Skin care has evolved considerably since the time of the ancient Greeks, when famed physician Galen first came up with the recipe for cold cream. There is now an array of products at every price point. While many skin care products are optional, there are a few that are considered to be essential for the health and appearance of your skin.
Moisturizers
According to the Mayo Clinic, moisturizers are a must-have for healthy skin at any age. Moisturizers typically contain humectants, substances that help the skin attract and retain water from the atmosphere, and emollients, substances that soften and smooth the skin. Moisturizers also contain some form of preservative to keep them from bacterial or fungal contamination. The Mayo Clinic advises that expensive department store moisturizers are not necessarily superior to their drugstore counterparts. Select one labeled for your skin type. People with oily skin should choose a non-comedogenic moisturizer that won't block the pores, while those with dry skin can opt for a heavier moisturizer with an oil base.
Exfoliants
Exfoliants serve to remove built-up layers of dead skin cells to reveal fresh, new skin below. You can exfoliate with a manual scrub, using skin care products with small particles of substances like walnut shells or synthetic microbeads, or you can choose exfoliants made with hydroxy acids instead. Skin care expert Paula Begoun cautions that it is possible to go too far with exfoliation. Using exfoliation products too often or rubbing your skin with them too vigorously can cause irritation. Use exfoliants according to package directions.
Cleansers
While bar soaps are effective at getting you clean, they are usually a poor choice for the health and appearance of your skin. They can make dry skin even drier and further clog pores in oily skin types. Begoun suggests using gentle water-soluble cleansers instead. Apply the cleanser to wet skin using a soft washcloth, and avoid pulling on or stretching the skin.
Sunscreens
Sunscreen is perhaps the most essential skin care product of all. An excess of ultraviolet rays causes cellular damage that can lead to a more aged appearance. Of even more serious concern is the fact that excess sun exposure can lead to skin cancer. The American Academy of Dermatology advises wearing a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, even on overcast days. Generously apply the sunscreen thirty minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours afterwards for maximum effectiveness.
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