Facial Skin Care

Skin Basics

Your skin the largest organ of your body and should be cared for carefully in order to remain healthy. Every square inch of skin is made up of 19,000,000 cells that continually renew themselves each day. Your skin is made up of three layers. New cells are produced in the top layer, or epidermis. Additionally, the epidermis protects the body from infection and prevents excessive water loss.

Connective tissues, follicles and nerves are located in the middle layer called the dermis. Waste is removed and oxygen and nutrients are provided to the epidermis by the dermis. Collagen is also used here to provide a cushion for the body.

Your skin is attached to your bones and muscles by the third layer called subcutaneous fat. Larger blood vessels and nerves are found here. In some areas of the body this is where cellulite forms.

Skin Types

In order to properly care for facial skin it is necessary to know what type of skin you have. Use the chart below as a reference.

Skin Problems

Many skin problems can be improved or even avoided with proper facial skin care. If over the counter products do not help your condition, you may need to consult a dermatologist.

• Eczema, also called dermatitis, is actually a group of skin conditions that effect every age group. Topical irritants or genetics can cause eczema. Characterized by a dry, itchy rash, it varies in severity and methods of treatment. If you have eczema, avoid harsh soaps which will dry and irritate already inflamed skin.
• Acne is a common problem for teens and young adults. Regular cleansing with products containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to kill acne causing bacteria is important for acne treatment. Clearasil or Proactiv Skin Care are two highly effective acne products for you to try.
• Aging is not really a skin problem; it is a natural occurrence caused by changes in hormone levels within your body. Sun exposure also accelerates the aging process. As your skin ages the epidermis loses its ability to retain water resulting in fine lines and wrinkles. You can slow the aging process by adopting the correct facial skin care routine.

Facial Skin Care

If you are poorly nourished, it will show in your skin. Additionally, certain habits such as smoking or drinking alcohol will affect how your skin looks. Proper nutrition and a multi-vitamin daily will help you to maintain healthy skin from the inside. Skin care products containing vitamins will also nourish your skin from the outside.

• Vitamin A is an antioxidant that protects your skin from free radicals and helps prevent dry, flaky skin.
• Vitamin C is needed for your skin to produce collagen and may even help reduce damage to your skin from the sun.
• Vitamin E is also an antioxidant that is frequently added to moisturizers because of its ability to hydrate your skin.

Products that nourish your skin with vitamins are plentiful. Some to try include Oil of Olay Total Effects 7X Visible Anti-Aging Complex with UV Protection, and Bobbi Brown Vitamin Enriched Face Base.

Sun protection is essential for facial skin care. UVA and UVB rays damage the skin and cause premature aging. Use a sun screen with an SPF of 15 or higher everyday, even in the winter. Eucerin has a product called Redness Relief Soothing Moisture Lotion SPF 15 that is designed for sensitive skin. You can also try TimeWise Age-Fighting Moisturizing Sunscreen SPF 15 from Mary Kay.

The Routine

Once you pick the products that meet the needs of your skin, it is time to set up your routine.

1. Remove your makeup
2. Cleanse your skin twice daily with a mild cleanser
3. Tone your skin if desired
4. Moisturize using a product with sun screen; light moisture for teens, medium for adults
5. Adults should moisturize at night with a heavier product containing no sunscreen

With just a few simple steps you can have healthy skin by practicing proper facial skin care.