Hold on, can you believe another year has slipped away already? It's January 1st, 2024! I think one of the pivotal moments indicating that you are aging is when you can't stop talking about how fast time flies by! Well, I guess I'm there.

After the holiday rush and excitement, I've learned to appreciate and cherish the stillness that January brings. It's a period for reflection, planning, and organizing my thoughts, life, and goals. For many, the start of a new year means creating New Year’s resolutions (nearly 40% of Americans actually do this). The problem with New Year's goals is that, while we start off with good intentions, these wane quickly, and we are back to our old selves and problems by February. This year, if your skin health is a top goal, here are some tips to keep you going strong throughout the year and, of course, with glowing skin:

First things first: Get an appointment with a dermatologist!

If having great, healthy skin is something you're really serious about this year then get expert advice by seeing a board-certified dermatologist! So, how do you go about this? Simply visit The American Academy of Dermatology's website to find a board-certified dermatologist in your area (www.aad.org/find-a-derm). If you're outside the U.S., find your local dermatology association chapter and search their member directory. Having a true skin expert on your team will help you create a skincare routine that works for you, based on your needs and goals, and is backed by science. When you visit a dermatologist, they not only help you achieve your skincare goals but also assess you for underlying skin conditions such as skin cancers and potential undiagnosed medical issues. Did you know that many internal conditions show signs on the skin? So, by seeing a dermatologist, you're also getting checked for these other conditions that you might not even be aware of!

We all know it's not easy to get an appointment with a dermatologist. By scheduling now and building that relationship, it'll be easier to get urgent appointments later as a returning patient. Because, let's face it, an itchy rash can't wait for 8 weeks!

It's also important to find a dermatologist you connect with. Dermatologists can have different areas of expertise, even within general dermatology. For example, one might specialize in psoriasis, while another focuses on anti-aging. Someone who's great with cosmetics may not be the best choice for your young children. Make sure your needs match your dermatologist's expertise for the best results.

Preparing for your first visit to a dermatologist

Prior to your appointment, make sure you're aware of all the medications you're taking, including the doses and how often. Creating a list can be very useful! Also, make sure you know about your medical conditions, allergies, and any family history, especially when it comes to skin conditions.

Make a list of your top three skin concerns. When the list is too long, it's tough to cover everything in detail, so choose your main three to discuss during your initial visit.  Also, outline your skincare goals for the year. Do you aim to improve your eczema, address hair loss or acne, or seek tips for rejuvenation and anti-aging? Make sure you list your top three skin goals too.

On the day of your appointment, bring your list(s) and come without makeup if possible! It's hard to see what you really look like and your skin's true texture and tone with makeup. Plus, it's also very difficult to spot sneaky skin cancers with heavy makeup!. 

At the end of your appointment, make sure you can clearly repeat your instructions back to your dermatologist, and it's even better if they're written down! It's easy to assume you understand something, but once you leave, poof... it's gone! If possible, ask for written instructions. Ensure you agree with the plan and understand how to execute it. The next step is to be consistent with your routine. Remember, it may take weeks to months to see results, so hang in there!

Now that you are building a relationship with your dermatologist, check in if you have concerns or if something seems problematic. Don't suffer in silence. We can't help you if we don't hear from you! And, of course, while we all scroll and gather information from social media, be a savvy consumer. Check the credentials of whoever you are following or taking advice from. Just because it's on the internet doesn't mean it's true! Getting your guidance from true skin, aka your trusty board-certified dermatologist, can save you a lot of headaches and frustration in the long run.

Having personalized, one-on-one care with a dermatologist you trust is a great start to achieving beautiful skin for the long run. They can help address any acute and chronic skin needs you have and advise you on ways to keep your skin healthy and beautiful for the long term. Avoid the trap of buying the newest, latest, greatest skin care trend or craze, and steer clear of 'too good to be true' results. When it comes to your skincare, adopt a long-term strategy! Keep in mind that it may take weeks to months to see results from changes in products and routines, especially for chronic conditions. Hang in there; your dermatologist has your back (and face, and neck, and you get the picture)!

I can’t wait to see and hear about your skin care goals and journey in 2024!

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