Dry - Oily Anti-Aging Skincare Recommendations

Dry - Oily Anti-Aging Skincare Recommendations

Taking proper care of your skin is a matter of knowing your skin type, finding the skin care regimen that works for you, and incorporating daily care into your overall efforts to lead a healthy, balanced lifestyle. Although the skin's needs change over time, we all fall into skin type categories that lean either towards the dry or oily ends of the spectrum. Skin care tips vary accordingly, and there are some general guidelines that will get you facing in the right direction.

Create an oasis for your dry skin...

For those with dry skin, gentle care is key in replenishing the skin's moisture level, then acting to retain what is recovered. This means taking care not to strip the skin of its precious moisture reserves any further, beginning with avoiding showering too often, or at hot temperatures. It is recommended that you fully bathe no more than every other day if your skin falls into this category, using moderate water temperatures only and avoiding the use of deodorant or antibacterial soaps which can be drying or irritating to dry, sensitive skin.

It is a good idea to use cool water on dry skin even when washing your face, and to avoid any harsh contact with washcloths and towels that may aggravate delicate skin. Easy does it, with a mild facial cleanser, thorough rinsing to remove residue, patting rather than rubbing dry, and the application of moisturizers while the skin is still wet in order to maximize hydration.

One of the best ways to soften and protect dry skin is to maintain a nightly regimen that includes covering the skin in an oil-based product such as petrolatum. Water based lotions are less effective, however there are new products available that use ingredients such as glycerin and lactic acid to draw moisture from the environment and trap it next to the skin. Lipid-replacement moisturizers have also been developed to enhance the skin's ability to retain water. Because a surface layer of dead cells allows water to escape from your skin, some form of exfoliating on a regular basis should also be a part of your weekly routine, in combination with moisturizers.

Added measures you can take include avoiding extreme temperatures indoors and out, and adding moisture to the air using humidifiers. Even the addition of houseplants to your environment can have a beneficial effect in creating a healthy, balanced, hydrated atmosphere for you and your skin.

Soaking up the oil...

For oily or acne prone skin, although completely different products must be used, strategies are not altogether different. The goal is still skin that is hydrated and smooth, and contrary to what you may believe, harsh treatment is still not the best option. Oily skin can be more delicate than you think, as you try to combat those stubborn deposits. Although in need of a good cleansing, oily skin still requires some tender care to avoid over drying or irritating any inflamed areas.

Products such as a clay mask, to absorb and remove excess oil are helpful, as are toners to minimize the appearance of large pores. When acne is involved, a medicated cleanser or cream will likely provide some assistance by killing the blemish-causing bacteria and preventing further breakouts. For severe acne, there are numerous medications and creams available by prescription only, so consult your physician or dermatologist for recommendations.

Like other skin types, oily skin still requires the use of an exfoliant to remove dead skin cells and promote new, healthy growth. Believe it or not, moisturizers are still a part of good maintenance for this skin type as well - only make sure they are oil free, like your cosmetics. Achieving the right balance is key. You can't prevent the overproduction of oil, but you can take steps to clear away the excess to circumvent any problems, and use oil-absorbing products to keep shine to a minimum. An additional tip is to keep other oily surfaces such as fingers and hair away from your face in order to prevent additional pore-clogging material from accumulating.

Whatever your skin type, good overall health will create a healthy glow, starting with regular exercise, plenty of water to drink, and a well-balanced diet, easy on the junk food. Although there are mixed theories on the effects of certain favorites like chocolate, a good rule overall is to limit your intake of salt, sugar and fat for all aspects of your health.

Common sense and lifestyle go a long way towards better skincare...

Good facial care goes hand in hand with anti aging strategies, as moisture content is essential in preventing unwanted wrinkles. Prevention is also very important, with stressors such as sun exposure, smoking, and environmental pollution affecting all skin types. Give your skin the protection it needs, and use the products designed for your skin type in order to best maintain a healthy, youthful appearance. The sooner you start taking good care of your skin, the less you will have to worry about combating signs of aging later.

Finding the skin care regimen that works best for you may require some trial and error, but with all the products and information available today, there are plenty of options to choose from in getting you started on the way to a clear complexion. Most product lines clearly indicate the skin type they are intended for, and make it easy to match cleansers, moisturizers, scrubs, toners and more for a complete solution to your skin's needs.

You can begin by browsing the wide range of products available online and learn about the benefits of each before developing your personalized strategy for more radiant skin. Or, consult with a professional to pinpoint your unique needs and solutions and go from there. Either way, skincare is big business, and for any concern you may have, there is bound to be a product offering a treatment for you. Once you know what you are looking for, do a little comparison shopping, or investigate the alternatives available in natural products such as essential oils. Find a product that you will enjoy and feel good about using, then establish a routine you are comfortable with and treat your skin to a little pampering - you both deserve it.



About the Author

Julia Thompson is a successful author who enjoys providing tips on skin care to consumers when shopping for products and information on anti aging skin care, skin moisturizers, and anti wrinkle eye cream.