STEPS TO HEALTHY SKIN

Glowing flawless skin, everybody wants it… More than a having a chic outfit, or wearing the latest make-up trend — gorgeous, flawless skin is very much coveted. And these days, there are so many different articles, magazines and sources that tell us how to achieve a healthy and youthful glow. But, is it just me, or do these methods and steps to healthy skin constantly change? As a consumer, it seems like the more I read, the more overwhelmed with information I become. I just want clear and concise steps to achieve a natural healthy glow.  Skin varies and changes with age, weather, and complexions, and it’s important to know your skin type and care for it accordingly. I personally, haven’t always cared for my skin adequately. But, as soon as I said goodbye to my 20’s, I realized that having a healthy skin regimen is a must. So, here are 5 easy steps to healthy skin:

1. Wear SPF daily. Even on rainy days. Sun-damage is hard to reverse, therefore, avoid being under the sun between 10a-2p. If you must sun-bathe (as I often do), make sure that you re-apply your sunscreen and that your sun-block is no lower than SPF 15 . Also, be sure that your SPF is labeled “broad-spetrum”, meaning that it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. (If you plan on being outdoors for several hours, re-apply every 2-3 hours.) I wear Neutrogena’s Visibly Even Daily Moisturizer.
2. Have a simple cleansing routine. Washing your face is a simple task, but it is extremely important and beneficial. I recommend washing it once in the morning, and once more before going to bed. Throughout the day, your face is subjected to dirt, debri, bacteria and pollutants. Daily removal of such impurities is crucial to having healthy skin. I recommend any of the Neutrogena Naturals line, because they gently cleanses without the use of harsh chemicals, sulfates or paragons.
3. Exfoliate the skin regularly. Through exfoliation you remove dead-skin cells and reveal new skin underneath.  Exfoliation can be done professionally both mechanically and chemically, but it can also be done at home. When old skin begins to layer on your face, skin starts to look dull and dry. Removing the old skin and allowing the new skin to regenerate will guarantee healthier and younger looking skin. I exfoliate once a week with a homemade coconut oil scrub.
4. Use anti-oxidants and serums. The biggest difference between serums and creams, is that serums penetrate the skin faster and deeper. They have a higher concentration of anti-aging/hydrating ingredients without the use of extra fluids. However, it is really the active ingredients that defines the serum. “Antioxidant rich serums (such as those rich in Vitamin C) tend to work well at preventing oxidative strain from pollution and UV radiation that we are all exposed to during the day, making them ideal for application under a sunscreen in the morning. These multifunctional serums work to protect the skin as well as improve the evenness of the skin tone and reduce the number and depth of facial wrinkles,” says Dermatologist Dr. Adam Geyer.  I use the Trilane Retinol + Vitamin C that provides me with the right amount of antioxidants and retinol, giving my skin a luminous and brighter feel. (Purchase it using the code SAVERTC and get 20% off.)
5. Hydrate, moisturize, hydrate. Proper hydration is crucial for a healthy glow. Not only does your skin need to be properly hydrated, but so does your entire body. If your skin is dry/flacky, it is a clear sign that your body longs for hydration and moisturizer. Dry skin is more prone to wrinkles and loses its elasticity faster. Therefore, drinking water and moisturizing your skin (even if you have oily skin) will help fight wrinkles and seal in the moisture. Find the right moisturizer for you…. I’m still in the hunt for a good one. I recommend that you moisturize, twice a day everyday!

Note: I am by no means a skin expert or dermatologist, (I am just like you, learning through trial and error) but over the past few weeks a few of you have asked what I use on my skin on a regular basis. So, there you have it!

What products have you found that work for you?