Skincare is Healthcare

We spend a lot of time and money searching for the perfect skincare cleansers and creams for our skin type, and we should be particular about what goes on it.  The skin is one of the largest organs of the body which acts as a protective shield, it is also the organ most vulnerable to outside elements.  The way you care for your skin can directly affect your overall health.  Besides daily skin care you should make it a habit to examine our skin for abnormalities, discolorations, or any other changes.  Skin care is not only self-care, but healthcare.

With so many products on the market, finding the right skincare to meet your needs can sometimes feel like a very daunting task because your skincare needs will change according to what is happening within your body, hormonally, as well as climate. Aging brings about its own set of challenges that can be just as rewarding as challenging.

Knowing your skin type is the first step.  According to the American Academy of Dermatology, there are five types of skin:

• Sensitive skin may sting or burn after product use

• Normal skin is clear and not sensitive

• Dry skin is flaky, itchy or rough

• Oily skin is shiny and greasy

• Combination skin is dry in some areas and oily in others

Take the time to find products that work best for your skin type, and use them twice a day. You may find that you need a different product for day use and evening use.

Do not neglect to use a sunscreen to protect your skin from the damaging rays of the sun during the day. See your doctor or dermatologist if any skin irritations or problems arise.

Do your research about your skin type and understand the ingredients that make up the products you use!  https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/

Here are some additional steps you should add to your skincare regimen.

• Apply a toner to remove any remaining residue after cleansing.  Toners can also help with tightening pores.

• Always moisturize with products that work best for your skin type.

• Incorporate skin exfoliation regularly to remove dead skin cells.

• Make it a habit to examine your skin for abnormalities, discolorations, and any other changes.

Finally, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), for now at least, regulates only those products that can change a person’s physical structure or biochemical processes within the body.  However, products classified as cosmetics or dietary supplements are not regulated.