Taking good care of your skin doesn't have to be complicated, if you know what products are available, and how to use them properly. But, first you need to know what type of skin you have:

-Oily Skin. Recognized by slick and shiny patches on the skin, stronger gels and soaps are safe for oily skin users since they are designed to dry oily areas. Watch for product lines specifically designed to treat oily skin.

-Dry Skin. Often appearing red, flaky and itchy, dry skin suffereers should avoid any alcohol-based products since they can dry the skin further. Use only the mildest soaps and cleansers. Plain, cool water is the best.

-Normal Skin. Free of dry or oily patches, the normal-skin user is free to use just about any soap, cleanser or skin-care product they like.


Once you know what type of skin you have, it's easier to understand the variety of products available and their uses:

Cleansers:
While keeping the skin clean helps it to look and feel its best, it is important not to over clean the skin surface to prevent drying and irritation. Wash daily with a mild skin or facial cleanser. Choosing the right one depends a great deal on skin type and personal preference.

Most experts agree that harsh soaps should be avoided; mild cleansers that don't over dry or grease the skin are best. For those suffering with severe acne, cleansers containing salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide and antibacterial ingredients help remove accumulated sweat, make-up and dirt on the skin, making it more receptive to topical acne treatments.

Scrubs and Masks:
These should be used weekly for a deeper clean. Courser exfoliating treatments are especially helpful for ruddier complexions suffering the ill effects of the sun. Applied once or twice a week these deep-cleaning methods leave skin feeling fresh and invigorated. For a smoother, softer feel, try these home remedies:

-Oatmeal and water. Mix equal parts until coarse. Apply to skin. Let dry. Peel mask, washing excess with clear, cool water.

-Banana and honey. Mix 1/2 banana with 2 tbs. honey. Apply to skin for 10 minutes, washing thoroughly with clear, cool water.

Toners:
Toners are a wonderful way to give your skin a daily lift. Designed to tighten the pores and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, toners help to increase circulation, hydrate skin, and restore natural PH levels, giving the skin a healthy glow. Some natural toners to consider are:

-Aloe. Known for its soothing effects this natural healer has been used for centuries to treat damaged skin and encourage skin regeneration.

-Rose Water. This natural facial toner cleans, hydrates and nourishes any skin type.

-Lavender. Offering a wonderful healing effect on sunburns, and other skin irritations, this essential oil is a natural antiviral, antiseptic cleaner that works to destroy bacteria and keep skin clean and healthy.

Moisturizers.
Avoid fine lines and wrinkles by using a daily moisturizer to revitalize tired and sagging skin. Harsh winds, cold temperatures and dry air can all dry the skin further, making it feel flaky and itchy, and adding wrinkles. Use a good alcohol-free moisturizer liberally throughout the day, especially during the winter months. Hands especially need treated 4-6 times every day!

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