Zinc Moisturizer Wards Off Acne

If you have been following the news about zinc creams lately then you know how great they are for protecting you from the sun.  But did you also know that zinc creams and moisturizers containing zinc are excellent for preventing and healing acne?

Yep, you read right.  Zinc Oxide - that white stuff many of you used on your nose at the beach in the 80’s is also an excellent anti-acne treatment.

No one likes to have acne or pimples. Zinc Oxide has been found to be an natural anti-microbial and anti-bacterial - which means when you suffer from acne, those pores are clogged in your skin. You skin is your bodies natural defense against toxins, so the first place it will try to flush them out is through your exposed skin - usually you will see acne the most on your back and your face.  The reason acne shows on the face is due to the rate of exposed, thin skin. Your face is hardly ever covered, or protected by fabric like the rest of your body.  So the skin on the face will be the first place you want to treat and protect with Zinc or moisturizers made of Zinc Oxide.

The natural minerals in a zinc treatment or zinc cream will help pul the toxins out of your skin and also heal any previous acne scars you may have suffered.

If you are worried about using chemicals or buying products from your local drugstore that might not be safe or cause allergic reactions, then you should consider using a natural zinc cream.  Unlike those chemical compositions full of parabens, food dyes and fragrances, zinc cream is non-comedogenic,  (meaning it won’t cause breakouts) and it also needs no added fragrances.

So nest time you suffer from a breakout - be sure to check out a natural zinc moisturizer or zinc cream!

Moisturizing and Acne-prone Skin

Hate to use moisturizer or sunscreen because it feels so heavy? You don’t have to slather your face in moisturizer or sunblock  in order for it to work. If you find your moisturizer feels too thick or heavy, you may be applying too much. Just a pea-sized amount may be enough for the entire face. Try using less product. You may be pleasantly surprised to find it absorbs more fully and feels lighter.

Also look for alternative combinations of moisturizers that combine two products in one - like a zinc moisturizer, that protects again sun damage and nourishes your skin at the same time.

If it still feels heavy, apply your moisturizer after cleansing to a still-damp face. Or mix your moisturizer with a small amount of water in the palm of your hand before applying to your face. But don’t ever add water directly in the bottle, or you’ll get unpleasant things growing in your moisturizer.

Question: Do I Need a Moisturizer?
I have oily skin that is prone to acne breakouts. Should I use a moisturizer?
Answer:   Even if you have oily skin, you can still benefit from the use of a daily moisturizer. And, no, moisturizers don’t have to leave your skin feeling greasy and looking shiny. The trick is in finding the right product.

If you are using drying acne treatments such as Retin-A, Accutane, or benzoyl peroxide. Using a daily moisturizer will help ease the uncomfortable dryness, peeling, and flaking that can be caused by many acne medications.

So, don’t be afraid to moisturize your oily skin! Take the time to choose the right moisturizer by reading ingredient labels and asking your dermatologist or esthetician for recommendations. Experiment with different products until you find the one that is perfect for you.

Even your oily, acne-prone skin can benefit from the daily use of good moisturizers. But choose the wrong moisturizer and it can be a skin care disaster: greasy feeling skin, blackheads and pimples. Obviously, choosing the right moisturizer is key. With a little know-how you can pick a moisturizer that will enhance your skin care routine without causing breakouts.

Cleansing and moisturizing are the key components to maintaining healthy, youthful skin. Cleansing removes dirt, grime, and dead skin cells, but cleansers also have a harmful effect on the skin by drying it out. Moisturizers not only increase the skin’s water content, but they also protect the skin and encourage an orderly desquamation (shedding) process that makes the skin appear more smooth.

The number of moisturizers on the market is astounding and most claim to have properties that no other moisturizer has. In this article, we will cover the key ingredients in moisturizers - humectants, occlusives, emollients, and miscellaneous ingredients - and discuss their effects on the skin. Imagine being able to read and understand a moisturizer ingredient label. Grab your moisturizer bottles, jars, and tubes and we’ll get started.

The Basics of Moisturizer Skin Care and Zinc

I found these tips on moisturizer for oily skin, dry skin, and combination skin by Angie Kocsi and added some more information on zinc moisturizers as well - it may be just be the tip you need!

Skin Care - Learn the Basics

Skin types are unique and react in different ways to weather, environment, and creams and/or lotions. In order to keep skin healthy and youthful in appearance it is essential to know your skin type and how to care for it.

Most skin care specialists will advise to apply moisturizers all over the body to nourish the skin. Top of the list in skin care is sun protection to prevent damage to the delicate skin structure. A few other simple steps will help you care for your particular skin type.

Zinc Moisutrizers

Zinc is a natural mineral that prevent harmful UV rays from entering the skin by naturally blocking them. Zinc is non-toxic when used as a topical treatment and found to be easily used by those with allergies or sensitive skin issues.

Zinc moisturizers and sunblocks with high levels SPF (15 or more) are broad spectrum: strong enough to prevent burning for a reasonable length of time with the power to block UVA radiation — something that many higher SPF products cannot match!

Normal Skin: Use a rich cream or lotion to moisturize the skin. Be sure to apply the moisturizer to the neck and décolleté. Don’t forget to moisturize the elbows and knees. It’s best to apply moisturizers after bathing while the skin is still moist for better absorption.

Oily Skin: There are already plenty of natural oils in this skin type, so use a light moisturizer. A body mist spray is also good for oily skin, as it will sit gently on the skin, without stimulating the glands that product body oils. To avoid breakouts it is important to keep pores from becoming clogged.

Combination Skin: This type of skin usually refers to just the face. The neck however, should not be forgotten. The neck area tends to dry if you have this type of skin. A light moisturizer that contains sunscreen should be used in order to combat dryness. At night a richer cream will nourish the skin as you sleep, keeping it smooth, supple and youthful.

Dry Skin: A deep penetrating cream will nourish this type of skin. Try an oil-based lotion as an alternative; it will leave the skin silky and smooth. Dry skin is often aggravated by air conditioning, wind and sun. Always use extra moisturizers to keep hydrated when exposed to these elements.

Sensitive Skin: This type of skin often needs special attention. Formulated and medicated creams can be obtained to address specific individual needs. A visit to a professional will help evaluate this type of skin and assist in designing a skin care regime that addresses each particular case.

·Keep your skin protected from the sun at all times using a zinc-based moisturizer or sunscreen.
·Drink plenty of water.
·Get lots of sleep.
·Do not rub the skin - always pat skin dry with a soft towel.
·Consult your aesthetician or dermatologist they can advise you on solutions to most problem skin conditions.

Tips Source: http://ezinearticles.com

Skin Typing Features

One of the fascinating features of Skin Typing is that people of different ethnic or racial backgrounds can share a Skin Type. In most instances, all people with the same Skin Type will follow the exact same treatment plan, but sometimes skin color can be a differentiating factor because of the way pigment (the factor in skin that produces color) is produced in different racial and ethnic groups.

For example, two best friends, Valerie, a medium-skintoned brunette, and Dana, a dark-skinned woman, came in for back-to back appointments. After they each took the questionnaire and tabulated their results, they were surprised to discover that they shared the same Skin Type. They were both “P,” Pigmented Skin Types, which gave both Valerie and Dana a tendency to develop pigmentation issues. And each of them did have a problem with pigmentation. That’s why they came to my office. Valerie had an area of dark skin discoloration (called melasma) on her cheek, and Dana had dark spots in areas where she had once had pimples. Although I recommended that they follow the exact same protocol and use the same kinds of products, there was one key difference. Valerie could benefit from an advanced cosmetic procedure that uses light instruments or lasers to treat pigment problems like hers, while Dana would benefit most from prescription products used daily and should not undergo laser treatment since this can cause discoloration in people with darker skin tones.

A Dermatologist’s Story

“A patient came to see me because of skin discoloration on her chin and cheeks. An African-American with oily skin, Sylvia never guessed that the skin scrub she’d picked up at the Neiman Marcus beauty department was causing this problem. Anyone with highly pigmented skin (like many dark skinned people) must stay away from all ingredients and procedures that cause inflammation. Yet, not knowing her SkinType, Sylvia had no idea that her choice of skin product stimulated the inflammatory response, which in turn led to dark spots. I taught Sylvia what to look for on product ingredient labels. Common ingredients, like vitamin C, AHA, and alpha lipoic acid, can create inflammation, as do buff pu ffs and strong scrubs. She was surprised to learn that hair removal formulas, like Nair, and hot wax products may also cause inflammation. In using wax or a chemical depilatory to remove facial hair, Sylvia wound up with unsightly dark patches that looked far worse than the hair she was trying to remove. Now she knew to avoid them. Once she became aware of the needs of her Skin Type, she was able to make changes that helped reduce the dark spots considerably. In addition, I recommended she use products containing oatmeal, feverfew, chamomile, or licochalone, which are known to have anti-inflammatory properties.” Dr. Leslie Baumann, M.D.

A Closer Look At Facial Masks

Facial masks are more than just silly tricks that women try to get their “beauty rest.” They are an important part of skin care. It is recommended that you use a facial mask at least once a week. While it is not necessary to go overboard and wear one every night, a weekly facial mask session cannot only help your skin receive moisture, but it can also ease skin disorders. Facial masks can be soothing or energizing, and the actions and rituals often involved with applying a facial mask can be an effective stress reliever.

A facial mask is generally defined as a substance that is applied to the face, much like smearing on cream. It is thick, and often resembles clay. Many masks make use of clay or gel as a base, as these will stay in place when applied, and they are generally harmless to most skin types (although gel is used most for sensitive skin, as heavy clay irritate it). Masks are meant to cover the entire face and then remain in place for a few minutes before washing off. The materials in most masks are safe to be washed down the sink.

Most facial masks include both deep cleaning and moisturizing agents in the mask. This allows the pores in the face to be cleansed deeply, getting rid of oily build up and trapped dirt. This can help reduce or even prevent acne. Additionally, many masks help slough off dead skin. The dead top skin is dull and lusterless. When it is gently removed, the mask brings the top layer of dead skin cells off with it. This leaves younger, healthier cells exposed as the face’s surface. This means tighter skin and a more brilliant complexion. It can also reduce the look of fine lines and small wrinkles to carry out a regular facial mask.

Another reason that facial masks are so popular involves the soothing and relaxing motions associated with applying a facial mask. If you decide to have one applied in for relaxation as well as the benefits it has for the skin on the face, then you can have a very enjoyable experience. In spas, these masks are applied with special techniques and often include a massage. You can give your own face a gentle massage just prior to applying the mask, and if you are systematic about it, you can apply the mask in a way that is singularly soothing. All masks should be applied to a freshly cleaned face, rinsed with warm water. This opens the pores and allows the mask to do its thing. Warm water is very calming and soothing, and many people find this part of the application to be one of the more enjoyable stages.

Apply the mask in a circular motion until it covers the face. This is calming and stimulating at the same time. Let the mask sit on your face for 15 to 20 minutes (although some are meant to be worn all night). Many women like to lie down and relax. The effect can be enhanced by the addition of candles or incense and some soothing music. Finally, when it is time to rinse the mask, do so in cold water. This will help close the pores, protecting them against dirt and oil, and also energize your face.

Many people enjoy making their own facial masks from common household products like bananas (for wrinkles), avocados, and honey (antibacterial). Butter can also be used as a remedy for dry skin. Other masks can be created using different types of clays, and different essential oils can be used for different skin types. Fruit purees also have different effects and yogurt and milk can soften the skin. Oatmeal is extremely soothing, and most sensitive skin types can use masks of this sort. Adding rose petal powder can enhance your fragrance without the need for perfume, while citrus fruit peel powder acts as an astringent.

When you decide to make use of facial masks, you are certain to feel the good effects of it later down the road. And if you apply them once a week, you can help keep your face healthy-looking and your complexion brilliant with a healthy glow.

How Facial Masks Work

Even though they may make you look scary for a little while, masks are a great way to treat your skin to a once a week spa type of treatment. You can find masks for any skin type with a variety of different ingredients. There are mud masks to help to smooth your skin as well as some that are specifically designed to help with acne problems. All masks are good for your skin and help to tone and sooth your skin.

A mask for your face should be applied once or twice weekly. You don’t want to use them too frequently as they can upset the natural balance of your skin. The way that most facial masks work is that you put them on your face and wait for a specified period of time until you feel it dry and your skins starts feeling a little tight. Don’t worry, this is a normal part of the process and it is not causing damage to your face. After this you usually will give it another few minutes and then rinse your skin. Some people choose to use water by itself and others like to remove the mask with a wash cloth, it’s entirely up to you. Afterward, you should dry your face totally and moisturize it because masks remove some moisture from your skin.

There are also full body masks available that can treat all of your skin at the same time. These work in exactly the same way as the ones for your face and they can help renew the look of your skin all over. It is not possible to do this properly at home so you will have to have one of these applied by a professional. Thankfully, there are many full service salons that offer this service and it is a real treat to have done. When you schedule yourself for one of these be sure to drink lots of water before and after to help remove toxins, help replace lost moisture, and re-hydrate you body. Water is crucial because just as with a facial mask these also remove moisture but on a much larger scale.

Educating yourself about different types of lotions and masks will help you keep your skin clear and give you the healthy glow you want. Water is a beauty secret that many women overlook. The key to beautiful clear skin is adequate hydration and water is crucial in this process as it not only helps your skin hydrate itself but also helps to remove toxins. Utilize what you have learned here and you will have beautiful and radiant skin that others will envy.

Facials and Masks

Types and Uses of Facial Masks

A facial mask is a creamy mask applied to clean or soften the face. It often contains minerals, vitamins and/or fruit extracts, such as papaya or cucumber and moisturizing or detoxifying ingrediants. There are different kinds of masks for different purposes; some are deep cleansing for cleaning the pores, others are strictly cream-based and used for moisturizing. The perceived effect of a facial mask treatment can be revitalizing, rejuvenating or refreshing. Facial masks have most commonly been used by women but are also increasingly popular with men.

Duration for wearing a mask depends on type of mask, but can be five minutes to 30 minutes, and on some rare occasions, the whole night. Most masks are washed off with warm water, while others are peeled off by hand. Facial masks should be selected according to skin type. Clay and mud masks typically suit oily skin; cream-based masks work best on dry skin types. Masks should be used once or twice a week after cleansing for best results. Firming masks should not be applied on the eye area because they can cause irritation or tearing of the delicate skin tissue around the eye.

You can determine your skin type by noticing how your skin tends to react most frequently. Mother nature works in seasons and the variations in temperature and climate that go with it, and so does our skin. You many need a moisturizing mask in the cold, dry months of winter and a detoxifying clay mask in the warm, humid summertime. Recognizing if your skin tends to be dry and tight or oily and acne prone is a first step. Review other articles in this blog for further help on skin type. Don’t forget to check combination or sensitive types as well.

Always apply the facial mask to clean skin and avoid the eye area. Masks can also be used on the neck, shoulders and arms. These areas are exposed to the everyday environmental stress and need pampering too. Masks are perfect to bring back the glow to your skin.

Once applied, take the time to sit back and relax. Try not to use your facial muscles and avoid laughing or eating as some masks will tighten significantly. The mask needs to dry so that it can absorb the toxins or moisturize your skin.

“Radiance” or anti aging masks will include various properties such as vitamins, seaweed, kelp, or minerals, to perk up and tone lifeless, dull skin. Radiance masks moisturize and tone the skin to give a more youthful appearance. Regular hydrating masks moisturize the skin by restoring your skins natural oil balance.

Clay and mud masks are best suited for oily skin. They dry in a short period of time and are excellent for pulling toxins and excess oil from the skin. Clay and mud masks open the pores , remove blackheads and improve circulation.

Peel-off masks are usually gel-based and dry to form a thin rubber-like mask that can be pulled off in one piece. These masks are set to lighten the skin by closing open pores and smoothing out the skin. Peel-off masks remove blackheads and dead skin cells. (Be aware that some masks might slightly pull facial hair).

Firming masks are usually gel or cream form  and are designed to tighten the skin surface. They are massaged into the contours of the face where elasticity is lost. Firming masks are commonly used as an anti-aging or anti-wrinkle treatment.

If you are looking for all-natural masks you can make at home, there are many variations of recipes to be found in holistic magazines, herbal reference books and on the Web. Honey, for instance, is not just good for your tea. Honey makes an excellent mask, as a low-cost choice to smooth the skin, hydrate and clean pores. Honey is also highly antimicrobial and excellent for acne.

Homemade facial masks can be made from simple ingredients such as honey, egg whites, milk, fruits, oats, clay and vegetables and herbs. Each of the ingredients offer some sort of benefit to the skin. For instance, eggs offer anti-oxidant properties, lemon is a bleaching agent and tightens skin, milk or is a great skin softener. The properties of natural ingredients and essential oils and herbs are endless when applying to skin care.

Quick home recipes for facial masks:
Oatmeal softens the skin and removes dead cells
To reduce the sign of wrinkles, make a mask of crushed ripe bananas
To tighten skin and close pores, beat an egg white with 1/2 tsp. of lime juice
Tomatoes are helpful for oily skin types
To cool and reduce inflammation, grate a cucumber and slather the pulp on your face
A stimulating mint leaf mixture will alleviate acne issues