Dr. Kirby's Three Skin Fitness Tips for the New Year

How to improve your skin this year

The start of a new year brings fresh opportunities to focus on your well-being and this year, your skin deserves the spotlight. Whether your resolution list includes glowing skin or preventing premature aging, having a solid plan is essential. Dr. Will Kirby, celebrity dermatologist and Chief Medical Officer of LaserAway, shares his expert advice to help you achieve your SkinFitness™ goals. With the right techniques and treatments, you can transform your skin into its healthiest, most radiant version yet. Let’s jump into Dr. Kirby’s top three tips, plus some bonus skincare advice to kick-start your journey.

1. Barrier Protection: Your First Line of Defense

Your skin’s worst enemy? The sun. From bright, sunny days to the sneaky, incidental exposure you get while driving or sitting by a window, UV rays wreak havoc on your complexion. Prolonged exposure leads to sunspots, fine lines, wrinkles, and a breakdown of collagen. That’s where barrier protection comes in.

Barrier protection means physically shielding your skin from harmful UV rays. Think of it as armor for your skin. This includes wearing:

Long sleeves and clothing with UV protection: Modern UV-blocking fabrics are lightweight and breathable, making them an easy addition to your wardrobe.
A wide-brimmed hat: A good hat protects not only your face but also your neck and shoulders, which are often overlooked.
Sunglasses with UV-blocking lenses: These protect the delicate skin around your eyes, where fine lines often develop first.

While sunscreen is vital (more on that next), physical barriers provide an extra layer of protection. Incorporating these habits into your daily routine is one of the most effective ways to maintain healthy skin.

2. Broad-spectrum SPF: Non-negotiable daily armor

No skincare regimen is complete without sunscreen. Daily application of a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher is essential for protecting your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. But here’s the catch: many people underestimate how much sunscreen they need.

To ensure full coverage:

Apply generously: Use at least one ounce (about a shot glass full) to cover your face, neck, forearms, and hands. Don’t forget often-missed spots like your ears, the back of your neck, and the tops of your feet.
Reapply regularly: If you’re outdoors, sweating, or swimming, reapply every two hours. Even if you’re indoors, reapply midday to stay protected from incidental exposure through windows.
Use SPF-infused makeup or skincare as a backup: These products add an extra layer of defense but shouldn’t replace sunscreen.

Dr. Kirby emphasizes starting your day with sunscreen as part of your morning routine. This simple step prevents sun damage and reduces the risk of skin cancer while keeping your skin looking youthful and vibrant.

3. Retinol products: The gold standard in skincare

If you’re serious about preventing premature aging, retinol products are a game-changer. Derived from vitamin A, retinol accelerates cell turnover, which helps fade dark spots, smooth fine lines, and improve overall skin texture. The result? Smoother, softer, and more radiant skin over time.

Here’s how to incorporate retinol into your routine:

Start slow: If you’re new to retinol, begin with a low-concentration product and use it two to three times a week to minimize irritation.
Apply at night: Retinol can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it’s best used in the evening.
Pair with moisturizer: To reduce dryness or peeling, follow up with a hydrating moisturizer after applying retinol.

Consistency is key. While you might notice some initial dryness or redness, stick with it. Results typically appear after six to eight weeks of regular use, and the long-term benefits are well worth it.

Bonus tips for skin fitness

In addition to Dr. Kirby’s core advice, consider these enhancements to your skin fitness journey:

Hydration is essential: Drink plenty of water and use a hydrating serum or cream to keep your skin plump and healthy.
Exfoliate wisely: Regular exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and enhances the effectiveness of your skincare products. Opt for gentle exfoliants or chemical exfoliators for a more even tone.
Professional treatments: LaserAway offers advanced aesthetic treatments, such as Clear + Brilliant, Instant Glow Laser Facials, and Hydrafacials, to address specific skin concerns and enhance your results.

New year, new vibes, new skin fitness goals

This year, make achieving your best skin a priority. Start by avoiding sun exposure with barrier protection, committing to daily SPF, and incorporating retinol into your nightly routine. These steps, combined with a healthy lifestyle and professional treatments, will set you on the path to glowing skin.

LaserAway’s state-of-the-art technology and experienced professionals have performed millions of different aesthetic dermatological treatments to date. Whether you’re looking to reduce fine lines, erase sun damage, or boost your overall skin health, LaserAway has a treatment tailored to your aesthetic goals.

Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation today and let their team help you create a personalized plan to meet your skin fitness goals. This year, let your skin shine as brightly as your ambitions.

References

1. “Skin Check-In With Dr. Will: How to Improve Your Skin Fitness in 2021, According to Top Dermatologists,” Life & Style Magazine, January 8, 2021.