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Many women seem to think that slathering on any moisturiser before going to bed will solve all their skin problems. Nothing can be further from the truth. Proper skin care requires a lot more than just an application of moisturiser. You have to follow a fairly strict daily regimen to derive the best benefits of any routine. A regimen that takes but a few minutes of your time but which, if done properly, will give you tremendous benefits. Five minutes and four easy, pleasurable steps! That`s all it takes to make your skin glow! Ready?

• Begin with steam. Ideal time for steaming your face is bedtime when you are ready to get rid of the dirt and grime accumulated during the day. Use a facial steamer for proper steaming. Don`t have one? Never mind. Soak a washcloth with steaming water, wring it lightly and hold the cloth close to your face. Steam the face for about 1½ minutes. Feel the steam entering your pores and opening them up.
• Done with steaming? Get ready to cleanse your face. Splash warm water liberally. Take a generous amount of face cleanser into your hands, mix it with a little water and work up a lather. Massage this into your face using your fingertips in a circular motion for 30 seconds. Include your neck in this massage. Rinse with warm water and gently pat your skin dry with a soft towel. Remember to avoid massaging the delicate area around your eyes.
• The next step is toning. What you need to use here is an alcohol-free toner as the ones that are alcohol based have a drying and damaging effect on the skin. Dampen some cotton in the toner and gently wipe your entire face and neck. With this step, you will be rid of any residue dirt that might have escaped the previous steps. It also helps to close your pores and prepares your skin for the next step. After this step, you will find that your face is quite squeaky clean.
• The last step in your beauty regimen is moisturising. Take a small amount of moisturiser and apply it in a circular motion on your face and neck. Take care that you do not over-apply as that might cause more harm than good. It is only if the previous steps have been diligently followed that you can expect the moisturiser to do its work which is to condition, moisten and protect your complexion. With this final step, you can rest assured that you have completed your daily skin care regimen. You realise that you have but spent exactly 5 minutes of your time but those 5 minutes are an investment towards making your skin glow with good health even as you grow older. You have, in fact, invested in a lifetime of beauty for yourself.