Ginger Slimskin in good order: a skin care reference without myths

An independent reference on everyday skin care. We do not diagnose, do not sell cosmetics and do not replace a dermatologist; we are not connected with the former site on this domain. In a severe allergic reaction, call 112 (or your local emergency number).

Methods

Methods and approaches

There are fewer ways to care for your skin than store shelves suggest. Almost everything comes down to three directions: protecting yourself from too much ultraviolet, cleansing and moisturizing gently, and noticing changes in time. Below is what each of them includes.

The most reliable skin care methods don't come in jars: shade, clothing, warm water and an attentive eye. Products help, but they only work together with habits.

— Editor's note

How this section works: we describe approaches that are part of general skin care recommendations, without naming products, brands or procedures. If you've been prescribed treatment, it takes priority over any general advice, and any doubts are worth discussing with your doctor.

Sun protection

Protection from ultraviolet is built in layers: first timing and place, then clothing and accessories, and only then a product on exposed skin.

Shade and time of day

Ultraviolet is strongest around midday. The shade of trees, awnings and buildings reduces the load on your skin, although some rays reflect off water, sand and snow.

Prevention

Clothing and hats

Tightly woven fabric, covered shoulders and a wide-brimmed hat protect the skin all the time and don't wash off. A wide brim is especially useful for the face, ears and neck.

Topics

Sunglasses

Ultraviolet harms not only the skin but also the eyes. Sunglasses with UV protection are part of WHO recommendations alongside clothing and shade.

Glossary

Sunscreen

Sunscreen is applied to exposed skin in the amount and as often as the directions say, and reapplied after swimming and sweating.

Research

Cleansing and moisturizing

The goal of cleansing is to remove dirt without stripping the skin of its own protection. The goal of moisturizing is to help it hold on to water.

Gentle cleansing

For everyday care, a gentle cleanser and warm water are usually enough. Frequent, harsh washing dries the skin and can make irritation worse.

Prevention

Warm, not hot, water

Hot water feels nice, especially in winter, but it washes out the oily substances that help the skin hold moisture more quickly. A short warm shower is easier on the skin.

Topics

Moisturizing after washing

Moisturizer applied soon after washing, on slightly damp skin, helps it keep water in. For your hands, it's handy to keep a tube by the sink.

Questions

Exfoliating in moderation

Far from everyone needs to exfoliate. If you do, choose gentle methods, don't rub the skin hard, and don't exfoliate irritated areas.

Gentle scrubs (in Russian)

How to keep an eye on your skin

Keeping an eye on your skin means noticing changes, not diagnosing yourself. Assessing what you see is the doctor's job.

A look in good light

From time to time, calmly look over your skin in daylight. The goal is to notice anything new or changed, not to hunt for diseases.

Questions

Photos for comparison

Pictures of the same areas in similar light help you see changes that are hard to spot by eye. They're also easy to show a dermatologist.

Prevention

Notes on reactions

A short note about which product, food or situation came before the irritation will help a doctor get to the cause faster.

Glossary

When to see a doctor

  • A new mole has appeared in adulthood, or an old one has changed: shape, color, size or how it feels
  • A sore, scab or ulcer on the skin hasn't healed for several weeks
  • A spot, flaking or rash won't go away despite gentle care
  • Itching keeps you from sleeping or from everyday activities
  • Blisters, chills, weakness or headache appeared after sun exposure
  • The skin on your hands cracks and bleeds despite moisturizing
  • A new product caused severe itching, swelling or a rash; for facial swelling or trouble breathing, call 112 or 103 (or your local emergency number)
  • Topics

    Topics in four groups: sun and light, water and cold, care and ingredients, skin changes. Plus the article catalogue.

  • Prevention

    Caring for your skin every day: the UV index forecast, shade, gentle cleansing, moisturizing and sleep.

  • Research

    Where knowledge about skin comes from, how to read the promises on a package, and why skin care myths persist.

  • Glossary

    Skin words in plain language: from epidermis and melanin to patch test and placebo.

Sources

  • WHO — Global Solar UV Index: A Practical Guide
  • General dermatologist recommendations on skin care

This page reflects generally accepted views on skin care as of the date it was prepared. If your skin behaves unusually or something worries you, make decisions together with a dermatologist, not based on the text of this reference.