Guest Author - April Alisa Marquette
Now that the weather is changing in North America, many women are paying a bit more attention to their skin, quite possibly because within months they will begin to show a bit more skin. Since a lot of us live in places that are cold and dry in winter, and hot or humid in the summer, for our bodies, our skin care regimens should be tweaked according to the changing seasons. Thus, by allowing our skin to tell us what it needs, in any season, we can always appear our best.
In the cooler months ethnic skin can feel dry; it can even show signs of scales or flaking. Bathing or showering with creamy cleansers or with bar soaps that contain emollients can help. Making bath or shower water warm -- not hot -- is suggested. Sure, very hot water feels great on a frigid day but let's not forget it can quickly dehydrate skin.
When skin is still damp from the shower or bath, this is the best time to seal in moisture. Dermatological fact: as the humidity drops, cold air affects skin, so richer moisturizers should be used. Ones that contain humectants like glycerin will seal in hydration. Skin care experts also suggest, when possible, the use of a home humidifier since radiator heat can quickly dehumidify skin. Not just to assist babies, humidifiers aid adult skin by causing the air in the home not to be so dry.
In the warmer months, humidity can often seem oppressive, especially here in the south, but it can hydrate skin as well. When we perspire we can feel quite uncomfortable, and like our skin is producing too much moisture. Say dermatologists, in this case, an ethnic beauty should use an astringent toner. One that contains witch hazel can be less drying than a toner containing alcohol. Both however can remove oily residue, and the one of your choosing should be used after the face has been cleansed…and remember sweating is the body’s way of cooling off.
On a warm evening, after a refreshing shower, a lightweight moisturizer can be perfect. In the daytime, an oil-free sunscreen can be swapped out for one's daily moisturizer; even one with a bronzing agent. Thus you'll get softness and a healthy glow, but still be protected from the sun’s UV rays.
If you have other not easily remedied skin care issues -- facial or body, make plans to see a dermatologist. They can design a simple regimen with your ethnic skincare needs in mind!
