Skincare Basics

Welcome to Skincare Basics!

Skincare Basics is a one stop resource for a variety of skincare articles. We cover all sorts of topics – from product reviews, beauty articles to how to best deal with acne. The emphasis is on clear, basic information that benefits the consumer – we also debunk skincare myths, cutting through the hype and pseudo-science that is so common in the world of skincare. “Here comes the science bit” is a well known soundbyte – well, here comes the REAL science, with unbiased recommendations and balanced overviews to boot.

Skincare is important for people of all ages. We have all seen the ads from various skincare regimens such as ProActive, Neutragena, Clearasil and others. With all these choices, how are you to know what product is right for you? What are some of the factors you need consider when selecting the right products for your skincare regimen?

One of the first things you need to do to determine your regimen is to figure out your skin type. Typical labels for each skin type are combination, dark, dry, normal, oily and sensitive skin. If you are not certain what type you fall under, you may consult a dermatologist to find out just as you can on other issues. However, these categories are rather self-explanatory.

There are other issues you need to consider when you select what type of products you need when considering your skincare. For instances, are wrinkles and fine lines primary concerns? Do you have a condition such as psoriasis, rosacea or melasma? Perhaps your needs are not strictly for your face and neck. In this case, you have to consider what is best for treating eczema, scars, cellulite or maybe even athlete’s foot, diaper rash or stretch marks.

Acne is the most common problem facing may people who are looking for the right skin care regime. Although most often found on the facial area, acne also affects the body in other places and can often leave scars. Various treatments are made specifically for the face and others are made specifically for the rest of the body, particularly for the care of back acne or bacne.

Prevention is an important part of skincare. One of the most basic preventive measures in protecting your skin from damage is using sunblock or sunscreen. If you wear makeup, be sure it is compatible with your skin type and needs and remove it before you go to bed. Moisturizers and exfoliates are important in keeping your skin healthy and clear. Furthermore, the right cleanser may not only keep your face and body clean and fresh but also may keep your skin from drying out and being damaged.

Treating skin conditions can be done through a variety of means. Many of the natural options include aloe, chamomile, grapefruit extracts, green tea, licorice, Shea butter and vitamins C, E and K. Even aromatherapy and lavender have been used in some skincare regimens. Other options use chemicals that may not be for everyone, so a physician should be consulted before they are used. These include azelaic acid, benozoyl peroxide and hydrocortisone.

Skincare regimens are not strictly made for topical treatments. It is important to start from the inside out. Water is your friend. Being properly hydrated does a world of good for your skin. You may find various oral supplements such as alpha hydroxy, citric, malic, hyaluronic, glycolic and salicyclic acids; antioxidants; and the aforementioned natural means as they are found in food, drink or other supplements.

While your skin is important in your solutions for health and beauty, you must also remember to take care of the hair, teeth and nails. Fortunately, many of the treatments used in skincare are also effective for these areas. However, if you often shave or otherwise remove body hair, you have to consider what will not irritate the skin and will prevent redness.

Once you have figured this out, you may then choose the right product for your skincare product(s) to fit your needs. There are literally hundreds from which to choose, so it is worth it to consider the above-mentioned factors. If you do a little research, your task will become much simpler and you will know the most effective means of taking care of your skin.

The site is intended as a “vault” of top-quality skincare information and advice. You may find something that interests you in the “Featured Articles” section, or you may prefer to browse through our site. If you know specifically what you are looking for, feel free to locate it via the Search box in the top right hand corner, or if you’d prefer to scroll through everything we have, then the Sitemap on the top navigation bar is the place to go.