Face cleaner is something that most people use without really thinking about it.
The wrong facial cleaners can damage your skin's health and appearance.
The right ones can improve your skin's health and help to counteract the things that contribute to aging.
Here's how.
Environmental toxins and UV rays from the sun can cause increased production and activity of free radicals.
Free radicals are normally benign molecules that even help to keep intracellular bacteria under control.
But, they are highly reactive molecules that when stimulated damage cellular membranes and DNA strands, sometimes to the point of causing mutations.
This molecular activity is one of the causes of wrinkles and other visible signs of aging.
The typical face cleaner contains toxins that may contribute to free radical activity.
Everyday life exposes us to air pollution and other contaminants that become trapped in the pores and contribute to breakouts.
The oxidation of keratin and sebum is the cause of blackheads.
Oxidation is the result of free radicals at work.
Our only real defense against oxidation is the antioxidant.
Some facial cleaners contain antioxidant-rich plant extracts or vegetable oils.
The best deep cleansing masks contain clay extracts to absorb toxins and other pore-clogging materials, as well excessive sebum.
You need only use a deep cleansing mask on an occasional basis.
On a daily basis, you want to use the gentlest cleansers available.
Look for ones that contain active manuka honey.
Active manuka honey has natural antibacterial and antioxidant activity.
At one time, it was only available in Australia and New Zealand.
In recent years, it has become available all over the world, due largely to the internet.
You can find both daily facial cleaners and deep cleansing masks for occasional use that contain manuka honey.
There is at least one nighttime moisturizer that contains it.
As you start to think more about the quality of your face cleaner, you might also start to consider the importance of using good high quality moisturizers.
One of the best night creams on the market today contains ingredients that address all of the causes of visible aging.
Collagen production is stimulated with active proteins and avocado oil.
Immune system function is stimulated with active manuka honey and Shea butter.
Free radicals are neutralized with antioxidants like natural vitamin E and coenzyme Q10.
The skin's hyaluronic acid levels are protected by extracts from wakame kelp.
A good routine is to use the gentlest facial cleaners at night to remove makeup.
The second step is to apply a nourishing nighttime moisturizer.
While you are sleeping, the ingredients will be working to repair damage done during the day.
The two essential components of an anti-aging skincare routine are a good face cleaner and a good nighttime moisturizer.
Other beneficial products include a deep cleansing mask and a daytime moisturizer.