Skin Care

Image: Shawn Campbell 

 The skin is the largest organ of the body. It requires regular attention to stay healthy, young, and blemish-free. One of the ways to do this is through daily application of moisturizer. 

Benefits of Applying Moisturizer 

Regular application of moisturizer should be part of your skincare routine. It keeps your skin young and healthy especially on areas that are more prone to environmental changes. These include the face, ears, and neck. These are also areas of the skin that shed more rapidly and hence, require daily massage and application of a moisturizer to stimulate blood circulation and new cell generation.  
Aside from keeping the skin young and healthy, including moisturizer in your daily skincare routine helps in preventing or reducing the appearance of skin blemishes. When the skin gets too dry or oily, skin conditions may develop such as acne. 

Is it possible to over-moisturize? 

Although a well-moisturized skin is the key towards a youthful glow and in maintaining a nice, supple complexion, overdoing it can do more harm than good.  
According to some skincare experts, this can happen when you choose the wrong type of moisturizer. Like other skincare products, you can only make the most of a moisturizer if you’re choosing one that suits your skin type. If you have oily skin, then you may want to use a moisturizing cream that’s specifically formulated for you. Choosing the wrong type will only cause skin issues.  
You’ll know when you’re overdoing it when your skin starts to get too shiny and you start getting breakouts. It will also feel heavy on your skin and makes it harder to put on your makeup. 

The Right Way to Moisturize 

The best time to apply a moisturizer is after your shower or bath, specifically after you pat yourself dry. This is the ideal time to apply a moisturizer as it’s the time when the skin is rehydrated, making it better for sealing in the moisture.  
When applying a moisturizer, only use a dime-size of it. You can rub your hands together to make them warm before dispensing the moisturizer into your palm. Start the application at the base of your chin, working your way up. Use gentle, upward motion as you do this.  

Choosing the Right Moisturizer 

If you want to prevent over-moisturizing your skin, then it’s important to choose the right type of moisturizing cream or lotion for your skin type.  
Normal Skin 
Those with normal skin type will work well with moisturizers with natural oils. This type of moisturizer often has jojoba extracts, almond, soybean, sunflower, and olive oils. 
Dry Skin 
People with dry skin can benefit from thicker moisturizers. These are moisturizers with higher oil, water, and wax content. These ingredients are known to create an occlusive layer on the skin, which helps in replacing water and retaining it.  
Oily Skin 
It’s a common myth that those with oily skin don’t need to apply moisturizer as it will only make their skin oilier. The truth is, it’s possible to have an oily dehydrated skin.  
To prevent breakouts, those with oily skin must be careful in choosing a moisturizing product. They can benefit from moisturizers with water-like textures such as gels. Gel-type of moisturizer contains the least amount of wax, oils, and emulsifiers. They rehydrate the skin without causing the feeling of ‘heaviness.’  

Conclusion 

Moisturizers are great for the skin. They help keep your skin supple and healthy. However, it’s possible to over-moisturize your skin. This can happen when you choose the wrong type of moisturizer. Thus, it’s important to choose the right of moisturizer based on your skin type. It’s as important as knowing when to apply it and how much.  

Image: Marie de Gouville 

When it comes to keeping your skin healthy, having the right skincare product is as important as having regular skincare routine.  
Choosing the right products can be tricky especially with the wide array of options you have in the market. But if you’re thinking of more eco-friendly, economical, and better products for your skin, then you may want to opt for natural skincare products.  

DIY Natural Face Cleanser 

If you’re just starting to establish your skincare routine, one of the basic items you need to have is a facial cleanser. It is used to remove make-up, oil, dirt, and dead skin cells. Having the right cleanser can help in maintaining your skin’s health. 
Natural face cleansers are generally better on your skin. While you can easily find them at any beauty store, making your own can be a better option as you get to choose your own ingredients. 
Here are different ways of making your own natural face cleansers: 
Oil Cleanser 
If you have an oily skin, the least you probably would want to do is apply more oil on your face. However, applying the right type of oil is proven to help in getting rid of dirt, makeup, and sebum.  
Hello Glow has a good recipe for an oil cleanser. Ideal to use if you are prone to developing blackheads, this recipe requires jojoba oil, tamanu oil, and Frankincense essential oil.  
The ratio of jojoba to tamanu oil is 3:1 (3 parts jojoba to 1 part tamanu oil). Add 9 drops of the Frankincense essential oil for every 2 ounces of the oil mixture. Shake the mixture well before use.  
You can apply it on your T-zone area and leave it for 1-2 minutes before rinsing it off with warm water.  
Honey Cleanser 
Honey can be use as it is for facial cleansing. It has antibacterial properties that can help get rid of skin blemishes but mild enough to keep your skin moisturized. 
To use honey for facial cleansing, simply squirt a small amount on your palm and gently massage it on your face. You can then wash it off with warm water.  
You can also use honey for removing your makeup. You can put a small amount of honey on a wash cloth, sprinkle with a bit of baking soda. Rinse it off with warm water. 
Variation:
You can mix honey with lemon (2 teaspoons of honey to 1 teaspoon of lemon juice). Combining these two ingredients can help you create a good moisturizing and antibacterial facial cleanser.
To use the honey-lemon cleanser, simply smooth a thin layer of the mixture on your face and neck. Wait until it gets dry before rinsing it off with warm water. 
Coconut Oil Cleanser 
Not all oils are bad for your skin; coconut oil is proof of that. It’s one of those ‘good’ oils that can be beneficial for your skin. It has antimicrobial properties that get rid of acne-causing bacteria without stripping off your skin’s natural moisture.  
When used regularly as part of your daily skincare routine, you can have smooth and healthy-looking skin. 
To use coconut oil as a cleanser, simply squirt a small amount and massage it on your face for about 30 seconds before removing it with the use of a warm washcloth.  
Chamomile Cleanser 
This chamomile cleanser recipe is a soothing facial wash you can easily make at home. To do this, you will need a quarter cup of liquid castile soap, a quarter cup of brewed organic chamomile tea, ¾ teaspoon of grapeseed, olive, almond, hazelnut, or avocado oil, and a few drops of essential oil and Vitamin E. 
Combine all ingredients in a small bowl, adding only the tea when it’s completely cooled. Transfer the mixture to a small squirt or pump bottle.  
To use this, simply pour a small amount on your hands or on a washcloth and gently lather on your face. Rinse it well with warm water then apply your toner and/or moisturizer.  
It may take some time to figure out the right natural facial cleanser for you especially if you’re new to making your own skincare products. With practice and patience, you can eventually find or come up with one that suits your skin well.

Image: 16:9clue 

Citrus fruits, in general, are great for your skin. They are natural sources of vitamin C which helps in fighting free radicals in the body, providing you a radiant skin glow.  
Of all the citrus fruits, there’s one that’s usually mentioned by skincare gurus and often included in skincare products. This citrus fruit, though can be eaten, is better used for cleansing. This fruit is none other than the lemon.  

Lemons for Skincare 

Lemons are one of the most popular citrus fruits. It’s highly sought not just for the tangy flavor it gives to dishes and drinks but also to its multitude of uses including in household cleaning and in skincare.  
Beauty Benefits of Lemons 
The following are the beauty benefits of lemons: 

• Lemons are natural remedies for skin blemishes. 
  Lemons have both antibacterial properties, making them a natural remedy for skin blemishes like acne and blackheads.
  To use a lemon for treating acne, simply slice one and rub on the affected site. For getting rid of the blackheads, you can apply half a slice of lemon with a few drops of honey on the affected area. Let it sit for 10 minutes before rinsing it off with cold water.
   
• Lemons can get rid of oily skin. 
  Lemons have unique ability to get rid of excess oil from the skin.
  If you have oily skin, applying a cotton swab with a small amount of lemon juice on your face before bed is a good way of getting rid of excess oil from your skin.
  You may also use lemons to come up with your own natural facial wash. You may combine it with fuller’s earth, gram flour, turmeric powder, neem powder, and tea tree essential oil.
   
• Lemons can lighten dark spots. 
  If you have embarrassing dark spots, lemons can be your go-to solution. The citric acid from these fruits is known to lighten spots like acne scars and even your skin tone.
  For pigmentation, you can use lemon and other natural skin whitening ingredients like cucumber and papaya to make your own facial mask.
   
• Lemons are great natural cleansers. 
  You can go all-natural with skincare without breaking your budget by using lemons as your facial cleanser.
  A homemade cleanser made from lemon juice, yogurt, and essential oil like chamomile or lavender is as effective as store-bought natural cleanser in removing dirt and bacteria.
   
• Lemons can reduce the appearance of age-related skin changes.  
  The antioxidant action of its vitamin C as well as the exfoliating effect of its citric acid make lemons a good anti-aging agent.
  To make the most of its anti-aging benefits, simply apply lemon juice on your face twice a day for 10 minutes before rinsing it off. You may also combine lemon juice and a few drops of honey.
   
• Lemons make an excellent clarifying moisturizer. 
  Keeping your skin moisturized is a must whether you have a normal, oily, dry, or combination skin.
  Combining lemon juice and a few drops of coconut water makes an excellent clarifying moisturizer. Both ingredients can hydrate and brighten the skin with regular use.
   
• Lemons are natural whitening agents. 
  The vitamin C and citric acid content of lemons make them a great natural whitening agent. Hence, these fruits are commonly used for lightening tanned areas.
   
• Lemons are natural exfoliating agents. 
  Having dull skin can be prevented through regular use of exfoliating agents.
  To use lemons for exfoliating the skin, simply apply lemon juice on your skin at night and only rinse it off in the morning. You may also mix lemon juice with water and sugar.  

Tips When Using Lemons for Skincare 

1. Moisturize after use 
Lemon juice is highly acidic. If you’re using it regularly, it can dry out your skin. This is why it’s important to apply moisturizer after every use of it.
2. Dilute it with water 
Every person’s response to the use of lemon juice could vary. If you’re experiencing redness or irritation in the use of lemon juice alone, then try to dilute it with water.
3. Do not apply lemon juice on broken skin 
Never apply lemon juice on open cuts or wounds as it will sting. 

Oftentimes, the best products for your skin can be found right inside your kitchen. Citrus fruits like lemons are proof to that.  

Image: tommerton2010

Having a regular skin care routine is more than just a surface-level concern. No matter what your age is, having a skin care routine will help keep your skin healthy, making you look and feel good all throughout the year.  

Skin Care Guide For Beginners

Skin care routine may sound too high maintenance but the truth is, it’s very easy to implement even for complete newbies. Below is a skin care routine guide for beginners.  
Step 1. Know your skin type 
The first step in establishing a skin care routine is knowing your skin type.  
The most common skin types are normal, oily, dry, combination, and sensitive skin. 
Normal Skin Type 
A normal skin type is characterized by good blood circulation on the skin. People with normal skin type usually have smooth, soft, and even skin tone.  
Oily Skin Type 
An oily skin type is characterized by overactive sebaceous glands. Hence, people who have oily skin tend to produce more oil than necessary, making them more prone to having enlarged pores and acne flare-ups.  
Dry Skin Type 
A dry skin type is the opposite of the oily skin. People with a dry skin has a low level of sebum, making the skin flakier and feels tight after being wiped with a tissue.  
Combination Skin Type 
A combination skin type is characterized by dry or normal skin in some areas and oily in others. The oily area is usually the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin).  
Sensitive Skin Type 
Sensitive skin is a term used to describe a skin condition in people who break out easily. People with sensitive skin type can easily get itchy, blotchy, or stinging skin after using certain products or exposed to certain weather conditions.  
Step 2. Learn what types of products you need 
A basic skin care routine usually involves the following items:  

• Cleanser
  A cleanser is a product you use for washing your face. It is important to choose a cleanser that’s suitable for your skin type and one that’s meant for washing your face. The usual bar or body wash can have harsh ingredients that can easily strip off your skin’s moisture.Finding the right cleanser can be tricky as it’s usually a trial and error process. If you have dry skin, a fragrance or alcohol-free type can be a good option. If you have an oily skin, opting for an oil-free type can be your best bet.
   
• Toner
  After you wash your face, you will need a toner to smoothen, soften, and calm your skin. A toner can provide a ‘clean’ feel for those with oily or combination skin type.A good toner contains ingredients that help restore nutrients to the skin. It can also help in reducing dry patches or redness.
   
• Moisturizer
  Regardless of your skin type, you’ll need a moisturizer to hydrate your skin. It can keep your skin smooth and healthy-looking.
   
• Sunscreen
  UV exposure doesn’t just cause skin cancer; it’s also the leading cause of wrinkles and other signs of skin aging.Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF of at least 30 can help protect your skin from the damaging effects of the sun.
  Sunscreen should be applied everyday even when it’s gray or cold outside.
   
• Exfoliating products
  Exfoliating products are not meant to be used every day but they can be useful for certain skin types such as weather-induced dry skin. Using it once or twice a week after a cleanser and before applying the moisturizer can help in getting rid of dead skin cells. When used correctly, they can help clear the pores, giving you smoother and younger-looking skin.  

Step 3. Determine when to use certain products 
As a beginner, the list of skin care items to use may sound too overwhelming. A good way to remember what items to use at certain times of the day is this: morning routine should be about protection and prevention while night time routine should focus on cleansing and repair.
You can begin your morning routine by rinsing your face with warm water and then applying moisturizer and sunscreen. At night, a more dedicated skin care routine is needed. It involves cleansing the face with a product suitable for your skin type, getting rid of the makeup and dirt using a toner, exfoliating if there’s a need to, and then capping off the routine with the use of a moisturizer.  
As the largest organ of the body and the first line of health defense, your skin needs to be taken good care of.  
Whether you’re in your 20s or 40s, this skin care guide can get you to your goal of having healthy, smooth, and young-looking skin. 

Image: Guise Archives

Many of us consider our eyes as the most cherished parts of our bodies. Without our sense of vision, we won’t be able to appreciate the beauty around us and function optimally everyday. But we are potentially exposing our eyes to danger simply by staying outdoors unprotected.

How the Sun Damages Our Eyes

There are certain types of light from the sun that can cause eye damage. Ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) are among them. They are invisible yet powerful rays that have wavelengths that are shorter than visible light. Constant and prolonged eye exposure to UVA and UVB increases your risk of developing macular degeneration (a major cause of vision loss for people over the age of 60), cataracts, and cancer.
Macular Degeneration
Macular degeneration is an eye condition that’s often associated with age. However, this condition is now believed to be caused by cumulative damage to the eye’s retina.
In the U.S., macular degeneration is the leading cause of vision loss for people over the age of 60. Some studies have shown that this has something to do with UVA and HEV (high-energy visible) light exposure.
Cataract
Cataract is the most common cause of treatable blindness. It refers to the progressive clouding and yellowing of the eye’s crystalline lens. It is estimated that about 10 percent of cataract cases are brought about by UV exposure.
Cancer
Eyelid cancer accounts for 5 to 10 percent of skin cancer cases. Many types of eyelid cancer occur on the lower lid as it’s the part that receives the most sun exposure. Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are the most common types of eyelid cancer. They are usually found in individuals with a long history of sun exposure. Melanoma, which accounts for 5 to 10 percent of skin cancer cases, is more common in those with intermittent but intense sun exposure.
Unprotected exposure to UV rays can also lead to premature signs of skin aging such as wrinkles and fine lines around the eyes.
Aside from eyelid cancer, other types of cancer that can develop as a result of UV exposure include intraocular melanoma and conjunctival cancer.

Protecting Your Eyes

The longer you are exposed to the solar radiation, the greater is the risk of developing these eye conditions later in life. Hence, it’s important to have some form of protection if you’re heading outdoors. A good way to protect your eyes from these harmful UV rays is by wearing quality sunglasses.
Choosing the Right Sunglasses
Here are some tips on how to choose the right sunglasses that can provide your eyes with adequate protection from the UV rays:

• UV Protection
  Not all sunglasses are created the same. If you want to provide adequate protection for your eyes, you would want to pick a pair of sunglasses that offer UV protection. They should be able to block out 99 to 100 percent of UVA and UVB radiation. If they don’t, then it’s best to leave them on the rack.
  
• The Right Lens
  There are different kinds of lens available around. There are blue blockers, polarized, mirror-coated, gradient, double gradient, and photochromic lenses.
  
  As its name implies, the blue blockers are the types of lenses that block the blue light. Some studies show that blue light can be harmful and can increase one’s risk of suffering from eye damage. These lenses are often preferred by boaters, skiers, and pilots.
  
  Polarized lenses are popular among those who play water and snow sports. They come with anti-reflecting coatings that reduce the glare caused by light reflection.
  
  Mirror-coated lenses are the types that limit the amount of light entering the eyes. The highly-reflective coatings on their front surface make them highly beneficial for those who spend a lot of time outdoors, in very bright conditions.
  
  Gradient lenses are ideal to use for driving. Since these lenses are tinted from the top down, they shield the eyes from the overhead light while allowing more light to get through the bottom half. This allows you to see the dashboard clearly.
  
  Like the gradient lenses, the double gradient lenses are also tinted from the bottom up. They are the go-to lenses if you want sunglasses that aren’t too dark but still able to shield your eyes from overhead sunlight.
  
  Photochromic lenses are the type of lenses that adjust their level of darkness based on the amount of UV light you are exposed to.  
  
• Fit
  The fit is another thing to consider when choosing a pair of sunglasses. You don’t want to wear something that doesn’t fit your face well as you only let UV rays seep into your skin and eyes.
  
  A good pair of sunglasses is one that wraps around your eyes, blocking the stray of UV light. Good-fitting sunglasses can also protect your eyes from sand and allergens.

Some people may consider sunglasses as just another accessory to complete their look, but this simple accessory can provide your eyes with protection that you’ll be thankful for in the long run.