Body beautiful skin care

Ebony, May, 1994

As spring approaches, thoughts wander to breezy summer attire, romantic evening strolls, sunbathing and romping at the beach. And then we take note of our rough, weather-beaten hands or look into the mirror at our dry, ashen skin, and spring dreams turn into complexion nightmares. But don't panic. Instead, fight back against the assault winter's cold, blustery weather has dealt to your skin. Now is the time to take account of the skin you're in from head to get ready for the body-revealing days of spring and summer.

Winter's frigid temperatures, lower humidity end icy winds leave skin dry and scaly, says Chicago dermatologist Dr. Rene Martin Earles. "There is a decrease in circulation and decrease in perspiration," he says. "And some people even experience a slower rate of the skin naturally shedding its outer layer. All of this results in a decrease in the suppleness of the skin. The skin is drier and feels rougher."

But your skin is exceptionally resilient, and with proper care and attention, it can bounce back from winter's doldrums. Skin, the largest organ, is a natural protective shield for the entire body. It helps transmit nutrients to hair and nails, helps regulate body temperature and even eliminetes certain wastes in the form of perspiration. Diet, hormones, climate, drugs, emotions, health and physical trauma all affect your precious skin.

First and foremost, a beautiful complexion is dependent on proper diet. If throughout winter you slacked off on nutrition, make a change for the better right now and start by eating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables and cutting down on your fat, cholesterol and salt intake. protein foods help prevent premature aging, and Vitamin A is good for dry skin. Healthy skin also needs adequate Vitamin B-complex. In addition, take note of how your skin reacts to certain foods and products, for many people have allergic reactions to chocolate, caffeine, citric acid, shellfish and soft drinks.

For a beautiful complexion, it is important that you thoroughly cleanse your face daily to remove dirt, soot, grime, old makeup and the skin's own constantly shedding outer layer. Never go to bed with makeup on, for it clogs the skin's pores and leads to blemishes.

Identify your skin type - oily, dry, combination or normal - and adopt a basic skin-care regimen that is right for you. And regardless of your skin type, never scrub or use harsh deodorant soaps on your face. If you have oily skin, it is most important that you cleanse your face at least twice daily and gently exfoliate your entire body to remove dead skin cells and prevent blocked pores that tend to cause blackheads and other blemishes. After washing your face with a mild soap or cleanser formulated for oily skin, use an astringent to remove all traces of soap. Then apply a light moisturizer. Throughout the day use powder or oil-blotting tissues keep the shine down.

If you have dry skin, stay away from drying soaps and instead use a creamy cleanser, followed by a toner and a good moisturizer. Those with sensitive skin should take note of how their complexions react to various cosmetics. Fortunately, there is an abundance of skin-care and makeup products formulated specifically for sensitive skin.

And don't forget the rest of your body. Lavish on moisturizers to keep your entire body soft and supple. And pay special attention to the trouble spots - hands, elbows, knees and feet - for they have fewer oil glands. If you have been neglecting your nails and feet all winter, now is the time to get them ready for summer's extra exposure. Get a professional manicure and pedicure and learn to care for your nails yourself. To remedy dry, rough, cracked feet, smooth on rich lotion or petroleum jelly and then put on socks before going to bed. Thousands of women, young and old, attest to this home remedy. If you have calluses on your hands or feet, visit a dermatologist to have them shaved off.

Dr. Earles also points out that as the weather gets warmer, there is a greater incidence of acne, fungal growths such as athlete's foot, and skin yeast infections The severity of all can be lessened with treatment. In addition, individuals who know or suspect they have skin disorders. rashes in particular, brought on by exposure to the sun should check with a dermatologist and take preventive measures It should be noted, adds Dr. Earles, that some medications commonly taken for high blood pressure may negatively react to exposure to the sun, resulting in a rash during the summer.

Today's Black man realizes that having great skin and practicing good hygiene enhance his appeal rather than detract from his masculinity. As with women, the harshness of winter weather takes its toll on male skin, so men must take a little extra care to help combat nature's elements.

Fortunately, there are a number of unscented face and body lotions that are great for men. After thoroughly washing the face and body, apply lotion to combat dryness. Ashy skin is never flattering, regardless of your other assets. And like their female counterparts, Black men should put extra moisturizers on the rough spots, including dry, cracked lips.