Skincare Essentials for Military Families

Skincare doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Simple routines and smart use of TRICARE benefits can keep skin healthy through deployments, training, and family life. This guide gives clear, practical tips you can use today.

Daily routine that works

Cleanse gently twice a day with a mild, fragrance-free cleanser to remove sweat and sunscreen. Don’t scrub—use your fingertips and lukewarm water. Apply a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer after drying your skin to lock in hydration. If you’re oily, use a gel formula; if dry, choose a cream. Every morning, use broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 30 or higher. Reapply after heavy sweating or swimming. For acne, try a spot treatment with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid and start slowly to avoid irritation. Introduce one new product at a time so you can spot any reactions.

Keep routines short when schedules are tight. A quick morning cleanse, moisturizer with SPF, and an evening cleanser plus moisturizer will help skin stay balanced without extra effort.

When to use prescriptions and how TRICARE helps

Some issues need prescription care—moderate acne, persistent rashes, fungal infections, or eczema that won’t calm down with over-the-counter products. Ask your primary care manager (PCM) or a dermatologist for a clear diagnosis and treatment plan. Use TRICARE Prescription Explorer to check whether a topical medication is on the TRICARE formulary before heading to the pharmacy. That saves time and money.

Look for generic options first; they’re often cheaper and work just as well. If a drug needs prior authorization, get the paperwork started early—denials cause delays. For long-term meds, consider TRICARE Pharmacy Home Delivery to reduce trips and ensure you don’t miss doses during deployments. Keep a record of any allergies and past reactions to avoid repeats.

Don’t ignore hair and body skin. Scalp issues like dandruff or folliculitis respond to medicated shampoos; athlete’s foot and ringworm clear faster with topical antifungals. For cut or irritated skin, clean gently, use a barrier ointment like petrolatum, and cover if needed. If wounds show spreading redness, fever, or increasing pain, seek care—those are signs of infection.

Simple lifestyle changes matter: drink water, sleep enough when you can, eat vegetables, and avoid smoking. These steps won’t fix every skin problem, but they speed healing and reduce flare-ups. And remember—stress and sleep affect skin, so try short breathing breaks, or walk for ten minutes to reset.

If you have questions about coverage, formulary changes, or how to get a medication while deployed, use the TRICARE Prescription Explorer on tricareformularysearch.org or talk with your PCM. A small routine and the right prescription plan make a big difference for healthy skin.

Seasonal shifts can change skin needs — swap a heavier cream for humid months and protect lips with SPF balms. For kids, use mild soap and keep sunscreen on toddlers six months onward as advised. Patch-test new products on your inner arm for three days. If acne or eczema worsens despite care, ask for a dermatology referral through your military health channel.