Here are four easy steps to help keep your skin looking flawless:

Skin care Step 1 – Cleanse

Cleansing is the most basic and most important part of establishing a good skin care routine.  Be sure never to use soap or a soap related product as they are very drying and can leave a nasty residue; even if you have very oily skin.  Try an oil-free facial wash and apply once in the morning and once in the evening.

In the winter it is possible to over-cleanse the face leading to dryness.  Remember that if you do not moisturize at night nothing more than water is needed in the am to cleanse.  And be sure to use cold water.  Cold water not only helps to wake you up, but it also refreshes the skin.

Skin care Step 2 – Exfoliate

Exfoliation is important to remove dead skin cells from the skin’s surface, allowing fresh, youthful skin to be exposed.  As new skin cells are produced dead skin cells are pushed to the surface of the skin causing many skin problems, such as: clogged pores, exaggerated frown lines, and a dull complexion.

Remember that if you use an exfoliating cleanser you can skip this step.  Also, please follow the directions of the product you select.  If it does not mention that it is safe for daily use, try using only 2-3 times per week.

Skin care Step 3 – Tone

Some people argue about the necessity of using a toner after cleansing and exfoliating.  I think that toning is very important because it helps to close the pores, which open after cleansing and exfoliation, and can lead to clogged pores.  Also it helps to restore the skin’s ph balance, which can be disrupted during the same processes.

Be sure, when shopping for toner, to look for a product which clearly displays “alcohol free” on online drugs no prescription the front of the product.  Alcohol, like soap, will dry out the face.

Skin care Step 4 – Moisturize

Last, but certainly not least, is moisturizing.  Why go through all of the above steps, if you’re not going to moisturize?  Many people who have normal or oily skin insist that moisturizing is not necessary.  But moisturizing helps lubricate the skin, which helps the skin help itself heal.  Abrasions caused by excessive exfoliation, blemishes, sun damage, etc.  All of these can be healed by the skin itself, and scars minimized from these problems, simply by moisturizing with a high-quality moisturizer.

In the Spring and Summer months be sure to moisturize every evening.  In the Fall and Winter months, both morning and evening are essential.