Maintaining Healthy Skin

Our skin is the body’s largest organ and it serves to protect us in various ways. Your skin is an insulator that provides a certain degree of temperature regulation. Skin provides us with the sensation of touch and feel as well as the synthesis of Vitamin D and the protection of Vitamin B folates.

Our skin is the part of us that the world sees. Throughout time we have searched for ways to improve and enhance our skin. We’ve decorated it with tattoos and embellished it with body jewelry but these things do nothing to prevent or slow-down the aging process of our skin.

There are two basic ways to care for your skin that will actually deter the wrinkles and creases that come with aging.

First there are artificial fixes such as cosmetic surgery and the use of products that contain chemicals which minimize the signs of aging. Then there are the natural ways of maintaining healthy skin that does not seem to age at the expected rate.

The natural ways to acquire and keep a youthful appearance are based on a healthy lifestyle.

This includes getting enough sleep, exercising, eating the right foods and not smoking. Everyone should have a daily skin care routine and depending on your skin type the routine will vary. Start by determining the type of skin you have.

There are four basic categories of skin:

• Oily Skin: this skin type will present a shiny appearance and large pores are usually visible. Although cleaning is essential in eliminating excess oil it is important not to over-scrub because this can lead to a pimple outbreak. When washing use tepid water ... not hot. Hot water can strip away needed moisture. Always use non-comedpgenic (oil-free and won’t clog pores) moistures and sunscreen products.
• Dry Skin: you will notice that dry skin is tight or rough feeling, and you may see flakes or scales. Dry skin is often reddish in color and itches. To care for dry skin use warm water when washing. Do not use strong soaps or any alcohol-based skin products.
• Combination Skin: the T-Zone (forehead, nose and chin) is usually oily and the cheeks may be normal or even dry. You will find many products available that are specially formulate for combination skin.
• Normal Skin: a healthy glow is present and there is no redness or large pores visible. To maintain this strived for skin use products that maintain the natural water balance of the skin.

Skin care is a must, determine your skin type and get in the daily habit of caring for your skin. Proper care of the skin will help to ensure a youthful appearance ... even after your youthful years are gone.

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