Take a tour of any local pharmacy or market and you will quickly discover the vast assortment of choices in skin creams. Due to the many roles the skin plays, you must be sure to care for it properly.
Determine your skin type and needs first, then research the most beneficial creams to help maintain healthy skin. While there are many types of creams available, consider your needs and conditions before buying. Your age, skin type, problem areas, and skin color will ultimately determine the best creams for your individual situation.
Main Categories of Skin Creams
In general, creams for the skin should protect it from the sun and environmental pollutants, while also treating any specific problems. Look for the highest quality ingredients to ensure a cream's ability to live up to its claims. Enhance the circulation of blood flow by massaging creams into your skin several times a day.
Acne Creams
Acne is a common skin ailment. People of all ages suffer from this condition and many rely on topical solutions, like acne creams, to find relief. Retinoids and benzoyl peroxide are the two most popular types of creams available.
Retinoids - Both prescription or over-the-counter formulas are available. Always use a small amount when applying, as these types of creams can become irritating. With consistent use, retinoids dry out acne pockets and control excessive oil production.
According to Dr. Susan Evans, a health and beauty expert and contributor to WebMD Magazine, retinoids are hazardous if you are pregnant or nursing because they pass through the bloodstream to the fetus.
Benzoyl Peroxide - Acne creams may contain from 2.5 percent to 10 percent of benzoyl peroxide. This ingredient fights harmful bacteria and also acts as a natural bleach to lighten dark acne spots.
Anti Wrinkle Creams
The most effective anti wrinkle creams are those that contain antioxidants and exfoliating ingredients. Common examples are alpha and beta hydroxy acids, vitamins A, C and E, and retinol. The concentrations must be high enough to be effective, but not so high that they cause irritation. An effective anti wrinkle cream:
- Plumps up sagging skin and facial muscles
- Boosts the skin with needed collagen
- Gently resurfaces fine lines and wrinkles
Bleaching Creams
Bleaching creams are available in over-the-counter and prescription formulas.The main ingredient in most products is hydroquinone. These creams serve to:
- Lighten age spots and uneven skin tone
- Provide gradual lightening for a subtle change
Cellulite Creams
Cottage cheese-looking lumps that appear under the surface of the skin are known as cellulite. With regular use, creams formulated to treat cellulite may offer these benefits:
- Temporarily plump up the skin for a few hours
- Provide the skin with essential vitamin A via retinol
- Hydrate dry, crepe-like skin
Eye Creams
Though aging skin is inevitable, different types of eye creams may help sustain a youthful appearance. Look for products that contain caffeine, vitamin C and copper peptides, all of which are effective in slowing the development of fine lines, wrinkles and crow's feet. Effective eye creams:
- Treat eye puffiness and reduce fluid buildup
- Diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Reduce the appearance of dark circles
Hydrating Body Creams
The body's skin gets thirsty, too. By treating it with hydrating body creams daily, your skin will reap these benefits:
- Added hydration and improvement of skin moisture levels
- Prevention against sun damage with an SPF moisturizer
- Relief of dry, cracked and even irritated skin
Popular Brands
These popular brands offer a variety of skin creams for different purposes.
Love Your Skin
As the largest living organ in your body, your skin works hard. Boost the skin's natural ability to heal itself by providing it with quality products. Treat specific skin problems effectively with formulas designed to make skin healthy and lovely. Add skin creams to your daily beauty regimen and enjoy the benefits for life.
