First Things First

Let's talk about the fundamentals of skin. As most of us know, everyone has a different skin type therefore everyone should have a different skin care regimen. Let's break it down...

Normal Skin

Normally people with this skin type has a smooth even texture. They may experience the occasional shine on the forehead, nose or chin area, but it's definitely nothing to be worried about. When it comes to caring for normal skin, it's pretty simple. Cleanse daily (I recommend twice) using a foaming cleanser.  Also, exfoliating twice a week is good for removing dead skin cells, it adds that extra natural glow to your skin. Then lastly, moisturize. This is a VERY important step. A light weight mositurizer works well for normal skin.

Dry Skin

I suffer from very dry skin. A sign of dry skin is tightness of the face after washing, flaking, dry and/or rough patches. There may even be some sensitivity. Caring for dry skin is a little more intense (for lack of a better word). A rich cleanser should be used. A light weight mositurizer is good during the day, but I recommend a night cream for bedtime. Jergens has a good all purpose face moisturizer. I recommend exfoliating once a week instead of twice to avoid skin irritation. Products with alpha hydroxy acids are good for dry skin, they also help remove dry, dead skin.

Oily Skin

A sign of oily skin is frequent breakouts. Oily skin should be cleansed twice daily using an oil free cleanser, it helps to prevent dirt accumulation and it won't clog pores. Also use an alcohol free astringent  to remove excess oil and a oil free moisturizer.

Combination Skin

This skin type consist of an oily t-zone with dry spots on the cheek areas. Cleanse with a mild cleanser and use a dense moisturizer preferably with alpha hydroxy acids to help target the dry spots.

Sensitive Skin

This skin type can range from dry to oily. It can be itchy and blotchy and it is very easily irritated by makeup, cleansers, moisturizers, etc. To care for sensitive skin cleanse with a mild perfume free cleanser, a alcohol free toner for the blotchiness and a moisturizer developed specifically for sensitive skin.

I recommend Wal-Mart, CVS, Rite Aid, Walgreens or any local drug store in your area for your skin care products. These items are very inexpensive and come in several different brands. You don't have to spend alot to have healthy skin.