Saving Our Skin



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 When friends are asked to identify their most trusted skin savers, the results can be surprising.  Of course, the products or life habits here are not scientifically proven nor guaranteed to work for all of us.  But, that said, here are some recommendations to consider.

Our young mothers have two suggestions for childhood skin protectors.  First, one whose children have those dry patches behind the knees and on the inside of the elbows,  says "Aquaphor healing ointment works wonders!" 

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Another uses Neutrogena  SPF products recommended by her pediatrician.  She notes, "These products are fragrance-free, oil-free." Real pluses for children with sensitive skin. This young mother has very fair skin and burns easily; she uses Neutrogena Age Shield Face Sunblock SPF 70 and SPF 45 lotion"

Those of us looking for ways to moisturize our maturing skin have a recommendation from our expert nursing professional. She shares that, "Ceptaphil that is recommended at every dermatology lecture I go to but does not work for me. I like Gold Bold Ultimate restoring with CoQ10. It contains vtamins A, C. & E and ceramides."   She adds that she uses Olay Regnerist and ROC for her face.



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  Another of our strikingly attractive friends shares her secret:  "A college friend recommended Eucerin Moisturizing Cream for her face a few years ago. She has beautiful skin! I have been using the Walmart brand for about three years now, and recommended it to my sister. We're convinced that it has kept us looking younger (How's that for modesty?). It's called Equate Therapeutic Moisturizing Cream from Walmart. It comes in a big white jar that lasts forever. It's rather greasy. At night that's O.K., but in the morning I put it on, allow it to stay on my face for a short while, then use a tissue to gently remove any excess before applying my make-up. I think you'll like it." 

Another was surprised to see Eucerin, a cream she used 20 years ago,  suggested for cancer patients. "The oncologists have been recommending Eucerin for their patients, which is something I used in the 8o's and 90's upon recommendation from a dermatologist friend."

One suggestion for puffy eyes and concealers comes from a friend who has investigated several products.  She likes Instant Age Rewind Eraser,a dark-circle and treatment concealer.  She also likes Lubriderm Advanced Therapy Lotion, advertised for its ability to "moisturize for 24 hours."  By the way, Nivea is advertising a moisturizer that works for 48 hours."  None of us have tried that one yet.

 We haven't seen any testimonials for the really pricey creams and lotions.  That's a plus!  And talk about inexpensive! 

One friend lives in a very hot, dry climate.  Her go-to treatment for dry skin?  " The best one is baby oil on your skin while it is still wet in the shower, wait a minute and then towel pat. Be careful not to spill it or slip!"     Our southwestern friend also recommends, "I like Palmers coca butter or Palmers with olive oil, neither leave your skin oily." And finally, If you are living in or vacationing in a sun-intense area, remember that sunscreen is a must-every day.

Advice from a 'northeastern ' naturalist' who is another  proven example of great skin comments, "I would say the best way to protect my skin is to minimize exposure to sun. I don't like the sunscreens with all the chemicals in the ingredients! If I am outdoors for a longer period of time, I search for shade or wear a hat. I use organic moisturizers or some organic sesame oil during the winter. And, of course, healthy skin starts from the inside out...lots of water and nutrient dense foods."

Thanks to all who contributed to "Saving Our Skin"!  We had a great response.  Now if someone would invent a magic potion to erase those dreaded dark spots!  From pregnancy to retirement, grandmotherhood, and beyond,  these splotches occur-and they stay around forever.  Help!!!

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