The skin is the largest organ on your body. It covers and protects you all over. It is as important to take care of it, as any other vital organs, but usually the most neglected. Taking good care of your skin does not require costly visits to the dermatologist or high dollar cosmetics.
It is important to develop a total body regime. Starting with identifying your skin type. (on your body not your face) If your skin is normal or combination, this means you are not too dry or oily in any area, and tend to only have the occasional blemish. If you have dry flaky ashy skin you are likely to be dry or very dry. If you skin is often greasy and you have many breakouts, you are oily. If your skin shows fine lines, it is likely dehydrated. All skin types can be dehydrated. Many people with oily skin feel they are not dehydrated and this is untrue.
Once you’ve identified your skin type, you can start to treat and nourish the skin based on it’s needs. All skin needs hydration, and must be moisturized. There are many bar soaps on the market for every skin type, but be sure you select an antibacterial soap to really clean the skin. A good general moisturizer for the skin is Nivea original moisture, It is non comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog the pores and it provides essential moisture to all the cells. It can be used all over the body and will leave your skin feeling soft and smooth all over.
Exfoliation is important to skin health as well. Exfoliating removes dead skin cells from the surface and reveals a more luminous, brighter skin tone. Shaving is a good form of exfoliation for the legs, but the rest of the body needs to be exfoliated at least once weekly. Try a loofah on a stick to reach those tricky spots on the back, and a good granular scrub, salt, sugar, or apricot for example, are all good forms of exfoliators for the rest of the skin.
Sunscreen is also important. You should protect your skin on a daily basis with at least an spf 15. This is especially important for those in sunnier climates. Sun damaged skin looks unhealthy. Skin ages dramatically with prolonged sun exposure and improper protection.
A good skincare regime should exist of cleansing, moisture replenishment and exfoliation. The biggest thing you can do to care for your skin is keep it hydrated. Drink lots of water and apply moisturizer every morning and at bedtime.