Despite
the media coverage of makeover reality shows,
the majority of Americans are not looking for extreme transformations. According to the
American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, most of us want to look better, naturally,
with 68-percent preferring a subtle change. And experts agree that looking your best could
be accomplished at home for considerably less.
Dr. Linda Franks, a leader in the specialized skin care (www.purposeskincare.com)
frontier, says "To get that timeless, healthy look you need to start with an
appropriate skincare regime. Taking good care of your skin can stave off fine lines,
wrinkles, age spots and even dry skin."
Doctors say whatever your skin type, the key is to cleanse it gently.
Sixty-eight-percent of women claim to have sensitive skin
(www.purposeskincare.com) which means dry, tight, chapped or easily irritated skin.
Avoid harsh cleansers with ingredients such as fragrances, dyes and preservatives
because sensitive skin is easily damaged and takes longer to recover.
If your skin is dry and easily irritated,
dont wash more than once a day. You may risk stripping the skin of its natural oils.
Look for non-irritating cleansing washes that are soap-free. Use light, oil-free,
water-based moisturizers to help maintain the skins natural barrier. Make sure to
choose a facial moisturizer (www.purposeskincare.com) with an SPF of at least 15, which
protects against both UVB and UVA rays.
Skin sensitivity may also result from the third most common,
non-surgical skincare procedure known as Microdermabrasion. Microdermabrasion is a
quick and easy, non-invasive procedure that helps to reveal healthier-looking skin by
sweeping away dead skin cells.
- Dr. Franks reveals that, following the treatment, the best way to avoid irritation is by
opting for an ultra-gentle cleanser and moisturizer.
A new clinical study shows that PURPOSE gentle cleansing wash and dual treatment
moisture lotion with SPF 15 are compatible with this procedure.
How else can you obtain optimal skin
health? Dr. Franks says, "Exercise opens up blood vessels to make skin look healthy
and youthful. Its so important for healthy skin."
- Regular cardiovascular exercise increases blood flow to the skin which assists in
collagen production.
- Maintaining muscle mass through exercise can also help anchor and support skin, keeping
it taut.
And drink up! At least eight, eight-ounce glasses of water a day are crucial for optimal
skin hydration.
So before you sign on for an extreme and expensive makeover,
just think back on some simple, beauty basics! You just might like what you see!
PURPOSE® Skin Care
A complete line of dermatologist
recommended skin care products
R.L. Fielding Bio
R.L. Fielding has been a freelance writer for 10 years, offering her
expertise and skills to a variety of major organizations in the education, pharmaceuticals
and healthcare, financial services, and manufacturing industries. She lives in New Jersey
with her dog and two cats and enjoys rock climbing and ornamental gardening.
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express written permission of the
author.
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