Skin Care Products

Skin care is a large multi-billion industry the world over largely due to our obsession for young, beautiful skin. This is quiet understandable considering that our skin is the most visible part of our body and consequently, the primary indicator of our age and general well-being. We are always looking for the next big thing in skin care products and manufacturers are only too happy to oblige.

There are various skin types with unique qualities that require different care regimens. In order to choose the perfect skin care product, it is important to first find out your specific skin type.

Normal Skin. If you are among those gifted with normal skin, you should thank your lucky stars because normal skin requires very little intervention. Normal skins have few imperfections largely because they adapt well to various environments and are, generally, not as sensitive.

Oily Skin. Shiny spots on the T-zone of the face indicate oily skin. Heat and humidity usually trigger the production of excessive oil that can clog the pores and cause blemishes. The usual remedy of many people is to cover the oil with face powder which often makes the problem worse. Oily skin requires a lot of maintenance to keep it clean and looking less greasy.

Dry Skin. On the other side of the spectrum is excessively dry skin. Ads for skin products usually point out dryness through the characteristic white lines that appear when you scratch the skin. Dry skin requires special care because it is the most prone to infections and skin disorders. Dry skin is also extra sensitive to skin care products because many synthetic chemicals actually cause the skin to dry up even more.

Combination Skin. As if having one problematic skin type is not enough, there are unfortunate people who have combination skin. Combination skin requires a unique, balanced skin care regimen because too much of one treatment may actually cause more damage.

Now that we have identified our skin type, the challenge is to find the right skin care product to use.

1.Alpha-Hydroxy Acids or AHAs. Many beauty products contain AHA which is popularly known to lighten blemishes and reduce the appearance of fine lines. However, people with problematic skin may suffer from increased sensitivity to sunlight. As such, products with AHA must be used in conjunction with sun protection.

2.Beta-Hydroxy Acids or Salicylic Acid. Products with Salicylic Acid are famous for their exfoliating properties that promote skin regeneration. Exfoliation is especially helpful in reducing the visible signs of acne. However, this type of acid can be absorbed by the skin causing allergic reactions. As such, care should be taken by pregnant or nursing women when using such skin care products.

3. Hydroquinone. Bleaching creams usually contain Hydroquinone which lightens skin pigments. Many people use these products to counter the effects of melasma and hyperpigmentation. As with most chemical products, people with sensitive skin may be allergic to Hydroquinone.

4. Kojic Acid. Also a remedy for dark spots, Kojic Acid is gaining popularity as a component of lightening creams mainly because it is just as effective as Hydroquinone but less likely to cause allergies.

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