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Exfoliation marks the third step in skin care. Science shows us that every three weeks new skins cells push up from the lowest layer of skin and move towards the surface. When the new cells reach the surface, the old cells are shed from the skin, often contributing to a dry and dull appearance. The dead skin cells may flake and actually clog pores, leading to pimples and blackheads. Exfoliation speeds up the flaking and shedding process by taking off the dead layer of skin cells, revealing the new cells underneath. It is only necessary to exfoliate once a week and should be done after cleansing the face. The key is to use a mild exfoliant and to message it gently into your skin around your face avoiding contact with eyes and other sensitive spots. Over-scrubbing can take off more cells than you want – the cells that protect your skin – so don’t forget to be gentle.
Moisturizing, the fourth step, is essential every day to soften and plump out the dead, dry skin cells as well maintaining the protective layer of oil on the skin’s surface. Like other skin care products, your moisturizer should reflect your skin type. Also, you might have to adjust moisturizers for the season, using one with higher oil content in the winter when your skin tends to be dryer and lower oil content in the summer months.
The fifth and most important step is sunscreen. Protecting the skin from the sun’s harmful rays will protect you from skin cancer as well as premature aging. The sun can cause the skin to lose its natural elasticity. It is also a major factor in creating sunspots, lines and wrinkles on unprotected skin.
Remember using sunscreen is not a seasonal step. You should apply it every morning year round 30 minutes before leaving the house each morning, even if the sun is not shining. Effective sunscreen contains an SPF level of 15 or more. Make sure to cover the face and neck as well as easy-to-miss places such as the tops of the ears and lips.
Finding the right skin care products will help you maximize the benefits you receive from your skin care regimen. Some of the more common product brands include
- Proactiv,
- Neutrogena,
- Nivea,
- Clinique
- Burt’s Bees
- And many, many more.
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