How do I Choose the Right Moisturizer for My Skin?

Our skin contains both water and sebum (oil). Lack of adequate amount of water leads to dehydration, regardless of the oil content of the skin. Dehydration causes fine lines and wrinkles, flakiness and irritation.

Oily skin can be dehydrated just as much as dry or normal skin. This is why dehydrated oily skin may exhibit fine lines and flakiness, both caused by dehydration.

When choosing a moisturizer we need to consider the skin type.

Oily Skin needs a hydrator. Hydrators are hygroscopic compounds that attract and bind water. An occlusive moisturizer is also needed in conjunction with the hydrator to protect against water loss. A good example that combines both hydrator and moisturizer is France Laure Balance Sebo-Control AM/PM Gel

Dry Skin can use both hydrators and moisturizers. A combination of both can help to lock in moisture and prevent dryness. A good example is Gernetic Tropo Plus Day Cream

Normal Skin can use either or both, depending on personal preference.

Sensitive Skin will benefit from gentle ingredients, like hyaluronic acid to deliver moisture without irritation. A good example is France Laure Calm Harmonizing Cream.

In order to enhance the hydrating results of any cream we suggest using a serum in conjuction with the cream of your choice. There are several serums that will work very well to that end. For example: Sothys Hydrating Serum, or Hyaluronic Time Erase Complex Serum by Ilike Organics.

Hydrating our skin becomes even more important now, as the cold days are upon us. I already pulled out the humidifier from storage in anticipation. It is also a good time to take stock of our skin care products and adjust the daily regime for winter.

Putting your best feet forward

Your feet always support you, so return the favor.

Your feet are the foundation of an active lifestyle, but odds are you don’t give them proper attention. “As you age, healthy feet become essential for being mobile, active, and safe,” says Dr. Kevin Riemer, a podiatrist with Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. “You need to give them the required care in order to prevent problems, reduce pain, and avoid injuries.”

Foot care should be part of every person’s regular health maintenance.

Keep your feet clean. This reduces the risk of harmful bacteria and can ward off fungal infections like athlete’s foot. Wash your feet every day, and dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes. The skin of the feet tends to grow thinner and drier with age, so after washing, apply a liberal amount of moisturizing lotion. However, avoid moisturizing between the toes, as dampness here can lead to fungal growth.

Trim your toenails. Cut your toenails straight across, never at an angle on the sides, which may cause ingrown toenails (a condition in which the nail grows into the adjacent skin). Use a toenail clipper larger and wider than one used for fingernails.

Manage calluses. Deep calluses can crack and bleed, causing pain and risking infection. Use a pumice stone or foot file to remove calluses gently. Follow up with moisturizer.

Look for signs of trouble. Examine your feet regularly, including the tops, soles, under the toenails, and in between toes. Look for any changes, growths, or discolorations. If your foot swells or changes color, it could be a sign of poor circulation or even a fractured bone, and you should seek medical care. If you have diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis, alert your doctor about red spots, bruises, calluses, and corns. Any mole, freckle, or spot that appears to have changed over the past month could be a sign of skin cancer and should be examined. Your feet need regular exercise, just like any other body part. Performing regular stretches can increase foot and ankle flexibility and strengthen foot muscles to improve balance and reduce the risk of injuries like ankle sprains.

Another means to prevent common foot problems like blisters and heel pain is to invest in quality footwear that can be worn for both exercise and everyday activities.

Visit a specialty running store, as it will offer a variety of styles and hands-on fitting expertise.

At The European Touch we proudly carry foot speciality brand PodoExpert by Allpremed from Germany. Podo Expert by Allpremed pedicare is THE comprehensive foot care program. Whether your feet are dry feet, very dry feet, have cracked heels, foot odor or you simply want to pamper your feet, Podo Expert has got something for your feet.