FOR A PERFECT SKIN: HAVE A GOOD SKIN CARE ROUTINE

You might be surprised to learn that many skin products contain ingredients that scientific studies have deemed 'harmful to our skin' or 'not beneficial'.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) penetrates the skin and damages its protective barrier function. Formaldehyde can irritate the skin and trigger allergic reactions such as rashes and heart palpitations. It can also aggravate asthma. Parabens DEA and MEA can cause skin and mouth irritations.

Sunscreen should play a starring role in your quest for younger-looking skin. Apply to the parts of your body that age the fastest - face, neck, decolletage and hands. Look for one that is formulated for children or toddlers as these are likely to be fragrance-free and lower in synthetic chemicals.

If you have dry or flaky skin, or wrinkles and premature ageing, exfoliating with a granulated cream or scrub will leave your skin looking and feeling smoother. Don't exfoliate your skin if you have acne or broken skin such as wounds, bites or rashes.