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| Care Your Body | Hands
Skin types differ, but with age, many of us discover that our hands in fact make us look older than our faces do. This is almost certainly because of years of abandon so before it is really too late, begin to take care of those hands.
The habitual use of protective hand cream is very important. Most are oil in water emulsions, which enclose substances that draw water and protect the skin from the damaging ingredients in detergents and other household substances. Some are water in oil emulsions, which take action even more efficiently against the detergents etc., but these are not so easily absorbed and can leave the skin feeling sticky and unpleasant.
Feet
It seems that feet are even more abused than hands. In the winter, we force them into boots, man-made shoes and other footwear, that is either too tight or unsuitable to the shape of our feet. They hold up our weight and sweat in central heating while freezing out on the cold pavements and they need regular care.
Although feet should be frequently moisturized, at least once per week, they need a full pampering session. Soak them in warm water, but not too hot, for about ten minutes. Pat dry, then use a pumice stone or abrasive file especially for feet to take away as much hard skin as possible. Moisturize with cream that is not too easily absorbed. If your feet are extremely dry and cracked, apply cream very thickly just before going to bed and cover with cotton socks.
Bodies
It is very important to moisturize your body after bathing or showering every day, especially if the body has been or will be exposed to the sun. It is more than certain that everyone has a favorite body lotion and the choice is huge, so we won't go into detail here.
It is reasonable to wear a sunscreen, but don't be fooled into thinking that just because you are using SPF 15, you can be out in the sun all day long without burning. Even the toughest skins will usually show some effects if exposed for long periods of time. As for the fair-skinned people they will still only be able to stay in direct sunlight for a short time without burning.
You should know that certain areas of our skin are not as tough as others, typically those where there is little subcutaneous fat, like upper chests, elbows, forearms and shins. Use a moisturizer here which is especially created for dry skin.
Our bodies need to be exfoliated once per week. Use a shower gel with an exfoliant in it like nut or fruit seed grains or a separate scrub with a bracing smell. Follow with your favorite moisturizer and your skin will feel incredible.
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