How To Address Common Skin Concerns: A Guide to Relief
Dealing with underlying skin issues can be frustrating, but the best way to address them is to understand them. Once you know the causes and triggers of common skin problems, you can build a routine that helps prevent them and provides you with some relief.
This guide will provide an excellent starting point for understanding and addressing your skin concerns. Be sure to talk to your dermatologist about how the following products and routines may work for you.
C h a p t e r 1 :
Preventing Dry Skin
Your skin thrives on hydration. Hydrated skin better maintains elasticity and resilience. With dry skin, you are at a greater risk for cuts, scrapes, and premature aging. Therefore, it is crucial that you work to prevent dried-out, cracked, or itchy skin and address it as soon as it appears.
Common Causes of Dry Skin
Everyone experiences dry skin at some point, but if it is a frequent problem, there may be an underlying issue. Frequently dry skin can be the result of anything from an issue in your skincare routine to environmental factors. Either way, figuring out the causes helps you to address them and reverse the course of your dry skin.
If you notice dry skin patches on your body, you should consider the following possible causes:
Showering in hot water
Showering too often
Cold, dry air
Harsh ingredients in skincare products
Frequent or excessive sun exposure
How To Prevent Dry Skin
Once you can pinpoint the potential causes of dry skin, you can tailor your skincare routine to avoid or address them. If you think your dry skin results from using the wrong products or an issue with your routine, then you can easily make a change. If your dry skin results from the weather, then you obviously can’t fix the cause, but you can prepare your skin better.
To reduce your chances of developing dry skin, take the following steps:
Get a humidifier
Shower in lukewarm water
Reduce your shower time to between 5 and 10 minutes max
Moisturize regularly, but make sure to moisturize damp skin
Choose gentle, naturally formulated skincare products
Use products that are rich in vitamin E
Wear sunscreen before going outside
Rehydrate Your Dry Skin
If your skin is already dry, you need more than moisturizing. Moisturizing is integral to maintaining hydrated skin, but it is not the same as hydrating your skin. Moisturizing helps your skin retain moisture, but it does not add water to your skin. Hydrating, on the other hand, does. To rehydrate your skin, you need to turn to hydrating ingredients called humectants.
Humectants are substances that attract water to the skin from the air or from the lower layers of the skin. In doing so, humectants actively attract water to the outer layer of your skin. Examples of humectants include hyaluronic acid, glycerin, salicylic acid, and alpha hydroxy acids, among others. You can find these ingredients in lotions, face creams, face masks, and more.
Understanding the difference between moisturizers and hydrating products helps you to make the right choice for extremely dry skin. To start the path of recovery and work toward hydrated skin, you can seek help from WOW Hyaluronic Acid Water Gel or WOW Skin Revive Nectar Moisturizer Lotion. Both of these products contain humectants to hydrate your skin alongside natural ingredients, like shea butter and argan oil, to provide extra nourishment. Apply these products to damp skin after a shower or washing your face.
C h a p t e r 2 :
Nurturing Aging Skin
We all experience aging skin at some point, so there is no point in being ashamed about it. However, there is plenty of reason to want to keep your skin strong and youthful as you age, both for your appearance and for your skin’s health. By including the right products and routines in your daily skin care, you can enjoy healthy skin.
Signs of Aging Skin
Aging skin is natural and unavoidable, but that doesn’t mean that you don’t need to take steps to provide it with extra care. Recognizing the signs of aging will help you take the steps necessary to address it early. Some signs of aging skin include:
Aging spots
Discoloration
Sun damage
Wrinkles
Less elasticity and firmness
Thinning of the outer layer
All of us are bound to experience at least some of the above effects at some point. If your skin is not as bouncy as normal, then you may want to start adding some special products and routines to your day.
Ingredients for Added Youth
Enjoying younger-looking skin can be as easy as knowing the right ingredients. Although you may not shave 20 years off of your appearance, choosing effective ingredients can help you boost the liveliness and strength of your skin. Of course, everyone should choose their skincare products carefully, but extra attention is helpful for mature skin.
To strengthen the appearance of your skin, you should turn to the following ingredients:
Vitamin C
Hyaluronic acid
Aloe vera
Coconut
Tea tree oil
Several of the above ingredients support collagen production. Collagen is responsible for maintaining the structure of your skin, giving it better elasticity and the ability to maintain hydration. As you get older, the body does not produce as much collagen, reducing the firmness and structure of the skin. Therefore, using the right ingredients can go a long way toward providing support in collagen production, helping you reduce wrinkles and sagging skin.
The other benefit of these ingredients is that they often feature a wide array of valuable antioxidants, which play a key role in aging. Antioxidants help to neutralize free radicals in the body, which can speed up the aging of cells. By neutralizing these free radicals, antioxidants keep your cells strong and more youthful, helping to reverse aging spots and weaker skin structure.
How Can I Boost My Anti-Aging Routine?
To some degree, nobody can reverse the natural effects of aging. However, you can support the health and well-being of your skin to slow the aging process and make your skin appear more youthful. To do so, include the above ingredients in your routine through products like WOW Coconut Water Full Cream with Hyaluronic Acid or go all-in with the WOW Spot Free with Vitamin C Bundle.
Protecting your skin from the sun is vital. Sun damage is one of the largest contributors to early aging, so always wear sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher before spending extended time outside.
To support healthy aging, your nutrition matters too. You can start by taking collagen supplements and other supplements like vitamin E, vitamin C, and biotin. Even better, maintain a diverse diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables, which will give you plenty of vitamins and antioxidants. With a healthy diet and a healthy skincare routine, you can provide maximum support.
C h a p t e r 3 :
Managing Oily Skin
Everyone’s skin produces oil, but too much can be a bad thing. Oily skin can lead to clogged pores and pose an increased risk of acne. If you have oily skin, then you will want to take the proper precautions to prevent it from affecting your skin’s appearance.
Why Is My Skin Oily?
Oil isn’t all bad. In fact, everyone’s skin naturally produces an oil called sebum. Sebum plays an important role in keeping your skin hydrated and resistant to damage by lubricating the outer layer.
Oily skin is the result of overstimulated glands in your skin producing too much sebum. You can tell your skin is oily if it maintains a shine without skin care products, it feels greasy to the touch, or you often find yourself using makeup to cover up excess oil. Acne, clogged pores, and blackheads are also common for oily skin types.
For many, oily skin is genetic, making it more difficult to manage. However, other causes for excessively oily skin include:
Using oily skincare products
Using harsh skincare products
Dry skin
Clogged pores
Humidity
Makeup
Sun exposure
If your skin is constantly oily, then you will want to adjust your skincare routine appropriately. Fortunately, the right steps can keep your skin’s oil under control.
How Can I Control My Oily Skin Naturally?
The best way to control oily skin is to maintain a consistent skincare routine. Clean and cared for skin is less likely to produce excess oil and lead to oil build-up. Step number one is to keep your pores clean and clear. Wash your face at least twice a day with a gentle foaming cleanser to keep the oil on your skin at a manageable level. Also, make sure to remove your makeup before bed to prevent clogging your pores.
Although using a moisturizer may seem counterintuitive, your skin likely produces more oil when it is dry. Therefore, you should moisturize after every time you wash your face or shower. Make sure to use a thin moisturizer for oily skin. If you are going outside, use sunscreen to prevent the sun from drying out your skin.
Steer clear of touching your face, which can spread dirt and bacteria to your skin and lead to clogged pores. If you are worried about oil build-up throughout the day, you can use blotting papers to help remove excess oil and not spread dirt to your face.
Unfortunately, there is not a one-size fits all solution to oily skin, as everyone’s skin is different. Make sure to contact your dermatologist for more guidance and personalized treatment options.
What Products Are Best for Oily Skin?
If you have oily skin, one of the considerations when choosing skincare products is to look for oil-free or water-based products. Whether you are looking for a cleanser, moisturizer, or makeup, be sure to choose one that is oil-free and non-comedogenic. This is the best way to avoid products that will clog your pores.
At the same time, make sure that your final choice does not contain alcohol, which can dry out and irritate your skin. Products with harsh ingredients like sulfates can do the same. Since your skin produces more oil in response to irritation, be mindful about keeping these ingredients out of your routine.
In the search for the right products, turn to gentle, natural ingredients that can soothe your skin. For example, aloe vera and tea tree oil are excellent options for soothing irritation and preventing excess oil production. Meanwhile, some great examples of good products for oily skin include WOW Aloe Vera Foaming Face Wash or WOW Tea Tree & Mint Foaming Body Wash.
Face masks may also be helpful in cleansing your skin deeper, preventing excessive oil build-up, and providing valuable vitamins and minerals. Two perfect options are the WOW Activated Charcoal Face Mask, which removes impurities from deep in your pores, and the WOW Turmeric Clay Face Mask, which includes Kaolin clay to control excess oil production.
C h a p t e r 4 :
How to Handle Acne
Acne is one of the most common skin concerns, as many people experience its effects. Not only is acne uncomfortable, but it can also leave you feeling self-conscious and lacking confidence in your appearance. However, by understanding the common causes of acne and the right approach to handling acne-prone skin, you can keep your acne under control.
What Causes Acne?
Acne is one of the most frustrating skin conditions because it can seem to pop up no matter what you do. However, there are various distinguishable factors that can make acne more likely, from genetics to environmental factors. Some of the possible causes of acne include:
Oily skin
Irritated skin
Dry skin
Harsh skincare products
Bacteria on the skin
Clogged pores
Hormonal changes
Diet
Although there is not much scientific evidence surrounding it, several cultures believe in the acne face map, which provides insight into parts of the body or organs that are not functioning properly based on where the acne appears. Although the accuracy of acne face mapping is to be determined, considering an acne face map can help you keep your overall health and well-being in mind as you work to control your acne.
What’s a Good Acne Skincare Routine?
The most significant step to keeping acne under control is washing your face regularly. You should wash your face at least twice a day to keep your pores clean and clear—once in the morning and once before bed. After every time you wash your face, use a gentle toner followed by a moisturizer. For a deeper clean that keeps your pores clear, incorporate a face mask once or twice a week.
Some studies suggest that diet can impact acne as well. On top of your regular skin care, maintain a balanced diet that includes protein, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. A diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids can be helpful in controlling acne. At the same time, try to consume foods that are high in sugar or trans fats in moderation.
Of course, one of the most vital parts of your routine is using effective products to fight acne.
Which Products Should You Use for Acne-Prone Skin?
In the fight against acne, your skincare products are your best tools. To find the right products for acne, you need to find the right balance of gentle and effective. As with many other skin conditions, harsh ingredients like sulfates, parabens, and alcohol can aggravate acne. In your search for the best face wash for blemishes, turn to natural products that deeply cleanse and soothe the skin, like aloe vera and tea tree oil.
WOW Apple Cider Vinegar Foaming Face Wash is the perfect addition to your routine, as apple cider vinegar helps to deeply clean your pores and balance your skin’s pH balance, reducing the risk of breakouts. You can also follow up with a toner, like WOW Coconut Super Rich Facial Toner, to cleanse your skin deeper. Then, keep your acne-prone skin hydrated with a gentle moisturizer like WOW Aloe Vera Multi-Vitamin Face Cream.
For added support, turn to the WOW Anti-Acne Neem & Tea Tree Clay Face Mask at least once a week. If you experience acne in areas besides your face, then turn to WOW Apple Cider Vinegar Foaming Body Wash to provide vital antioxidants and support a healthy pH balance all over.
How to Treat Acne Scars and Blemishes
Even when you get your acne under control, it can leave you with some harsh reminders. Acne scars, marks, and blemishes can remain long after the acne is gone, especially if they are not addressed. Fortunately, you can have a positive impact by choosing the right products and searching for the best face wash for blemishes.
To address acne marks, scars, and blemishes, wash and moisturize every day with repairing products and exfoliate at least once or twice a week. A routine incorporating all three will support healthy cell growth while removing old, damaged, and dead cells.
Collagen breakdown can make acne scars appear worse, so cleanse your face while boosting collagen with WOW Vitamin C Skin Mist Toner. To moisturize, you can turn to WOW Retinol Face Cream, which features vitamin A and hyaluronic acid to restore your skin’s appearance and promote healthy cell turnover for a smooth texture. To exfoliate, you can use the WOW Vitamin C Foaming Face Wash with an exfoliating brush.
C h a p t e r 5 :
Medical Skin Conditions
If your skin appears unhealthy and does not seem to improve no matter what you do, then you may have a diagnosable medical skin condition. These skin conditions can be surprisingly difficult to predict and manage, so it is important to have as many tools as possible to find some relief. If you think you have any of the following skin conditions, talk to your healthcare provider or a licensed dermatologist.
Eczema
Also known as atopic dermatitis, eczema is one of the most common medical skin conditions. Symptoms of eczema include inflammation, severe itching, redness, dry or cracked skin, and oozing. Eczema is most common in children but can affect anyone.
Unfortunately, there are many unknowns surrounding eczema and its causes. Scientists cite genetics as the most likely cause, with environmental triggers playing a role. There is no cure for eczema, but it can be soothed with the right treatments and routines.
Eczema can flare up unpredictably, but flare-ups are most common due to factors like stress, dry skin, heat, hormonal changes, sweat, and weather. Diet may also play a role.
One of the best ways to reduce the risk of flare-ups and ease the symptoms of eczema is to keep your skin hydrated. Moisturize after every shower or bath, and if it affects your hands, moisturize after every time you wash them. As always, turn to moisturizers that use natural ingredients and avoid harsh chemicals. Ingredients like aloe vera can soothe your skin, while humectants will maintain the most hydration. Turn to WOW Shea & Cocoa Butter Moisturizing Lotion for deep, soothing hydration.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is another common medical skin condition. It is an autoimmune disease that leads to the increased growth of skin cells. Like eczema, psoriasis leads to patches of red, dry, and itchy skin, but psoriasis can be more distinguished by silvery scales. The disease can affect you anywhere from your hands to your scalp. Unfortunately, psoriasis has no cure, but it can be treated with prescribed creams and ointments, while a careful skincare routine can also provide relief.
Fortunately, there are natural treatment options that can soothe the symptoms of psoriasis. The best way to manage psoriasis symptoms is to keep your skin clean and hydrated. To do so, focus on cleansers and lotions with natural, soothing ingredients, like WOW Melon Cucumber & Aloe Foaming Body Wash or WOW Coconut Milk & Argan Oil Body Lotion, which features shea butter and aloe vera.
If your scalp is affected, try WOW Green Tea & Tea Tree Shampoo and Conditioner to potentially soothe the harsh symptoms.
Essential oils may also be a valuable tool in reducing the painful effects of autoimmune disease. The following essential oils may soothe psoriasis with their anti-inflammatory potential:
Coconut oil
Geranium oil
Sandalwood oil
Myrrh oil
Other ways to reduce the chances of a psoriasis flare-up include drinking plenty of water, maintaining a diet rich in nutrients, and steering clear of smoking and alcohol. As always, consult your dermatologist for specific treatment options and accurate medical advice.
Rosacea
Rosacea is a lesser-known but common medical skin condition that leads to redness and flushing of the face. Rosacea can also cause pus-filled bumps, rashes, and broken blood vessels under the surface of the skin. Like both psoriasis and eczema, rosacea is genetic and has no cure, but its severity depends on environmental factors. Triggers of rosacea can include spicy foods, alcoholic beverages, extreme temperatures, sun exposure, stress, and harsh cosmetic products.
To ease the symptoms of rosacea, you should start by avoiding the above factors. In addition to limiting possible triggers, you should keep a consistent skincare routine that uses gentle skin care products. Again, ingredients like aloe vera and green tea can have a comforting effect. To maintain a gentle skincare routine, try WOW Green Tea Foaming Face Wash for your cleanser and WOW Coconut Water Full Cream with Hyaluronic Acid for your moisturizer.
Skin Irritation and Infection
If you have redness, swelling, discomfort, burning, or itchiness anywhere on your skin, you may have irritated skin. Skin can become irritated for several reasons, including frequent sun exposure, allergic reactions, aging, or any of the above medical conditions.
If the irritation is severe, it may be the result of an infection and require additional treatment. An infection occurs when bacteria or outside pathogens enter your skin through an open wound. If you think you have an infection and it is not going away on its own, talk to your doctor. As you undergo treatment, supplement the process with gentle, soothing products for the natural relief of skin infections.
Turn to products like WOW Aloe Vera Multivitamin Face Cream or WOW Coconut Hydrating Foaming Face Wash to support a healthy pH balance and reduce your chances of irritation and infection. Using eucalyptus essential oil can also help to reduce inflammation with its natural antiseptic properties.
C h a p t e r 6 :
Hyperpigmentation
An uneven skin tone can affect the appearance of your skin as well as your self-confidence. Dark spots on the skin can happen to anyone, and hyperpigmentation is the most likely reason.
What Is Hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation is a skin condition highlighted by a patch or multiple patches of skin that are darker than the surrounding skin. These patches are the result of excess melanin deposits in the skin. Although it affects your skin’s appearance, hyperpigmentation is harmless and will not affect your skin’s function.
The two most common causes of hyperpigmentation are aging and sun damage, which leads to aging or liver spots. However, factors like hormonal changes from medications and pregnancy can also lead to hyperpigmentation. Acne spots and freckles are two other examples of hyperpigmentation.
Even though hyperpigmentation is not harmful, many people seek a solution so they can maintain a clear, even skin tone.
How to Manage Hyperpigmentation
The best way to manage hyperpigmentation is by being proactive and taking a preventative approach. Dark spots can become more pronounced after sun exposure because melanin absorbs sunlight to protect the rest of the skin. Therefore, you should always use sunscreen before spending extended time in the sun.
Prevention is the best approach, but even after hyperpigmentation sets in, you still have a chance to reverse the effects. To treat hyperpigmentation naturally, incorporate products into your routine that provide your skin with necessary antioxidants and collagen-boosting nutrients. Your treatment plan should include exfoliating two to three times a week to remove dead cells and stimulate cell turnover.
Apple cider can naturally lighten dark spots, so it is a good choice for your face wash. Plus, WOW Apple Cider Vinegar Foaming Face Wash comes with an exfoliating brush so you can stimulate new cell replacement on your face. To support the regeneration of healthy cells, moisturize with WOW Vitamin C Face Cream. For the rest of your body, use WOW Ubtan Face and Body Scrub twice weekly to exfoliate your skin and support an even skin tone.
For more advanced treatment, talk to your healthcare provider or dermatologist, as they can prescribe topical medications to support your personalized needs.