Sunday, January 18, 2009

5 Great Skin-Care Tips


Great skin doesn't need you to spend mega-bucks on exotic skin packs and facials. Great skin start from good habits. And they're simple to do as well!


1. Use a mild cleanser.
Cleansers that produce a lot of foam gives the psychological effect that it will clean the skin more. However, what most people do not know is that the suds are usually a sign that the cleanser contains a harsh detergent that is more harmful on the skin than beneficial. Look for cleansers that do not foam so much, brands that are hypo-allergenic is usually a good bet. Dove and Simple are two such brands that produce great products. If you have dry skin, this is even more important as normal cleansers will remove even more of your natural skin oil that protects it.

2. Look for retinoid creams.
Retinol, a form of vitamin A, is the only topical ingredient proven not only to prevent lines and wrinkles but to minimize the ones you already have. For those in their 20's, start using these creams for best skin results.

3. Avoid exotic facials.
Studies show that as many as 80% of people break out after a facial and show that there is no long-term benefit to facials. Untrained beauticians may not be able to provide the best care for your skin and sometimes do more harm than good. Products that are used in the shops may not be suitable for the skintype as well, and certain ingredients may actually produce adverse effects on the skin.

4. Wash your face last.
It is recommended that the face is the last area that receives cleansing. Also, it is best to wash the face area twice a day, once in the morning and once at night. If the skin is sensitive or dry, consider washing it once with cleanser (at night) to remove the day's impurities from the skin and just a quick splash of water in the morning.

5. Sunscreen is vital.
The sun's effects can produce pre-aging and wrinkles to the skin. This applies not only to the face but the entire body as well. Take care to cover up the exposed areas with higher SPF sunblock of at least SPF15.

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