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Effective Skin Care on a Budget

During challenging economic times, most of us have had to reduce our spending, especially for items that are not absolute needs. While it seems rational to give up on taking care of your skin, it will cost you more in the long run. There are ways, however, to begin or continue an effective skin care routine while staying on a budget.

First, consult a skin care expert for advice so you don't waste funds on products that are wrong for your skin type and lifestyle. Most aestheticians offer a complimentary skin analysis, and can recommend the most important and most effective treatments and products for your specific skin care concerns. By explaining budgetary limitations from the start, they can help you determine the best course of treatment. Remember, a quality aesthetician is interested in improving your skin, not just selling you products.

Second, consider switching to products that are more effective in the treatment of your skin. Typically, professional products are more effective than drugstore or department store products because they contain concentrated ingredients that penetrate the skin more effectively and produce better results in a shorter period of time. Many drugstore lines contain unnecessary chemicals and fillers that either cause further damage or simply don't penetrate. It may appear that you are saving money when using a drugstore brand but, in reality, you'll get the results you really want with professional products.

Third, purchase products in order of importance to stretch your budget. Any skin care specialist will tell you that the most important product in a person's daily skin care routine is a broad-spectrum sunscreen. Sunscreen provides prevention of skin cancer and slows down aging from UV-induced sun damage. The second most important product to add would be a topical antioxidant. Antioxidants work as nutrition for your skin, allowing for healthier skin through the prevention of damage caused by free radicals. Finally, add a lightweight moisturizer with active ingredients that can be used both day and night. Keep in mind that there is no need to apply a thick layer of any product to your skin, except for sunscreen. Remember, a little bit of quality product goes a long way.

If possible, try not to give up your regularly scheduled facial treatments. You can save money by purchasing a treatment package rather than paying more for individual treatments. Bundling or package pricing is common, available most anywhere and can considerably reduce treatment cost.

Whatever turns the economy may take, the best return on your investment is still one that you make in yourself and your skin.

by Tracy Panico, Licensed Medical Aesthetician

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