Botanical Secrets to Cleanse, Moisturize, and Protect Five Different Skin Types

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By Julia Thompson
updated 12 months ago

We have all encountered challenges when it comes to finding the ideal form of facial care. Blemishes, dry patches, wrinkles and more can leave us wondering which way to turn for expert assistance, especially when facing more than one of these issues concurrently. Skin care can be divided into several categories, including:

Step number one is identifying your type, and then making some basic decisions about the kind of products you are interested in. For any severe skin condition it is best to seek professional medical advice. However, for most everyday skin concerns, there are numerous options and sources of information available, particularly with the growth of online shopping. From independent botanical manufacturers to big brand names, you will find a variety of solutions to your skin's particular needs.

Normal Skin

The needs of normal skin are relatively straightforward. We want to maintain a healthy appearance, prevent or minimize wrinkles and other signs of aging, clean away accumulated dirt, and protect and replenish natural moisture levels. If you wear makeup this will be a consideration in your choice of daily cleanser, but even if you don't use foundation, washing your face with a mild cleanser is a necessity in order to remove environmental pollutants. Since it is also recommended that every skin type wear sunscreen regularly, diligent cleansing will prevent the build-up of products and avoid pore-clogging problems.

The occasional use of exfoliants is recommended for most skin types in order to remove dead skin cells which will help keep skin smooth and encourage rejuvenation and rebuilding. Masks can similarly be used to remove impurities, and need not be overly astringent for this skin type. This kind of weekly treatment should be paired with the use of an effective moisturizer to ensure that skin is not left stripped of its essential hydration.

Because this is the least fussy of the skin types, normal skin allows for the greatest choice in products and the least fear of ingredients that could aggravate sensitivities. The pleasure of choosing natural products for their beauty-enhancing qualities, rather than problem-solving attributes, is one advantage for this skin group. Some natural additions you can enjoy for both their scent and skin-nourishing properties:

Dry Skin

Dry skin, on the other hand, always requires a gentle touch. Greater care needs to be taken to replenish and repair skin that is often sensitive to chemical and environmental factors, and the most prone to showing signs of premature aging. Luckily, this is an area that has attracted a lot of research and product development in both the botanical and mainstream personal care industries. Gentle cleansers that will not leave a drying residue are a necessity, and scrubs must be equally mild in order to remove unwanted cells without irritating.

Intense moisturizers are key to replacing and protecting much needed hydration, and natural ingredients such as avocado, macadamia nut and shea butter are gaining attention and popularity in their ability to replenish the skin's moisture. Water based products are not as effective for dry skin, so most lotions will leave your skin wanting more. In order to prevent moisture loss, apply moisturizer immediately after your shower or bath and avoid hot water temperatures. Look for a product that includes sun protection for daily use, and if wrinkles are a concern, added vitamins, proteins and antioxidants can help the effort to restore skin's elasticity. Other botanical boons for dry skin:

Oily Skin

Deep cleaning is a term that comes up often for oily skin types, and for good reason. The strategy for taking care of this type needs to take into consideration the heavy production of pore-clogging oils as well as a method to clean away surface dirt, and prevent overdrying at the same time. Oil-free cleansers, lotions and cosmetics are a must, and products with a mattifying finish will help keep you shine free longer. Look for a good toner that will help minimize the appearance of large pores. A deep cleansing mask used once or twice a week is a good way to draw out oil and impurities. Sun protection is still essential, so a water-based sunscreen should be included in your daily routine. Some natural ingredients to check out:

Combination Skin

Combination Skin requires a little added attention to specific areas of the face with conflicting needs. This type generally has an oily t-zone (forehead and nose) and dry or normal patches elsewhere. You will want to combine approaches to removing excess oil and hydrating dry skin without one interfering with the other, so start with the basics. Use an oil free cleanser and moisturizer, touching up oily areas with a stronger astringent or toner, nose strips, or a deeper cleansing mask for those areas only. Likewise, a more nourishing oil-based cream can be applied to dry spots, particularly for overnight treatment. Choose natural products that are safe for most skin types, including:

Troubled Skin

If your skin is prone to acne blemishes, you need deep cleaning without irritating inflamed areas, and an anti-bacteria strategy for clearing up and preventing breakouts. The basics of good skincare remain the same, with the addition of a medicated treatment, or a natural antibacterial such as Tea tree oil, and the avoidance of oil or petroleum based products. Harsh scrubs are also to be avoided, as these will hamper healing. Use water based moisturizers to maintain your skin's delicate balance, and don't forget the sunscreen. For stubborn problems, a dermatologists advice may prove invaluable and speed up the recovery process, so don't hesitate to consult with a professional if you and your skin are feeling distressed.

Natural wonders:

Enjoy using botanical products for their aromatherapy properties as well as cleansing and healing abilities. As always, take into account any allergies you may have to natural substances in order to avoid an unpleasant reaction. Otherwise, there's a world of possibilities waiting to assist you in maintaining clear, beautiful skin, naturally.

About the Author

Julia Thompson is a successful author who enjoys providing helpful tips to consumers when shopping for products and information on oily skin care, facial skincare, and skin care tips.

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