by Ms. K

Created on: June 12, 2008   Last Updated: June 14, 2008

Proper Care for Facial Skin
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Our faces are the first thing people notice about us. Is it any wonder we're concerned about the condition of our skin? Even one pimple appearing in an obvious position becomes a focal point - especially to the person who wakes up with it. When it comes to aging, wrinkles take us by surprise. Why don't we get a warning for goodness sake? Of course wrinkles don't appear overnight. They form over time. We run out and find acne medication. We purchase extremely expensive wrinkle creams. That long aisle at the department store gives testimony to our quest for beautiful skin.

Is there a magic potion that will give us the skin we long for? Unfortunately, there isn't. We have to take proper care of our skin and take preventative measures every day. Following you'll find real information for keeping your facial skin in the best shape it can be.

Our first consideration when it comes to our skin should be discovering what type of skin we have. The best products and cleansers for your sister may not work for you. Why is that the case? Her skin is different than yours.

Care for Oily Skin
There's a shine on your face that isn't about youthful glow. It feels greasy. It can be a cold winter's day and your face looks like you've been in a sauna. It isn't sweat. It's oil. You feel like you could skate on it if it weren't for all those bumps. Acne loves oily skin. It forms from skin pores that have been clogged with oil.
*Wash your face twice a day with mild cleansers.
*Use an astringent after you cleanse.
*Use oil-free cosmetics or don't wear makeup at all
*Use specially formulated moisturizer w/sunscreen specifically for oily skin
*Give yourself a facial sauna once a week to clear clogged pores.

Care for Normal Skin
Aren't we envious of those with "normal" skin? It just isn't fair. They don't have to worry about being overly oily or overly dry! But even normal skin can develop problems if it isn't properly taken care of.
*Wash your face twice a day with mild cleansers
*Use moisturizer with sunscreen
*Keep your skin hydrated by hydrating your body. Drink a lot of water.

Care for Dry Skin
This is usually the issue for those with aging skin. Your skin no longer produces enough oils to keep it moist. Not only do wrinkles form easier with dry skin; they are more pronounced.
*Use products such as petroleum jelly or cold cream to clean your skin.
*Don't subject your skin to saunas
*Drink lots and lots of water.
*Wear moisturizer with sunscreen that lasts all day.
*Apply a good night cream

Care for Combination Skin
If you have combination skin, you have areas that are oily and areas that feel tight. Acne in one area ... Flakes in another. This is the trickiest skin to treat because what is good for the nose isn't so good for the cheeks.
*Wash twice a day with mild cleansers
*Apply astringent to oily areas
*Use two different kinds of moisturizers - Use oil free moisturizer on the oily areas and a good hydrating moisturizer on the dry ones.
*Stay hydrated

Don't run out and buy a $50 jar of skin product. Spending more on products for your skin isn't going to make them work better. Go with a reasonable price and experiment until you find the right ones for you.
The two things all skin types have in common are the need for cleansing and sunscreen. Prevention and protection are the keys to healthy skin.

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