Every year we spend millions of dollars on skin care products that claim to make us look younger and more beautiful than we could ever imagine. In fact, it seems that there are new skin care products on the market every day. Do they really live up to the hype?
Truth is, the first step in looking your most attractive is a good, solid skin care routine. You will be well on your way to achieving a healthy glow and reducing the look of lines and wrinkles if you follow the following skin care tips.
Start With Your Skin Type
The first step is to determine your skin type. Just take a good, long look in the mirror.
Each skin type will need special tricks to keep it at its best, but the basic steps will be the same for everyone.
The following routine will help you achieve you fresh, radiant skin. You may need an occasional extra step for specific problems, but your fundamental routine consists of the same skin care basics, regardless of your skin type.
Creating a Routine
If you are like most people, you want your skin to be healthy and look clear, but you just don't have time for a complicated routine every morning and evening. Luckily, you can cleanse and nourish your skin with a simple, three-step skin care system that will take only a few minutes to complete.
Cleanse. It's crucial to cleanse your skin twice a day, usually in the morning and evening. Avoid using soap on your face. Soap often contains ingredients that are harsh and drying because of its high pH value. Your skin's surface has a pH value of around 5. Most soaps contain a pH value of anywhere from 7 to 10 and will dry out your skin.
Instead, choose a product that will clean your skin without stripping it of its natural and necessary oils. Avoid products with alcohol, unless your skin is extremely oily. Cleansing technique is also important. Use your fingertips to lightly spread the cleanser over the entire surface of your face and neck, and then rinse thoroughly. Blot your skin lightly with a clean soft towel, leaving it slightly damp.
Tone. Using a toner restores the pH balance of your skin, as well as removing any last traces of makeup, dirt or cleanser from your skin. Toners will close your pores and help protect your skin from the environment, but they can also tighten your skin, so avoid those with alcohol.
Essential oils are excellent toners for your skin. Rose water is the best choice for normal, dry or sensitive skin. Witch hazel is a good choice for oily skin. Use a cotton ball to apply the toner or, for a more invigorating twist, use a spray bottle and lightly mist your face and neck. If your skin tends to be extremely dry, you may want to skip the toner to avoid stripping away all the natural oils that protect your skin. Move on to moisturizing while your skin is still damp from the toner.
Moisturize and Protect. Most moisturizers work by retaining moisture rather than creating it, so always apply moisturizer while your skin is still damp. Use a lightweight moisturizer in the morning before applying your makeup and, if your skin is dry, use a heavier moisturizing cream at night before bed.
Sunlight is extremely damaging to the sensitive skin on your face, so be sure to choose a moisturizer that has a sunscreen included. Use a high SPF factor of at least 15, and wear a hat and sunglasses whenever you will be spending a long time in the sun.
Other Treatments for Your Skin
Some treatments can be handled on a weekly basis. Exfoliation removes the outer layers of dull, dry, flaky skin, but don't overdo exfoliation treatments. Unless you have very oily skin, exfoliation once or twice a week is usually sufficient. Don't scrub or rub the exfoliant on your skin. Gently dab and lightly massage it with your fingertips to avoid damaging your skin. Avoid the eyes when exfoliating.
You may also want to use a weekly facial mask that is specific to your skin type. Masks can add moisture to dry skin or reduce excess oil on oily skin. You should use a mask after your normal cleansing routine. Again, avoid the eye area. Leave the mask on for 10-15 minutes, and then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
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