It’s hard to understate the importance of your skin. Without it, your entire body would fall apart. It’s also what protects you from all those things in the outside world that may cause you harm. That means it’s at particular risk from everything from wounds to weather.
Taking care of your skin isn’t just about looking good, although that’s a welcome side effect. It’s about being healthy. To take one example, using sunscreen doesn’t just protect you from unpleasant burning; it’s also one of your strongest defenses against skin cancer.
I’m sure no one needs to tell you that skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis and dermatosis are no fun to look at or to experience. There are lots of things that can cause redness, itching and other problems with your skin, and while they’re not all avoidable, you can alleviate the risk and some of the effects.
It’s especially important if you have sensitive skin. This means your body might react to pretty much anything, from the chemicals used in many skincare products to being overzealous when scrubbing your hands. You need a touch of gentleness in how you handle your skin to keep it at its best.
There’s lots of advice available about the best ways to keep your skin soft and your complexion bright. They range from the traditional regimen of a cleanser and moisturizer (sometimes with toner as well) both morning and night to more complex regimes like the ten-step Korean skincare routine.
Cleanser and moisturizer are both pretty simple – the first washes away dirt and impurities, including those added by makeup, while the second helps rejuvenate your skin by stopping it from drying out. Toners can also protect and moisturize, but because of their sometimes harsh properties, they’re not used as often anymore.
With many skincare products, it’s important to remember that how you use them is just as important as what you use. For example, exfoliants can help remove dead skin cells, but overapplication can cause your skin to dry out and become rough. More intense products, like serums, should also be applied sparingly, paying careful attention to any usage instructions.
Making your skin beautiful and keeping your skin healthy are all part of the same process. Be aware of your own unique skin and what it needs, choose your products carefully, and do not overdo it.
