Top tips for the perfecting skin at home

Your skin serves many purposes. It is the body's first line of defense against infections and bacteria, it regulates your temperature, it is a waterproof barrier, it offers protection to more sensitive tissues and, if you take care of it, it can keep you looking good. In order to maintain the condition of your skin, you don't have to follow the trends set by celebrities and sign up for the first available Botox treatment. While Botox may be an effective anti wrinkle treatment, paying for a regular Botox injection is outside of most of our budgets. Instead, there are a number of anti aging precautions you can follow in the comfort of your own home.

Firstly, it is worth identifying your skin type. Most of us are not aware of our skin types and it may be that we exacerbate certain problems through our ignorance. Online research or, better still, a visit to a dermatologist or skin clinic can help you identify the type of skin you have. In addition, it will save you a lot of money on buying the wrong skin care products. If you choose to visit a dermatologist, ask their advice in how best to care for your skin.

Water is an essential part of looking after your skin. Not only does it keep your skin hydrated and supple, but it also helps to flush out toxins and free radicals that encourage the signs of aging. In addition, eating plenty of fruit and vegetables can produce tangible results. Look for foods that contain high levels of antioxidants, such as red grapes and mangoes. Antioxidants help to remove oxides and free radicals from the skin which cause damage and wrinkles.

While you're protecting your skin from the inside, it is also worth protecting it from the outside. Using chemical-free skin care products can have as much effect as a Botox injection, provided you know what to look for. In addition to eschewing chemicals, look for products that are high in antioxidants. Moisturisers will hydrate the cells and the antioxidants will not only help to remove free radicals, but there are some products which destroy unhealthy tissue and promote the growth of new and healthy cells, encouraging a more youthful and vigorous appearance.

Be aware of the elements. The sun, wind and rain all have an effect on the skin. If you are an ‘outdoor type', then you should have supplies of sun-cream and skin-barriers to protect against the weather. Most people are aware of sunburn, but not many are aware that the skin can be equally burned by cold wind. Prolonged exposure to these conditions without protection does not only come with short-term effects, such as burning, but also long-term effects, such as premature lines and wrinkles.

Exercise is not only good for your skin, but is also for your general well-being. Exercise promotes sweat to clean out the pores, dilates blood-vessels which feed the skin and keeps it taut by testing its elasticity. It is often easy to detect those who exercise regularly, simply by the condition of their skin.

While many of us yearn for the day we can afford the price of an anti wrinkle injection you may find that, by taking care of your skin, when that day finally comes, you may not need it.

Gill Grozier - sk:n was established in 1990 and is the UK's leading provider of skincare conditions treatment and products including: botox, anti wrinkle treatment and laser treatments such as hair removal and laser tattoo removal. Contacts For interviews, images or comments contact: Gill Grozier Marketing Manager Email: gill.grozier@lasercare-clinics.co.uk