What Can I Do To Tone My Face?

by Liz
(Massachusetts)

Q: I am 31 years old and have noticed my face isn't as tight as it used to be.

I have been using Neutrogena toning scrub and Olay anti-aging cream cleanser but I just seem to be breaking out and not getting any tighter.

Please help with tips on how to achieve toned, even skin. What type of facials are best for the woman of color and how often should I get one?

A: Hi Liz. The scrub sounds like a good idea because it sloughs off the dead skin cells from your face, but depending on what type of skin you have (dry, normal, oily or combination) the creme cleanser might not be a very good idea as it has a tendency to clog pores in combination and oily skin types.

That aside, the best thing you can use to both deep clean and firm your skin at the same time is a good clay mask.

Two that I use an recommend are the Queen Helene Masque Mint Julep and the Freeman, Beautiful Skin Avocado and Oatmeal Clay Masque.

As these clay masks dry, they firm and tone the skin as well as draw out the impurities from deep down in the pores.

When you're just starting out and if your skin isn't on the dry side, it's perfectly fine to use these clay masks every night. As the condition of your skin improves you can easily cut down to 1-3 times a week and maintain the results.

As you'll see when you check these products out there's not expensive at all and you can have beautiful firmer skin on a budget!

Good luck and let me know your results. :)