As we age, so does our skin. It is constantly bombarded by free radicals just like the internal organs of our body. Free radicals come from environmental sources (pollution, the sun), smoking, stress, food and other places. For the skin, free radical damage means that skin loses its elasticity.

Elasticity is its ability to stay tight and toned. Special fibers in the second layer of skin, the dermis, form a lattice network that strengthens skin. These are two proteins called collagen and elastin. Weaknesses in that network can lead to wrinkles and other conditions like age spots.

Now, no one wants to develop wrinkles. And, we certainly don’t want to look old before our time. Some people will inherit the type of skin that stays tight as they age and others will show signs of wrinkling. It’s the luck of the draw, but now there is fraxel laser therapy to even the odds.

What lasers can do

Lasers are made up of different wavelengths of light that can penetrate the surface of the skin. With fraxel laser therapy, areas of the skin are treated with many columns of laser light. The laser penetrates to the dermal layer of the skin where the protein fibers are forming collagen.

Each laser light makes a tiny wound in the skin. When the skin is wounded, cells rush to the sight of the wound to speed healing. In the event of dermal injury, this means that a new network of collagen and elastin is formed. The result is a tighter look to your skin just as you once had when you were younger.

Fraxel laser therapy is not just for wrinkles. It can be used for other skin conditions. The laser is set to penetrate the skin at the level of the problem like age spots or even acne. Surface problems are targeted and removed, leaving a clearer layer of skin.

Depending on your condition, you may need one treatment or several to return your skin to a smooth and blemish-free look. Fraxel procedures are performed in a doctor’s office by trained professionals. It rejuvenates the skin by speeding healing. Most patients are able to receive their treatments without further wound care.

Fraxel has been deemed safe for use by men and women of all ages. Most skin colors respond well to the treatment, but ask to be sure. Traditionally, ethnic groups with more melanin in their skin have experienced scarring with lasers. This procedure is different and offers a safer approach.

If you are interested in fraxel laser therapy, talk to your skin care professional. They can perform a skin evaluation and explain the possibilities of fraxel being right for you.

Despite the media coverage of makeover reality shows, the majority of Americans are not looking for extreme transformations. According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, most of us want to look better, naturally, with 68-percent preferring a subtle change. And experts agree that looking your best could be accomplished at home for considerably less.

Dr. Linda Franks, a leader in the specialized skin care frontier, says “To get that timeless, healthy look you need to start with an appropriate skincare regime. Taking good care of your skin can stave off fine lines, wrinkles, age spots and even dry skin.”

Where to begin? At the sink!

Doctors say whatever your skin type, the key is to cleanse it gently. Avoid hot water and use lukewarm instead, to prevent over-drying. And throw in the towel – traditional washcloths are too abrasive for the face, so use your hands and fingers.

Sixty-eight-percent of women claim to have sensitive skin which means dry, tight, chapped or easily irritated skin. Dr. Franks advises moisturizing regularly and avoiding harsh cleansers with ingredients such as fragrances, dyes and preservatives because sensitive skin is easily damaged and takes longer to recover.

If your skin is dry and easily irritated, don’t wash more than once a day. You may risk stripping the skin of its natural oils. Dr. Franks recommends looking for non-irritating cleansing washes that are soap-free, moisturizers that are light, oil-free, and water-based to help maintain the skin’s natural barrier. Another tip—make sure to choose a facial moisturizer with an SPF of at least 15, which protects against both UVB and UVA rays.

Skin sensitivity may also result from the third most common, non-surgical skincare procedure known as Microdermabrasion.

Microdermabrasion is a quick and easy, non-invasive procedure that helps to reveal healthier-looking skin by sweeping away dead skin cells. Dr. Franks reveals that, following the treatment, the best way to avoid irritation is by opting for an ultra-gentle cleanser and moisturizer.

A new clinical study shows that PURPOSE gentle cleansing wash and dual treatment moisture lotion with spf 15 are compatible with this procedure.

How else can you obtain optimal skin health?

Here are some other healthy basics to keep your skin looking its best:

Dr. Franks says, “Exercise opens up blood vessels to make skin look healthy and youthful. It’s so important for healthy skin.” Regular cardiovascular exercise increases blood flow to the skin which assists in collagen production. Maintaining muscle mass through exercise can also help anchor and support skin, keeping it taut.

And drink up! At least eight, eight-ounce glasses of water a day are crucial for optimal skin hydration.

So before you sign on for an extreme and expensive makeover, just think back on some simple, beauty basics! You just might like what you see!

About the Author

Recommended by dermatologists, PURPOSE® is the brand trusted by women who value simple and pure skin care products that leave their skin feeling clean, refreshed, and moisturized. Visit the new PURPOSE® web site for free skin care advice, promotions, and special offers.

2. Potpourri which has lost its scent can be revived by adding a few drops of essential oil.

3. Add a few drops of oil to water in a spray bottle and use as an air freshener.

4. Add a few drops essential oil to a pan of water and simmer on stove or in a potpourri pot.

5. To enjoy a scented candle, place a drop or two into the hot melted wax as the candle bums.

6. To dispel household cooking odors, add a few drops of Clove oil to a simmering pan or spray the area with peppermint oil and water.

7. For tired aching muscles or arthritis aches, mix 3 drops eucalyptus, 2 drops rosemary and 3 drops lavender oil to one ounce Sweet Almond or other vegetable oil and use as a massage oil.

8. Ease headache pain by rubbing a drop of Rosemary, Lavender or Peppermint oil onto the back of your neck.

9. To blend your own massage oil, add 3-5 drops of your favorite essential oil to 1 oz. of Sweet Almond or other skin- nourishing vegetable oil.

10. Add 10 drops of essential oil to a box of cornstarch or baking soda, mix very well, let set for a day or two and then sprinkle over the carpets on your home. Let set for an hour or more, then vacuum.

11. To make a natural flea collar, saturate a short piece of cord or soft rope with Pennyroyal or Tea Tree oil, roll up in a handkerchief and tie loosely around the animal’s neck.

12. Shoes can be freshened by either dropping a few drops of Geranium essential oil directly into the shoes or by placing a cotton ball dabbed with a few drops of Lemon oil into the shoes. Athlete’s foot? Tea Tree is great!

13. Put a few drops of your favorite essential oil on a cotton ball and place it in your vacuum cleaner bag. Lemon and Pine are nice. Rose Geranium helps with pet odors.

14. To fragrance your kitchen cabinets and drawers, place a good scent dabbed on a cotton ball into an inconspicuous comer.

15. Are mice a problem? Place several drops of Peppermint oil on a cotton ball and place at problem locations.

16. The bathroom is easily scented by placing oil-scented cottonballs in inconspicuous places, or sprinkle oils directly onto silk or dried flower arrangements or wreaths.

17. Apply true Lavender oil or Tea Tree oil directly to cuts, scrapes or scratches. 1 or 2 drops will promote healing.

18. Homemade soaps are pleasant and offer therapeutic effects when scented with essential oils. Use soaps which contain pure essential oils.

19. Homemade sachets are more fragrant when essential oils are blended with the flowers and herbs.

20. An essential oil dropped onto a radiator scent ring or light bulb will not only fill the room with a wonderful fragrance, but will also set a mood such as calming or uplifting. (Don’t put essential oil in the socket.)

21. A few drops of your favorite oil or blend in the rinse water of your hand washables makes for pleasant results.

22. Essential oils or blends make wonderful perfumes. Create your own personal essence! Add 25 drops to 1 oz of alcohol (100% vodka) and allow to age for two weeks before using.

23. 1 drop of Lemon essential oil applied directly to a wart is an effective means of elimination. Apply the essential oil daily until the wart is gone.

24. Rosemary promotes alertness and stimulates memory. Inhale occasionally during long car trips and while reading or studying.

25. Selling your home? Fragrance sells! Fill the kitchen area with the aroma of spice such as Clove. Geranium oil sprinkled throughout the home creates a warm, cheerful and inviting mood.

26. Add essential oils to paper mache. The result is the creation of a lovely aromatic piece of art.

27. Infuse bookmarks and stationery with essential oils. Place drops of oil on paper and put them in a plastic bag. Seal it and leave overnight to infuse the aroma. Send only good news in perfumed letters.

28. Neck pillows, padded and decorative hangers make more memorable gifts simply by putting a couple of drops of essential oil on them before giving.

29. Overindulge last night? Essential oils of Grapefruit, Lavender, Rosemary and Lemon help soften the effects of a hangover. Make your own blend of these oils and use a total of 6-8 drops in a bath.

30. Essential oils of Frankincense and Myrrh make wonderful firewood oil. Drop approximately 2-3 drops of oil or blend of your choice on a dried log and allow time for the oil to soak in before putting the log on the fire.

31. Flies and moths dislike Lavender oil. Sprinkle it on the outside of your window frames.

32. Place 1 or 2 drops of sleep enhancing oils such as Chamomile, or Lavender on your pillow before retiring for restful sleep.

33. When moving into a new home, first use a water spray containing your favorite essential oils and change the odorous environment to your own. Do this for several days until it begins to feel like your space.

34. Ideal scents for the bedroom are Roman Chamomile, Geranium, Lavender or Lemon.

35. One drop of Lemon essential oil on a soft cloth will polish copper with a gentle buffing.

36. When washing out the fridge, freezer or oven, add 1 drop of Lemon, Grapefruit or Bergamot essential oil to the final rinse water.

37. For burns or scalds, drop Tea Tree oil directly on the effected area.

38. Place 1 drop of Peppermint oil in 1/2 glass of water, sip slowly to aid digestion and relieve upset stomach.

39. Use 1 drop of Chamomile oil on a washcloth wrapped ice cube to relieve teething pain in children.

40. Six to eight drops of Eucalyptus oil in the bath cools the body in summer and protects in winter.

41. Add 1 drop Geranium oil to your facial moisturizer to bring out a radiant glow in your skin, to help promote firmness and rid yourself of fine lines, age spots and discoloration.

42. Place 1 or 2 drops of Rosemary on your hair brush before brushing to promote growth and thickness.

43. When the flu is going around add a few drops of Thyme, Peppermint and Eucalyptus oils to your diffuser or simmer in a pan on the stove.

44. To bring fever down, sponge the body with cool water to which 1 drop each of Eucalyptus, Peppermint and Lavender oils have been added.

45 The blend of Lavender and Grapefruit oil is good for the office. Lavender creates a calm tranquil atmosphere while Grapefruit stimulates the senses and clears up stale air.

46. A blend of Geranium, Lavender and Bergamot alleviates anxiety and depression. Use in a room diffuser or 6-8 drops of this blend in the bath.

47. A wonderful massage blend for babies is 1 drop Roman Chamomile, 1 drop Lavender, 1 drop Geranium diluted in 2 Tablespoons Sweet Almond oil.