Selecting the most appropriate skin care products and determining the best routine for your complexion can be tricky. There are hundreds of options available, and some treatments are better suited to certain skin types than others. Narrowing down your choices so that you can treat your skin right is easy once you understand some of these basic fundamentals. Here’s what you need to know about properly managing your skin.

A Guide to Skin Care

How can I determine my skin type?

Skin types are broken down into several basic categories: normal, oily, dry, combination, and sensitive. Normal skin isn’t reactive in any particular way. If your skin is oily, you may have a difficult time controlling shine, particularly in the T-zone, or the forehead, nose, and chin. Dry skin can be rough in areas. Meanwhile, combination skin types might have both normal and dry or oily skin. Sensitive types are especially reactive and may suffer from frequent irritation.

What is the best way to treat acne?

Acne develops when the skin produces too much oil. The pores become clogged as a result, leading to frequent outbreaks. Controlling the problem can be tough, especially for teenagers whose enhanced hormone levels cause the skin to create more sebum. A regimen designed to control oil can help, but it’s best to first visit a dermatologist to learn the root cause of your acne. Severe cases may respond best to antibiotics, while minor breakouts may benefit from cleansers, gel moisturizers, and facials for acne.

Are visible signs of aging treatable?

It’s natural to develop fine lines and wrinkles, sagging skin, and age spots over time. The loss of collagen and elasticity are responsible for these visible signs of aging. Staying out of the sun, avoiding smoking, and using skin care products infused with antioxidants, vitamin C, and retinoids, to name a few, can help promote a smoother complexion.

Does sensitive skin need special care?

Sensitive skin types can react to even the most basic ingredients. Seek out skin care products that are gentle and free of common irritants, such as fragrances and parabens. Products enriched with nourishing, calming ingredients, including chamomile and colloidal oatmeal, may help soothe redness and irritation. Regular facials may help, and you can always request that your aesthetician skip extractions if you don’t react well to them.

Why is sunscreen so important?

Applying sunscreen is by far the best thing that anyone can do for the long-term health of their skin. Select a broad-spectrum product that is designed to combat both UVA and UVB rays. This will protect your skin from burns, wrinkling, and skin cancer. For best results, wear at least two tablespoons of product and reapply every two hours to ensure that your skin is continuously protected when you’re outside.

Your complexion deserves the best possible care—and that’s why so many throughout Honolulu trust in Pure Skin by Maggie. The spa specializes in nourishing facials, peels, and other services designed to treat, protect, and improve the integrity of your skin. You’ll also find an extensive selection of skin care products formulated to target a variety of needs, from anti-aging to sensitivity to dryness. Visit the spa online to browse their treatment menu, or give them a call at (808) 427-3012 to schedule an appointment.