Each day, the world exerts a certain amount of trauma on your skin. Just as you do your best to adapt to changes that come your way, your skin does its best, too. As you sit at your desk, eat lunch in the park, or walk down the street, your skin is working hard to regulate heat, excrete water and salts as sweat, and provide oxygen to the body. But it is prevented from functioning at its best by routine exposure to environmental stresses. For a healthy, glowing complexion, skin needs to be buffered against potential damage. So, what assaults skin? And what can we do about it?

Sun: 90% of premature ageing is linked with overexposure to UV rays. The solution: shield your skin from the sun with natural skin protectors.

Smoking: another skin enemy – even passive smoking. When tobacco burns, as many as 4,000 different chemical compounds are produced: these may be absorbed via your skin. These chemicals affect your internal health, causing lung, heart, blood, and stomach disease and can cause a variety of visible problems, including skin discolouration or irritation and blackheads. More worryingly, the chemicals can also cause skin cancer. The solution: creams featuring antioxidant ingredients, such as vitamins C and E, can help to protect against – and may even reverse – some of the damage triggered by smoking.

Pollution: skin can be exposed to hundreds of chemicals a day. The solution: switch to natural cleaning materials. To protect your skin, also choose body and face creams featuring antioxidant ingredients.

Alcohol: it dehydrates the skin and leads to broken or swollen capillaries, especially on the nose and cheeks. It also destroys the vitamins and minerals needed for a healthy complexion. The solution: cut down to one or two glasses of good wine a day, and maintain an adequate intake of Essential Fatty Acids.

Atopic eczema is associated with a family history of allergies. It’s considered an inherited form of eczema since the majority of people with atopic eczema themselves have problems with allergies or they have relatives who suffer from allergies, asthma or hay fever. Atopic eczema usually first appears during infancy and it flares and subsides regularly throughout life.

Seborrheic eczema is very often misdiagnosed as ‘dry skin’. This common type of eczema is not at all associated with dry skin. It’s actually believed to be somehow related to genetics, although the relationship has yet to be defined. The symptoms of seborrheic eczema include scaly skin that usually appears on top of the head and around the eyebrows, ears and nose, however, it can also appear on the chest.

It seems to be a skin condition that more often affects men than women and it doesn’t usually become a problem until after puberty. After that however, seborrheic eczema flares frequently. Interestingly, it also appears in patients with some forms of mental or neurological issues such as mental retardation and Parkinson’s disease.

To treat seborrheic eczema on the head, wash daily with shampoo that contains tar, salicylic acid, sulfur or selenium. For skin, apply hydrocortisone cream. Systemic antibiotics are sometimes prescribed as well.

Cradle cap is a form of seborrheic eczema that affects infants. It’s easy to diagnose by the appearance of patches of thick, yellowish scales atop an infant’s head. It sometimes appears in the diaper area, neck, face and behind ears, too. It’s harmless and goes away quickly when treated. Use shampoo formulated for infants, then after shampooing, lightly massage and brush scalp with a soft brush. If it doesn’t improve, it’s important to seek medical advice.

Varicose eczema is caused by poor circulation usually due to obesity, menopause and pregnancy. This type of eczema most often appears on the lower leg area around the ankles. Symptoms don’t usually appear until mid-life. It’s important to treat this type of eczema otherwise the affected areas of skin could break down and form ulcers. Steroid creams and emollients are effective treatments.

The discoid type of eczema is characterized by round patches the size of coins appearing on the lower part of the legs, arms and the trunk. The patches are itchy and they sometimes weep. Discoid eczema seems to have no apparent trigger and usually develops suddenly and mostly in older men.

Contact dermatitis is another form of eczema that develops when irritants come into contact with skin. It results in localized inflammation in the area where contact occurred. It results from exposure to toxic chemicals rather than allergens, either just once or after several such contacts. A one-time exposure, usually to highly toxic chemicals, is considered an acute case and can cause red, thick, scaly skin.

A cumulative case is far more common and results from repeated exposure to any number of milder irritants such as laundry detergents, soap and even urine or saliva. Continual exposure only prolongs the problem. Dry, red skin that is thick and cracks and sometimes has papules is the result of this form of eczema, which is also hard to treat.

Classified into two broad categories, eczema that has no apparent trigger or cause is considered endogenous eczema. When eczema is the result of external triggers such as allergens, the eczema is classified as eczematous dermatitis.

Much still is unknown about eczema and one puzzling fact is that the available treatments for the various types of eczema aren’t always effective for every individual.

The primary symptoms of eczema include the appearance of itchy red rashes. Sometimes blisters develop and they may seep fluids then crust over. Affected areas often become scaly and thick and sometimes there’s even discoloration. Eczema can develop on any part of the body and there is no consistency in the length of time each flare-up will last. Eczema that develops in the folds of skin tends to be more irritating because of the constant rubbing.

The most serious risk associated with eczema is infection. Eczema is so itchy that affected individuals sometimes scratch the area until the top layer of skin has been broken. With the skin’s ability to provide external protection from harmful bacteria compromised, bacteria can make its way into the damaged area and cause an infection.

It’s advisable to keep fingernails trimmed short to decrease the damage that can be caused by constant scratching of affected areas. When children develop eczema, parents are often advised to place soft mittens over their hands to reduce the severity of the itching.

Although it can be troublesome, eczema is not contagious.

Eczema treatment will differ based on the type that has been diagnosed. NSAIDS, which are non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen, naproxen and others, and corticosteroids, drugs that mimic the hormones produced naturally by the adrenal glands, are often prescribed to help reduce the inflammation associated with eczema. Benzocaine can also help reduce inflammation when applied topically. In some cases, antihistamines are prescribed.

Calamine lotion is effective at soothing the affected area, helping to keep it dry and protected. Another treatment aimed to soothe is application of wet bandages. Dermatologists often suggest use of cotton clothing and bedding as this natural fiber cools skin and allows it to breathe.

Shampoos and ointments that contain coal tar additives can help patches of red, itchy skin decrease in size. Finally, eczema that is considered severe is sometimes treated with UV lights.

How do I know I have oily skin?

Most teen-agers have oily skin because this is the time when hormone production is in full swing. But if you’ve passed your teen years, there are other ways of determining whether or not you have oily skin. It’s fairly easy to detect, so start by looking in the mirror. Do you notice a sheen on your skin, especially in your ‘T-Zone?’ The T-Zone starts at the point between your eyes and extends vertically down along your nose all the way to your chin. The zone also runs horizontally across the bridge of your nose, starting and ending at the center point below each eye.

You may or may not notice the sheen during the day, so check again first thing after waking. If there’s a sheen, chances are good you have oily skin. While you’re standing at the mirror, take a look at your hair. If it’s oily, it’s another indication you likely have oily skin. If you wear make-up, specifically foundation, and you find it fades or wears off after a couple of hours, that’s yet another indication of oily skin. If you’re constantly patting your face with powder or even a handkerchief it’s probably because of oily skin.

The presence of blemishes is another good indication although stress, hormones and other factors can all cause outbreaks. And remember that oily skin isn’t found only on the face. The back, neck, chest, shoulders and arms can all be oily.

How to care for oily skin?

If you do have oily skin, you probably feel that the best way to combat it is to strip away those pore-clogging, sheen-producing oils. Don’t! Although they cause trouble for your complexion, oils produced by the sebaceous glands are important because they act as the skin’s natural moisturizer. And oily skin is sometimes sensitive. Rather than completely remove oil, you need to keep it under control.

Another reason not to use harsh soaps that strip away oil is that doing so may cause the sebaceous glands to increase their oil production. They’ll instinctively want to replenish the lost oils and you may end up with a bigger problem.

You’ve got to keep oily skin clean so that pores openings remain clear. Otherwise, dead cells, dirt and other bacteria will clog pores and cause pimples. Skin is delicate so always use a gentle cleanser and warm, not hot water. Exfoliate weekly with a non-abrasive product to help remove any pore-clogging material or use a toner that does not list alcohol as an ingredient.

Use products that moisturize in moderation and according to directions. Make sure the cosmetics and sun protection you use are oil-free. Look for skin care products with the words ‘non-comedogenic’ or ‘non-acnegenic’ on the labels.

Age and the environment are two factors that contribute to this skin type. Over time, the sebaceous glands within the dermis layer slow their production of sebum, the body’s natural moisturizer. The skin’s ability to retain moisture also lessens as we grow older. This is caused by the breakdown of the intracellular matrix, the collagen and elastin layer that helps hold skin tissue together. When this layer begins to break apart, it becomes more difficult for skin to hold in moisture. As moisture escapes, skin becomes drier.

Other causes of dry skin include climates that are arid, windy and dry. Use of harsh soaps and detergents and too much unprotected exposure to the sun’s damaging rays can also negatively influence skin. Genetics plays a role as well.

How do I know I have dry skin?

First consider where you live. Windy areas and areas with low humidity cause dryness by stripping skin of its natural oils. Living in areas where winters are cold causes skin trouble as well. Even if you don’t spend much time outdoors, interior heaters as well as air conditioning units in hot, dry climates can sap the air of moisture and cause dry skin.

Visible indicators of dry skin include skin that flakes easily. Plus, dry skin often looks tight and taut because pore openings are very tiny. If you don’t yet see these tell-tale signs of dry skin but you’re at or approaching mid-life, it’s time to start looking.

Caring for dry skin

If you have dry skin, proper care involves retaining as much moisture as possible. One way is to avoid using products containing alcohol because alcohol dries. Recommended ingredients for dry skin include alpha hydroxy, lactic acids, petroleum, lanolin and glycerin so take time to read product labels.

Dry skin won’t always feel like it needs to be cleansed, but it does, twice daily, morning and night. Using a gentle cleanser made especially for skin that’s dry, cleanse using warm, not hot water. Finish off with a cool rinse. It’s never a good idea to use hot water to clean any type of skin or to soak in a tub because doing so will only strip skin of its natural oils.

After washing your skin, pat it dry using a soft towel. Then apply a light moisturizer. Those containing Vitamin E are excellent choices. If you wear make-up choose foundations that contain the moisturizing ingredients mentioned above.

Help keep skin hydrated by drinking water and increasing your consumption of high water content foods such as cucumbers and watermelon. Most fruits and vegetables are excellent hydrating foods plus they’re excellent sources of important vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants. Antioxidants are crucial in helping maintain the skin’s intracellular matrix.

The common denominator in either type of combination skin is the presence of oily areas so care must be taken not to further aggravate these areas. Usually, it’s the areas with the highest concentration of oil-producing glands – the face, chest, shoulders and the back – that are oily. Other body parts have fewer oil glands which is why they’re either normal or have characteristics of dryness.

The cause of combination skin really has to do with oil-producing glands that produce more oil than normal. Dryness is primarily caused by the environment, age and the breakdown of the intracellular matrix.

Most people know whether they have combination skin just by looking at it. The areas that appear shiny likely will have some amount of pimples and/or blackheads. Makeup and other cosmetics usually won’t last through an entire day without re-application. Dry areas flake and appear dull and may feel irritated.

Skin care for combination skin

Proper skin care for combination skin is best described as a delicate balancing act. You don’t want to over-moisturize the oily areas, which mainly include the ‘T-zone’ or you risk waking up with an explosion of blemishes dotting your face. And likewise, you don’t want to apply products formulated for oily skin to the areas that aren’t oily or you risk waking up with skin that feels taut and scaly, especially around the eyes and mouth. So what’s the proper way to care for combination skin?

Cleansing twice daily with warm water and a gentle gel cleanser is most important. This helps to remove dead skin cells, dirt and excess oil so they don’t block pore openings. Follow with a toner that’s either water-based or glycerin-based after cleansing to help remove remaining residue. Periodic exfoliating is recommended to remove any remaining dead cells so new skin can take its place. It helps keep skin looking fresh and radiant. Be sure to look for skin care products that aim to balance the different skin types.

For oily-normal skin, you want to keep skin hydrated, but dry in the areas prone to excessive oil. Choose moisturizers that are water-based rather than oil-based, making sure to apply sparingly to oil-prone areas. Spot-treat blemishes as necessary. Benzoyl peroxide products are very effective. Apply cosmetics designed to absorb oils, like powders or dab with oil-absorbing tissues as necessary.

For oily-dry skin, moisturizing dry areas with emollient-based products is important to keep skin feeling fresh. The eyes may need an even heavier moisturizer and if so, just be sure to keep it away from the T-zone.

And never forget the importance of applying sunscreen. Fortunately, many foundations and powders now do double-duty as both make-up and sunscreen!

The symptoms associated with a flare-up of psoriasis include skin that is salmon-colored, scaly, flaky and irritated. With plaque psoriasis, the most common form, affected areas develop round-, oval- or irregularly-shaped patches of red that are covered with skin that’s scaly and silver-colored. There is no consistency in the size or shape of the patchy areas and in fact, several small patches can merge together and appear as one big irregular shape of irritated skin. These areas are unsightly and sometimes they crack and cause bleeding.

Affected skin can be extremely itchy and frequently has a burning sensation. Like the shape, there is no consistency in how long a flare-up will last. It can last 20 days or it can last 120 days or longer. What’s worse for those affected is that it’s a chronic condition so recurring flare-ups can happen any time.

The most commonly affected parts of the body include the trunk, head, elbows and knees although any body part can develop psoriasis. Flare-ups also tend to be symmetrical, meaning that both sides of the body will experience flare-ups in the same areas at the same time.

Genetics plays some role in psoriasis so those individuals with parents or grandparents who have had psoriasis have an increased chance that they’ll develop it as well. For reasons still unknown, T-cells, which are needed to produce the white blood cells that help our bodies fight infection, cause the skin to become inflamed. T-cells also somehow trigger the production of an overabundance of skin cells. With nowhere else to go, these excess skin cells pile up on top of one another and create the telltale appearance of raised patches on the skin’s exterior. The red appearance is the increased blood supply that’s needed to nourish these skin cells.

Injuries to the skin, sunlight and streptococcal infections are common triggers of Psoriasis. Stress can also trigger an outbreak as can changes in hormone levels. Individuals with early stages of HIV seem to have higher instances of psoriasis as well.

Psoriasis is not contagious so there’s no risk of passing it on. Those who smoke cigarettes and who consume alcohol increase their risks of developing psoriasis.

Currently, there still is no cure for psoriasis. However there are many treatments that are effective at alleviating the symptoms. Start by keeping affected areas moist and by resisting the temptation to scratch the area.

Topical treatments are used first with the goal of slowing down the excess production of skin cells. Coal tar, salicylic acid, corticosteroids, synthetic vitamin D, tazorac and anthrallin are common topical treatment options as are specially-formulated bathing products and moisturizers. Systemic medications are prescribed to treat more severe cases. Phototherapy, where patients are exposed to medically-supervised ultraviolet radiation is also effective in treating psoriasis.

Everybody knows what cellulite looks like because it’s so easily recognizable. It resembles the skin of an orange or worse, cottage cheese. It has a unique pattern and it generally appears on one of 3 parts of the body – the hips, the buttocks or the abdomen.

Cellulite is far more prevalent in women than in men. It varies in intensity from mild to extreme and, contrary to popular belief it’s not at all a medical condition. It’s simply the term used to describe the visible effect on the epidermis of excess fat deposits being stored just below its surface.

Causes of cellulite

Cellulite doesn’t generally become an issue until the years preceding puberty. That’s when a young girl’s hormone levels surge and those hormones begin sending messages to various parts of the body signaling the need to begin changing. One of these changes involves the formation of a layer of fat within the innermost layer of skin called the subcutaneous fat layer.

During the manufacture of this fat layer, a patterned structure within this layer is created, the purpose of which is to contain stored fat. It is this pattern, or framework for fat storage, shaped somewhat like the letter ‘X’ that creates the dimpling effect when too much fat is stored and the fat deposits begin to bulge. The pattern that’s created in a man’s body is different. It’s shaped more like column so even when there’s excess fat being stored it’s usually not visible in the same manner.

Normal levels of fat stored in this innermost layer of the subcutaneous won’t create the external dimpling because there’s enough space for all the fat deposits. So really, every woman has the tendency to develop some degree of cellulite when fat begins to accumulate.

How to treat cellulite

Clothing can cover the appearance of cellulite, but most people cannot remain in long pants all the time. You could spend hundreds of dollars trying hundreds of cellulite treatment products and not get anywhere close to the same results you’ll get by treating cellulite naturally. Not with some herb or balm, but with diet and exercise. The only way cellulite will be less noticeable is by shrinking the size of the fat cells stored in the subcutaneous layer so they no longer bulge.

And contrary to what the marketers of these hundreds of cellulite treatment creams, lotions, wraps, pills and other procedures will tell you, a sensible diet that’s heavy on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, protein and low in sodium and saturated fat will put you on the road to recovery. Combine moderate, regular exercise with the nutritious diet and do exercises that focus on the areas where cellulite appears like walking or biking. In a few months (or longer, depending on the severity of the cellulite) this embarrassing skin problem should be well under control.

Massage may help reduce cellulite because the motions help break down the stored fat deposits.

Causes of skin aging and wrinkles

Over time, the important skin components elastin and collagen start to break apart and skin begins to lose its elasticity, its underlying structure and its ability to spring back into shape. Cell reproduction slows with age causing fat cells and oil glands to atrophy. As this happens, production of emulsions designed to keep skin moist slows and skin starts to become dry. Add in the effects of gravity and soon the jowls, arms and eyelids begin to sag.

Several other environmental factors contribute to the onset of skin aging and wrinkles. Cigarette smoking, air pollution, laughing and frowning, and unprotected exposure to the sun all play a role. What’s different about these environmental factors is that most are within a person’s ability to control. So while there is no way (as of yet) to stop the aging process, the factors that contribute to its acceleration can be stopped.

Skin aging and wrinkling can be slowed by always protecting the skin from the sun’s damaging ultraviolet rays. These rays can penetrate unprotected layers of skin. They produce radiation which can seriously and permanently damage the cells that form skin tissue. UVA rays are believed capable of releasing oxidants, unstable particles that cause extensive cell damage.

Cigarette smoking promotes the release of oxidants as well. Oxidants slow the production of new collagen and elastin. Known also as free radicals, the best way to protect against their negative effects is to consume a diet rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Smoking also restricts the blood flow in the epidermis so skin doesn’t get the quantity of nutrients it needs to stay healthy.

The repetitive nature of cigarette smoking, specifically the repetitive contraction of the muscles surrounding the mouth, accelerates skin aging and wrinkling as do the muscle contractions that occur when laughing and frowning. Air pollution contributes to wrinkles by depriving the skin of Vitamin E, another important antioxidant.

Skin care for anti-aging and wrinkles

Keeping skin clean and moist is the best skin care regime for anti-aging and wrinkles. It’s better than most of the higher-priced solutions that promise to end wrinkling. Wash with warm water and gentle cleaner and pat skin dry so some moisture remains. Hot water and harsh soaps deplete skin of essential oils and increase dryness. Also avoid products with dyes or perfumes which may further irritate skin. Gently remove eye makeup as the skin surrounding the eyes is very delicate and prone to wrinkling. And there you have it – simple, inexpensive skin care for anti-aging and wrinkles.

Aging is an unstoppable process and unfortunately, so are wrinkles. So protect your skin by living a healthy lifestyle. Eat right, exercise, don’t smoke and avoid excess alcohol consumption.

Why can skin be sensitive?

Although there are several reasons why skin can be sensitive, the most common is that skin is reacting negatively to a certain product or possibly some combination of products. Think about your daily skin care regime, specifically the number of products you use. Soaps, cleansers, toners, blemish reducers, blemish concealers, foundation, blush, facial masks, after shave lotion – the list never ends! You probably use products that are made by a number of different manufacturers, too. While your intentions are good, some skin cannot tolerate such an assault.

Causes of sensitive skin

Trying to pinpoint the cause of sensitive skin is not always as simple as discontinuing use of a certain product. Because of the nature of sensitive skin, it can take hours or even days before the signs of sensitivity are visible. And the sensitivity may not be caused by a product. Exposure to the sun can create skin problems, as can extremely hot water. Your laundry detergent, fabric softeners, shampoo, perfume, hair spray, and even the household cleaning products you use can be the culprit. Certain foods and even some plants can cause symptoms of an allergic reaction as well.

Healthy skin is less sensitive because it’s able to act as an effective barrier. Sunburned skin, skin that’s excessively dry and skin that is otherwise damaged tends to be more sensitive. That’s one reason why people who don’t normally have sensitive skin develop skin sensitivity during winter months when dry, cold air strips skin of its protective moisture.

How to treat sensitive skin

Before sensitive skin can be treated, it’s important to figure out the underlying cause of the problem. It may be necessary to seek the advice of a dermatologist as you may have a skin condition such as eczema, psoriasis or rosacea. Here are some tips for treating sensitive skin.

Start reading product labels – the fewer ingredients, the better. Avoid products containing alcohol, fragrances, botanicals, antibacterial, ethanol and propylene glycol.

Spot test new facial products before applying to entire face. Apply a few dabs behind ears for 5 days, and if there’s no reaction, apply beside eyes for another 5 days. If all goes well, full facial coverage likely will be safe.

Choose natural fabrics for pillowcases and washcloths like 100% cotton or silk instead of synthetic materials. Check your ‘cotton’ balls, too. Some look like cotton but really are polyester.

Eat a balanced diet to ensure skin gets the nutrients it needs to remain healthy.

Keep skin moist and always apply sun protection.

Gently clean skin. Avoid harsh products like scrubbing mitts, excessively hot water and abrasive exfoliating products. 

The answer has a lot to do with a person’s skin type. Other factors can influence the end result such as taking certain prescription medications and using certain types of skin care products, so let’s take a closer look.

When skin is exposed to the sun without adequate sun protection, the exposure causes melanin, the pigment in the body that gives skin its color, to rise to the surface of the skin. One of the roles melanin plays is protecting skin from the sun. People with light or fair skin have less melanin whereas people with dark complexions obviously have more melanin. Since melanin protects the skin from the sun, it makes sense then that those with less melanin have less protection and vice versa. Darker-skinned individuals tan more often than they burn, but not always.

Because a burn takes a few hours to develop, most people don’t realize they may be burning. They might not reapply sunscreen or cover up if they’re not feeling burned. Unfortunately, it’s usually not until later that they realize just how bad the situation is.

What to do when you get sunburned?

In addition to the embarrassing skin color you get from sunburns, there will be other symptoms. You might feel nauseous and dehydrated, and dizzy or light-headed. After a few days, sunburned skin will begin to peel and unlike what many people think and hope, sunburned skin will not develop into a tan.

There isn’t much you’ll be able to do to alleviate the above symptoms of sunburn. You’ll definitely want to put on minimal, loose-fitting clothing as any rubbing against the burn will be painful. A pain reliever such as aspirin or acetaminophen will help minimize pain and discomfort. Keeping the body cool is the best thing for sunburns so fill a tub with cool or tepid water and soak. And promise yourself that next time, you’ll use sun protection!

Do not immerse your body in a tub full of vinegar or rub the burn with butter. These remedies have been around for years but they’re not effective ways to treat sunburns. In fact, it’s often advised not to apply lotions or creams because you never know whether the product will intensify the pain or relieve it. And some products, including butter, might trap the heat and cause more discomfort.

If the sunburn is accompanied by blisters, you may have a severe second-degree burn. Blistering is normal after a few days but right away it’s usually a sign that the sunburn is bad. In this case, it’s advisable to seek medical attention right away. 

But what’s with those numbers? The sun protection factor, or the SPF, ranges from a low of 2 to a high of 50 and sometimes higher. Most of us understand that the SPF has something to do with providing protection from the sun’s damaging ultraviolet rays. But beyond that, the number is shrouded in mystery.

What does SPF mean?

The SPF is a comparison of the time it takes before the skin will start to redden with and without sun protection. In addition, SPF pertains only to UVB rays, the ones that cause tanning but also sunburns.

For example, if it would take 20 minutes for an individual’s skin to burn without sun protection, then a SPF of 15 means that when applied, that person can remain in the sun 15 times longer, or up to 5 hours, without worrying about burning. The greater the SPF, the longer the protection it offers, but only up to a certain point. SPFs greater than 15 offer only small increments of additional protection. And that’s the theory behind the SPF.

In reality though, sun protection regardless of SPF becomes less effective when it’s not evenly applied, a person goes into the water and a person sweats. Both water and sweat diminish the product’s effectiveness that’s why it’s extremely important to reapply sun protection frequently.

Besides reapplying, for maximum effectiveness the first application should happen approximately 20 minutes prior to going out into the sun. Doing so allows sufficient time for the product to fully absorb into the skin. It also ensures that you’ll be protected the moment you step outside.

Which SPF is right for me?

For most people, sun protection with a sun protection factor of 15 provides adequate protection as long as it’s frequently reapplied. However, those with more sensitive skin will benefit from a higher SPF. People who are fair-skinned, have light-colored or red hair or who are traveling to certain high altitude or tropical destinations will also benefit from a higher SPF. Those with darker skin generally don’t burn as easily and need only a mild SPF. When choosing remember that a higher SPF does not offer more protection – it offers longer protection.

Other sun protection products

Self-tanning products and bronzers are safer ways to color your skin because the skin isn’t being exposed to ultraviolet radiation which over time damages the skin’s cells. These products don’t offer sun protection unless the label specifically states otherwise by listing a sun protection factor. But remember that a sun protection factor corresponds to a period of time and therefore, even if the product offers sun protection, it’s not going to last until you wash the product off in a few days. 

Why is skin care different in winter than in summer months?

Winter months generally are colder and drier than summer months when heat and humidity levels are on the rise. When skin is exposed to the harsh winter weather, it takes a beating, becoming excessively dry, irritated and chapped. Clothing protects most skin but we often fail to protect our faces. Moving indoors isn’t any better. Constantly running heaters and dehumidifiers sap every bit of moisture from the air.

During the summer, temperatures warm and more skin becomes exposed to the elements. Higher temperatures and humidity levels increase the amount of sweat the body produces in an attempt to cool off. As an unintentional consequence, skin becomes oilier and more prone to pimples and other irritation. Swimming is great way to cool off however exposure to harsh pool chemicals and salt water can lead to excessive dryness.

Tips for protecting skin during the winter months

Apply sunscreen regularly because you’re just as likely to sunburn in the winter as you are in summer. Apply a sunscreen, moisturizer or make-up with a minimum SPF of 15. Be sure to protect lips by wearing lipstick or lip balm with sun protection. Stop licking lips!

Moisturize. Add moisture to inside air by turning on a humidifier. If you don’t have one, place a pan of water near radiator or heat source. Plants help moisturize the air. Add moisture to your body by using emollient-based soaps, lotions and creams.

Take shorter, warmer showers and baths. Hot water strips away natural oils as does staying submerged in water. Adding moisturizers to bath water helps, but take care when exiting as tub will be slippery.

Reduce the number of times you apply toner after cleansing and use toners with no or low alcohol levels. Gently exfoliate using a washcloth or scrub to remove dead skin cells and stimulate skin.

Tips for protecting skin during summer months

Always protect your skin from the effects of ultraviolet radiation by applying sunscreen, wearing sun protective clothing, and seeking shade whenever possible. Stay out of the sun when it’s strongest, between 10:00 am and 3:00 pm.

Excessive sweat and oils clog pores so use a cooling cleanser containing salicylic acid to keep skin blemishes under control. Cleansers made with eucalyptus or menthol extracts feel good and help keep pores clean and open.

Change your moisturizing products because skin doesn’t need as much moisturizing protection during summer as it does during winter.

Always rinse your body with cool water after swimming to remove chlorine and salt.

A facial mask applied once a week will deep-clean pores and help skin retain its natural pH balance. Use a mister to keep skin cool and moist.

Much like the roof on a house, the skin plays an important role in protecting our bodies. It keeps bodily fluids inside while at the same time carefully controlling the release of waste product. It also helps keep our internal body parts safe from the potentially harmful effects of the environment including the sun, light and bacteria and also from injury.

Several different layers make up the skin, but perhaps because the underlying layers are not visible, they’re not thought of very often. We spend much of our lives worrying about acne and wrinkles but don’t realize that these types of skin issues have a lot to do with the workings of the layers below.

If you were to look at a cross-section of skin, you’d see that skin consists of 3 different layers: the epidermis, the dermis and the hypodermis or subcutis layer. Let’s take a closer look at each.

Epidermis

This is the outermost layer of skin – the one that is visible. It covers the entire body, from the head down to the feet. The epidermis itself consists of 3 layers and is made up of tightly-woven connective tissues of varying thickness. For example, the skin covering your feet is much thicker than that below the eye. The epidermis acts like a barrier, keeping the good in and the bad out.

The top layer of the epidermis is constantly being shed. It’s the layer that acts as the gatekeeper keeping fluids in and dangers out. Although not easily visible, most of this layer is covered with thousands of tiny pores and hair shafts. New skin is continually being generated by the bottom layer to replace the skin that has been shed. The epidermis also contains melanin, the cells responsible for skin pigmentation (coloring) and protecting against the sun’s damaging rays.

Dermis

This layer of connective tissue tucked in between the innermost and outermost layers is the site of much activity. The dermis is home to blood vessels, lymph vessels, nerve tissue, hair follicles, bundles of collagen and sweat glands. Much activity happens in the middle layer. Blood vessels supply nutrients. Nerve tissues give skin the ability to feel. And the muscle tissues in this layer when they are activated are what cause a person to develop goose bumps in response to cold or fear. This layer also has the ability to trap bacteria that manages to penetrate the epidermis.

Hypodermis or subcutis layer

The innermost layer of skin helps to regulate our body temperature. It is here that insulating fat and collagen can be found which is why this layer helps keep us warm. This layer also acts as a cushion or shock absorber, protecting the body from injury. The connective tissue that makes up this important layer is also known as adipose tissue.