Caring for the skin is no small task because it is the largest organ of the body. Those who live in the Las Vegas desert know how difficult it is to keep the skin clean, hydrated and youthful-looking. The dry air and the harsh rays of the sun team up to destroy skin cells. Unprotected skin can develop wrinkles and sags and can even form sunspots or cancerous lesions. However, those who care for their skin faithfully every day can keep wrinkles and spots at bay, have soft and supple skin and can retain their radiant, youthful beauty.The desert is a hot and arid place to live. Although the lack of humidity in the air can translate into fewer aches and pains in the joints and less frizzy air, the dry air can spell disaster for the skin. Water, which makes up 75% of the skin, can be quickly sapped from the skin cells throughout the day. The simplest way to hydrate skin is to drink plenty of water. Individuals should also avoid caffeinated beverages, which are extremely dehydrating.
However, the skin must also be directly moisturized. Choosing gentle cleansers is vital because harsh chemicals can strip natural oils from sensitive facial skin. Organic cleansers are often the gentlest options because they contain many natural ingredients. Cucumber, chamomile and white tea extract are calming ingredients. Individuals with very dry skin should find a creamy facial cleanser, such as the Intense Hydration Cream Cleanser by Burt’s Bees. Even people with oily skin or acne can find cleansers that will moisturize without leaving the face greasy. Good & Clean Gentle Acne Wash by Alba Botanica is a great option. While gentle exfoliating is good for removing dead skin cells and allowing moisturizers to be more effective, it should be done no more often than once a week.
After cleansing the skin, it must be moisturized with products that are designed for one’s skin type. Once again, those with very dry skin should look for rich creams. Clinique’s Moisture Surge Intense Skin Fortifying Hydrator is perfect for those with the driest skin types while Neutrogena’s Oil-Free Moisture is light enough for combination skin.
While many focus on moisturizing the face, the rest of the body must be hydrated as well. The winter months require heavy hydration, such as that offered by Alba Botanica in its Maximum Strength Very Emollient Body Lotion, which hydrates without feeling greasy. Another good and economical option is Eucerin Daily Protection.
Eucerin Daily Protection contains more than just soothing moisturizers. It also includes 15 SPF sunscreen. Skin should never be left without sun protection in the desert. Hats with large brims can protect the face and eyes somewhat but do not do nearly as good of a job as sunscreen does. Some choose never to wear sunscreen, falsely believing that their tans will protect their skin from damage. Other only wear sunscreen in the summer, not realizing that winter sun in the desert can still be exceptionally strong and can cause skin cancer. The easiest way to wear sunscreen is to purchase facial and body moisturizers that include SPF. Some makeup brands, such as Clinique foundations, even have SPF in them.
Those who live in Las Vegas or who have visited this fun, sunny city understand how harsh the air and the sun can be on their skin. Without protection, skin can age quickly and can develop dangerous melanomas. However, with a double dose of hydrators and sunscreen, the skin can be protected and even healed from the harsh desert atmosphere.
By Ruth Johnson
