YOUR FRIENDS' ACTIVITY

    Combat fall skin care issues

    Does the change of seasons present a problem for your sensitive skin? Windy, autumnal weather, rich, comfort foods and the wrong skin care create the perfect storm for some skin types. According to the National Library of Medicine, "Your skin separates the inside of your body from the outside world. It protects you from bacteria and viruses, and regulates your body temperature." However, certain conditions can cause uncomfortable symptoms like swelling, itching and redness. During fall, there are three major skin care issues to consider.

    Redness: Wearing those fall fashions (featuring long sleeves, tights and pants) can rub your skin in ways it doesn't like. The results? Reddish skin that feels hot to the touch. Combat this problem by keeping your skin lubricated with a soothing vitamin E lotion, drinking water and green tea and cutting out fried foods from your diet. Also, launder your fall clothing before you wear them the first time and use unscented fabric softener regularly. Amp up the facial moisturizer to shield your skin from wind chafing.

    Dryness: Skin dryness is typical during fall because so many of us flip on our heating systems when the temps drop. Hot, dry air swirling around your home isn't good for the skin. Combat this issue by running a humidifier and avoid cranking the heat up past 70F. Eat foods loaded with omega-3 and cook using olive oil.

    Pigmentation: Once summer is over, it's tempting to put away the sunscreen but don't. Hyper pigmentation that causes age spots and freckles are a common fall skin problem. Take your sun protection seriously while you rake leaves and play outdoors. Also, take vitamin C and lactic acid as they can smooth out uneven skin tone.