Taking Care of the Facial Skin Part 1

It is very important to consider skin type and personal preferences when choosing cleansers for the face.  They must not leave residue or greasy films.  It is not advised to cleanse with soap and water because soap spoils the natural acidic protection film of the skin.  The following must be taken into consideration:

• Oil-based cleansers are suitable for all skin types and for removing make-up effectively.
• Water-soluble and oil-based cleansers are ideal for oily and combination skins.
• Fragrant and colored cleansers are not for sensitive skin,

How to Effectively Use Cleansers

1. For oil-based or cream cleansers, apply then leave for a few seconds, gently wipe off with a damp tissue or cotton wool.
2. For wash-off cleansers, apply to damp skin and rinse with warm water.
3. To act as exfoliation, use facial sponge and cleansing brush.
   

Exfoliating scrubs, creams or gels brush dead skin cells.  Manual pressure exerted during exfoliation invigorates circulation and helps stimulate cell production. Normally, skin renews its cells every 28 days but this slows down with age.

Exfoliation should be done every two or three days.  However, if one has sensitive skin, a face mask is used instead.  Exfoliation also should not be done if one has a network of surface veins on the face.

This is optional.  What it actually does is refresh and also remove the remnants of cleansers. 

Alcohol-based toners' use must be avoided because it strips the facial skin's needed moisture.

Floral waters can be alternatives to toners:

• witch-hazel toner for oily skin
• rose water for dry skin
• camomile water for both normal and sensitive skin