GLOW AND BEHOLD
THE BEAUTY WORLD'S REIGNING SKIN SCIENCE EXPERT DR. JEANNETTE GRAF GIVES US
QUICK TIPS FOR A SKIN-SATIONAL HOLIDAY SEASON.
NINE WAYS TO SAVE FACE THIS SEASON
| 1. | Cleansing must be done in the morning and before bedtime. Do not go to sleep without cleansing the debris from dirt, sebum and residue from make-up and skin products. Healthy, radiant skin starts with a good cleansing first. |  |
| 2. | Make sure that you use a facial cleanser appropriate for you particular skin type and make sure that it is pH balanced. You can check the label to ensure you are purchasing a pH balanced product. | |
| 3. | For the times when you are too exhausted to clean your face (read: collapse into bed, clothes and full face of makeup still on—we've all been there), keep a pack of cleansing wipes by your bedside. Simply reach for a cleansing wipe and swab it over your face. They don't require rinsing and are quite gentle and effective at cleaning. | |
| 4. | Excess layers of dead skin cells collect on the skin's surface and refuse to fall off. The result is patchy, dull, ashy and rough skin. Exfoliation, the key to removing these dingy layers, will reveal renewed, glowing skin. Do not use abrasive scrubs, as they can injure the skin with their sharp granules. Fortunately, there are a number of excellent home treatment products on the market, including glycolic home peels and microdermabrasion kits. Be sure to use a well-known brand since they are reputable and researched. Choose one method only—more is not better—and follow the directions carefully. | |
| 5. | After cleansing use a product containing retinol preferably at night. Retinol, a form of vitamin A, is important for all skin types and helps fine lines and wrinkles, uneven skin tone and overall skin renewal, health and well-being. For new users, be sure to use the mildest strength. Again, always go with a reputable brand so you are assured of quality and stability. | |
| 6. | Unless your skin is very oily, keep it hydrated with a moisturizer containing both humectants and lipids every night. Humectants, such as hyaluronic acid and lactic acid, draw moisture into the skin. Lipids, such as ceramides or evening primrose oil, lock it in. | |
| 7. | Daytime skin care should consist of a moisturizing anti-oxidant cream as well as UVA and UVB protection (my choice is SPF 15 to 30). Daily sun protection, even in the winter months, is essential, especially since UVA—which is most responsible for the deep wrinkling and sun spots as well as discolorations in darker skins—stays the same all year round. | |
| 8. | Finish off your look with protective mineral make-up. Most mineral make-up is preservative–free and naturally contains UVA and UVB protection in the SPF 15 to 20 range. This easy-to-apply makeup contains natural light reflectors which enhance your radiant look. | |
| 9. | The night before your party, use your exfoliating treatment on your face, neck, back, chest and shoulders for smooth, renewed and glowing skin—the perfect accessory for that slinky party dress. Click here to check out the season's best dresses. |
AN IMPORTANT TIP ABOUT BODY SKIN
Remember that skin tends to be dry during the holiday season, so take quick showers (less than five minutes) and don't use hot water. Think of water beating down on your skin like rain beating on your house: over time the paint and insulation wear away and rust and corrosion form. That's why we waterproof and maintain the outside of our houses.
Most of us don't maintain our skin (our house) and over time dryness, itching, and dullness result. If this damage continues we can develop red, itchy patches like eczema (think rust). Use a body moisturizer which contains humectants, such as lactic acid or urea, to draw in moisture. Follow with a layer of a natural oil or ceramide cream like in CeraVe to lock in the moisture. I promise it will be well worth the effort when you love the smooth silky look and feel of your new skin.
