Did you know that the first thing people notice about you is your face? Also, did you know that having healthy skin is an important part of a great looking face? Caring for your face is an important thing that you can do for yourself... and it's not that hard. See below for some basic tips and simple guidelines meant to encourage you to care for your skin. After all, your skin is your body's largest organ... and it deserves some TLC!



1) Cleansing your Skin.

It is very important, no matter what your skin type, to cleanse your face every day. To keep pores clear and to keep your skin looking healthy, it's a must to use a good product for deep cleansing at least once a week. Your choice of cleansing products should be as chemical-free as possible. Soaps containing perfumes and deodorants should not be used on your face because they have harsh ingredients and can leave a detergent film behind. Yuck! These cleansers can also irritate your skin and clog your pores (we all know what happens next!). When cleansing your face, select a product that is as natural and mild as possible.

Occasionally using a good scrub will remove dead cells and smooth the skin surface. Stay away from scrubs that contain ground bits of nuts or seeds. These particles may tear and damage your skin. A good scrub will invigorate without irritating or damaging. Basically speaking, the scrub should clean your skin without damaging it.

2) Moisturize your Skin

The most important thing you can do for your skin is moisturize it! A lot of people say that they have oily skin and have no need for a moisturizer. Quite the contrary! Everyone needs moisturizer... a really good moisturizer. Again, natural is better. Use products with the least amount of chemical additives. Always use a light moisturizer on your face after cleansing and don't forget to put the moisturizer on your neck area as well. If you are going to be outdoors always use a good sunscreen. You can find good moisturizers that also have a sunscreen in them as well.

For more intensive moisturizing and to target damaged skin and wrinkles use products containing rich, healing ingredients, such as vitamin E, aloe vera oil or squalene. These oils are great for under and around the eyes.This is one of the first places to show age because the under eye skin produces less of the oil that occurs naturally on the skin (sebum).

3) Toning your skin

Our skin is exposed to environmental pollutants and the sun's UV and UVB rays everyday. Toning can help keep your skin clear and firm. As we age, it is harder is maintain the elasticity of your skin. Astringents and toners with glycolic or alpha hydroxy acids work well for toning the face. These acids can reduce the pore size, and unclog the pores... helping to reduce acne and avoid ingrown hairs.

4) Protecting your skin

Healthy, glowing skin is a reflection of overall body health. Protecting your skin can keep it looking healthier and younger longer. Key elements to the protection and health of your skin include:

a) Avoid over exposure to the sun. Sun damage may cause hyperpigmentation (brown spots) which can develop into cancer. Sun exposure also causes facial wrinkles. Use a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher on all exposed skin, especially your face. Remember, you are exposed to the sun even while driving your car to / from work, school activities, soccer practice, the grocery store, etc. There are companies that make moisturizers that actually contain sunscreen as well. However, make sure the products don't have any chemicals, artificial dyes or fragrances.

b) Exercise. Exercise promotes blood circulation which increases oxygen distribution to the capillaries and skin tissue. This oxygenation revitalizes the skin. As gross as this may sound, sweating helps remove dirt and toxins from the pores. Always clean your skin immediately after exercising so you can wash the sweat and toxins from the surface of your skin.

c) Eat Healthy. Eating healthy food, including lots of fruits and vegetables will keep your skin looking healthy. Foods rich in vitamins C and E also help to maintain skin's elasticity. Drinking plenty of water will hydrate and firm your skin as well. No time to eat healthy? Take a good vitamin supplement that contains anti-oxidants and plant/vegetable extracts to help your skin be healthy from the inside to the outside!

d) Avoid Excess. Too much alcohol, smoking, stress or fatigue can take its toll on the health of your skin. These factors can dull and discolor your skin making you look old and tired. Get a lot of sleep and avoid excess to keep your skin looking healthy and vibrant.