individually this holiday break, we must all admit to neglecting our bodies and skincare in some way – for one, the back-to-back-to-back-etc. post-exam celebrations. Unfortunately, this usually takes the greatest toll on our skin.
During this time of the year, I often schedule appointments with my dermatologist to gain some insight into protection against the harsh Toronto winters. There are countless videos, blogs, Q&As about this topic, but I find you and your skin will be left drowning in all that information. As a counter and expert point, a professional is by far the preferred fountain and foundation of wisdom. Also, a dermatologist can offer a quick and simple route to get to the bottom of things – just like lawyers (well, sometimes). I will therefore share some of the Dos and Don’ts that I’ve heard repeated over the years and hopefully, with their advice and some great home remedies, our skin will retain that vacation glow.
DO sun protection, every day! I know you’ve heard this numerous times, but are you actually following it? If you’ve ever returned from a day on the slopes with a goggle tan line, you are well aware that the snow reflects harmful rays, just like sitting poolside. Creams and lotions with a high SPF give the longest protection, but they are often thick which makes them difficult to apply. These products may feel too heavy for daily wear. Instead, try a sunscreen below SPF 50 and reapplication. Note, sunscreen requires longer to dry. It is advisable to apply sunscreen on dry, clean skin and then let it set. Go do one of the many other required things that make up any law student’s busy morning before applying makeup, if any. This prevents the makeup from clumping.
DO cleanse: One of the worst skin culprits is laziness. Law students are busy and tired, and the last thing they want to do is add another task to their evening. However, washing your face everyday AND every night is non-negotiable. This prevents the pollution and grime of everyday living, as well as makeup, products, etc. from sinking into your pores and fine lines, resulting in unsightly pimples and wrinkles.
DO cut down on caffeine and alcohol: Caffeine exacerbates under eye circles, making you look perpetually tired. Alcohol leaves skin puffy and discoloured. Instead, nourish your body with foods that energize and cleanse, such as apples and nuts.
DON’T only drink water to hydrate the skin: Perhaps one of the greatest myths of all time, simply consuming water does not hydrate your skin. Your diet affects complexion much more extensively, so select foods high in vitamins and oils, like avocado and salmon. Drink when you’re thirsty and moisturize! Note that moisturizers are most effective within three minutes after a shower.
TRY the ultimate at-home mask: You need 1 egg white, 2 tsp. of lemon juice, and ½ tbsp. of honey. Mix all ingredients until smooth and apply to a freshly cleansed face. Allow the mask to dry and wash off. The egg, full of protein, tightens pores and firms the skin. The lemon juice reduces discoloration and makes your complexion glow. Finally, honey provides antibacterial power and moisturizes. I’ve personally tried this remedy and find it preferable to the store-bought alternatives that generally contain confusing chemicals.
There you have it Ozzies: some wise words and wisdom from years of dermatological appointments. These few simple steps are low-maintenance, effective, and will better your skin management this winter.