September 4, 2013 THE VILLADOM TIMES II • Page 13 Be sure to get the facts about skin care tips With so many tips and tricks associated with skin care, it can sometimes be con- fusing to discern the help from the hype. While there are many worthwhile products on the market, many others are ineffective and simply not worth the price. However, certain care suggestions are universal and can help keep skin in top form. The most important thing is to protect skin from the sun. The American Cancer Society states that skin cancer is the most common of all cancers, accounting for nearly half of all cancers in the United States. More than two million cases of basal and squamous cell skin cancer are diagnosed in the United States each year. Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer. Using a sunscreen product and limiting time in the sun during the peak hours of the highest exposure to UV rays (between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.) are the two steps that can dramatically reduce the risk of develop- ing skin cancer. There is also special sun- protective clothing that can help block UV rays. Wearing wide-brimmed hats and long sleeves and pants also can protect the skin. Tugging, rubbing, and pulling on the skin can eventually lead to sagging and wrinkling. Although the skin is quite elas- tic and resilient, as one ages and skin dries out and becomes more delicate, it may be susceptible to more damage. Select soft cleansing pads or washcloths for washing the face and body. Avoid harsh soaps that can strip the skin of essential oils, unless a condition is present that requires the use of such cleansers. After showering, pat down skin so that some moisture remains on the body and apply a moisturizer to “lock in” that moisture. When shaving, be sure to do so gently, avoiding tugging on the skin, and shave in the direction the hair grows. Always use a sharp razor to avoid nicks and irritation. Keep in mind that shaving may be a more gentle method of hair removal than depila- tory creams or waxing. Contrary to popular belief, shaving does not cause hair to come back thicker or darker. At the initial grow-back period, the hair ends may be blunt, which could give the appearance of thicker hair, but that hair really is not thicker. Smoking has many negative conse- quences, including the ability to wrinkle and damage the skin. According to the Mayo Clinic, the repetitive action of pursing the lips to draw on the cigarette and squint- ing the eyes against the smoke can lead to deep lines and wrinkles. There is also something more sinister taking effect. Smoking is known to narrow the blood vessels in the body, including the tiny capillaries found in the outermost layers of skin. Lack of blood flow also means lack of oxygen and nutrients reaching the skin to keep it healthy. Smoking also may damage collagen and elastin -- the fibers that give skin its strength and elasticity. Furthermore, the tar in cigarette smoke can stain the skin, giving a yellowish appearance. Too much stress can take its toll on the body. In addition to causing lack of sleep, stress can cause hormonal changes that lead to breakouts and even hives. Slow down and take steps to reduce stress. The skin is the largest organ of the body, and, at times, it can seem invincible. However, skin is not immune to disease or other conditions, so men and women should emphasize skin care as part of their groom- ing routines.