Skin issues always seem to strike at the worst possible times. We’ve all had days where you need to get ready for an event, but a good look in the mirror shows that things took a turn for the worse. Dull skin, acne, and dark circles? Yeah, that’s probably not the look you were going for. Because there’s no one miracle product that can correct skin concerns overnight, we recommend making an appointment with your dermatologist to create a long-term skincare plan that addresses your needs and goals. But if you’re in a pinch, these quick fixes can minimize the appearance of your most common skin concerns. Acne Breakouts There’s a common misconception that no one past the age of 18 struggles with acne, but breakouts can happen at any age. If you need to clear a breakout quickly, try:

• Spot Treatments: Apply an over-the-counter acne spot treatment containing benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or a retinoid like adapalene directly (with a concentration of no more than 0.1%) on the affected area.
• Ice Packs: Apply a cold compress or ice pack wrapped in a clean cloth to reduce swelling and redness. It can also help alleviate pain associated with inflamed acne.

Dry Skin Dry skin can make your complexion appear dull and flakey. If your skin is looking a little dehydrated, try:

• Exfoliate and Moisturize: Remove flakey, excess skin by gently exfoliating using a non-abrasive exfoliation polish or cleanser, then rehydrate the skin using an ultra-nourishing moisturizer. At the Atlanta Skin Wellness Center, we carry a variety of dermatologist-recommended exfoliants and moisturizers, like those from ZO and Alastin, suitable for dry skin types.
• Hydrating Sheet Mask: Sheet masks are a fantastic quick fix for dry skin. Opt for sheet masks infused with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or aloe vera, which help replenish moisture and soothe the skin.
• Drink Water: Hydrating your body is crucial for maintaining skin health. Increase your water intake throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated and plump.

Dark Circles If you had a late night (and it shows), try:

• Cucumber Slices or Tea Bags: Place chilled cucumber slices or steeped and cooled tea bags (preferably chamomile or green tea) on your eyes for 10-15 minutes. These natural remedies can reduce puffiness and provide a soothing effect to tired eyes.
• Eye Cream with Caffeine: Find an eye cream containing caffeine to constrict blood vessels and minimize dark circles, then gently pat the cream around your eye area for a refreshing effect. Dr. Barnett recommends Revision Skincare’s Teamine Eye Complex or Skinbetter’s Instant Effect Eye Gel.
• Facial Massage: Perform a gentle facial massage using your fingertips or a jade roller. This technique stimulates blood flow, reduces fluid retention, and helps diminish the appearance of dark circles and puffiness.

At the Atlanta Skin Wellness Center, our goal is to provide patients with the personalized care they deserve in a welcoming environment. Dr. Barnett works with each of our patients individually to recommend the right treatments for their goals and to create a customized skincare plan that delivers lasting results. Call (404) 446-4840 to make an appointment.