Through your teenage years, looking after your skin is quite simple; the main rule is to avoid the sun. You may think it's cool to have a tan but get used to the idea of getting one out of a bottle. Read about the adverse effect of the sun on skin here: Sun Damage. Avoid fad dieting as it causes skin to be overly sensitive and also dehydrates skin. Always avoid soap as it dries skin out and causes over production of oil.
Your skincare routine should consist of cleansing, toning and moisturizing twice daily. Make sure you use a toner and cleansing gel that is very mild and has no alcohol in it.
If you have acne or pimples make sure to never pick or prod your pimples and acne because you can make it the acne worse by spreading the bacteria causing more inflammation and acne (if you must pop a zit read on how to pop pimples without spreading bacteria). Avoid scrubbing your skin and using harsh cleansers that cause dryness, irritation and help to aggravate acne.
Skin has a pH of about 7, under that is too acidic and over that is too alkaline. The higher the acidic proportions in the skin products preparation the higher its exfoliating properties. Use a gel cleanser and a beta hydroxy serum (BHA) or an alpha hydroxy serum (AHA) with a ph of about 4.5 which completes the job without being too harsh on your skin. Make sure to not overuse AHA's as they will cause your skin to become overly sensitive.
The biggest difference between alpha hydroxy acids and beta hydroxy acids is the oil (lipid) solubility. Beta hydroxy acid is oil soluble which means it can penetrate well into the pores containing oil and exfoliate dead skin cells, this acid is called salicylic acid. Alpha hydroxy acids are only water soluble. Alpha hydroxy acids are exfoliates made from fruit and milk sugars for example lactic acid is produced by milk and glycolic acid produced from sugar cane.
Taking into consideration the main differences between AHA and BHA, Alpha Hydroxy acid is a better acid to use on sun damaged skin where acne and breakouts are not a problem. Beta Hydroxy acid is better for use on oily skin that experiences whiteheads and blackheads. BHA's can increase sun sensitivity by 50% so be sure to stay out of the sun if you use this acid.
If you have oily skin or acne prone skin make sure you avoid oily moisturizers always use a water-soluble moisturizer.
Some simple hygiene habits can help you avoid breakouts things like not touching your face too often, keeping hair out of your face and changing you pillowcase regularly can help to keep your skin clear.
Do not exercise with your makeup on! Makeup, oil and sweat are not a good combination. After exercise splash some water on your face to remove the sweat.
If you must wear makeup during the day make sure to use a true mineral makeup that does not contain binders oil and fillers. This makeup allows the skin to breathe as it does not block the pores.
Here are some products that contain alpha hydroxy acids and beta hydroxy acids
For More Age Related Skin Care Read:
- Skin care in your in your twenties
- Skin care in your in your thirties
- Skin care in your in your forties
- Skin care in your in your fifties and over
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