Growing up, I was lucky enough to have a mother who introduced me to skincare at a very early age. From 7ish on, I would meet her in her bathroom at bedtime and she would apply cleanser and creams to herself and then me. I loved our little ritual and I have been doing it myself ever since. All these years later, when I compare myself to others in my age bracket, I realize just how much it was worth the (minimal) effort.

Working on faces the way that I do; I suppose one could say I obsess over skin. No matter what look I am going for, I always perfect the client’s skin first. Foundation can do wonders, but when the skin underneath is flawless–any make up, simple or complex will look spectacular.

Walking into a department store, you might think that you need to buy everything on the planet to maintain a healthy, radiant complexion. But the truth is, better skin can be achieved in a few simple steps.

First, drink water. Every day, drink as much as you can. If you are not hydrated inside, how can you expect to be hydrated outside? Simple right?

For the skin itself, I recommend that you perform a 2-step home microdermabrasion at least once a week. This will sluff off the dead skin and stimulate the renewal process as it nourishes and moisturizes. If large pores are an issue for you, which they are for many people, then this step is vital. I LOVE the 4VOO microdermabrasion. The two sizes of mineral crystals act as a deep exfoliator, nourishing as they clean and tone. The second step, an energizing mask, uses vitamins and botanical extracts to stimulate and support the natural renewal process. The 4VOO line is marketed toward men, but don’t let that stop you from picking up a set of your own. The ingredients are top of the line and the results are phenomenal. www.4VOO.com

Secondly, you need to cleanse your face twice daily. For most of you, I am sure this is nature by now but for those few who still don’t, start. If you don’t know what to use, try cetaphil. It is gentle enough to be used on any skin type. The dermatologist approved ingredients will calm and sooth the skin as they clean. The end result will leave you feeling soft and supple. And, at $12 for a huge bottle, you can’t beat the price. Another Personal favorite is Obaji cleanser. It is available only through a dermatologist or plastic surgeon but it is well worth the office visit. If you already have a cleanser you like, stick with it. Why fix what isn’t broken. But, if you are using body soap on your face, STOP! I am begging you. It is harsh and over drying. Throw out that bar and choose one that is formulated for the face.

Third, moisturize. A good moisturizer will heal and repair the skin while providing long lasting moisture. Like I said before, if you have one that you like (one that has given you results), stick with it. But, if you’ve seen no results or, God forbid, you don’t use one, start with Avon. The science behind the line is astounding. My medicine cabinet is full of it (honestly), and you don’t have to wait for someone to come knocking on your door, just go to www.avon.com. I love the ANEW, Retroactive and clinical lines but check out the site to find what would suit your skin best.

In case you didn’t know, sun damage is the biggest offender to perfect skin (especially as we age). I know that asking many of you to stay out of the sun is like asking you not to breathe, so I’ll save my breath and just tell you to wear sunscreen daily. The sun's ultraviolet rays break down our collagen, the tissue that gives your skin its resiliency and elasticity. Many foundations have sunscreen in them. Try and choose one that protects against UVA and UVB rays (Cover FX for example). If you have a foundation that doesn’t have sunscreen (or if you don’t wear foundation) head to your dermatologist and ask about Obagi if you want it to be colorless or if you want one with a little color choose Tizo3. Its well balanced color makes it an ideal very sheer tinted moisturizer. If you want to order the Obagi or the Tizo3, contact the office of Dr. Roxanne Guy, MD, F.A.C.S., at 321.727.1600. 

See, it’s easy! These are the minimal steps to a flawless canvas. Follow them and you will see a transformation. If you are a woman who does all this and more, I applaud you. Keep it up. If a skin care routine seems like a hassle to you, keep this in mind…. As you age, it all comes down to one thing…. your beauty depends on the care you put in. So, take good care of skin… you only get one.

Beginning next week, I am going to start an ongoing monthly post with Dr. Roxanne Guy. As one of the nations most renown plastic surgeons, I know her body of knowledge will come as a great benefit to all of us (for preventative and otherwise).  I will have a full bio about her next week but if you would like a teaser, check out www.drguyplasticsurgery.com.

If you have questions for me (or the amazing Dr. Guy) please post them along with your comments below. I will (eventually) answer them all!