Know Your Skin Type And Practice Good Skin Care

By Daryl Haynes

Being classed as an organ, our skin performs many functions. Not only does it keep infections and disease from entering the body, it assists the main organs of elimination (liver, intestines and kidneys) to flush out waste. Skin provides us with the sense of touch that enables us to recognize pain, heat, cold and other sensations. To keep your skin clean and healthy, you should adopt a regular skin care habit.

Genetics play a major part in the type of skin you are born with. Whether you are white, coffee-colored or black, your skin can be smooth and fine, or rough and lined. Know your skin type so you can care for it properly. There are products available to care for all types of skin.

There are four skin types in the different skin color ranges - oily, dry and sensitive, or a combination of all. If your skin is dehydrated and lacking in moisture, it is considered dry. Dry skin has very little elasticity and may be sensitive to sun and wind.

If your skin is dry, do not over cleanse it and don't use high alkaline soaps. Use a mild cleanser and tepid water. A thick moisturizer or oil should be used on damp skin. Always use a sun block when you are going outdoors.

Oily skin is often shiny with large pores that can be prone to breakouts because the sebaceous glands are overactive and produce more oil than needed. Oily skin must be cleansed with warm water and soap to prevent the pores from becoming clogged. Use oil-free moisturizers to prevent oiliness during the day.

Sensitive skin can be difficult to care for as it can flare up suddenly and become tender and sore. Avoid cleansers or toners that contain alcohol because these will further irritate sensitive skin. Use cleansers and lotions with calming natural ingredients that are free of irritants. Consult a dermatologist who can recommend the correct products for your skin.

Combination skin is exactly what it says - a combination of dry and oily skin. Your face will show an oily center on the forehead, nose and chin, with dryness on the cheeks and around the eyes. This type of skin is very common and it should be treated as if it were two different types of skin.

Being the largest organ in the body, our skin can benefit from the same nutrition we get from foods that keep our other organs healthy. Eating foods rich in protein and taking vitamins and minerals will keep your skin glowing. Try and drink at least 7 glasses of water a day and get at least 8 hours sleep. - 33386

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