Tips For Clear Skin
Tips For Healthy Skin

As long as you don't give up and you persevere in your journey to discover which acne treatment products your skin responds to and institute proper tips for healthy skin, it's just a matter of time until you achieve that right balance which produces a glowing complexion. As an esthetician and one who once had acne issues, I know the heartache that it can bring. Browse through the following clear skin tips and see if you're doing everything in your power to get rid of acne.


TIPS FOR CLEAR SKIN - KNOW YOUR PRODUCT INGREDIENTS

Not all acne treatment products are created equal. It is important that you become familiar with the ingredients that are usually found in these products. This way you will be able to make an informed decision as to whether a particular product might be beneficial for your skin. In addition, knowing your skin type is of vital importance when making a product selection, along with factoring in any other problems going on, e.g., rosacea, sun damage, etc.

For example, a product that is formulated for oily skin, but does not take into consideration the fact that you also have sensitive skin, will most likely produce a result that will make you want to wear a bag on your head. Chances are you will experience redness, irritation, inflammation, possible flaking and peeling, not to mention additional breakouts.


TIPS FOR CLEAR SKIN - PROPER CLEANSING

Take a few minutes each morning and evening to properly cleanse your face. As I mentioned above, it is crucial that you use products that are formulated to work with your skin type and not against it. Once you have quality products that are made for your skin, the next step is to use them properly.

Step 1: Wash your hands thoroughly with warm water and soap before touching your face.

Step 2: Start by removing your lipstick with a little eye makeup remover or facial cleanser. Fold a tissue into thirds and wipe your lips from the outside corner to the center. Turn the tissue to a clean portion. Repeat the wiping of the lips from the other corner to the center. Continue to alternate the strokes and turn the tissue until the lips are clean.

Step 3: Proceed to remove eye makeup. Start by applying eye makeup remover to a cotton pad and gently wipe over your eyes in a downward fashion. Continue in this fashion while replacing the cotton pad periodically so you are continuously using a clean pad. Finish off by using a Q-tip to eliminate all traces of makeup that is close to your eyes.

Step 4: Splash warm, not too hot, water onto your face.

Step 5: Apply about a teaspoon of cleanser to your fingertips and then apply the product to your face and neck in circular motions.

Step 6: Then work the cleanser over the forehead towards the hairline in an upwards direction. Work the cleanser in a downward sweep over your cheeks. Cleanse your neck upwards.

Step 7: You can remove the cleanser using warm water and a clean washcloth, cotton pads, or a facial sponge. If you use a sponge, it is best to throw it away after each use to avoid the accumulation of bacteria on the sponge.

Step 8: Pat your face dry with a clean towel.

There you have it, tips for clear skin as it relates to proper cleansing. Now you're without excuse.


TIPS FOR CLEAR SKIN - EXFOLIATION

The purpose of exfoliating the skin is to remove the dead skin cells, which will cause the skin to be smoother. In addition, it will help with extractions, increase cell turnover, along with improving the skin's ability to retain moisture and faciliate product penetration.

There are two types of exfoliation known as mechanical and chemical. A mechanical exfoliation can be achieved with the use of a scrub, a peeling treatment or a brushing machine. A chemical exfoliation allows for the dissolving of the dead skin cells with the use of AHAs and enzymes.

Many people skip exfoliation out of ignorance. There is a certain amount of needless fear that goes hand-in-hand with exfoliation of acneic skin. As long as the product that is being used contains appropriate ingredients for your skin type, while factoring in any additional skin issues, there should not be a problem in using an exfoliator.

You want to be sure to select a product that is not going to damage the skin, along with a method of application that will not ravage it. For example, those harsh loofah facial pads should not be used on the face as they can most definitely cause damage to delicate skin.

Instead, exfoliate with salicylic acid which is a beta hydroxy acid that has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. This ingredient will not only remove the dead skin cells from the skin's surface, but will also clean out the inside of the pores. In addition, this wonderful product will also help to reduce redness, inflammation, irritation, and swelling.


TIPS FOR CLEAR SKIN - ZIT PICKING NO MORE

I know you have heard it before, but as an esthetician I would be remiss to not mention the impact that zit picking can have on the skin. Who knows, for some this might be the day you take a stand against touching your face and picking those zits.

When you say yes to zit picking you are simultaneously saying yes to a possible scar, deepened infection and additional acne outbreaks. Therefore, if at all possible, work towards breaking yourself of the habit of seeing a pimple and immediately proceeding to try and pop it. Think before you squeeze; don't just do it out of habit. At least wait until the pimple is fully developed and has a white head on the top that is practically oozing out on its own.

However, I am a realist and I know at times you are going to pop that zit, therefore, if you must then click on over to my Pimple Popping page and select one of my articles on proper pimple popping so you at least do it right. Although everyone is tempted to pop that zit, this is one of the most important skin care tips for teens as they have a tendency to keep going and not know when to stop.


TIPS FOR CLEAR SKIN - CONCLUSION

After you have implemented all of the above tips for clear skin and are ready to move on to making some additional lifestyle changes that will impact the health of your skin, you'll want to click on over to these Clear Skin Tips for some additional options that will help you achieve that clear and radiant complexion.