Dark circles are a very common complaint and can worsen with time as the surface skin thins.

Try to get adequate sleep and on waking, tap the skin lightly with the fingertips, using a refreshing gel - this will improve circulation.

Use a fine film of concealer, blending carefully.

Finding your skin type is the key to developing an effective skincare programme.

Knowing a little about the structure of your skin will help you appreciate why certain things are good for it and others are not. Understand your skin and you are halfway to a flowing, healthy complexion.

The skin is formed from three main layers: the epidermis, dermis and hypodermis.

The epidermis is the outermost layer and is a microscopic 0.2 mm (8/1000 in) thick on the face. The surface consists of dead cells which are in the process of flaking away and new ones which are growing to take their place. Between the epidermis and dermis lies the basal layer, where new epidermal cells are formed and progress to the surface. It takes approximately twenty-eight days for a new cell to reach the top.
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Choosing the right type of cleanser, toner and moisturizer is the key to the healthiest, clearest skin.

The skin responds best to a regular routine, which can be quick but must be a discipline. Now that you have found out your skin type, learn the best cleansing and moisturizing system for you.

CLEANSING
This is a top priority if you want to have good skin. A quick cleanse in the morning (to remove toxins that have readied the surface via the sweat glands) and a thorough cleanse at night are important for every skin type. Soap doesn’t remove make-up and can be drying, so use soap-free cleansing bars, or wash-off or wipe-off cleansing creams instead.

Toner, or freshener, removes the last traces of dirt and excess cleanser. Some toners contain alcohol to remove excess oil, but alcohol-free toners are a better choice. Toner containing alcohol can be drying and should be diluted even for oily skins.

Removing eye make-up
• Dab a little eye make-up remover on to two cotton wool pads. Never use tissue on eyes.
• Using one pad for each eye (to avoid the spread of infection), hold it against your lashes for a few seconds to dissolve the make-up.
• Supporting the skin by placing the fingers of your opposite hand on your brow, stroke in towards your nose and down from your eyebrow. Don’t move the pad up and out as you will pull the skin in the wrong direction.
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