We are surrounded by pollution. Pollution erodes the ozone layer in the upper atmosphere which exposes us to ultraviolet radiation (UV) from the sun. Pollution’s free radicals not only threaten our planet, but these tiny particles penetrate deep through the skin which then cause dehydration and inflammation. Exposure to pollution and UV sunlight will increase dark spots on our skin and make it prone to developing wrinkles.
Moreover, climate has its own impact on our skin. For example, in the Southwest where climate is dry and hot, the environment expedites skin’s premature aging. Cold climate can make skin dry and brittle.
So, how can YOU protect YOUR skin?
With so many products on the market, it is difficult to pinpoint the ones that will work for your skin type. Plus your skin changes over time due to stress, hormonal fluctuation, water content, medication and age.
Dry skin:
Having dry skin is common. Tip: Use warm, not hot water, in the shower or bath. Avoid cleansers with alcohol and synthetic fragrance; instead use a rich moisturizer to protect your skin from drying out. Always remember to use sunblock with a higher SPF.
Oily skin:
Your skin naturally produces sebum (skin oil) for protection. Skin feels oily when it is pumping out more sebum than required – happening mostly around the nose, forehead or T section of your face. Tip: Keep your skin clean and wash your face twice a day. Use oil-free foaming cleanser and light moisturizer.
Normal skin:
Your skin tone is fairly even with no visible pores or blemishes and neither oily nor dry. That doesn’t mean you are free from taking care of it! Tip: Wash your face every day to get rid of dead skin and dirt and exfoliate twice weekly.
Sensitive skin:
Sensitive skin is delicate, gets irritated easily and requires tender care. Tip: Use products that contain calming ingredients such as aloe, cucumber, green tea, chamomile, oatmeal and honey. Wash your face gently with lukewarm water; gently pat dry with clean towel.
Final thought:
Heavy cleansers contain potentially harmful chemicals that could actually make your skin dry and dull. So, before moisturizing or putting on an anti-aging treatment, cleanse your face gently with lower PH (slightly acidic) soap or a gentle cleanser (like Clavé’s Orange Blossom Green Tea Facial Cleaner) with natural ingredients that relax the skin. Wash your face with lukewarm water, pat dry with clean towel.