Common Sense approach for a Glowing Complexion

We spend much of our “beauty budget” on hair products and salons, but our skin is one of the first things that people take notice with their first impressions.  That is why a proper and consistent skin care regime is so necessary.    There are countless beauty remedies, elixirs, and promises that claim to improve skin tone, elasticity, and blemishes and offer a flawless complexion.  The reality however is that nothing can be done instantly.   Fast, overnight results are at best superficial and regularly just a dream ….no matter what the claims of the product manufacturer.  To be truly effective, a skin care regime must become as important as eating and sleeping.  Only with time can results be seen.  Don’t worry though because a few simple tips will help you have a consistently healthy and glowing complexion.   

Always use some type of exfoliation product, which will help to remove old skin cells and other debris and particles from your skin.  This will expose the healthy cells and rid your body from the old ones.  You can either use exfoliating creams or scrubs, but nothing is better than a Moroccan Kessa exfoliating glove.  This is used after you have soaked in the bath or enjoyed a hot shower.  Use on hot moist skin with our without soap and rub energetically.  You will see an entire layer of dead skin be removed right before your eyes.  Not necessarily pretty, but oh so effective.

Avoid over exposure to sun or worse tanning beds.   In addition to being dangerous where health is concerned, these may also lead to early signs of aging.  Everyone loves a suntan, but there is no reason to sacrifice your skin or your health in order to achieve it.   Always use a high uv cream or lotion.   Don’t worry the tan will still arrive, but not at the expense of your skin.  Although I personally am not a fan of self -tanning products, they have improved over the years both in efficacy and realism.  Always test in a small area first for color and irritation.   Additionally, do use an after sun cream, lotion or oil as they will help rehydrate and moisturize our stressed skin.  I believe like so many things, moderation and common sense should prevail when using all beauty products.

If your lips tend to become chapped in the winter months or wind burnt at other times, using lip balm or lipstick will help to protect the lips from nature’s elements.

Do not use products that irritate your skin in any way, including soaps that have harsh ingredients.  If possible, use a moisturizing soap or that which is designed for sensitive skin.           

Stop or substantially limit smoking.  I know everyone has already written about the harmful effects of smoking, but it really is not good for your skin.  This is particularly true for the sensitive lip, mouth and eye areas. 

There are thousands of skin care products available in prescription or over the counter.    It is highly recommended to consult a dermatologist prior to treating such conditions as acne, discoloration or patchiness or other skin disorders.    Many professionals and skin care enthusiasts recommend ample moisturizing milks or lotions to replace the natural moisture that is lost given our daily routines of washing and exposure to nature’s harsh elements.    My preference is to use natural and whenever possible organic products and avoid harsh chemicals or detergents.