Glowing, radiant and clear skin comes from the proper care you take of it. Treating your skin well can delay the signs of aging and improve your skin’s overall health. To have better-looking skin, create a daily routine that pays attention to all the aspects of proper skin care.
Skin Type
Get to know your skin type. Knowing exactly what type of skin you have will help you choose products formulated to help with any issues, such as oily or dry patches. Whether you have dry, combination, oily or normal skin, you can find products to balance it and improve its appearance.
Sun Protection
Sun protection–one of the most important aspects of maintaining healthy, beautiful skin–should top your list of skin care products. Apply sunscreen any time you plan outdoor activities. Avoid the sun during the peak hours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Use a broad-spectrum sunblock. The sun damages skin, causing wrinkles, age spots, dryness and increases the risks of skin cancer, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Nutrition
Your skin reflects your overall health. A nutrient-rich diet complemented by drinking plenty of water will give you radiant skin. Aim for a balanced diet filled with fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole foods.
Cleaning
The Cleveland Clinic recommends cleaning your skin twice a day. Use a gentle cleanser and avoid rubbing or pulling–doing so will damage your skin’s elastin. A washcloth provides enough exfoliation to remove dead skin cells, dirt and build-up. Pat your skin dry, leaving a little moisture. Limit the amount of time you shower or bathe because the hot water removes your skin’s natural oils. After cleaning, wipe your face with an alcohol-free toner. The toner removes left behind make-up, dirt or soap residue. Look for a toner that contains antioxidants for an extra clarifying boost.
Moisturizer
Apply moisturizer to your skin. Even if your skin does not suffer from dryness, moisturizer locks in essential hydration. If you have oily skin, opt for an oil-free moisturizer. Look for products that contain L-ascorbic acid, copper peptide, alpha-lipoic acid and retinol. According to the Cleveland Clinic, these ingredients protect the skin from free-radical damage and reduce fine lines and wrinkles, while improving texture, color and tone.
Photo Credit
- skin care image by anna karwowska from Fotolia.com
