Facial Creams that Work

If you've run the gamut of cosmetics that promise the world to leave you feeling disappointed, you're not alone. I'm not the only one (I sincerely hope) who's a sucker for packaging. Put a pretty jar into a prettier box, throw in some exotic ingredients and you'll have me practically believing I'm the model in the ad, flawless skin, perfect life et al. The power of advertisement (or do I mean propaganda?) can leave you lighter in the wallet, over and over, and over again. So if you're looking for facial creams that work, you're not alone in your search. Although not every face cream will work for you regardless of skin type, you may have found that certain brands suit your face better than others, over the spectrum of products they offer. It's also important to follow a daily skin care regimen to ensure that the products you use can work their best.

Facial Creams for Men

With the metro-sexual movement gaining momentum it's not surprising to see cosmetic companies jumping on the bandwagon with lines designed for male skin. While you may balk at using anything other than essentials, there are facial creams for men that do work, and are designed for male facial skin, which has a different set of requirements. On the whole, once you identify your skin type, keep in mind the following when you're selecting a product.

• Dry skin, which is typically flaky and, well, dry will respond well to face creams that are thicker and heavier.
• Oily skin, which is prone to blemishes and break-outs, generally looks shiny and tends to attract grime and dirt. Light moisturizers work well for oily skin, by eliminating the oiliness that facial creams tend to have.
• Normal skin is neither dry nor oily, breaks out only occasionally and generally smooth looking. Most moisturizers work well for normal skin.
• Combination skin is mainly normal skin, with a few dry and oily patches - most often cheeks are dry, with an oily T zone (forehead, nose and chin). A light moisturizer combined with a toner will help combat oily areas and hydrate dry patches.
• Sensitive skin is prone to irritation, redness, itching and stinging. Choose hypoallergenic products that are formulated for sensitive skin.

Facial Products That Work

I won't blame anyone for experiencing emotions from confusion to outright panic when you get to the cosmetic section - it's a mess out there, and every single skin cream product, irrespective of price make promises, more promises and still more. When you hit the stores, take the time out to read labels and look for specific ingredients that are meant for your skin type. Identify your skin goals - what are you hoping for? This could range from healthy hydrated skin to less wrinkles, acne treatments and everything in between so first understand your own needs. Also remember to pay attention to your skin type, and by and large, look for special formulations as per skin type, as opposed to 'all skin type' products in your search for facial creams that work. The following are some ingredients to look for, classified as according to skin type:

• Dry Skin - Look for ingredients that are known for their hydrating properties, like honey, glycerin, lanolin, shea butter and hydroxy acids.
• Oily Skin - Look for skin balancing ingredients like glycerin and panthenol. Avoid creams that contain petroleum products.
• Sensitive skin - Look for natural soothing ingredients like glycerin and honey, and avoid products with added fragrance and colors.

If you are prone to breakouts, there are facial creams for acne prevention and treatment; look for salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and oil free formulations that will help in reducing akin problems. As a rule, look for non-comodogenic products, in all skin formulations.

Apart from investing in facial creams that work, ensure you do your bit by eating healthy, exercising regularly and drinking plenty of water to keep skin looking fresh and healthy. Make it a habit to use a sunscreen whenever you step into the sun, or use a face cream with an inbuilt sunscreen. Though experimentation is the only way to figure out which facial creams work best for your skin, follow a daily ritual and you'll have great looking skin regardless!