Rosario Abaya-Blas, M.D., is a board-certified Fellow of the Philippine Dermatological Society. She is also an International Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology, the Asian Dermatological Association, and the International Society of Dermatology.

- RxPinoy

The Skin You're In

Three Real Ways to Get Healthy and Beautiful

R. Abaya-Blas, M.D.

1. Be enlightened

In ancient times, Asians believed the state of souls were reflected in skin color. In later feudal societies light skin gave the illusion of a life protected from hard labor under the sun. We now know better, but the fiction still persists. When our brown color is darkened by scars of disease or life events, medicine provides safe ways to get back the even tone. Read the fine print of products to look for safe, effective ingredients like "Vitamin C" or "magnesium ascorbyl phosphate" or "bearberry" in over-the-counter brands. Stronger substances like "kojic acid" is better used with your dermatologist’s guidance!

2. Pay attention to the stars and sun

Sunscreen used properly and regularly is one of the simplest keys to beautiful skin. Apply at least 30 minutes before going out, and re-apply every 2 hours. Look for ingredients such as "mexoryl" or "helioplex" which last longer. Reliable standards "titanium dioxide" and "zinc oxide" are not difficult to find either. Soon, sunscreens will also carry the "star" rating, in addition to the SPF number. The number of stars on the label tell consumers how well a product protects against UVA rays, which causes visible aging. Protective clothing like long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats and umbrellas are equally important to do. A good pair of sunglasses that protect against UV rays is a stylish way to prevent "crow's feet" wrinkles from appearing early. Lastly, staying in the shade from 10am-3pm protects from one from harmful UVRs.

3. Live smartly

Before there were doctors, there were mothers, and they say the same things we do. Eat more fruits. fish and veggies; drink more water instead of soda or alcohol. Get enough sleep. Don’t smoke cigarettes. Small nuggets of wisdom with big benefits. Many of the medicines we use come from plants and the sea. Moisturizers work much better if the skin was hydrated from the inside as well. Getting enough rest rejuvenates both the body and spirit. And cigarette smoking is dangerous to your health.