Skincare ought to be simple, but as each week goes by another product is launched and another new (or should I say rehashed!) trend is reported. My hope is that this blog will provide you with all the information that you need to make the best choice for your skin. I also hope that this blog will be able to blast through a lot of the beauty myths. So, lets begin and we'll start at the very beginning (I've heard its a very good place to start!) .....
Forget Your Age, Especially When Choosing Skincare Products
Its very easy to create cookie cutter skincare. The cosmetic companies make it seem all so easy - young people have oily skin and the more mature among us suffer from dry skin. Therefore highly irritating products are targeted at the young, causing dry & irritated skin; thick, gloppy and overly emollient products are targeted at mature skin types causing breakouts and dull looking skin. Find the product to tackle the problems you are currently experiencing, not the problem that cosmetics companies think you should be suffering "at your age"! So pay attention to what your skin is telling you.
Say Goodbye To Normal, It Never Really Existed Anyway!
OK, stick with me here as this may really shock you; there is no such thing as normal skin. Alright, there is such a thing as normal skin, its that gorgeously blemish free, velvety textured and delectably plump skin that is only ever seen on children. Sorry to say but as soon as you hit puberty and your hormones are set to turbodrive you can wave goodbye to "normal". Its very convenient for cosmetic companies to continue this myth as it enables them to hold the trophy of normal skin just tantalisingly within your grasp, that is just as long as you use the full range of products that they have targeted to solve your so called "problems". Your skin cannot be frozen in time (ok, it can but it would take bucket loads of botox), its a living organ and its constantly changing. The best possible skincare regime will combat the difficulties that your skin encounters on a daily basis and for this reason it must be flexible and adaptable to your needs.
Skin Type? Forget All You've Been Told
Your skin type is not written in stone, despite what the cosmetic companies would have you believe. Its terribly easy to categorise people; but it doesn't really help if you are experiencing acne in your forties! Skin is your body's largest organ and its role is to protect you from outside forces, not to mention the myriad of products you put on it. The state of your skin is not frozen in time, your skin is constantly changing and adapting to counteract all the stress it is put under. The key to looking after your skin in the best way possible is not just about finding out the underlying "skin type" but discovering and acknowledging the other factors that can impact on the condition of your skin. Genetics do play a part, but by taking control and making informed choices you will get the skin you deserve!
Lifestyle Choices
Smoking, Sun Exposure and Alcohol. OK, I know its the fun stuff, but who said being shallow was easy!!!
Environment
If you are a city or country dweller, whether you live in a hot, dry climate or a cool. drizzly climate! Skincare must be tailored to the environment that surrounds you. It also makes a great deal of sense to adapt your regime to the seasons; as what helps protect your skin in winter really won't cut it in summer.
Emotions
Stress and anxiety can really take their toll on your skin. They can bring on an attack of acne and even cause you to break out in a rash. If you suffer from any skin condition I am sure you have noticed that stressful times in your life will exacerbate the problem.
Product Usage
Using the incorrect product for your skin or using the right product incorrectly can negatively impact your skin. Products with harsh ingredients can trigger terrible consequences. The products you use might very well be causing the problems you are seeking a solution too!
Medication
Some medicines can cause you to suffer some terrible skin related side effects. But by just taking into account the medication and making some adjustments to your skincare regime you can head off any potential problems before they occur.It really isn't too difficult, its just simply being aware of the choices you make and how they can affect the health of your skin.