While you may not think of your skin as an organ, it happens to to be the largest bodily organ you possess. Skin consists of numerous elements such as water, minerals and proteins, and fats and oils known as lipids. Taking good care of your skin can help it stay healthy and looking its best. Cleansers, moisturizers, exfoliators and sunscreens are among the top 10 essential skin care products.
Sunscreen
Applying sunscreen to exposed areas of skin every day protects it from sun damage that can cause wrinkles, liver spots and skin cancer, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD).
Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15. Broad-spectrum sunscreen blocks the harmful effects of both UVA and UVB radiation.
Cleansers
Choose mild cleansers that contain moisturizers, advises the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). Strong soaps can be too drying and deplete skin of moisture and oils.
Toners
Toning products or astringents are applied to freshly washed facial skin to ensure it has been thoroughly cleansed. Toners clear away any lingering traces of dirt, oil and makeup.
Moisturizers
Moisturizers work by coating the skin with an oily substance that helps it retain moisture, or by drawing water from the inner layer of skin to the top layer, reports the AAD. Moisturizers can guard against dryness and diminish the appearance of wrinkles. Select a moisturizer based on your skin type.
Under-Eye Gels
Under-eye skin is very delicate and produces only minimal amounts of protective oils, notes the UMMC. Applying under-eye gels may temporarily diminish dark circles and puffiness.
Alpha Hydroxy Acids
Alpha hydroxy acids, such as glycolic acid, can help slough off dead skin cells and make way for new, fresher-looking skin. Alpha hydroxy acids can make skin feel softer and look smoother.
Beta Hydroxy Acids
Beta hydroxy acids, including salicylic acid, also exfoliate the skin. Beta hydroxy acids can soften rough skin and even out skin color, reports the Cleveland Clinic.
Retinoids
Retinoids are topical vitamin A derivatives that accelerate the rate of skin cell turnover and improve fine lines and wrinkles, while giving skin a healthy glow. Retinoids are available in prescription-strength products such as tretinoin, sold as Retin-A, and in less potent over-the-counter products like retinol.
Vitamin C Cream
Skin care products containing vitamin C, as in L-ascorbic acid, may have anti-aging effects. Topical vitamin C creams may decrease lines, inflammation and blotchy pigmentation, according to SkinTherapyLetter.com.
Hyaluronic acid
Skin care products with hyaluronic acid may reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Hyaluronic acid is produced naturally in the body to lubricate and cushion connective tissues. Over time, natural hyaluronic acid fades way. Hyaluronic acid is often used in combination with topical vitamin C products.
Member Comments