All About Skin Care

Skin Care Tips

Skin Care Acne

Skin Care Acne Tips

Prevent Acne Scarring

Skin Care Products

Skin Care Products Guide

While oils, dirt, and other contaminants can clog pores and worsen acne, it is not the primary cause of acne. Acne has numerous causes, the most primary being hormonal factors and to some degree, genetics. For those predisposed to acne, poor hygiene may make acne worse, but will not be the sole cause of acne for most patients.

9. Acne lasts forever

While those with acne tend to have their acne for years, most people who get acne in their childhood and teenage years improve in their mid-late twenties without any treatment. This improvement is primarily due to a stabilization in hormone levels during the mid-late twenties that are usually raging and in flux during the teenage years. Some people, however, do continue to have some degree of acne throughout the adult years, and there are even some other people who only develop acne in their adulthood.

8. Sexual activity worsens acne

The myth was that testosterone levels and the hormonal milieu associated with increased sexual activity worsened acne, but there is no evidence that sexual activity is at all related to acne.

7. Acne can be contagious

Acne is not contagious. If you touch or rub against anyone with acne, you will not get acne from their lesions. Rather, touching or rubbing, in and of itself, can lead to pore blockage and cause acne – an example being those people who breakout on their cheeks and chin from speaking on the telephone for prolonged periods of time.

6. Eating fatty foods causes acne

Acne is not caused by eating food. Limited studies have been done to prove whether or not foods cause acne, and while some studies may have suggested an association, there is no evidence to support that acne is related to what you eat. Chocolate or sweets do not cause acne.

5. Getting sunlight or tanning improves acne

There is no evidence that tanning or sunlight exposure improves acne. Some people may subjectively appear better after sun exposure, but there is nothing to suggest that regular sun exposure is a good way to treat acne. While sun exposure is known to decrease skin inflammation and, although unproven, certain inflammatory acne would theoretically benefit, this effect is NOT scientifically proven. It is very well-known that sun exposure leads to numerous types of skin cancers and strongly contributes to accelerated skin aging.

4. The more you wash your skin, the more improved your acne will be

Facial washing does improve acne, but the effect is limited. For those with very mild acne, washing 2-3 times per day may be all that’s needed for improvement. However, for those where simple washing does not fully control acne, further or more aggressive washing/scrubbing will not help and is not advised. In fact, the resulting trauma and dryness may be worse than the actual acne, itself. It would be prudent to have other acne control methods, either topical or oral medications to obtain further improvement.

3. Popping pimples is the best thing to do when you see active acne

Popping pimples can immediately relieve the pain and inflammation associated with numerous acne types, however, keep in mind that attempting to pop a pimple may actually worsen your acne greatly. The increased inflammation, trauma, and resulting worsening of acne may lead to not only a larger, more painful lesion, but also the potential for acne scarring.

2. Natural makeups are good for acne

Any makeup can promote acne, natural or otherwise. Makeup occlude pores which subsequently get inflamed and form acne. If you are shopping for a makeup suitable for acne, the best types of makeup to use are those labeled as non-comedogenic (non acne forming). For a list of non-comedogenic compounds, click here.

1. Using more medicine on acne makes it better, quicker

Using more medicine on a present acne lesion does not make it better any faster. When an acne lesion is present, it is often helpful to place a benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid 1.5-2.0% product on the lesion one to three times a day. Doing it any more often may lead to excessive drying and cracking without improving the acne lesion further. To the same token, overusing Retin-A or prescription medications that you already have on a single acne lesion is not recommended.

Cost-Benefit Ratio

Most of the time the nontoxic skin care products are more expensive then the toxic counter parts. This is the reason why the nontoxic skin care products are not very popular or why people turn off to them. Yes the nontoxic skin care products are bit expensive but the benefit they provide to your skin is invaluable. Only after a couple of weeks use you will see that how effective the nontoxic skin care products are in comparison to the toxic ones. The extra amount of money you outlay for your nontoxic skin care products will be worthwhile.

The same reason applies to the local pharmacy stores, which is why they don’t keep and promote the nontoxic skin care products. The toxic skin care products are more profitable then the nontoxic skin care products. The local pharmacy chains are there to do the business not to provide you the best solution for skin care. The best solution for the local pharmacy is one which is the most profitable. So think about your skin and use the nontoxic skin care products. Your skin will thank you for it and certainly you will see the results.

Where to get nontoxic skin care products

Most of the time you will see that the skin care products sitting in the local pharmacy store shelves contain toxins and chemicals. If you are looking for the best non toxic skin care products then you have to get out of your local Osco or CVS and start looking for other possibilities.

Many nontoxic skin care product companies operate through referrals. There are chances that a friend of your friend or may be one of your own friends sells the non toxic skin care products. Just ask around your friends or community. Someone will definitely be able to point you in the right direction.

However, you can support your acne treatment efforts with proper acne skin care in order to reduce the recurrence of acne flare-ups and not aggravate existing acne.

Knowing What You’re Doing

One of the first pieces of advice is to make sure that you understand and follow the directions for any acne remedy that you are using. If you are taking a prescription acne medicine, read the patient leaflet that accompanies the medication carefully. Typically for moderate to severe acne a dermatologist may prescribe several acne medicines, each with its own treatment protocol and directions.

In order to achieve the acne free skin that you desire, it is important to use all the acne treatments properly and in the correct order. Consider bringing a tablet of paper, a pen, and a friend or relative with you to your appointment with your dermatologist. Simply jot down some notes about the order and time of day for applying each acne medicine and what its purpose is.

Remember, just because the acne clears with the use of your acne medicines doesn’t necessarily mean that you have succeeded in curing acne. Most people with moderate to severe acne must continue to use their acne medicine long-term to prevent any recurrence of their acne problem. Using the acne treatments properly should translate to clear skin and freedom from acne scars.

What About Over-the-Counter Remedies?

Besides using medications prescribed by a doctor, there are a large number of products on the market labeled as skin cleansers, facial cleansers, pore cleansers, and facial pore cleaners that can be used in curing acne.

When cleansing skin that is afflicted with acne, an important point to remember is not to scrub the skin; never scrub your face with a washcloth. It is a misconception that acne is caused by dirt clogging the pores of the skin. You don’t scrub away the offending dirt; you can’t scrub away the offensive acne and achieve acne free skin.

Over-washing or scrubbing skin afflicted with acne only serves to aggravate the condition. Rather use only a gentle skin cleanser, lukewarm water, and a gentle motion with your fingertips as your primary acne skin care regime. When you wash your face with your hands, be sure to first thoroughly wash your hands.

Do Natural Treatments Really Work?

Look for gentle cleansers that are sold as acne solutions. When you’re evaluating skin cleansers for acne, include natural acne treatments in your search as well. For example, a soap made from Echinacea and other herbal ingredients is an effective antibiotic facial cleanser that helps fight acne and restore clear skin. Tea tree oil also has known antibiotic properties and serves as a mild anesthetic that will soothe the irritated skin.

Oily skin is implicated as a one of the causes of acne. It doesn’t necessarily make sense to use a moisturizer on oily skin as a means of achieving clear skin. But many of the acne treatments, whether they are prescribed or available as over-the-counter products, have a tendency to irritate the skin while curing acne.

A moisturizer is a boost to irritated skin and keeps skin from becoming overly dry due to the acne treatments that have been applied. Look for a moisturizer with the following properties:

- oil-free

- won’t clog pores (non-comodogenic)

- containing a sun-screen

Besides a great desire to just scrub away the acne, many people try to remove the acne pimples by hand as a way to get clear skin. People who are afflicted with acne should avoid touching their face except to gently wash it with mild cleanser as already discussed.

By trying to remove pimples by hand you run the risk of creating acne scars that will last for a lifetime. Instead, have patience and rely on your prescription or over-the-counter acne treatment to work. Acne remedies usually take 6 to 8 weeks before curing acne.

For male acne sufferers, the daily ritual of shaving can be a problem. One acne sufferer has recommended the Gillette Sensor Excel as a gentle and effective razor to use. Other males prefer to try an electric razor. The advice is to shave delicately to avoid nicking the skin and to shave only as often as necessary. Finding a moisturizing shave gel may be one way to enhance your acne skin care program.

Female acne sufferers have their unique problems too, in finding the right cosmetic products to use. Females who are accustomed to using a foundation product may find that the foundation is difficult to apply smoothly if the facial skin becomes irritated due to the acne treatments being applied.

You may have to abandon the use of some cosmetics during the acne treatment period. Be sure to select only oil-free cosmetics and ones that are labeled as non-comodogenic (won’t clog pores) to use on your road to clear skin.

Proper acne skin care is a necessary addition to your arsenal for fighting your battle with acne and achieving clear skin once again.

Spending a fortune on buying skin care products is not going to help you if the product doesn’t suit you or you don’t take other steps to improve your skin.
Therefore, before you buy skin care products read the following skin care information and make an informed choice. First and foremost, let’s understand all the factors which govern the health of our skin.

Skin health and beauty mainly depends on:

o Balanced nutritional diet

o Adequate rest and sleep

o Plenty of water intake

o Fresh air and light

Apart from these, there is more information on many factors which affect our skin. Since skins are different, we all are affected in different ways by all these factors. Some factors affect internally i.e. within our body and some externally. Some factors can be controlled while we have no control on others.

Taking care of your skin is the first step towards beauty care. And getting skin care advice is the next. Most people when asked for skin care advice; try and sell you skin care products, creams and lotions. But we are here to help you choosing the best. But before you read our skin care tips and advice it is essential that you know everything about your skin type. This will help you selecting and buying skin care products becomes easier.

Skin Type Advice

There are four skin types:

o Normal skin – This is the best type of skin. Anybody who has normal skin is very lucky indeed as it looks clear, supple and healthy. Normal skin requires less skin care than other skin types.

o Dry skin – This type of skin cannot retain moisture as well as normal skin. It may flake and deteriorate with time and is prone to early wrinkles and lines. People with dry skin should follow skin care advice strictly and use moisturizers freely to prevent premature aging.

o Oily skin – Excess oil on the surface of the skin marks this type of skin. Oily skin often develops spots and pimples. Important skin care advice for oily skin includes regular and thorough cleansing.

o Combination skin – The forehead, nose and chin may be oily and the cheeks and other areas may be dry.

Simply follow the below mentioned “Seven skin care tips” and you will be several steps closer to perfect beauty. If you wish to have a healthy and glowing skin, follow our skin care advice and tips dutifully.

Skin Care Tips

1. Water is the key to success. Don’t neglect this skin care advice. 8 glasses of water a day will keep wrinkles away!

2. Exercise regularly. Most people don’t follow this skin care advice as they feel skin and exercises are not even remotely connected. However, exercise is not only good for your health but also good for your skin care as it improves your blood circulation.

3. Stop smoking. You must have heard this slogan endlessly but did you think of it as a skin care advice. Smoking makes your teeth yellow, gives you spots, makes you smell and also harms your skin and lips.

4. Daily moisturize your skin and neck. Neck moisturizing will slow your aging lines.

5. If your skin is oily, choose oil-free moisturizers without fail. Don’t neglect this skin care advice if you don’t want pimples and spots to break out.

6. Avoid excessive sun exposure. Always apply good sunscreen lotion every time you are outdoors.

7. Avoid junk food – follow this most important skin care advice if your skin is oily and acne prone.

It is easy to find skin care advice but following that advice is not! Follow our skin care advice and tips to get the best of you out of you.

You may need prescription drugs for a short period to get it under control when the herbal acne remedy is not powerful enough to combat he condition. An effective natural acne remedy is available and can help you too; you could check your local Health food store. A cystic acne remedy is fresh juice of apricots which is applied on the affected area for relief and cure. Another natural acne remedy is the use of the herb dandelion as an alternative treatment.

Another effective acne remedy is zinc – in some cases it has shown dramatic results. This natural acne remedy is a safe formulation using Certified Organic Aloe Vera Gel and Witch Hazel eliminating any alcohols. It is so important why finding the proper kind of acne remedy is crucial. This organic acne remedy is based on fresh nontoxic organic ingredients with proven restorative, healing and protective properties.

Another alternative form of acne remedy is a traditional form of the Chinese healing art, having evolved from acupuncture. Natural home acne remedy is the best for controlling this condition effectively, it’s best to get advice from your doctor or dermatologist first. Acne Remedy is a natural homeopathic medicine for the treatment and prevention of pimples due to acne. A mild side effect for this type of conventional acne remedy is that it can have a troublesome burning or drying sensation associated with its use.

Clearin is the most advanced natural vitamin and herbal acne home remedy available. Natural herbal remedies can be derived from thousands of herbs enabling astonishing results. No herbal remedy for acne will give you long-term results without maybe some additional traditional remedies.

You owe it to yourself to try a natural acne remedy. A soap with aloe vera is good too, as aloe is a natural wound healer. Clearin is the most advanced natural vitamin and herbal acne home remedy available.

AcnEase is a unique natural acne remedy in that it addresses the cause of Acne and skin related problems. For a Natural Acne Remedy, Include Facial Steaming. Natural Acne Remedy If you adhere to a healthy diet, preferably recommended by a qualified nutritionist, you can avoid acne or control it effectively.

Bentonite Clay is the one natural acne remedy that you must start using today.

Tea tree oil is one of the effective herbal acne remedy. Today’s cosmetics contain an array of herbal preparations believed to influence skin health and beauty and could help with your condition. An herbal acne remedy can be a superb and powerful alternative for treating acne. Remember, also, not to mix herbal remedies, just as you shouldn’t mix regular medications. Some even suggest drinking herbal water prepared by boiling corn and fenugreek seeds. One natural herbal acne remedy involves the use of strawberries or strawberry leaves.

Try a few herbal remedies to help detoxify your body. Herbal healers believe the gentle way is the best way. Glycerin soap is another popular external herbal acne remedy. Oil-free herbal creams have also been very effective in treating acne. Centella is another herbal acne remedy that helps treat acne. Sharkne herbal acne treatment is for the treatment and prevention of zits oil and acne.

So getting an effective acne remedy is thus recommended as soon as the condition appears. A popular natural acne remedy is the use of hot and cold wet towel compresses. You may need prescription drugs for a short period to get it under control when the herbal acne remedy is not powerful enough to combat the condition.

A cystic acne remedy is fresh juice of apricots which is applied on the affected area for relief and cure. One well known external herbal acne remedy is tea tree oil. Another natural acne remedy is the use of the herb dandelion as an alternative treatment.

For the acne sufferer, working the knowledge into an acne remedy is pretty much a do-it-yourself project. This natural acne remedy is a safe formulation using Certified Organic Aloe Vera Gel and Witch Hazel eliminating any alcohols. Acne Remedy is a natural homeopathic medicine for the treatment and prevention of pimples due to acne. An unusual acne remedy is a bean tea.

As we age, our skin (epidermis) loses elasticity and becomes less supple. We develop wrinkles, age spots, our skin becomes drier and in need of additional hydration. Finding the best skin care products becomes increasingly important as we age, particularly the anti-aging skin care variety.

As we get older, our body produces less collagen which is necessary to maintain skin elasticity. This deficit is what causes our skin to wrinkle and sag. The skin discoloration that often accompanies aging skin is due to decreased oil production and increased drying of the skin as a result of sebaceous glands that no longer work well.

The purpose of an anti aging skin care regime is to re-hydrate the skin and keep it as youthful as possible for as long as possible.

The commercial skin care industry abounds with anti-aging skin care products and special formulations to revitalize aging skin. However, there are so many anti-wrinkle skin care creams and lotions for mature skin that it can be difficult to sort through them all to find the best preparations.

An effective way to compare brands is to consider their ingredients. If you know what specific ingredients can do for your skin you can read the labels and get a good idea of the likely effectiveness of particular formulations.

Here are seven of the most effective anti-aging skin care ingredients that can be included in facial skin creams:

1. Idebenone – Coenzyme Q10 or CoQ10 (also known as ubiquinone) is a powerful antioxidant which has been chemically synthesized into Idebenone which also has strong antioxidant properties. CoQ10 was synthesized because it was found to reduce the risk of heart disease and free radical damage as well as impeding the development of some nervous system and neurological disorders.

This natural enzyme was synthesized in an attempt to increase its effectiveness. Initially, it was taken internally and was found to increase brain function, energy levels, nerve growth factor and serotonin as well as protecting cells and reducing inflammation. There are no known adverse side effects of using this drug.

More recently, skin care manufacturers tested topical versions of Idebenone on damaged skin and found that it was very effective in preventing and even reversing free radical damage caused by sun exposure, diet and lifestyle. As we age, our body has less ability to fight free radicals so the use of this element and other topical antioxidants in skin care preparations can help the skin cells to regenerate and prevent further deterioration.

2. Edelweiss Extract is another powerful antioxidant which neutralizes free radicals caused by exposure to UV sun rays over time, pollution, and the modern western diet which is high in fats and sugars. Furthermore, it prevents the increase of super oxides which actively promote the aging of skin. It also provides a natural protection against harmful ultraviolet rays also making them excellent additives to sun screens.

Edelweiss extract contains bioflavonoids which help to strengthen blood vessel walls. It is therefore an excellent ingredient for wrinkle reduction creams and lotions.

3. Evening Primrose Oil has been used throughout history to treat a variety of ailments. In particular, it reduces inflammation and heals eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis. Where anti-aging skin care products are concerned, Evening Primrose’s ability to reduce skin inflammation is particularly important. The oil of the evening primrose contains seventy eight percent essential fatty acids and is linoleic and gamma linolenic acids. These components maintain the skin’s water barrier and nurture the membranes of skin cells.

Deficiency in Essential Fatty Acids can hasten the aging process of the epidermis by reducing the activity of the sebaceous glands, increase the likelihood of acne, eczema and psoriasis, cause the skin to become dehydrated and weaken the skin’s surface capillaries. The addition of essential fatty acids in topical preparation and internal medications helps to replace those acids that the body loses and cannot produce on its own.

Consequently, the inclusion of Evening Primrose Oil in antiaging formulas is extremely beneficial as it helps to prevent wrinkles, helps the skin to maintain its shape and texture and slows the effects of time process. The best skin care products are likely to contain it.

4. Shea Butter butter naturally moisturizes and tightens the skin. Like edelweiss extract, it also protects the skin from ultra violet light. It is one of the most effective ingredients found in many age defying skin care products. It is not only a moisturizer that makes wrinkles less noticeable and helps skin to appear smoother, it also improves skin elasticity and suppleness, improves skin tone and removes dry, scaly or rough skin.

This interesting additive contains fatty acids which prevent drying, cracking, wrinkling and burning of the skin in addition to assisting in the regeneration and healing of damaged skin. To be a truly effective ingredient in an anti-wrinkle skin care product, it is recommended that the product contains at least twenty percent of Shea Butter.

5. Vitamin A (Retinol) is another extremely important antioxidant which is particularly beneficial. The small molecular structure of this vitamin allows it to penetrate the skin’s epidermis so that it can act to repair damage in the lower layers of skin as well as stimulate them to produce collagen and elastin. It acts to eliminate age spots and improve the pigmentation of the skin.

Vitamin A also helps to regulate the growth of skin cells. Using it topically helps to improve skin elasticity, and smooth skin that is rough, dry or thicker than normal. Retinol is also important for healthy immune function, digestive health and eyesight. Not only should it be included in anti wrinkle creams, it should be taken internally as a nutritional supplement to ensure that aging skin is fully supported.

6. Vitamin E is an antioxidant enhancer and increases the effects of the other antioxidants in an age fighting formulation. It also promotes healing of damaged skin and has been shown to prevent skin cell damage and inhibits the ability of free radicals to damage skin cells.

7. Vitamin C helps to increase collagen production which smooths the skin out and reduces wrinkles. It also improves blood flow which improves the complexion and can enliven dull skin.

If you read the labels on anti-aging formulations carefully and ensure that these ingredients are included, you will be able to distinguish between products and give yourself the best chance of finding the best skin care products to suit your needs.

Healthy skin care is very important in that it can prevent skin problems and slow down the signs of aging. Many people have busy lifestyles and do not take care of their skin properly with the right face care products or the best skin care routine. As we age, our skin becomes finely wrinkled and thinner, which is why it is a good idea to use the best face care products to slow this process down.

Good Skin Care Habits

One of the best ways to take care of your skin is to use sun protection. The ultraviolet rays from the sun can cause wrinkles, dry skin and even skin tumors if you expose your skin to excessive sunlight. You should avoid sun exposure in the high intensity hours, use face care products containing UV filters and wear a hat or cap if you have to be in the sun.

Smoking also ages the skin and increases wrinkles because it constricts the small blood vessels in the skin’s outer layers.

Cleansing and Moisturizing

Cleaning is a very important part of healthy skin care and you should always be gentle with your skin. Avoid strong, harsh soaps because they can strip the natural skin oils. If you have sensitive skin, avoid unnecessary additives in your face care products such as perfumes and colorants. To dry your face, always pat it with a towel rather than rubbing.

Moisturizing is just as important as cleansing if you want a healthy skin care regime. Moisturizers work by sealing in the skin’s natural oils. Your skin type and age determine which type of moisturizer you should use. Choose a moisturizer with an SPF, or sun protection factor, of at least fifteen.

Ingredients in Face Care Products for Healthy Skin Care

Some face care products contain natural ingredients which have been proven to benefit the skin. Cynergy TK is a new ingredient found in some skin care ranges which contains keratin. This rejuvenates the skin and stimulates the growth of new cells.

Nano-Lipobelle H EQ10 is a type of coenzymeQ10. It penetrates deeply into the skin and works well in anti-wrinkle creams. Phytessece Wakame is a Japanese sea kelp extract which helps to keep the skin elastic and toned.

Natural Vitamin E is an ingredient in many face care products because it can reverse the effects of skin aging thanks to its powerful antioxidant properties. Some products contain oils such as jojoba oil, which is deeply moisturizing or grapeseed oil which is an antioxidant and repairs the skin, banishing stretch marks and smoothing the skin’s surface.

The best face care products for healthy skin care are usually those containing only the purest, most natural ingredients. Be careful to check the labels before buying a new skin care product and avoid anything containing cheap fillers. Your skin deserves the best and to keep it healthy and young looking, always choose the best natural skin care products you can get.

One of the key differences between conventional skin care and natural or organic skin care is not the “active” ingredients such as green tea or vitamin c, which excluding water may make up to about 5% of any product, rather it lies with the base ingredients. In natural skin care, the base ingredients are often a mix of vegetable oils and butters or waxes in contrast to the synthetic ingredients often found in conventional skin care. The use of base oils has enormous benefit for the skin. Instead of being an inert (non-active) synthetic carrier for the active ingredients, base oils contain nutrients such as vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids that support and nourish the skin. I would go so far as to count base oils as active ingredients in skin care. So, in fact, in natural products up to 95% of any product has a supportive “active” effect on the skin. In comparison, the synthetic base ingredients in conventional skin care by enlarge, lack significant therapeutic benefit.

There are many factors that affect the absorption of topical ingredients into the skin and in reality, many topical creams just sit on the surface of the skin, effectively plumping the superficial skin cells but rarely having any effect on deeper layers. The skin is designed to be selectively absorbent, being relatively permeable to fat soluble substances and relatively impermeable to water and water soluble substances. Fat soluble ingredients such as oils are absorbed more effectively and have greater effect on the cell membrane and skin matrix, supporting skin nourishment. As carriers, oils can also transport essential oils, phytonutrients, vitamins and minerals into the skin where they are most effective, rather than just having a “surface” effect. In addition, oils also help prevent skin dehydration by providing an effective water loss barrier which in turn leads to plumper, more hydrated skin.

Oil absorption is influenced by the viscosity or thickness of the individual carrier oil with thicker oils tending to be absorbed more slowly through the skin. Generally fine light oils are preferable for use on the face as they absorb quickly, easily penetrating the surface layer of skin without leaving a greasy feel. Heavier oils are suitable for dry facial skin, skin on the body, as bath oils and massage oils. The degree of unsaturation will also impact on oil absorption. In general, the more polyunsaturated fat content of the oil, the better the absorption. For example Rose Hip oil is high in polyunsaturates and has quite low viscosity, making it ideal for use in face serums and creams as it absorbs quickly into the skin.

It is worth noting that cold-pressed oils tend to have a greater degree of unsaturates than heat-extracted oils and for this reason are preferable. The process of cold-pressing involves the nut or seed being placed in an “expeller” which squeezes the oil out. There is some heat created by friction however, it causes little damage to the oil or its constituents. Heat-extraction uses temperatures up to 200 degrees Celsius which dramatically increases the yield of oil, making it far more cost effective but at the same time damaging the nutrient content of the oil. Unsaturated fatty acids are easily damaged by high temperatures and so heat-extracted oils will have significantly lower levels. While these oils are commonly used as cooking oils, they should be avoided for use in skin care and aromatherapy as they lack the therapeutic benefits of the cold-pressed versions.

A common misconception when it comes to the use of oils is that applying them to the skin will only worsen oily skin and further create congestion. Heavier oils may sit on the surface of the skin longer before absorption, which is not ideal for already oily skin. However, the lighter, less viscous oils will be absorbed quite quickly and in many cases help to balance skin oiliness rather than contribute to it.

Oils are effectively absorbed into the skin rather than sitting on the surface layer and therefore they are unlikely to cause or worsen congestion. However, many natural skin care products rely on waxes and butters as base ingredients. While enormously beneficial for the skin, they are more likely to sit on the surface and therefore have a greater likelihood of contributing if congestion is already an issue. They are unlikely to cause congestion that wasn’t previously present and the skin response really does depend on individual skin type. The percentage of waxes to butters to oils will vary in different products for different skin types. If you are unsure about what product to use for your skin type, it is worth asking the manufacturer or supplier which of their particular products will be most beneficial for your skin type.

There a quite a number of nourishing carrier oils used in both skin moisturizers and serums and the range of natural products available that using nutritional base oils is ever increasing. Different oils are suitable for different skin types so knowing some basic facts about base oils will help you find the most suitable product for your skin.

Sweet Almond Oil – A common used oil in skin care, it is rich in nutrition including vitamin E, unsaturated fats and essential fatty acids. It has a softening action on the skin and is useful for lubrication in massage because while not a heavy oil, it is not absorbed rapidly.

Olive Oil – A heavier oil, rich in monounsaturates including oleic acid. Extra virgin olive oil come from the first pressing of the olives and is dark green in color indicating the presence of antioxidant polyphenol. It is suitable for use with dry skin as it helps stabilize the cell membrane increasing the skins ability to hold onto moisture. Olive oil also contains squalene, a hydrating and anti-inflammatory agent, ideal for skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema.

Tamanu Oil – Tamanu oil has powerful healing properties in its unique ability to promote the formation of new skin tissue. Traditionally used by the Polynesians as first aid for the skin and mucous membranes, the oil can assist with scars, burns, skin cracks, cuts, dry skin and wounds. Used cosmetically, Tamanu has healing, mild antibiotic and anti-inflammatory activity 2. For these reasons it is used in both protective and regenerative products aimed at restoring skin appearance.

Evening Primrose Oil – Evening Primrose Oil (EPO) is a valuable source of gamma linoleic acid, an essential fatty acid with potent anti-inflammatory effects. Useful for dry, damaged, sensitive skin EPO helps to maintain the skin’s normal barrier functions. It is also useful topically for eczema and psoriasis.

Rosehip Oil – With up to 80% essential fatty acid content, Rosehip oil is very fine and quite easily absorbed by the skin. Rosehip encourages regeneration and repair of the skin and is renowned for its skin benefits, particularly in the treatment of scars and burns. It is also known for its rehydrating effect as well as improving dry, aged and wrinkled skin.

Jojoba Oil – Actually a fine wax rather than an oil, Jojoba oil is very fine in consistency and readily absorbed by the skin. It is light and non-greasy and for this reason it is ideal in face serums and creams. Jojoba closely resembles the sebum of the skin and so is beneficial for skin and scalp problems such as psoriasis and eczema. With excellent emollient properties it is moisturizing, healing and suitable for all skin types.

Coconut Oil – One of the heaviest and most stable oils, coconut is ideal for hair and body application. With moisturizing and softening properties it is ideal for dry and rough skin. Coconut oil also has cooling properties and so is useful for after sun care products 1.

Avocado Oil – Strong in color and dour, avocado oil is not to everyone’s liking for skin care. However, in its unrefined form it is rich in lecithin, vitamin D, E and A which offer useful sun protection and skin nutrition. Avocado oil is beneficial to drier skins.

Sea Buckthorn Oil – Bright orange in color, Sea Buckthorn oil is rich in beta carotene and second only to Rose Hip in vitamin C content. It is also very rich in essential fatty acids. This rich combination of nutrients mean it is extremely beneficial as a base oil in skin care. With moisturizing, anti-inflammatory and restorative properties, it is easily absorbed and useful for all skin types.

Skin care is much more than just buying expensive skin care products and hoping they’ll keep the skin looking healthy and young. The skin is a living, breathing organ that reflects the body’s general state of health, irrespective of what skin care products you choose to use.

In the following article we will look at the type of skin care that should be used at different stages in our lives and other factors you need to include in your ‘health plan’ to maximize the long term health of your skin.

Teenagers

Why should a teenager, male or female, bother with skin care? After all their skin is young, supple, has no wrinkles, and has all the elasticity it requires.

This is a stage at which skin is undergoing considerable change. Hormones are going ‘crazy’ and the whole body of a teenager is developing into its adult form and functions – even the skin.

Acne is a probability during the teenage years and this is a very good reason to pay particular attention to your skin. Acne affects almost every teenager to some degree. In some cases acne can be so bad that it is necessary to seek professional medical advice and resort to having it specifically treated. However, in most cases, acne is more of a nuisance then a medical problem and by adopting a daily skin care regime using natural and organic skin care products, the effects of the acne can be reduced if not entirely eliminated.

Young men have an additional issue with their skin – shaving. Not only do they get acne, but they start growing facial hair and begin shaving. Razor blades and acne pimples do not mix and cuts can lead to infections and spreading of acne.

This should be avoided at all costs. Using natural shaving products which contain antiseptic herbs and essential oils will help to minimize infection and spreading of acne pimples.

Adults

Following the tumultuous years of being a teenager, putting up with acne and if you’re a male starting to shave, now is the time for giving your skin all that you can to maintain its health, youthful looks and build its resistance to prevent premature aging. By now, your skin will have developed its basic skin types and your choice of natural skin care system(s) should reflect your skin types. Yes, there are usually more then one skin type.

Often there is an oily T-zone while the cheeks, neck and eye regions are either normal or have a tendency to be dry. If this is the case, you literally need to treat the different areas with different products. That is, you need to use skin care products for oily skin on your oily T-zone and products suitable for normal or dry skin on the remaining area of your facial skin and neck.

Again you need to take care of your skin on a daily basis and should include an exfoliant and/or facial clay mask at least once every week.

As the body ages, skin cell renewal slows and elastin and collagen production also take a nose dive. This is when fine lines and wrinkles start to appear. The precise age at which this starts to happen depends on your genes and to a large extent on how well you’ve been caring for your skin; how much sun exposure your skin has been subjected to and how much exposure it has had to the elements and other environmental factors. Changing hormones also become a factor again during the 40′s and 50′s in most women.

Some people’s skin looks 30 in their 70′s and they did very little to make this happen – they are the very lucky and isolated ones. Most people find that as they get older the skin reflects this by showing its age too. This is where the effort of the past few decades will start to pay off, if you’ve been using a good quality, daily skin care regime, stayed out of the sun as much as possible, eat a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and generally looked after your body’s health, your skin will reflect this also – you are what you eat and this truth starts to show itself in later years.

Bothering to take care of your skin is not just for preserving a youthful, healthy skin, but your skin’s health will have a marked effect on your body’s health. The skin is a major organ that has many important functions to perform and if we do not look after the health of our skin, this can result in other, more serious health problems.

Similarly, if you have health problems, these will be reflected on your skin. For example, liver problems can cause skin discolorations, as can kidney problems. The skin around the eyes is often tinged brown or black if there is liver or kidney disease. Jaundice is a well-known symptom of liver disease, for example hepatitis.

Chronic dehydration will lead to dry wrinkly skin; chronic inflammation or infection can cause hypersensitivity of the skin. Skin problems can result from a deficiency of vitamin A, niacin, vitamin C and many other nutrients including several amino acids, a deficiency in dietary minerals, and so on.

All the skin care products in the world will not make your skin look healthier or younger, if you do not look after and treat your internal health problems.