WHAT do you see when you look in the mirror? Do you define yourself based on your skin conditions, your body, or descriptions given by others? The skin is the body’s largest organ, and it is an important part of our health and physical appearance. Therefore, skin conditions, like skin lupus, can cause a significant impact on someone’s general health, emotional state, and self-esteem.

Skincare plays an important role in your overall well-being. Here are 10 ways in which you can care for your skin.

1) No matter what state you find yourself in, whether you achieved all your goals, or where you thought you would be, or looked like you thought you would look, maintain an attitude of gratitude. You are here!

2) We have all been fearfully and wonderfully made, God made us all beautiful and we are all created equally in God’s eyes.

3) Love! Dare to love yourself and love others like you love yourself. When you love yourself, it motivates you to care for yourself. It is said that we have a different glow when we see ourselves the way God sees us.

4) No one is perfect, so go easy on yourself. Recognise that you are starting at a point of beauty. It is recommended that you seek medical help to treat your skin when needed.

5) You are a unique masterpiece. Don’t compare yourself to others. We come in different shades, shapes, sizes. Let go of any past hurts or words spoken over you, over your body, over your skin. They do not define you, unless you allow them to.

6) Maintain a healthy skincare routine. The most important steps include cleansing, moisturising and sun protection. If your skin is dry and sensitive use gentle fragrance-free cleansers and fragrance — free moisturisers. Avoid harsh toners and astringents which contain alcohol. If your skin is oily or a combination of oily and dry, you may use deeper cleaning cleansers like those containing salicylic acid once your skin is not irritated by these products. After cleansing you may use a toner/astringent. These individuals should use oil-free moisturisers as well.

7) Everyone should use sunscreen with a SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 30 to protect your skin from the harmful effects of sunlight which include sunburn, premature ageing and skin cancer. Sunscreen should be used daily, reapplied every few hours if outdoors, protective clothing worn, and shade sought where possible.

8) Persons with active skin lupus should use gentle skin cleansers, frequent moisturisation and sun-protection. Physical sunscreens (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, iron oxide) are suitable for sensitive skin. Anti-inflammatory and other medications are often prescribed to control flares.

9) Everyone should routinely check their skin for any suspicious lesion that is growing rapidly, changing, or causing new symptoms. If in doubt check it out medically.

10) Exercise, a healthy balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, de-stressing and avoiding smoking contribute to healthy skin.

Dr Arusha Campbell-Chambers MBBS, MSc, IFAAD is a dermatologist and founder of Dermatology Solutions Skin Clinics & Medi-Spas and Skin, Body & Mind Clinic and Institute, Suite 12 & 13 Sagicor Commercial Centre, Montego Bay Jamaica, Tel: 876-979-0414/378-8740; Unit 14 Liguanea Post Mall, 115 Hope Road, Kingston 6, Tel: 876-529-3712