For many women, visiting the skin care aisle at the drugstore can be as intimidating as ordering from all the complicated hot beverages on offer at the trendy local coffee shop. From blemish control to exfoliating to deep cleansing, products today offer an often dizzying range of ingredients and benefits claims. However, finding a targeted skin care solution that's right for you doesn't have to be difficult-in fact, with the right guidance, it can be a whole lot simpler than ordering a venti, chai, decaf, vanilla skim latte with extra foam.
Celebrity makeup artist Tasha Reiko Brown shares knowledge on how to best tackle common skin care concerns, with some helpful tips on choosing the right products:
Problem: Do I need to exfoliate? It seems harsh.
Solution: One of the best ways to cleanse is by exfoliating. It stimulates the skin as you cleanse, giving your face a nice and radiant glow. Try cream-based cleansers with skin-smoothing microbeads that gently exfoliate to help reveal fresh, polished skin. For best results, make little circles with fingertips in a clockwise motion. Pay extra attention to the thicker, oily areas of your face to achieve an all-over glow.
Problem: I don't have much time to tend for my skin.
Solution: For the woman who is looking for an effective and efficient skin care solution, deep cleansing can be as basic and satisfying as pouring a simple cup of joe. Try the Noxzema Original Cleansing Cream. A tried-and-true classic, it dissolves oil while conditioning skin, without overdrying, leaving skin feeling clean, soft and smooth in one easy step. Best of all, you can feel its signature eucalyptus-infused formula working as it deep cleans. And this invigorating beauty staple comes in Original and Plus Moisturizers.
Problem: I can never seem to beat blemishes.
Solution: The key to not only beating but also preventing blemishes is to use products that deep clean but are also gentle enough to use on a daily basis. Always look for products that contain salicylic acid, which is a proven ingredient to fight acne blemishes and breakouts. Salicylic acid can be found in toners, cleansers and cleansing pads, so you can pick and choose the best combination for your lifestyle.
Problem: Traveling interrupts my beauty regimen.
Solution: No matter how busy you are, never skimp out on facial cleansing in your daily beauty routine. Dirty skin looks dull and sallow, and it's more prone to breakouts. Try products that are de- signed for the girl on the go, such as premoistened cleansing cloths that will quickly remove dirt, oil and makeup for an efficient deep clean.
Using these simple tips to demystify your most common skin care problems, your perfect skin solution should become clear.