In a perfect world, you would head to your dermatologist whenever a pesky skin-related issue popped up.
But let’s face it, the world is far from perfect right now. In addition to still trying to stay at home as much as you can and limit your exposure to other people, you may have either lost your job or had your hours cut so that your insurance benefits have changed.
As a result, you can’t simply pick up the phone and schedule an appointment with your skin doctor whenever you’d like—at least for the time being.
Fortunately, there are a number of skincare concerns that you can handle from home, no doctor’s appointment needed. For instance, check out the following common issues and how you can treat them:
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Unsightly Acne
Last week you noticed a number of acne-related blemishes appearing on your face. This morning you realized they are not getting any better and in fact are increasing in size and quantity. Instead of biting the bullet and calling the doctor, consider finding effective acne skincare products online. Look for a regimen that includes a face wash and acne treatment, such as the Spotless Regimen from Rodan + Fields. Designed for teens and young adults, this treatment plan deep cleans pores and controls the appearance of oil and shine. While it’s typically used morning and night, start out slowly and build up to twice daily.
Red and Peeling Skin
Skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis can make your skin red and even start to peel a bit. These symptoms are caused by the underlying inflammation that is inherent to these skin issues. To help soothe red and irritated skin, mix up a batch of green tea with rose water; if you don’t have them on hand, they can also be ordered online. Steep two bags of green tea in a half-cup of boiling water for 15 minutes. Remove the tea bags and add half a cup of rose water. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and when it cools, spray it onto the affected areas, allowing it to dry. Store any leftovers in the fridge.
Oily Skin
While you have always had oily skin in certain areas, lately it seems to be oilier than ever. To combat this annoying problem until you are able to see the dermatologist again, try a few natural home remedies that are safe and affordable. For instance, lemon juice contains citric acid, which acts as a natural astringent that controls oily skin. Mix 1 teaspoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice with 1/2 teaspoon distilled water and then apply it to the oily areas with a cotton ball, rinsing it off after 10 minutes. You can also use plain yogurt; it contains lactic acid, which can absorb excessive oil. Scoop out about a tablespoon of the yogurt from the container and let it sit on your skin for 15 minutes and then rinse it off. A third option uses egg whites. As long as you don’t have an egg allergy, beat an egg white with a mixer until it is stiff and then spread it onto your face and let it dry—then wash it off with warm water.
Take Skincare Into Your Own Hands
As you can see, you don’t always have to dash to the dermatologist to get help with your skincare issues. Until things settle down and life returns to pre-virus normal, you can definitely handle skin issues like acne, redness and excessive oil with a combo platter of high-quality products and natural remedies.
