SKIN CARE ROUTINE

STEP 1: CLEANSE

1. Using the cleanser that is suitable for your skin type put an amount the size of a 5p coin on a spatula or in the palm of your (clean) hands.
2. Using upward strokes, massage into the skin. Cleansers are designed to flush out the pores. Massage in upward strokes also ensure you are going against ‘gravity’ and the direction of fine lines, to help smooth them out. Cleansing is important even if you don’t wear makeup.
3. Remove cleanser according to the cleanser instructions, which is with a dampened muslin or facecloth, or if you are using a wash-off cleanser, rinse clear with warm water.
4. Note - At the end of your day, if you are wearing eye makeup, use GO EASY Gentle Eye Makeup Remover first, then cleanse the rest of your face.
5. Tip – in a spa facials, we always double cleanse. So on special spa-at-home days, why not do a double cleanse too!

 STEP 2: TONE

Many people mistakenly skip this product, but think of it like this: would you miss the rinse cycle out of your washing machine? Of course not. Likewise with a good toner such as TONING ESSENCE– it’s the ‘rinse cycle’ of your skincare routine.

1. Spray toner onto a fresh piece of dampened cotton wool pad.
2. Wipe over face and neck.

STEP 3: MOISTURISE

1. Apply 1-2 (light) pumps of your favourite moisturiser onto your fingers.
2. Massage upward and outward all over the face and neck. Makeup can be applied over this now.
3. In the evening (before bed), or on a rest day, you could replace your normal moisturizer with REPOSE aromatherapy resting . Massage in long upward circular strokes. Inhale the gorgeous aroma as you do, and have a great night’s sleep!

 STEP 4: SPECIAL ATTENTION

Now is the time to apply any special attention products that you want to use. Here are our favourites:

1. EXALT firming neck gel – Put a 5p amount on the back of your hand. Rub the backs of your hands together and stroke or roll them up your neck, smoothing out the skin with the flat part of the back of your hands as you go.
2. BE STRONG strengthening treatment serum - pump once onto your finger (a little goes a long way), then with both hands, press gently into the face and neck. The serum is quickly absorbed, and there is no need to massage it in.
3. WINDOWS OF THE SOUL eye treatment – apply one drop onto your wedding finger, then tap lightly into the skin around your eye (not on the actual lid itself).
4. Self Defence spf30 for face – if you are going to be spending any time outdoors, its always a good idea to apply your spf now. Using only a very light layer, massage upwards and outwards. A moisturiser can be applied over the top, or you can use the Self Defence as your moisturiser for the day.

 SPA@HOME ROUTINE

One a week, before you do step 2 (Tone), take time out to give yourself a FACIAL MASK or SCRUB. You might like to even do this in a warm bath, as the steamy atmosphere and having your feet slightly higher than your head, all add to the benefits.  Light a candle (e.g. CHERISH THE LOVE or SIESTA FOREVER), pour some bathing oil into the bath (e.g. SOUL RETREAT or DRIFT AWAY), perform:

 STEP 1: CLEANSE

1. As per instructions above for daily routine.

 STEP 2: MASK OR EXFOLIATE

1. Apply a fine layer all over the skin, steering clear of the eyes. If using a scrub-mask such as The Power Breakfast or Breakfast Smoothie, gently massage with circular/upward moving strokes.
2. Leave on your face, and then slide into the bath and relax.
3. Remove after 20 minutes with a warm face cloth.

 STEP 3: Perform steps 2-3 as per daily routine.

Learn more at: http://tinyurl.com/nhb4gar

Basics of a Good Skin Care Routine

It is fantastic that you are all so inspired by the great makeup tutorials that Marlena and the many other Makeup Geeks have done for us all, but what is just as important is taking that same great care of your skin.

Especially with all the fabulous makeup products we are trying, it is important to make sure our skin is in prime condition to cope with the demands that these products will put on our skin.

Here are some basic steps for us all to look at with our daily and weekly routines – I am not going to talk about using specific brands but I will talk of product types that are widely available in most parts of the world…

Step 1 – Cleaning

Use a good quality cleansing product that will remove any remaining traces of makeup from the day/night before. Make sure that the cleanser is one designed for your skin type, as using the wrong type can cause as many problems as it solves.

Makeup Remover
For the most stubborn waterproof makeup, I recommend an oil based makeup remover. There are lots on the market and you don’t need to spend a lot of money in this area to get an effective makeup remover.

Step 2 – Tone

Most toners will help to remove any last traces of makeup and cleanser and will also restore the natural PH balance to your skin.

Step 3 – Exfoliate

Exfoliation is a process that removes dead skin cells from the top layer of skin, allowing new rejuvenated skin to surface and may help improve the appearance of fine lines and mild acne.

Step 4 – Moisturize

This is the final step of your daily routine and getting the right moisturizer is cornerstone of good skin care. Moisturizing forms a barrier between the skin and environmental conditions. It also helps to form a fine, protective layer that enables the skin to retain the moisture it requires. Moisturizing is essential for all skin types including oily skin.

Points to Remember:

Each of us has different and unique skin. so what is right for one person may not be the best for another person, so we need to identify the right product for us.

Please see the full version of this article “Basics of a Good Skincare Routine” where you can post questions and see further recommendations and tips for each step.

I have done lots of research on many different brands so if you do have specific question on individual brands give me a shout.

Learn more at: http://tinyurl.com/o7we7m2

How to Put Together a Skin-Care Routine

In This Article:

• The Products You Need (and Why)
• Your Essential Routine
• Your Advanced Routine

Knowing what products work together, how they benefit your skin, and the order in which to use them is incredibly important when selecting the best skin-care system for you. The information below will help you do just that. It's a great guideline you can follow to select a Paula's Choice Essential or Advanced skin-care routine or to custom-select products based on what works best for you and your specific skin concerns, step by step!Read More Below

The Products You Need (and Why)

The following table provides key details about how each type of product works, in what order it should be applied, and what results you can expect. Keep in mind that if you have multiple skin-care concerns, you may need to add more than one treatment or targeted treatment product to your Advanced Skin-Care Routine. You may be able to just add one targeted treatment product to your routine, or you might need to alternate its use with the other products.

For complete details, please visit the skin-care product pages using the links below.

Skin-Care Product	What is this for?	Why do I need this?	What results will I see?
Cleanser	A gentle, water-soluble cleanser removes debris, oil, and makeup.	Rinsing with water is not enough to clean your face. When your face is clean, it allows the other products you use to work even better, morning and evening.	With a Paula's Choice cleanser, your skin will look and act healthier, feel smoother, and be ready to receive maximum benefits from your other products.
Toner	Our well-formulated toners smooth, soften, and calm skin, while removing the last traces of makeup. They also add vital skin-repairing ingredients after cleansing.	Toners with skin-repairing ingredients hydrate and replenish the skin's surface immediately after cleansing. They also help reduce redness and dry patches.	With a Paula's Choice toner, your skin will feel softer and look smoother, and redness will be reduced. Those with oily skin will see smaller pores. Daily use will give your skin what it needs to function in a younger, healthier way.
Exfoliant	Our exfoliants gently remove built-up dead skin cells, revealing new skin. AHAs exfoliate the surface of skin; BHA exfoliates the surface of skin and inside the pores.	Sun damage causes the surface of the skin to become abnormally thick. Acne and oily skin complicate this further. Exfoliating eliminates this build up, which otherwise would cause clogged pores, uneven skin tone, dullness, and deeper wrinkles.	Overnight your skin will look radiant, smoother, and younger (really)! Daily exfoliation with a Paula's Choice AHA or BHA exfoliant will unclog pores, reduce redness, blackheads,* and breakouts, diminish wrinkles, build collagen, and improve uneven skin tone. *BHA is best for blackheads.
Acne Treatment	After exfoliating with an AHA or BHA exfoliant, an acne treatment with benzoyl peroxide kills acne-causing bacteria and helps reduce redness.	When acne is your concern, research shows that topical treatment with benzoyl peroxide is an essential step for achieving clear skin.	With consistent use of Paula's Choice acne treatments, you will see fewer breakouts and a reduction in large, red, swollen blemishes. Your acne will be reduced, and possibly eliminated.
Skin Lightening Treatment	Used at least once daily, skin lighteners gradually reduce, and in some cases eliminate, brown spots and discolorations.	Using a skin-lightening product reduces the over-production of melanin, the skin pigment that causes brown spots and discolorations.	After 8–12 weeks of daily use, you will see discolorations fade or even disappear completely. Your skin tone will be more even and radiant. Ongoing use is needed to maintain results.
Anti-Aging/Antiwrinkle Treatment	Applied morning and evening, serums filled with antioxidants and other anti-aging ingredients protect your skin from environmental damage, including sun damage* and pollution. *When used with a sunscreen rated SPF 15 or greater.	Paula's Choice treatment serums with antioxidants improve your skin in numerous ways, from reducing redness to stimulating healthy collagen production and improving the appearance of wrinkles.	Immediately, your skin will feel smoother and look radiant. With twice-daily use, signs of damage will fade and your skin will look and behave healthier and younger.
Anti-Aging/Antiwrinkle Moisturizer with Sunscreen	This essential morning step keeps your skin shielded from sun damage. It must have an SPF 15 or higher rating, and offer broad-spectrum protection. Blemish-prone?	Our sunscreens with antioxidants are essential to protect your skin from sun exposure, which is the No. 1 cause of wrinkles, brown spots, and other signs of aging.	Protecting your skin from further sun damage allows it to generate younger, healthier skin cells. This is the critical step to having radiant skin. You will see fewer signs of aging!
Anti-Aging/Antiwrinkle Moisturizer	All skin types will benefit from our moisturizers because they contain the types of ingredients research has shown help your skin look healthier and younger.	Used daily, moisturizers (cream, lotion, gel, or liquid texture) improve your skin's healthy functioning and keep it feeling smooth and soft. You can (and should) use them around the eye area.	When you use the right Paula's Choice moisturizer for your skin type, you will see smoother, radiant skin that's hydrated and healthier. Dry, dull, or flaky skin will be replaced by skin that looks and acts younger!
Targeted Treatments	These products are optional extras you can add, depending on your personal skin-care concerns. Examples include products such as facial masks, oil-blotting papers, and lip care.	These products may be needed as an extra step to hydrate skin, absorb excess oil, calm skin, or treat a special need or occasional skin concern.	Results depend on the targeted product you choose. For example, our Shine Stopper will leave your skin shine-free and help large pores look smaller.

Your Essential Routine

This simple, step-by-step routine covers the basic types of products everyone should use and the order in which to use them every day. These steps apply regardless of your skin type (oily, dry, normal, or combination).

Essential Routine: MORNING

1. Cleanser
2. Toner
3. Exfoliant
4. Moisturizer w/ sunscreen

Essential Routine: EVENING

1. Cleanser
2. Toner
3. Exfoliant
4. Moisturizer

Learn why exfoliation is so important and which exfoliant to use.
Learn why a Paula's Choice toner is an important part of your skin-care routine.
Learn everything about moisturizers, anti-aging, and antiwrinkle products.

Your Advanced Routine

The Advanced Routine includes targeted treatments you can add to your Essential Routine to treat your personal skin-care concerns, such as acne, red marks, wrinkles, sun damage, brown spots, or rosacea.

For example, if your sole concern is dry skin, you'll do fine by following the Essential Routine. But if you have dry skin and wrinkles or oily skin and wrinkles and breakouts you will want to follow the Advanced Routine for best results.

Advanced Routine: MORNING

1. Cleanser
2. Toner
3. Exfoliant
4. Treatment
5. Moisturizer w/ sunscreen
6. Optional: Targeted treatment (applied as needed before sunscreen)

Advanced Routine: EVENING

1. Cleanser
2. Toner
3. Exfoliant
4. Treatment
5. Moisturizer
6. Optional: Targeted treatment, as needed, applied before or after your treatment product.

Learn more at: http://tinyurl.com/ntdmzbo

Enlarged Pores

Pores are nothing more than openings on the skin that house hair follicles. Pores may be small and unnoticeable, but a significant number of people have pores that are large and visible enough to make them self-conscious about the way their skin looks. These more visible pores are what people refer to as “enlarged pores.” Deep within pores are sebaceous glands that empty into the hair follicles. These glands produce an oily substance called sebum that lubricates and protects the surface of the skin from environmental damage. Skin cells are constantly being shed inside hair follicles, and sometimes the excess skin cells and sebum clog pores and create blackheads. People who have enlarged pores are also more likely to have blackheads.

What Causes Them?

Pores naturally increase in size around the time of puberty as higher hormone levels trigger the production of more sebum, and the pore has to expand to accommodate this outpouring of oil. Dead skin cells and sebum can also stick inside the openings of pores and cause them to expand and look larger. People who are acne-prone produce more pore-clogging sebum, so they’re more likely to have blackheads and enlarged pores.

Enlarged pores aren’t just a problem for sebum-producing adolescents. Pore size may also increase with age as the collagen and elastin structure around pores breaks down causing them to widen. Too much time in the sun without a sunscreen contributes to this. Hormonal changes that happen around menopause may also make pores more visible.Genetics are another factor that contributes to pore size. Generally, people with naturally oily skin have larger pores since they produce more oily sebum. People with drier skin usually have pores that are discrete and smaller in size since they don’t produce as much sebum.

A good cleansing regimen is important to reduce sebum that plugs pores and causes them to enlarge. Choose a cleanser with glycolic acid, a natural exfoliator. This will purify the skin while removing dead skin cells that can clog pores. Choose a gentle formula that works without stripping skin of its natural protection against dryness. The next step is to exfoliate. Exfoliation “deep cleans” to remove dead skin cells and debris that can stick inside the opening of pores. Effective exfoliating products gently remove dead skin cells that cleansers alone can’t handle. Exfoliation has the added benefit of improving skin texture, giving skin a youthful glow you won’t get from simple cleansing.

Products containing alpha hydroxy or beta hydroxy acids also help to remove dead surface skin cells that contribute to large pores and blackheads. These products not only treat pore problems, they also brighten and improve skin texture while reducing the appearance of fine lines. Look for products that contain salicylic acid, a type of beta hydroxy acid that helps gently slough off old skin cells.

Until they become smaller, use a tinted pore-minimizing lotion to hide them. You can use the product alone or apply a water-based foundation or oil-free powder on top for additional coverage. Most pore minimizers leave a matte finish that causes large pores to fade into the background. Always apply a sunscreen first to prevent further sun damage that can make enlarged pores more obvious.

The Bottom Line?

Enlarged pores are a frustrating problem to have at any age, but the right skin care products can make all the difference in how they look – and that’s good news for anyone who has them.

Learn more at: http://tinyurl.com/peghffe

Best Products for Oily Skin and How to Get Rid of Large Pores

As you've probably heard before - there is no "cure" for oily skin or large pores. But fortunately, there are many ways we can lessen the beauty sabotaging effects of these afflictions.

The #1 step on your agenda should be exfoliation. Oil accumulates in the pores very quickly - clogging them, causing them to expand and look enlarged. When the oil mixes with your foundation, it draws even more bacteria into the skin exacerbating the problem. In the morning and evening, wet face with very warm water and use a good grainy facial scrub to purge dirt, oil and makeup from the pores. One of the best around is St. Ives Original Apricot Scrub (drugstores, $4). Exfoliate in circular motions for about 30 seconds - this formula has a creamy consistency, so doesn't feel harsh on the skin. Rinse away all the granules with very warm water.

Note: Many websites state that exfoliation only causes breakouts and skin tears - but that is not true unless you have uber sensitive, thin skin. Oily skin with large pores is typically thicker in texture, and rarely experiences side effects from exfoliation. Dryer skin, which requires very rare exfoliation, is frequently thin in appearance and shows tiny broken capillaries.

Step # 2 is to wash your face with a product containing Salicylic Acid or Benzoyl Peroxide. Some skin types do not react well to these chemicals, so if you are among that group, try a face wash that contains Tea Tree Oil. Here are some of the best: University Medical Acne Free Foaming Facewash (Salicylic Acid $8 at drugstores) / Proactiv Renewing Cleanser (Benzoyl Peroxide $15 at www.proactiv.com) / Thursday Plantation Tea Tree Face Wash for Acne ($10 at health food stores). Extra oily, congested skin will find it beneficial to use a body glove along with these washes, for even more exfoliation and to further unclog pores. You can purchase body gloves in the health & beauty aisle of most drug stores for around $5. Simply put the glove on your hand, pour some face wash on the glove, and scrub using circular motions. This purges even more dirt from pores, and removes any remaining makeup. Rinse away with very warm water & dry with a fluffy towel. This should be done morning and evening.

Step # 3 is optional, and can be used once weekly to unclog severely congested pores. A peel-off masque can be applied to the skin to lift away the dirt and oil which compose the blackheads in your pores. It's important to do this step within 30 seconds of washing your face, so you can apply the products while your pores are still open. One of the best peel-off masques is the Cucumber Peel Off Masque by Freeman ($4 at drugstores). Apply the clear gel masque all over face, or just on specific areas with very clogged pores. You don't want the masque to be too thin or too thick, so apply a layer no more than 1/8 inch thick. It can take some time for this to dry, but the process can be hastened by using a small fan, or a hair dryer on a cold setting for the first 5 minutes after application. Doing so will take the drying time from about 45 minutes to 25 minutes and will also help the masque adhere to skin, thereby removing more blackheads. Once dry, remove the masque starting from the bottom and pulling upwards toward your hair line. When the mask is fully removed, you can look at the sheet of dried gel and see all of the debris that was just extracted from your face. The results are usually astonishing! Buff away any excess masque using the body glove and a small bit of face wash, then rinse using very warm water. Dry using a fluffy towel.

Now that your pores are open from all the scrubbing and warm water rinses, it's time for Step # 4 - treating your entire face with a balancing toner. Toner helps to tighten pores and prevent them from getting more clogged. The Proactiv Revitalizing Toner (www.proactiv.com $14) or plain Witch Hazel (drugstores $4) work best for oily skin. Both morning and evening, saturate the center of a cotton ball with the toner, and swipe you're your entire face. People with oily skin often think they need to use harsh products to dry out their faces and get rid of oil - but they couldn't be more wrong! Causing your skin to dry out will only force it to self-medicate by producing more oil. Therefore, you want to use a toner that balances the dryness:moisture ratio. Although many people report that the Proactiv Skin Care System is ineffective for them as a whole for preventing acne, many use the Proactiv Toner and Repairing Treatment Lotion because they kill bacteria without disturbing the moisture balance of the skin. In my experience, these are two of the best products on the market, and highly effective for keeping pores clean.

Step # 5 is optional - some people really do have skin that is too oily for moisturizer, but others have combination skin that craves extra moisture. How can you tell? If you skin feels extremely dry and tight after washing, or if you notice any dry flakey areas, then it probably needs moisturizer. Sometimes, you may only need to use moisturizer when the seasons change, as that can often disrupt the balance of the skin. One of the most superb moisturizers for oily skin is Dr. Brandt's Pore Effect Refining Cream. It contains both Salicylic Acid and Tea Tree Oil to refine and tighten pores and prevent bacteria while also moisturizing - a truly amazing feat! Many moisturizers on the market are a nightmare for oily skin, this one is a refreshing treat. The price is a bit intimidating at $55 for a 1.7oz jar (www.drbrandtskincare.com), but this item is worth its weight in gold if you have oily skin. The good news is, a little goes a long way, so this jar will last you for almost a year. To date, I haven't found a drug store brand that functions well on oily skin, but whether you're opting for a drug-store brand, or a high-end brand, make sure you choose one labeled "oil free".

Step # 6 is to apply a translucent mattifying face powder, both before and after foundation. This will ensure that your face stays oily free for several hours, and will also prevent pores from getting clogged throughout the day. Many mineral makeup companies make what they label as a "Mineral Veil" for this purpose. Most function fairly well for the purpose of mattifying skin, just be sure to avoid any that are tinted and contain Mica and Pearl Powder - these two shiny ingredients will only cause oily skin to look greasier and draw attention to large pores. One of the best choices for oily skin is Mattify! Loose Powder by Mattify! Cosmetics (www.mattifycosmetics.com for $8).
It's a transparent clear powder that soaks up oil for about 4 hours on extremely oily skin, and 6 hours on combination skin. It contains Kaolin Clay, which absorbs debris from the pores, and when applied before your makeup, prevents foundation from further clogging pores. It works best when applied all over the face with a fluffy powder brush, before and after your foundation. You'll love the air-brushed look you get from applying it over foundation, as it makes pores virtually disappear. Don't skip the eye lids either! Applying this to eye lids before your eye shadow helps to keep the shadow crease-free all day. The Mattify! Cosmetics line also provides an array of mineral eye shadows that stay in place even when lids get oily. These do contain mica - but your eye lids are the one place you shouldn't be shy about adding shine and sparkle.

Don't skip the eye lids either! Applying this to eye lids before your eye shadow helps to keep the shadow crease-free all day. The Mattify! Cosmetics line also provides an array of mineral eye shadows that stay in place even when lids get oily. These do contain mica - but your eye lids are the one place you shouldn't be shy about adding shine and sparkle.

Step # 7 really comes in handy if you have a tough time with your makeup staying in place throughout the day. The use of a makeup setting spray will ensure streak-free foundation and smudge resistant eye makeup for nearly 8 hours. Two of the best are Model in a Bottle (www.modelinabottle.com $18) and Ben Nye Final Seal (www.funhousetheatricalcostumes.com $16). After ALL of your makeup is in place, close your eyes and spray one or two light mists of the setting spray onto the center of your face, keeping eyes closed for 10 seconds afterwards. The Model in a Bottle tends to be the better brand - skin feels natural and soft after use. Also, you can touch-up liquid makeup over the Model in a Bottle during the day, without problems. The Ben Nye sealant may feel slightly heavy for some, and if you're touching up with liquid makeup, can cause it to become a bit cakey. Both products allow makeup to be water, oil and sweat resistant for 6-8 hours.

If you follow these steps, you will notice a big reduction in the amount of oil your skin produces, and the amount of gunk clogging your pores. While you cannot banish oily skin and large pores, sans a magic wand, you can at least reduce their effects in order to look your best!

Additional tips:

Here is a list of products to avoid if you have oily skin:

Cream-based eye shadows

Cream-based and oil-based face wash

Lotions, face wash and foundations that contain oil

Mineral foundations or veils that contain mica and pearl powder

Learn more at: http://tinyurl.com/okbvkmk

Home Remedies for Oily skin-Oily skin care tips

How to identify an oily skin? Oily skin is usually shiny and has pores. It is prone to blackheads and acne as the oil producing glands are over active and produce more oil. People with oily skin get frequent breakout and have a greasy appearance,but the good news is that oily skin tends to age slower.

 Natural tips for oily skin

Avoid using talcum powder on face as it gets accumulated in the pores and causes more breakout.

Use water based cosmetics or look for “oil free” products.

Keep yourself hydrated by drinking 6-8 glasses of water per day.

Soak neem leaves in water for 5 hours, then remove the leaves and have bath in that water to prevent pimples and acne. Neem leaves have powerful antiseptic properties.

Use any clay mask once in a fortnight as it absorbs excess oil from the skin. (eg- multani mutti or fuller’s earth)

Avoid heavy creams and moisturizers. 

Avoid oily and greasy food.

These Home made face packs  will help you to treat oily skin effectively-

Red sandalwood paste mixed with rose water can also be used as a pack for oily skin. It is also an excellent home remedy for blackheads.

Gram pulse flour (besan) or green gram flour is best for oily skin as it removes excessive oil from the skin. Mixture of besan with rose water makes a good homemade pack.

Mix fuller’s earth powder with a little orange peel powder and rose water and apply it on your face. Wash with warm water after 15 minutes. This natural treatment, if followed once in a week will help to get rid of  oily skin. It also helps to cure acne.

Mixture of rose water, sandalwood paste and fuller’s earth (a form of clay) can be used as a face pack for oily skin. Rose water cleanses and tones the skin. Sandalwood paste has cooling properties and fuller’s earth removes the dirt and excess oil from the skin.

Mix equal quantity of oatmeal (powder it finely) and witch hazel and apply to the face. Remain for 20 minutes and wash it off with warm water. This is a natural toning and cleansing mask for oily skin.

Mix a little honey with few drops of fresh lemon juice and egg white and apply to the face.Wash off with cool water after 15 minutes. Egg white helps to tighten the pores.

Mix cucumber pulp with lemon juice and apply to the face. Cucumber is a natural toner. It works as an astringent and is used to cleanse the skin.

Curd (low fat) is an excellent cleanser. Apply it on the skin and wash it off after 15 minutes with lukewarm water.This refreshes dull, tired face and is also good for oily skin.

Rice flour mixed with rose water makes an excellent scrub for oily skin.

Follow these simple home remedies to treat your oily skin.

Learn more at: http://tinyurl.com/o4svueh

Simple tips to manage oily skin

Oily skin usually ruins a perfect day. If you struggle with the daily nuisance of a shiny face that resembles a frying pan, you know how difficult it is to get oily skin under control. Adding to your worries is the fact that that many of the products claiming to eliminate shine and reduce oil actually make matters worse as they contain ingredients that irritate your skin and trigger more oil production!

Our skin needs a certain amount of oil to keep it healthy, but often when there is an excess production of oil, it can lead to issues. Hormone levels, genetics, poor diet and even humidity are the biggest influences on the skin’s oil production. The best remedy for it is to keep the skin clean.

Simply follow a washing-toning-moisturizing regime. Wash the face with lukewarm water for it dissolves the oil more effectively than cold water and use soap. Unclog the pores by using astringents. Preferably use water-based moisturizer to prevent your skin from getting dry without adding oil on it. While you can’t fight biology or your genes, here are some steps you can take to keep excess oil under control.

Cleanse with a mild soap
Choose a mild, unscented soap to wash your skin. Soaps with harsh chemicals and strong scents can irritate the skin and stimulate oil production. It’s important to keep oily skin clean, but try not to overdo it.

Use toners sparingly
Toners are an effective way to control oil if used properly. Remember to apply the toner only to the oiliest areas of your skin, mostly the forehead, nose, and chin. Don’t get carried away as they tend to feel so refreshing on your skin.

Exfoliate regularly
Oily skin tends to have an extra-thick layer of built-up dead skin cells on the surface of the skin, along with a thickened pore lining. Exfoliating is the best way to remove that build up, reduce clogged pores and white bumps, while making skin feel smoother.

Apply a light moisturizer
It sounds a little crazy to apply moisturizer to oily skin, but you need to replace the moisture on your skin that gets removed during cleansing. The skin’s response to oil removal is to produce more oil, so it’s important to keep your skin’s moisture level balanced.

Always step out with sunscreen on
Even if you have oily skin, a sunscreen is essential for preventing wrinkles and reducing red marks. If you’ve avoided sunscreens because the ones you’ve tried are too greasy, go for an oil-free sunscreen with a minimum Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 15.

 Go for oil-free cosmetics
Look for the words-oil free and water-based on all skin-care products. If your skin is prone to breakouts, consider products with blemish control ingredients.

Drink plenty of fluids
Drinking water will detoxify your body and maintain your fluid balance. Drink 8 – 10 glasses of water a day to improve the appearance of your skin.

Always remove cosmetics before going to sleep
Never, ever go to sleep with makeup on. You risk clogging your pores and creating a haven for bacteria growth. Your skin needs time to breathe, especially when you are asleep and your body is in repair mode. No matter how tired you are, always cleanse the makeup off your skin before going to sleep. Follow up with a light moisturizer and a glass of water so you can wake up with glowing skin.

Try easy home remedies
Home remedies are considered to be better than synthetic cosmetic products for it has no serious side effects. You can treat your skin by cleansing using cold milk. Almond-honey paste can also be used on the skin for it is effective in removing oil and adding glow to it. Vinegar is very helpful in treating oily skin. Apply vinegar on the oily skin with a cotton ball. What’s more, they are affordable, easy to find, easy to make and you are certain about the quality of the ingredients that were used.

Despite the fact that home remedies are known to have less serious side effects, it is advised to get a skin test first before applying any product to avoid irritation and rashes, even natural ones. If the problem is severe, better fix an appointment with a dermatologist as soon as possible.

Learn more at: http://tinyurl.com/qcoes2a

GET GORGEOUS AT HOME FOR LESS

At-home hydrotherapy

Many spa treatments start, end with or incorporate some kind of hydrotherapy. Usually this involves starting off in a warm (or almost hot) pool and then plunging into a frigid one to boost circulation. This is either a treatment in and of itself or part of a body scrub or wrap. You’re left feeling relaxed yet energized but you don’t have to hit the spa to make it happen. All you need to do is hit the showers. We suggest starting your day with a bit of at-home hydrotherapy.

Start with a hot shower (not scalding but pleasantly warm) for one minute. Now switch to cold water (yes, completely cold) for 15 to 30 seconds. Repeat for three to five minutes. Emerge feeling ready to face the day!

Make it a mask

Treatment masks, whether purchased from a beauty supply store or applied at a spa, can be pricey, but you don’t need to dip into your wallet to treat your skin. What’s in your fridge can be a simple and affordable way to get gorgeous. The most common skin care concerns are a complexion that’s a) too oily or b) too dry. Check out these two quick and effective fixes that don’t cost anything more than what you spent at the grocery store.

• Clarify your skin and bust excess oil with a strawberry mask. Crush four to five berries, add two tablespoons of full-fat, organic yogurt and the juice from one quarter of a lemon. Mix well and apply to clean, dry skin. Leave on for five to 10 minutes and rinse well.
• For a quick and cheap dry skin solution, mash half an avocado and add one tablespoon of yogurt. Mix well, apply and leave on for 10 minutes. Rinse well and apply your regular moisturizer (add a serum first if your skin is particularly dry).

Say yes to a scrub

No time or budget for a 90-minute body scrub? Before you lament over your lack of soft, pre-summer skin, go DIY. You can easily make an at-home body scrub to slough off the last of winter’s dull skin. Do yourself a favor and get ready to bare some skin when the weather warms up -- without breaking the bank.

Choose either sugar or salt (sugar will be slightly gentler on skin) and an oil of choice. We love olive oil for its richness but you can also use other varieties.

Mix one part oil to two parts salt or sugar in a container with a tight-fitting lid. The contents will separate, which is totally normal. Add three to five drops of your essential oil of choice. We love lavender or grapefruit. Now you have a totally simple but divine body scrub to enhance your next shower.

Learn more at: http://tinyurl.com/7ggu8wd

Steam and tone skin

Rather than shelling out hard-earned money on products and gadgets meant to get your skin glowing, do it all on your own. First things first; steam you skin (no, you don’t need to buy a steamer) to open the pores and enhance circulation.
Simply add hot (not boiling) water to a glass bowl. Add crushed mint leaves for freshness and sit with your face over the bowl and your head covered in a large towel to keep the steam in. Five to 10 minutes should do the trick.
Next, it’s time to tone, but you don’t need to hit the beauty aisle. Simply brew green tea or chamomile, let it cool in the fridge, add to spray bottle and voila -- cooling, refreshing toner for the cost of a tea bag.

HOW DO ANTIOXIDANTS AFFECT THE SKIN?

If you're like most people, you want smooth, healthy skin, but maybe you don't want to wade through hundreds of chemically laden products to get it. That's where antioxidants can help. Incorporating the right antioxidants into your diet and skin care routine can have a positive effect on your skin.

Antioxidants are nutrients (vitamins and minerals) and enzymes (proteins inside your body) that can help to prevent and repair damage to your body's tissue. Antioxidants do this by slowing or preventing the effect of free radicals, which start oxidation -- a process that causes damage from oxygen that can lead to cell dysfunction. If you've seen a peeled apple turn brown, you've seen oxidation in action. As antioxidants block the effects of free radicals, they end up being oxidized. This is why it's important to constantly replenish your supply of antioxidants.

Free radicals may also play a role in heart disease, cancer and other conditions [source: American Dietetic Association]. You can find antioxidants -- such as beta-carotene, lutein, lycopene, selenium and vitamins A, C and E -- naturally in many foods, including fruits and vegetables, nuts, grains, some meats, poultry and fish [source: MedlinePlus].

When it comes to caring for your skin, antioxidants can help to protect your skin from the damaging effects of the sun. Unlike sunscreens and moisturizers, antioxidants can protect your skin from the inside out by guarding your cells from damage. Vitamins A, C and E and the mineral selenium are thought to be particularly helpful in skin care. In addition to helping fortify cells against free radicals, vitamins A and C also encourage cell and tissue growth, helping the body to repair itself. This is very helpful to the skin, which is constantly shedding and regrowing cells. For this reason, any antioxidants that protect cells and encourage cell growth could be helpful in an anti-aging regimen, as they may help fight fine lines and wrinkles [source: WebMD].

Just like when adding any supplement to your diet, be careful when incorporating antioxidants into your daily routine. Though they are naturally good for you, antioxidants taken in excess can be harmful -- so be sure to follow the recommended amounts. In most cases, all you need to fulfill your body's quota for antioxidants is a healthy and balanced diet. In fact, it's a good idea to talk to your doctor before increasing your intake of any supplement.

Learn more at: http://tinyurl.com/oxd699n

What Type Of Sensitive Skin Are You?

It's a cruel reality that once you're at the age where the little things no longer irk you, your skin takes the opposite turn, turning red, irritated, and flaky at the slightest thing. It's suddenly, well, sensitive! And if you feel like you're constantly trying to soothe skin issues, you're not alone: "I notice that more women are coming into my office and saying they have sensitive skin," says Francesca Fusco, MD, an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine. Indeed, over 50% of women categorize themselves that way.

The reason? Our quest for younger-looking skin may be to blame, says New York City dermatologist Ellen Marmur, MD: "Women are very committed to caring for their skin, but they're often diagnosing themselves with new issues and use so many new products to solve them that they develop irritation," she says. Cleansing religiously, exfoliating too often, and topping it all off with a generous layering of anti-aging products are just a few of the things that send our complexions into a tailspin. Increasing stress and environmental allergies also make skin more prone to problems. (Want the truth behind your favorite anti-aging ingredients? We debunked eight.)

Your Sensitive Symptoms: Taut and itchy skinDespite countless rows of products labeled "for sensitive skin" on store shelves, treating an unruly complexion isn't a one-size-fits-all affair. "Sensitive" products that work well for your friend's skin could just as easily wreak havoc on yours, so it's important to get beyond the general label and figure out what's really bugging your skin. Here, six common symptoms, and the right ways to treat them:

It might mean: Your cleanser is too drying. "It's the number one culprit behind unnecessary irritation," says skin care expert and celebrity esthetician Renée Rouleau. Avoid sodium lauryl sulfate and ammonium laureth sulfate, harsh detergents commonly used in facial cleansers and soaps that break down the natural lipids in skin. When this happens, it's like a double whammy. "Little invisible cracks in the skin form, causing moisture to seep out and allowing irritants in. Suddenly, other products in your routine that didn't irritate your skin before might now," she says.

The fix: "Don't wash your face with soap more than once a day," says New Orleans-based dermatologist Mary Lupo, MD. "In the morning, wash with a face moisturizer instead of a cleanser or simply splash water on skin to maintain moisture. Then apply a moisturizer with an SPF." Try CeraVe Facial Moisturizing Lotion AM with SPF 30 ($13; drugstores) or Vichy Capital Soleil Daily Moisturizer Cream with SPF 15 ($32; vichyusa.com). Then, wash your face at night with a sulfate-free cleanser, like Renée Rouleau Gentle Gel Cleanser ($35.50; reneerouleau.com) or The Body Shop Aloe Calming Facial Cleanser ($14.50; thebodyshop-usa.com).

Learn more at: http://tinyurl.com/cnf9jhr

LOOK YOUNGER & FIGHT WRINKLES

To fight wrinkles and other signs of aging, you need to keep your skin protected and hydrated. Though you can't turn back hands of time, these anti-aging skincare tips will help keep your skin smoother and younger looking.

EAT FOR SKIN HEALTH

What we eat has a huge impact on how we look, especially when it comes to achieving that much-coveted youthful glow. Sports dietitian Marie Spano, MS, RD, CSCS, CSSD, recommends getting plenty of what she calls "smart" fats - omega-3s and monounsaturated fat - which help regenerate skin at the cellular level, improve texture and tone and help ensure skin looks supple. Get these smart fats from fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, herring, halibut, sardines), avocado, olives and olive oil.    
Spano also suggests choosing foods rich in lutein - a carotenoid that may help protect your skin from the inside out. The best sources of lutein are egg yolks, leafy dark green veggies and fresh corn. Some studies have found that lutein may also protect skin from UV damage.  
Foods that are high in antioxidants, such as berries, broccoli, leafy greens (kale, spinach) and tomatoes are also great for your skin. We need antioxidants to help protect the skin from free-radical damage (rough texture, wrinkles, sun spots). Vitamin E is another must for skin health, Spano says, and suggests adding vegetable oils, wheat germ, nuts, seeds and olives to your diet for healthy, glowing skin.

STAY HYDRATED

If you want skin to look younger and more supple, drinking enough water is a must. "Dehydrated skin looks wrinkled and rough," Spano says. Aim for eight glasses of a day, which will also help you lose weight, aid digestion, improve your energy and concentration and flush toxins from your body. Keep a reusable bottle in your purse for easy, on-the-go sipping. 

ANTI-AGING SKIN CARE

Cleanse: Gently wash your face both morning and night, but steer clear of cleansers that have high alcohol content and other drying agents. Try DERMAdoctor Wrinkle Revenge 1 ($24), which leaves skin clean, soft and free of pore-clogging debris.
Exfoliate: Exfoliate your skin weekly with a gentle facial scrub, which will get rid of dead skin cells and keep skin smooth, healthy and fresh. Try Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant ($50), a gentle but effective product that stimulates cell renewal and brightens skin.
Moisturize: Apply moisturizer over your entire face and neck twice a day. Dry, aging skin loses its elasticity, which is when wrinkles start to form. Try SkinMedica Rejuvinative Moisturizer ($54), which strengthens skins' moisture barrier to improve the look of dry, aging skin.

Best products to fight wrinkles.

WHAT TO SHOP FOR

Look for skincare products with effective anti-aging ingredients such as vitamins A, C and E, retinol, peptides, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and glycolic acid. Most major skincare brands offer products with these anti-aging ingredients, and these products will help reduce the appearance of fine line and wrinkles, as well as help slow the aging process. 

 Best anti-aging products for every budget.

PROTECT YOUR SKIN

No matter your age, you need to protect your skin from the sun. Not only can sun exposure lead to skin cancer, it will also cause dryness, sun spots, wrinkles and other visible signs of aging. Always use a moisturizer, sunscreen and cosmetics that contain SPF 15 or higher. If you spend a lot of time in the sun each day, wear both sunglasses and a hat.

HOMEMADE SKIN CARE

Even though you can buy anti-aging products at the store, you can also go the DIY route and make your own. We've created a simple but effective recipe you can try at home using items you probably have in your kitchen.

APPLE ANTI-AGING CREAM

Ingredients:

• 2 tsp apple juice
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 2 Tbsp buttermilk
• 1 Tbsp rosemary oil
• 3 seedless grapes
• 1/2 apple
• 2 egg whites

Directions: 

1. Blend all the ingredients in a food processor or blender.
2. Use a cotton ball and dab the mixture over entire face.
3. Pay special attention to areas around the mouth and eyes.
4. Allow mixture to dry completely and then rinse with cool water.
5. Use twice a week for best results.
6. Refrigerate leftover mixture for up to one week.

MORE ANTI-AGING SKIN CARE

•  Serums and anti-aging: Best serum products
• 3 Natural anti-aging tricks
• 4 Anti-aging skin care tips

Learn more at: http://tinyurl.com/nab8rw5