We’ve all had those moments—you decide to do something good for your skin and start using a new cleanser, exfoliant, or anti-aging product, but when you get to the skincare aisle, there are so many options that you don’t even know where to start. Reading the bottles makes it clear that each product has subtle differences, but how do you know whether you should opt for the cream with tretinoin or the non-comodegenic one?

It all boils down to your skin type. After nearly 40 years of serving the Atlanta area at Dermatology Associates of Atlanta (DAA), we have a thorough understanding of just how variable a person’s skin is. Even though every patient’s skin is made of the same basic anatomy, there are unique intricacies that make some people have dry skin, while others have oily skin, and still others have skin that tends to be sensitive. Based on your individual skin’s features and your concerns, this chart can explain what words to look for and which to stay away from while shopping for skincare.

While many of your skincare choices will depend on your skin type, there are a few general rules that every patient should follow:

1. Wear sunscreen every day, and be sure that it says either “broad-spectrum” or “UVA/UVB protection.” To save time in your daily routine, look for products that serve multiple functions, like a moisturizer or lip balm that also includes sun protection.
2. Don’t expect a miracle. Creams and lotions won’t minimize the signs of aging as effectively as professional treatments like dermal fillers, but they can be a great way to maintain the results of rejuvenation treatments.
3. When choosing a product to help your skin look younger, look for peptides in the ingredients list. Peptides can help your skin rebuild the collagen and elastin that gave it a youthful firmness in your younger years.
4. When in doubt, go with an unscented or fragrance-free product. Aromatic chemicals can cause irritation in even those who don’t typically have sensitive skin.
5. Try to avoid products that contain sodium lauryl sulfate (sometimes listed as SLS). Our skin needs to retain some of its natural oils for health and protection, but SLS can be too harsh and strip away too many of these natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation.

At DAA, we recognize that for our patients, great skin needs a combination of professional treatments and at-home care. That’s why we can formulate prescription skincare products that are tailored exclusively to you and your needs. Schedule an appointment with us to discuss your goals for your skin, or to learn more about the treatments and procedures we offer, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.