You need to wear sunscreen. Every. Single. Day. It doesn't matter if you're going to be riding a bike or sitting in an office, SPF is essential. However, the type of sunscreen you use on the weekends should probably be different than what you wear during the week. "If you're outside doing sports, you'll want to use a water resistant sunscreen," explains Jaliman. She also recommends looking for sunscreens that contain the physical UV-blocking ingredients Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide. If you know you're going to be outside, use a higher SPF, and be sure to reapply often.
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Sunday: Do a mask or a peel
Sunday is the perfect time for an at-home spa treatment. "Since many people have more time on the weekend, they use this time to do their masks or peels," says Jaliman. Focus on one skin concern -- i.e. dryness, hyperpigmentation, or acne -- and pick a product that addresses the problem. (A moisturizing mask may be packed with hyaluronic acid; a peel for discoloration may have botanical lighteners; and an acne mask may contain sulfur or clay.) Then, wash your face, removing any makeup, and pat it dry. Apply the mask or peel, and let it sit for as long as the instructions recommend.
When it comes to taking care of your skin, there's no one better to consult than a dermatologist. However, only 15 percent of Americans go to one.
So to help out the remaining 85 percent, we asked top derms what skin care changes they wish we'd all make. The catch: The new routine had to be easy enough to put into action in seven days.
�Few people have naturally perfect skin, but no matter what skin you were born with, it can be made to look better -- usually a whole lot better," says New York City dermatologist Debra Jaliman, MD. "What everybody should aim for is their own best skin, the kind that gets compliments and has a healthy glow." And Jaliman believes a few small changes can make a big difference.
In order to help you achieve your own "best skin," we've come up with this seven-day recovery plan. Incorporate these tips into your regimen, and by the end of the week you'll be on your way to a prettier complexion.
