Skin Care 101

Acne is a common human skin disease, characterized by areas of skin with seborrhea (scaly red skin),comedones (blackheads and whiteheads), papules (pinheads), pustules (pimples), nodules (large papules) and possibly scarring. Acne affects mostly skin with the densest population of sebaceous follicles; these areas include the face, the upper part of the chest, and the back.

Most people develop acne -the most common skin condition - to some degree, but it primarily affects teenagers undergoing hormonal changes. Can we prevent acne? If so, how? Where to start? What are the causes of acne? What are the products to use to combat this skin problem? We ask some of these questions.

Knowing Your Skin Type

Before you could start any skin care regimen, you have to determine first your skin type. Knowing your skin type and skin issue can give you informed decision about skin care and makeup products. Your skin type will probably change throughout your lifetime and possibly even from season to season. There are varieties of skin type such as;

Normal skin or "ideal skin" is tight but not too tight and it's firm. Normal skin is hydrated, delicate, smooth and quite thin. It does not produce excess sebum (oil) and pores are almost invisible.

Oily skin is thick and has a shiny look usually on the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin). It is the effect of excessive sebaceous glands functioning. Oily skin easily catches bacteria thus the formation of acne, comedones, enlarged pores and other blemishes. Although oily skin is often badly perceived, it has its benefits; oily skin happens to be firm, smooth, and younger looking for a long time.

Combination skin show features of two skin types, some parts are oily and some are dry. The complexion may be uneven. Combination skin may produce blackheads, enlarged pores, and shiny skin.

Dry skin is characterized as having a dull, rough complexion, red patches, almost invisible pores, and lines that are more visible. Dry skin when exposed to drying factors can become rough, scaly, irritated and can become itchy. Dry skin tends to age quickly..

Sensitive skin may result in burning sensation, constriction, itching, which appear after washing with water or using certain cosmetics. Having a sensitive skin may be a reaction to certain irritants, such as harsh detergents, alcohol, acidic skin care products, makeup removers, and the like.

Cover the Basics

Now that you have determined your skin type, it is time to begin a skin care routine that would fit your skin type. You should keep in mind that your skin type may change due to the season, diet and age so as time goes by, adjust your routine if your skin type changes. A typical skin care routine involves the following steps;

Washing/Cleansing removes dirt, makeup, grime, and contaminants from the surface of the skin. Proper cleansing not only removes impurities but also clears the way of what you want to apply next.

Toning prepares your skin for the next step but if you have a normal skin, you can just skip this step. If you have an oily skin, it is best to apply toner after cleansing. Keep in mind that toners contain alcohol, which can be drying and irritating, especially if you have dry or sensitive skin. If you still feel the need to use a toner, opt for a gentle toner such as alcohol-free toner.

Moisturizing is an essential part in a good skin care routine. It helps to maintain proper hydration. Moisturizers help replenish skin's natural ingredients that help maintain its structure and it cuts down on damage from free-radicals. Applying moisturizers is not the only step you can take to keep your skin plush, supple, and moisturized.

Exfoliation is a technique wherein we scrub off dead skin cells and allow our healthier skin to breathe easier. However, keep in mind not to over exfoliate your skin, as it will cause more harm than good. Ones or twice a week is sufficient to exfoliate. When you exfoliate, don't just rub your skin with some products that you can get your hands on, always keep in mind your skin type, the strength of the exfoliants you use, application technique and the optimal frequency based on your skin type.


Now that you have covered all the basics, you can now start a skin care routine that would best help your skin issues.

I hope this helps. Until next post. <3

Elle

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