Teen Skincare

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Rachael Severino is a 10th grade student at Sachem North High School in Sachem School District. This aspiring writer has a knack for the written word. She has penned short stories, poetry and is 
developing an impressive 
body of work. 

Facial Skin Care
Decisions we make now often affect us in the future. How well you tend to your skin in your teens and early twenties will impact your skin in your thirties, forties and so on. 

The first step to long lasting, healthy skin is finding a skin regime that works for you and sticking to it. To begin, you should wash your face twice a day – no more, no less. Find a soap or facial cleanser designed for your skin type, and switch it up with an alternate formula/brand every few weeks so your skin doesn’t become unresponsive. You also need a toner, one you use in the shower or after (choose what works best for you), to close up your pores after the dirt and oil are removed. Afterwards, be sure to moisturize your skin.  You may want to consider two moisturizers – one for face and one for your eye area. The eye area is the most delicate skin on your body and needs its own moisturizer to gently care for it. And of course, DRINK WATER.

If you have dry skin, there are steps you can take to give your skin a soft glow that’s silky to the touch. In addition to your daily regimen, a weekly aloe mask or raspberry mask will add moisture back into your skin, replenishing lost vitamins and repairing any damage. If you have a little extra money to invest, Lush has masks that work wonders. For less expensive options, Forever 21 has an array of masks in stock. If you’re interested in creating your own home versions, look no further than your fridge. Olive oil, milk, cream, yogurt, coconut oil, and avocado will each do the trick. 

For those with oily skin, you too, need to develop a fantastic personalized skincare regime. Use masks specifically designed for oily skin up to twice a week, giving skin positive hydration and other benefits. Drinking lots of water and consuming fruits and vegetables will also help, not just with your skin but your overall well-being. Unlike dry skin, be very careful with home remedies.  You don’t want to dehydrate your skin or exfoliate too many layers. 

Should you get a bad bout of acne, there are treatments you can use to help speed up the healing process. Clay masks are a best bet. Use them once a week to help prevent further breakouts. Charcoal masks should be used in more difficult cases, as they quite literally pull the blackheads and pimples from your skin…uncomfortable, but effective. And I hope this isn’t becoming too repetitive, but remember to drink water!

Skin care doesn’t need to be expensive, but it does need to be consistent. Treat your skin well and it will usually be kind in return.