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How to Assess Your Skin

The first step in picking skin care products are right for you is to know what your skin needs.

Trust yourself: No one knows your skin better than you. These tips will help.

Assess Your Skin Before You Buy

Before you shop for skin care products, you should know:

  • Your skin type. Is it oily, dry, normal, sensitive, or a combination?
  • Your skin complexion. Does your skin burn easily, rarely, or never?
  • Your skin care goals. Are you trying to prevent premature aging? Do you have a skin problem, such as acne or rosacea, or other concerns, such as dark circles under your eyes or fine lines?
  • Your personal habits. Do you smoke? Do you spend a lot of time in the sun? Do you take a daily vitamin? Do you eat a well-balanced diet? All these factors may affect how you should care for your skin.

This information can help you sort through skin care products for those that suit you. If you need help, ask a dermatologist or an aesthetician at a skin care counter for recommendations.

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