Keeping Healthy for the Holidays and Always

Throughout a lifetime, your skin will undergo many changes. Both internal and external factors such as season, age, nutrition, stress and even certain medications, can affect the appearance of this living, growing organ.

For skin to be healthy, it needs a balance of oil and water. Skin produces oil to condition itself; however, it does not produce water. Therefore, hydration must be provided.

There are three essential steps for a healthy complexion: cleansing, toning and moisturizing. In addition, proper nutrition and a healthy lifestyle and a customized skin care regimen that includes sunscreen and anti-oxidants will help ward off photo-aging and premature aging.

Photo-aging lines develop from excessive sun exposure and can be avoided with proper SPF protection. Dehydration lines are often mistaken as a sign of premature again, when all you need to do is quench your skin's "thirst". Expression lines - formed by everyday facial movements such as frowning and smiling - are less avoidable, but can be minimized.

Wrinkles are like snowflakes: no two are alike. Although no one ever feels ready to see lines and wrinkles, the good news is that many are preventable.

Did You Know….

• Exposure to any ultraviolet rays causes premature aging. Man-made rays generated in tanning booths are not any safer.

• Exfoliating helps your skin better receive the benefits of treatment products and moisturizers.

• 75% of the U.S. population is not drinking enough water. Drink up to improve your health and skin's appearance! Dehydration of the skin can often be mistaken for wrinkles.

• Smoking speeds up the aging process. It depletes skin of needed nutrients and oxygen.

• Skin stripped of its natural protective moisture barrier is prone to dehydration and sensitivity.

• Using a nighttime moisturizer can help the skin look well rested.

• It takes fewer muscles to smile than it does to frown.

• As seasons change, so should your skin care.

• Avoid alcohol, this causes skin to become dehydrated.

Merle Norman Cosmetics offers free personalized skin care consultations and free 5 minute hydrating facials. Call today to book your appointment and also receive a free holiday makeover.

Information supplied by Judy Kennemer and Merle Norman.