We have all done some weird things to our skins in the name of having smooth perfect skin. The lifelong search for the best skincare and beauty hacks is real. When it comes to everything skin, each year brings fresh trends, and hordes of people are ready to try them out. Without the certainty that it is good or bad for their skin.

              The skin is the largest organ of the body, makes up about 15% of total body weight, consists of three layers; epidermis which is the outermost layer of the skin provides a waterproof barrier and creates our skin tone. The dermis, contains tough connective tissues, hair follicles, and sweat glands. The hypodermis has fat and connective tissues. The skin color is made up of cells called melanocytes, which produce the pigment melanin. The principal function of the skin includes protection, regulation of the body temperature, and sensation.

Different people have different skin types, a skin routine that works for one person can’t work for another person. For you to know what works for your skin there are a few common characteristics of skin types which include;

• Oily skin produces an excess of sebum that causes the skin to appear shiny and greasy, especially throughout the nose, forehead, and chin.
• Dry skin is dull and may become high, flaky, or even scaly. It often feels tight and may be prone to showing more visible lines. Gets irritated with environmental factors.
• Normal skin is balanced. It is not prone to breakout. Pores are generally tiny making the skin texture smooth, and it is less likely to be prone to sensitivity.
• Combination skin includes dry and oily skin, the nose and forehead being oily and the cheeks being either dry or normal.

Sensitive skin is referred to as a skin type, but you can have oily and sensitive skin, dry and sensitive skin, or normal and sensitive skin. However, a daily skincare routine can help maintain overall healthy skin. Basic steps you can incorporate in your daily morning and night routine:

• Cleansing: Choose a cleanser that will not leave your skin tight after washing. Clean your face not more than twice a day, or just once, if you have dry skin and don’t wear makeup. Avoid washing for that dry feel because that means you will be cleaning all oils from your skin.
• Serums: a serum with vitamin c would be better in the morning, under sunscreen. At night retinol works best.
• Moisturizer: Even oily skin needs moisturizer, but use one that is lightweight, gel-bases, or doesn’t block your pores. Dry skin may benefit from more cream-based moisturizers.
• Sunscreen: apply sunscreen 15mins before heading outdoors, as it takes a while for sunscreen to activate. Darker skin tones need more sun protection because hyperpigmentation is harder to correct.

Many people have different hacks on how to heal skin problems like acne bumps and dark spots. But the truth is DIY hacks may cause long-term harm than benefit because they may damage the skin. Hacks you should avoid;

1. Lemon juice may have citric acid, but is far too acidic and can irritate the skin.
2. Baking soda, at a PH of 8, will stress our skin and cause dry skin.
3. Garlic, when used raw can cause skin allergies, eczema, skin inflammation, and watery blisters.
4. Toothpaste, the ingredients can kill germs and absorb oil, but it can also dry out or irritate your skin.
5. Sugar, as an exfoliate, sugar is too harsh for the skin on your face.

Let us all learn to take care of our skin by drinking water, eat fruits and vegetables, apply sunscreen every day, and in case of any skin complication visit a dermatologist who will advise you on the best way forward.