Our skin is the largest organ in the body and performs primary functions. Some functions are regulating body temperature and serving as a protective barrier to keep germs and other toxic substances out of the body. It is thus imperative to start caring for your skin now.
Three Skin Care Habits You Shouldn’t Ditch
So how do you become comfortable in your skin? Make it a habit to observe the following skin care regimen:
- Regular cleansing. For normal skin, a twice-daily cleansing routine is ideal. Dry skin requires cleansing once daily, preferably at night, to prevent stripping natural oils that keep skin moist. Oily skin, however, demands to cleanse twice or even thrice a day. Whatever skin type you have, go for natural skin care products that won’t do your skin more harm than good.
- Toning and moisturizing. If you have dry skin, apply moisturizer after cleansing. If you have oily skin, apply toner after cleansing.
- Exfoliation. You must exfoliate regularly to get rid of dead skin cells that make your skin look dull. For that glowing complexion, exfoliate normal and combination skin twice or thrice a week. Sensitive skin requires a once-weekly exfoliation. Avoid over-exfoliation as it can lead to chronic skin inflammation and irritation.
How Do You Choose a Product?
- Be a smart shopper. Remember to read labels carefully and do the necessary research before purchasing a product.
- Make informed choices. Play it safe and choose natural skin care products that are great for you and the environment.
Why Go Natural?
There are many potentially harmful chemicals lurking in most skincare products out there.
Here are some ingredients you should watch out for:
- Parabens. This chemical found in most of your everyday beauty products acts as a preservative to keep your shampoo, body wash, deodorant, facial cleanser, and makeup, free of contamination. Parabens are also reportedly linked to disruption of the endocrine system, an increased risk of breast cancer, as well as skin allergies.
- Artificial Fragrances. According to EWG (Environmental Working Group), added fragrance can cause respiratory problems, dermatitis, and allergies. Buying fragrance-free products are the safest way to go. However, if you can’t help but go for scented, choose ones that make use of essential oils extracted from plants.
- Toluene. EWG states that being exposed to high toluene levels results in liver damage, kidney damage, and respiratory health issues. Skin bleaching products, hair color, and nail polish have this highly toxic chemical in them.
- Phthalates. These are added to make cologne, perfume, hair spray, deodorant and moisturizer flexible and soft. Although scientific evidence remains inconclusive, phthalates are linked to breast cancer, hormonal imbalance, as well as birth defects.
- Formaldehyde. This toxic chemical is added to your shampoo, conditioner, body wash, cleanser, nail polish, and eyeshadow to inhibit bacterial growth. Formaldehyde is linked to respiratory and nervous system issues and has been categorized as a carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Carcinogens.
These toxins can be absorbed easily into your skin and wreak havoc on your health. Thus shifting to a more natural skin care regimen remains your best option.
The Editorial Team at Healthcare Business Today is made up of skilled healthcare writers and experts, led by our managing editor, Daniel Casciato, who has over 25 years of experience in healthcare writing. Since 1998, we have produced compelling and informative content for numerous publications, establishing ourselves as a trusted resource for health and wellness information. We offer readers access to fresh health, medicine, science, and technology developments and the latest in patient news, emphasizing how these developments affect our lives.
