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| Skin Care is Easy: Just Do the ABCs |
A is for Antioxidants
The use of antioxidants is well known for many reasons. Antioxidants are naturally occurring substances that fight free radicals in the body. Free radicals are by-products of the normal metabolic activities of the body. But internal and external stress factors like smoking, excessive alcohol intake and other body changes can bring about the production of more free radicals that can cause premature aging and cancer. To combat the free radicals it is recommended that antioxidants from natural and supplemental sources be optimized.
Common antioxidants come from natural sources like food. Well known antioxidants are vitamins A, B, C and E. These are known to reduce the effects of sun damage, prevent wrinkles and retard premature signs of aging. Fruits, vegetable and even meat products are known to contain rich sources of these antioxidants. Aside from these, the vitamins mentioned are contained as ingredients in many OTC food supplements and cosmetic products. One must be careful in choosing these commercial products, especially if these are marketed along with other harmful ingredients that can cause toxicity or other reactions. It is also important to take note of the recommended daily allowance of each substance to be able to optimize effectiveness and avoid overdose.
There are many more antioxidants like green tea, coenzyme Q10, lycopene, evening primrose which not only protect the skin from damage and premature signs of aging but also protect the body from cancer, heart disease, and others. Because of these benefits, antioxidants should be considered when choosing foods and products by anyone at any age.
B is for Block
Much damage to the skin is brought about by the effects of ultraviolet and infrared rays of the sun. Constant and prolonged exposure to the sun can cause the appearance of premature wrinkles, dark spots and even skin cancer. It is therefore necessary to block the sun rays from penetrating the skin which may lead to irreversible damage.
The best way to block the sun's ultraviolet (UV) and infrared rays is to physically stay out of the sun, as in staying in the shade as much as possible. Of course, this is impractical if one wants to engage in leisure or sports activities done outdoors. One may then resort to wearing protective clothing like long sleeve shirts and pants, and use other paraphernalia like umbrellas, hats, and sunglasses. These physically block the sun and effectively reduce the possibility of skin damage.
A more common and practical way, of course, is to use sunscreen products. Choosing the right sunscreen can help in skin care by protecting the skin from UV rays. Sunscreen must be applied generously and repeated every couple of hours if prolonged sun exposure is anticipated. Sunscreen products that are most effective are those which have higher SPF (sun protection factor) and which contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Additional ingredients that can enhance effective skin care are antioxidants like Vitamin C and E.
C is for Clean
Keeping the skin free from make-up, dirt and oiliness at the end of the day is a basic principle in preventing acne, infection and pores. Harsh soap or cleansing products must be avoided; these can cause excessive dryness and premature aging. Gentle exfoliation with a light scrub is recommended for renewing the surface skin; this must not be done too often, though, so the natural skin oils will not be depleted. Moisturizing cleansers and toners may be used, but again, choice must be guided by the ingredients of these products.
Skin care is a must for any man, woman and child. Basic knowledge and practice may be guided by the practical ABCs recommended. Product choice must be based not on commercial value of the labels, but more importantly, on the proven findings of extensive research.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact a doctor for advice.
More information: Where to Find Antioxidants for Anti-Aging Skin Care
