How to choose the right skin care products

Establishing a daily skin-care routine will keep your skin healthy so you can retain your youthful looks. Knowing your skin type is the key to choosing ideal skin-care products. Here are a few tips to start you on the right path.

Cleanser/soap: Look for a cleanser designed for your skin type. Body and facial cleansers should include enough moisturizer to prevent skin from drying out and an exfoliant to remove dead cells from your skin’s outer layer.

Facial masks: A facial mask is applied after your face is thoroughly cleaned. Masks can be made of cream, gel, clay or other mineral or plant-based substances. They stay on your face for about 15 minutes. A mask can draw out impurities from oily skin or soothe dry and irritated skin.

Toner: After washing your face with soap or cleanser, apply toner to tighten pores and remove excess oil and debris. Match the toner to your skin type for best results.

Moisturizer: Part of any good skin care routine, body and facial moisturizer keeps skin hydrated, supple and flexible by trapping water molecules against the skin’s surface. Choose the best moisturizer for your skin type and apply gently after you’ve used a cleanser and toner.

Anti-aging cream: Anti-aging products containing antioxidents and certain vitamins that can help to counteract sun damage and reduce lines and wrinkles.

Night cream: Night cream is a moisturizer applied to the face at bedtime. It soothes your skin while you sleep, helping to prevent wrinkles.

Acne treatment: A dermatologist can recommend a special face cleanser and treatment for moderate and severe acne outbreaks.

Conduct the “tissue test” by blotting your face with a clean tissue, or determine your skin type based on the following characteristics:

• Normal skin: Appears smooth and clear with small pores, has no oily sheen and is blemish-free
• Oily skin: Results inlarge pores, blackheads, acne breakouts and an oily complexion
• Dry skin: Is heavily-lined or cracked with rough or reddish patches and invisible pores
• Combination skin: Features the so-called “T” zone with oily sections across the forehead and down the nose
• Sensitive skin: Has visible symptoms of skin conditions such as eczema or rosacea and is easily irritated

A healthy lifestyle is the best form of natural skin care.

• Cleansing: Wash daily with a product that contains a moisturizer and exfoliant best suited to your skin type
• Protection: Use an SPF moisturizer on exposed skin all year round and apply sunscreen when going outdoors
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water to keep skin cells hydrated and flush away toxins
• Nutrition: Avoid excess sugar and alcohol and consume a healthy diet including antioxidant-rich foods
• Proper rest: Regular sound sleep is vital to assist your entire body – including your skin – in cell repair and recovery

A healthy lifestyle and the right beauty products can help you keep your skin looking smooth, vibrant and youthful.