Skin Health: Practical Tips and When Meds Cause Problems

If your skin keeps breaking out, drying, or suddenly itching, it might not be the cleanser — it could be a medicine you started. This page gives clear, useful steps to care for skin every day plus simple signs that a drug might be the cause.

Skin care basics that actually work

Cleanse twice a day with a gentle, sulfate-free wash. Over-washing strips oils and makes skin worse. Use a fragrance-free moisturizer right after washing while skin is still damp to lock in moisture. Pick a moisturizer with ceramides or glycerin if your skin feels tight.

Sunscreen is non-negotiable. Use SPF 30 or higher, apply 15 minutes before going outside, and reapply every two hours when you’re in the sun. If you wear makeup, choose a sunscreen-friendly primer or a tinted sunscreen to cut steps without skipping protection.

Exfoliate gently once or twice a week. Use a mild chemical exfoliant (like low-strength glycolic or salicylic acid) rather than scrubs if you have acne-prone or sensitive skin. And don’t mix strong actives without guidance — vitamin C, retinoids, and acids can be powerful but irritating when layered incorrectly.

Eat a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and sleep more. If your skin flares after certain foods, try a short food log before changing your whole diet. Small lifestyle tweaks often give the fastest wins.

When medications affect your skin

Some drugs clearly change how your skin looks and feels. Acne treatments like Accutane (isotretinoin) can clear severe acne but bring dryness, sun sensitivity, and other serious risks — that article covers what to expect and how to stay safe. Antibiotics such as Chloromycetin are useful for infections but can cause local reactions or sensitivity in some people.

Blood pressure meds sometimes cause rashes. Read about losartan-induced rash to learn common signs: red blotches, itchiness, or hives that start days to weeks after a new prescription. If a rash appears suddenly with swelling, trouble breathing, or fever, seek emergency care. For milder rashes, call your prescriber before stopping the medicine — they’ll advise whether to pause, switch, or treat the rash directly.

Track timing: note when the symptom started and which new products or drugs were added. A quick photo diary helps your clinician spot patterns. Patch testing or switching one drug at a time can reveal the culprit without guesswork.

Natural options like coconut oil can help dry skin for some people, but oily or acne-prone skin might get worse with heavy oils. Probiotics that support gut health can sometimes improve skin conditions tied to digestion, but use them thoughtfully and discuss with your provider.

Use this page as a starting point: follow basic care, watch for medication links, and read deeper pieces on Accutane, Chloromycetin, and losartan rashes when needed. If you’re unsure, a dermatologist visit clears options and speeds relief.