One of the best ways to approach any skin related problem is to start with a clean fresh slate. These days, at the onset of symptoms such as acne, dry flaky spots, or itchy and irritated patches, the first thought many people have is to go to the store and buy an expensive topical cream that will reduce the symptoms. No matter what the topical solution is meant to do, however, it will rarely fix the core problem, and will not always lead to healthier skin. Treating symptoms in this manner can actually inflame the problem by masking it, or adding to what is causing the irritation and symptoms to arise in the first place.

Open Your Pores

Your skin is like a sponge made up of countless holes called pores. These pores soak up everything your skin comes into contact with. Dirt, oil, smoke, cosmetics, dead skin, and chemicals in the air are all common irritants that clog your pores on a daily basis. To flush out these toxins and ensure your skin is clean, you must first open your pores. Heat is the easiest way to open your pores. Facial steams are a popular way to open your pores and treat your face at the same time. A hot shower will produce the same (less concentrated) effect.

Exfoliate

Exfoliation is one of your skin’s best friends. It enlivens the skin by literally removing the dead skin and dirt that form scales from the surface of your skin by roughly scrubbing the scales off. You do not need to purchase a product to achieve perfect exfoliation. Natural materials such as sea salt, ground oatmeal, and sugar are all excellent at exfoliating the skin, and leaving it soft and fresh.

Close Your Pores

Although it is important to open your pores to be able to get to the dirt and grime trapped inside, it is equally important to close and tighten the pores after everything has been removed to ensure the pores are not instantly exposed to the same toxins. A great way to tighten your pores is to do a cool water rinse after you exfoliate. A cucumber mask is also a wonderful and cooling way to tighten and soothe your skin.

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