You have probably heard of the skin concerns many share, such as aging, lines and wrinkles, loss of elasticity, dullness, pigmentation, dryness, acne, and the list goes on.

Have you asked yourself “What exactly is Skin?”

Once we understand what Skin really is, then we can understand its demands and needs and how to treat it best.

The skin is the largest organ of the body. It has up to seven layers and guards the underlying muscles, bones, ligaments, and internal organs. It is the first line of defense against outside influences.

That’s a big job!

Every gust of wind, temperature, and blast from exhaust hits our skin first. Biologically, skin is our first line of defense. Culturally, skin defines much of our standard for beauty and confidence. Bright, youthful skin signals health and vitality. And, like every part of our bodies, skin responds to care and attention. Skin holds our bodies together, shielding us from the outside world. It is our protective covering, our first barrier to fight illness and disease, and a passageway to our bloodstream. Our skin works so well that it’s easy to take skin for granted.

The difference between neglected and pampered skin is incredible — once you experience the joy of supple, breathable skin, you’ll be hooked. Your whole body functions more smoothly when your skin doesn’t have to fight to perform its natural function.

Proper care can revitalize skin and slow the aging process, keeping skin healthier, longer.

Are you confused by advertisements and all the products out there and you have tried it all, but saw no results? The average woman has hundreds of dollars worth of skincare and cosmetics in her bathroom, but yet has concerns with her skin.

So what are your Skin's essentials? Here is a good start:

1. CLEANSE

Cleansing the skin is an essential part of a skincare regimen for all skin types and conditions; using the right product (and/or tools) based on your skin concerns and skin type is equally important.

Over-cleansing can strip the skin of its acid mantle, our natural occlusive barrier, leaving it dry and exposing it to external irritants. The skin may also try to compensate for the oil that has been stripped away by secreting even more oil. This can start a vicious cycle of cleansing whenever the skin feels oily.

Cleansing twice a day, morning and evening, is most commonly recommended with a few exceptions.

There are many types of cleansers on the market from gel-like, cream-based, foaming, physical exfoliating ones, chemical acid-based ones and you will hear terms such as hypoallergenic, free of fragrance and alcohol. There is no one-fit for all, as we all experience different demands with our skin.

Feel free to visit my previous blog “You are probably not washing your sheets enough” to understand another layer of how pores can get clogged with dead skin cells, in which the right type of cleansing plays a big role.

2. REJUVENATE WITH ANTIOXIDANTS

An essential Vitamin, that the body doesn’t naturally produce, is Vitamin C. It is needed for the growth and repair of tissues in all parts of your body. It serves as a powerful antioxidant. It’s a crucial ingredient for healthy glowing skin and should be applied daily.

Every preventative measure and anti-aging routine needs a vitamin C serum. The benefits of vitamin C can help improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots and so much more. It’s never too late to treat your skin to this hard-working ingredient.

Not all Vitamin C is the same though. When investing in a topical Vitamin C serum you might want to consider if it is lipid-soluble or water-soluble for reasons of absorption level; the type of packaging it comes in for stability; what role the percentage plays and if the skin can absorb more if the percentage is higher.

3. TREATMENT / SERUM

If you have a specific skin concern, whether it be acne, discoloration, lines, and wrinkles, you will want to seek a serum that targets your specific concern. A general rule is to apply a serum in the order listed here, after your antioxidant. Depending on skin concerns, you might want to consider more than one serum and either layer them or use them alternating. Although it all depends on which manufacturer you use. Alternatively, look for a two-in-one.

A serum is different from a moisturizer, where it typically has a higher success rate in addressing targeted concerns and quicker and deeper absorption.

There is no one fit for all, it really depends on the overall routine you choose.

If you are in search of upgrading your skincare routine and feel lost in the world of skincare, don’t hesitate to reach out for a thorough consultation where a precise recommendation can be made so that you can love your skin.

4. MOISTURIZE

You will want to ask yourself the question: Do you like a lightweight product or a heavier weight product? It could also be two different ones, one for the morning and one for the evening. Moisturizers come with different characteristics and should be selected based on skin concerns. They can be loaded with peptides, growth factors, hyaluronic acid, and the list goes on.

Moisturizers act by reducing water loss from the skin. Emollients and essential fatty acids (EFAs) are two common methods to help reduce water loss, keeping the skin soft and hydrated.

If you choose one with an SPF, please do not assume that will carry you through the day. You will still need a dedicated SPF! More to that later.

5. EXFOLIATION / RESURFACING

Exfoliating your skin with resurfacing ingredients including Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) like glycolic acid, Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs) like salicylic acid and retinoids have been shown to assist the cellular turnover process as well as support the production of new collagen and elastin.

Collagen and elastin production is a process that naturally slows down as we mature. The result of resurfacing facial products is improvement in the appearance of skin texture, fine lines, wrinkles, acne, scarring, and sun damage.

Depending on the concern and type of product, the application and frequency may vary.

6. PROTECT

Wearing SPF, and wearing it the right way, is the most important part of long-term anti-aging and cancer prevention!

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), FDA, Skin Cancer Foundation and Centers for Disease Control (CDC) all recommend daily sun protection to prevent the risk of skin cancer and premature aging.

The AAD has the strictest requirements with these recommendations when selecting a sunscreen: an SPF 30 or greater with broad-spectrum protection. Also, look for one that is water-resistant.

Almost everyone owns sunscreen but few are willing to wear it every day, much less reapply every two hours. While it is important to wear broad-spectrum sunscreen every day, most people don’t because they dislike the way it feels, smells, or because it interferes with makeup application. Others believe SPF in their foundation or makeup will provide necessary coverage. While makeup and powders with SPF are great for “touch-up” on the go, they should not be trusted to provide uniform protection over the entire face (or body).

Ensure to apply adequate amounts of SPF and cover all your bases from the face, neck, décolleté, behind the neck and behind the ears, and on top of your ears (basically, every piece of skin exposed).

SPF sticks are great for using on-the-go and on hands.

And always check the expiration date, even at the time of purchase!

Put intention into your skincare routine. Keeping your skin healthy is a lifelong responsibility. Caring for your skin is akin to caring for your body – it's an integral part of your lifestyle.

Skincare is Healthcare! Be kind to your skin. You'll wear it every day for the rest of your life.

Skin Fit Rox was established with the goal of offering a comprehensive range of education, skincare services and products that meet European standards. We prioritize client safety and aim to achieve exceptional results through a combination of home care and professional services, all within a modern and welcoming atmosphere.

Contact us for a customized consultation at [email protected] or visit the website www.SkinFitRox.com