**Vegas Lasers: Desert Air Stealing Summer Skin?**
By Franklin Everett ShawThe desert sun doesn’t discriminate. It bakes everyone equally, whether you’re a high roller at the Bellagio or a local waiting for the bus on Sahara Avenue. And that constant, relentless heat, combined with the incredibly dry air, wreaks havoc on your skin.
Las Vegas skin is a unique beast. It’s constantly battling dehydration and sun damage, leading to premature aging, fine lines, and a dull complexion. But don’t despair! With the right approach, you can keep your skin looking radiant even in the heart of the Mojave.
The first line of defense is hydration, inside and out. Forget those tiny hotel water bottles; invest in a large reusable one and aim to drink at least a gallon of water a day. This isn’t just about skincare; it’s about overall health in this arid climate.
Next, let’s talk topical hydration. Hyaluronic acid (HA) serums are your best friend. These serums act like a sponge, drawing moisture from the air and binding it to your skin. But here’s the catch: in extremely dry environments like Vegas, HA can actually pull moisture out of your skin if there isn’t enough humidity in the air.
The solution? Apply your HA serum to damp skin, immediately after cleansing. Then, and this is crucial, seal it in with a thick, occlusive moisturizer. Think creams, not lotions. Look for ingredients like shea butter, ceramides, or even a touch of petroleum jelly (yes, really!).
A great option readily available at the Sephora in the Forum Shops at Caesars is the Drunk Elephant Lala Retro Whipped Cream. It’s pricey, but it’s packed with ceramides and amino acids to deeply hydrate and repair the skin barrier. Another solid choice, and more budget-friendly, is the CeraVe Moisturizing Cream. You can find it at almost any drugstore on the Strip.
Sunscreen is non-negotiable. And I’m not talking about a measly SPF 15. You need a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and you need to reapply it every two hours, especially if you’re spending time outdoors.
Don’t just slap it on your face; remember your neck, chest, and hands – these areas are often neglected but are just as susceptible to sun damage. Consider a mineral sunscreen containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These are generally gentler on sensitive skin and provide excellent protection.
Now, let’s talk about in-office treatments. Microdermabrasion and laser treatments are popular options for combating sun damage and improving skin texture. But which one is right for you in the Vegas climate?
Microdermabrasion is a physical exfoliation technique that uses tiny crystals to remove the outer layer of dead skin cells. It’s a good option for mild sun damage and can help to improve skin texture and tone. However, it can also be quite drying, which is not ideal for already dehydrated Vegas skin.
Laser treatments, like Fraxel, are more aggressive and can target deeper layers of the skin. Fraxel uses fractional laser technology to create microscopic wounds in the skin, which stimulates collagen production and helps to reduce wrinkles, fine lines, and sunspots.
While Fraxel is more effective for significant sun damage, it also comes with a higher risk of side effects, including redness, swelling, and peeling. It’s crucial to find a reputable dermatology clinic in Vegas with experienced professionals.
Before committing to any treatment, schedule a consultation with a dermatologist. They can assess your skin type, evaluate the extent of sun damage, and recommend the best course of action. A good option is Desert Dermatology & Skin Cancer Specialists; they have multiple locations in the Las Vegas area.
One common mistake people make is over-exfoliating. In an attempt to combat dullness, they scrub their skin raw, further stripping it of its natural oils and damaging the skin barrier. Limit exfoliation to once or twice a week, and use a gentle chemical exfoliant like lactic acid or glycolic acid.
Another pitfall is neglecting your lips. The dry desert air can quickly chap and crack your lips, making them look and feel uncomfortable. Carry a hydrating lip balm with SPF and apply it frequently throughout the day.
Finally, remember that consistency is key. You won’t see results overnight. Stick to your skincare routine, protect your skin from the sun, and stay hydrated. Your Vegas skin will thank you for it.
Don’t fall for the mirage of perfect skin overnight. It takes dedication and the right approach to thrive in this challenging environment. But with a little knowledge and the right products, you can keep your skin looking its best, even in the heart of Sin City.