Basic Skin Care Tips

Many folks may not be aware of the fact that they're damaging their sensitive skin on a daily basis. If you actually put some thought into it, basic skin care tips are a must for anyone who wants look young for as long as possible.

As time takes it's toll, you'll start to notice your skin changing, almost right before your eyes. It's getting less supple and becoming more sensitive—easily irritated. Your job? Make sure it receives the care it requires. So, let's talk about appropriate cleansing, moisturizers and protecting your—now—sensitive skin from the sun's harmful UV (and IR) rays.

Skin Care Tip: Cleansing

What's your daily facial cleansing routine? To remove dirt and grime; what product(s) do you employ? Consider, for a moment, your on-going skin care regimen. Please tell me you don't use a bar of body soap on your face. This substance was formulated for the skin…on your body. It is not intended for the—increasingly—delicate areas on your face. You should use a distinct cleanser made specifically to gently cleanse your face. Something that will make vanish the make-up, dirt and oil from your visage, without denuding all of its natural collagens.

Skin Care Tip: Moisturizers

Once your face is fresh (and clean), you may want to apply a moisturizer to any dry areas. The most efficacious approach is to apply this immediately after drying your face. This assures that the moisture is absorbed almost immediately. However, this step should only be taken if you have dry skin in the first place; maybe you get 'winter' skin, or whatever. Also, beware of products that claim to make your skin look younger—research the 'truth' about your product in question.

Skin Care Tip: Sunscreen

One skin care tip that should almost be an edict is: when venturing outdoors for any length of time—even if it's slightly hazy—you should always apply sunscreen. Sunshine can be a nasty nemesis. A lotions with an SPF of 15 (not too much higher) is recommended. The truth be told, nothing is more detrimental to your skin than the sun's potent rays. They can cause premature aging and unsightly wrinkles.

These are, of course, simple, basic skin care tips that should be practiced by everyone. In addition to the above mentioned skin care tips, you should be sure and use only lukewarm water—not hot—while washing your face. As with harsh soaps, your sensitive facial skin will be robbed of its natural moisture if you apply scorching hot water.

A final word of warning; while on the topic of skin care, have you ever seen a heavy smoker's complexion? If you really want to look aged, rapidly, then by all means, be a smoker. Some of my friends are, and they all have a gray, wrinkly visage.

The moral of the story? Take good care of your delicate skin; down the long winding road of life (read: time), you'll be glad you did. I mean, who ever said that you have to be young to look young