Wednesday, February 16, 2011

Time for Beautiful Skin Again: The Secret of Younger Skin

So maybe you're a new mom with strange misbehaving skin or a busy working woman noticing your skin just isn't as fresh as it use to be.  Your face is the first thing you and others see and there are some things you can do to make a major difference and keep that skin looking and feeling younger! 
  1. Wash thy Face Every NightThe #1 single most important thing you can do is to NEVER go to bed with your make up on.  Not only make up, but dirt and oil builds up on your face in your precious pores from your daily activities.  Therefore you want to be careful on the cleanser you choose.  Many store bought cleansers have harsh additives that can irritate your skin and some even cause cancer.  The cancer causing elements may be small, but think of all the beauty products you use in a lifetime that may have them!  If you're like me, you may have tried several cleansers and they were too harsh or broke your skin out!  With some research I have found and tweaked some recipes for cleansers.  The best and basic way to cleanse and remove make up is a simple cold cream cleanser.  It does great for removing makeup as well as eye make up.  Also, use your fingers or a baby wash cloth to gently cleanse your face; other wash cloths and sponges can be too rough and abrasive.
  2. Tone after CleansingA toner or astringent removes extra oils or perspiration as well as residue left over from cleansers.  It helps to hydrate your skin and balance the pH levels as well.  Be careful as many store bought versions contain acetone and isopropyl alcohol which is also found in nail polish removers which can be harsh for the skin!  Rose water itself serves as a great toner.  It can be purchased at health food stores and in some cases the liquor store.  Another option is Aloe Vera Gel or Aloe Vera Juice.  For every one part Aloe Vera Juice/Water use one part water. 
  3. MoisturizeNow that your cleansed and toned you need the apply the barrier from the environmental factors of the hustle and bustle of a day and night while you sleep.  Consider your moisturizer as your skin protector! Make sure to pick a gentle moisturizer for your skin type and be sure to choose one with a sunscreen especially if you do not wear foundation.  
If all else fails just be SURE to wash your face every night and indeed your skin will look younger longer!  Also remember to be careful in choose your facial cleansers.  Do your research and make sure the products you choose or make are the right ones for you!