While the identity of the wildly famous quote: "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder" remains a mystery, he/she got it partially right. Yes, beauty is subjective, but we've all fallen victim to keeping up with the Joneses, especially when it comes to our appearance. The world of beauty consists of finding the right products and regimens that work for you. Separating the fluff from the stuff that actually works can be time consuming, economically exhausting and downright intimidating, but that's where "Pretty in the City" comes in to save the day; just your average beauty addict willing to hold your hand down the beauty aisles of drug and department stores, in cyber space, and maybe even face-to-face. Excited? I know I am! Let's begin our journey with a few easy skincare dos and don'ts:
Do wear sunscreen. One of the biggest myths about sunscreen is that it's only essential to pile on during the warmer months. Not true. Sunscreen not only protects the skin from harmful UVB rays, but it also helps with prevention of premature age spots and skin discoloration. Products like Neutrogena and most drug store brands alike have daily moisturizers with the recommended SPF 15 - priced modestly. Paired with liquid, oil-free foundations, your skin will glow for days.
Don't over-exfoliate. There is such a thing as exfoliating too much. Oilier skin types should limit vigorous scrub usage twice weekly. Otherwise, you'll be stripping your skin of its natural oils, which can cause dehydration and connect- the- dot dry patches. If your skin is dry, opt for scrubs that have creamier textures such as Biore or Mary Kay.
Do drink plenty of water. Most people don't like to drink the recommended eight glasses of water daily. However, research shows that consuming water frequently not only cleanses toxins from your body, but it also gives your skin a natural dewy finish that even the most expensive foundations or cosmetic procedures can't provide. To spice things up a bit, add fresh lemon, or cucumbers to make your taste buds and skin, cheer.
Don't overload on products. It's important not to go overboard with beauty products. Cosmetic junkies do exist. I am living proof, but, by sticking with the basics; cleanser, toner and moisturizer, your skin can improve drastically.
Do eat lots of veggies and antioxidant rich foods. True beauty starts on the inside. No, really. By consuming foods that are packed with antioxidants, such as blueberries, salmon, leafy greens, avocado, broccoli, and soy beans your skin will look and feel as soft as it did when you were a child.
Don't skip the moisturizer because you are prone to breakouts. Oily skin needs just as much hydration as drier skin. Without moisturizing properly, the skin moisture barrier will break, causing itchy dray patches and possible flaking. If flaking becomes excessive, your pores will become clogged, causing breakouts. Additionally, dehydration in the skin can cause breakouts, because your skin is fighting to hold on to the little moisture that it produces. Select oil-free moisturizers such as Clinique's Moisture Surge or Murad Anti-Aging Acne Moisturizer SPF 20.
Do use a makeup solvent. Makeup solvent is a creamy makeup remover that serves to gently remove makeup before you cleanse your skin with regular facial soap. The solvent helps to diminish traces of makeup, so you won't overdo it when cleansing.
Don't sleep with your makeup on. No matter how exhausted you are after a hectic day, removing your makeup is essential to keeping your complexion and pores clear. Imagine this: dirt, oil and microbes all trapped underneath your skin, forming into bacteria that erupt onto the skins surface in the form of a tennis ball sized pimple. This is all avoidable if you take three minutes to wash your face before bedtime.
Read more on Lakme Beauty Products
Do visit your dermatologist for regular checkups. Having your skin examined regularly for irregularities like moles, rashes and other irritants are essential for maintaining healthy skin. The American Academy of Dermatology is a great source for finding a reputable dermatologist in your area.
Don't expect instant results. Keep in mind that no matter what ingredients you decided to invest in, both consistency and patience are key ingredients to ensure your desired results. Normally, most products are furnished for thirty days, allowing the skin to react and properly adjust to the most active ingredients in the product (s). If the product agrees with you, on average, noticeable skin improvements take precedent within four to six weeks. And remember, great cosmetic brands stand behind their products, guaranteeing them up to 100%, so if you're unhappy, return and try again. After all, one size never fits all in the world of cosmetics and great skin care.
Shahnaz Hussain Beauty Cosmetics and Beauty Tips or more read on herbalcureindia.com