You’ve probably noticed that as we age so does our skin. It becomes drier, thinner, and less resilient. Physicians will tell you the most important thing you can do to protect your skin is shield it from the sun’s UV rays. They suggest you use an SPF 30 or higher, wear sunglasses and a wide brimmed hat when outdoors. They also suggest taking short 5 min showers in warm but not hot water and apply, preferably fragrance free, thick creams to your dry sensitive skin.
Skin Care is a big, expensive, complicated industry. In 2019, US consumers spent close to $50 billion dollars on beauty and cosmetics products. While scanning the grocery isles you’ll notice there is no shortage of skin care products with numerous claims such as ‘natural,’ ‘age repairing,’ ’or age defying.’ Many of the labels can be confusing or misleading and rarely include the ingredient percentages.
Since our skin only absorbs about 60% of what we apply to it, you will want to be sure that you are getting the most for your money. On the most basic level, experts agree that all skin care products should do two things – repel the bad stuff, i.e., bacteria, elements like sun and wind; and attract and retain the good stuff, i.e., moisture.
Emollients repair the skin’s barrier and prevent hydration loss. They are found in oils and butters like shea and cocoa butter. Humectants draw moisture from the air and seal it into the skin. Glycerin and hyaluronic acid are said to have these properties.
Read the labels and know the difference between natural and organic. Initially, they may both sound like safe, eco-friendly choices. But if you think they’re interchangeable, think again. Natural is usually 50 – 70% chemical free while organic is required to be 95 – 100% chemical free.
That’s right! While natural is derived from plants, flowers or minerals found in nature, the products may contain highly processed ingredients. Essential oils fall in the 100% plant based natural category. Although they are readily available, some people are allergic to them. Citrus oils including lemon, lime, orange, and bergamot can cause allergic swelling or a photosensitive reaction after exposure to the sun. Symptoms of these reactions may include red, burned, or blistered skin 12-72 hours after exposure. When in doubt, use a cool, soap and water rinse to stop the reaction. Dyes and metals may also cause allergic reactions.
In contrast, certified organic products are heavily regulated by the USDA. These products undergo rigorous testing and should not contain toxic pesticides, synthetic herbicides or chemical NPK fertilizers. However, you may also have sensitivities to these products. If you have allergies or are experiencing chronic skin issues, such as rashes or eczema, you should consult your physician or dermatologist for assistance in selecting an appropriate skin care product.
Not all skin types respond the same to skin care products. Look for transparent labels and remember even water is a chemical when you’re searching for that perfect safe choice.