Skincare Part 1: Cleansers and Sunscreen

At a certain stage in a gardener's life, she (or he) realizes that sunscreen alone ain't gonna cut it. 

For me that revelation happened about three years ago after a week long stint in the Grand Canyon floating down the Colorado River in a wooden dory.  Too much sun, too much grit, too much sweat and sunscreen...and when I got home my complexion shouted


UNCLE!  I just can't take it any more!

and my rosacea prone skin through a major hissy fit.  Thanks to my dermatologist, a WONDERFUL skin care book by Dr. Leslie Baumann entitled The Skin Type Solution (order it here), and extensive trial and error, I've developed a regimen that I'm often asked about, so I thought I'd share it with you.

(Mind you, this regime works for me and my skin type.  To find out yours, I highly recommend reading the book.)

Cleanser  I alternate between Cetaphil (or its knock-off) and Dove Soap.  Both are inexpensive, can be found anywhere, and are very gentle on sensitive skin.  (the Dove is much better about taking off your eye make-up...)  Other gentle cleansers are available, but these work for me.

Next:  The 'is it REALLY worth it? purchase.


The Clarisonic  By now, most of you have probably heard of or read about this sonic wave skin machine.  (Made by the Sonicare toothbrush company). Read about it and find one here.  At around $200 it is no small investment, but I assure you it's worth it. Less expensive drugstore versions just aren't the same.  Better to save for the real thing.  Trust me on this one.

Sunscreen  I adore Neutrogena Liquid Sunscreen and practically buy it by the case. It leaves no white residue or tackiness and I use it every day.  Religiously. Every day.  Did I say EVERY DAY.  You can find it most anywhere and when I find it on sale (it's pricier than other sunscreens), I stock up.

Next Installment:  Skincare Part II.  Potions, serums, and creams.  Oh my!

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