Skin care is the series of practices that support skin health, improve its appearance and alleviate various skin conditions. This is a broad category which includes several practices which have been found to be very useful in a variety of skin related issues. They may include proper use of emollients, prevention of too much sun exposure, proper nutrition and so on. Proper skin care also involves keeping away from certain conditions that may be detrimental for one’s skin in the long run.
Regular cleansing is one of the most important components of skin care. It should be done once every day, preferably in the morning upon waking up. One can choose to either use a facial cleanser or a cleansing mask. The most common options are a facial wash or a wash or moisturizer and skin care cream or lotion.
Cleansing masks are usually applied once per day, at least after swimming and while doing any work on the skin. Those who do not want to take the time to apply a full-on face mask may opt for a facial wash or a moisturizing cream or lotion which can be applied using a cotton ball or a wipe. In case of a full wash, one may want to use hot water and a mild cleanser or moisturizing cream or lotion. When choosing which products to use, one may want to go for those that are oil-free and/or have water-based formulations.
There are several moisturizers which may be used in the home or office. They are usually water-based, fragrance-free and non-comedogenic (no pore-clogging oils). Common ingredients in these products include glycerin, cocoa butter, cucumber extract and chamomile extracts. Oily skin types should opt for a moisturizing gel that contains salicylic acid as this helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. For dry skin, a lightweight moisturizer is advisable as the ingredients may leave the skin feeling greasy.
While choosing which products to use and which to skip, one should consider what their skin-care routine currently offers them. It is best to stick with what will work best for them. Some individuals prefer to apply a gel to their faces and let it dry before going to bed. Others prefer to get into the shower with cold water and soap or simply apply a toner or preservative-free facial cleanser to their faces at night. Whichever they may be, they should remember that a good skin-care routine does not have to involve many products.
A good skin care routine does not have to be expensive or take hours to complete. Simple steps such as cleansing, toning and moisturizing every time one has a shower should be enough to give one a clean, fresh look each time. One can also get the help of a dermatologist, who can create a customized skin care routine that is right for their individual needs. In this way, a patient can avoid spending too much time and money on products that will not work.