Basic skin care: a pragmatic approach to better skin using over-the-counter cosmeceuticals

Environmental exposures to ultraviolet radiation, wind, and tobacco smoke progressively damage the skin's cellular and extracellular structures resulting in wrinkles, sagging skin, irregular pigmentation, and skin cancers. These undesirable effects can be minimized with avoidance of the sun, tanning salons, and smoking. The topical application of prescription and non-prescription agents (cosmeceuticals) can provide additional benefits. Considering the vast array of topical non-prescription agents marketed to protect or repair damaged skin, it is difficult for consumers and physicians to choose the best options. Therefore, this article discusses recommendations from a dermatologist concerning the choice and use of over-the-counter cleansers, moisturizers, sunscreens, and rejuvenators to create individualized, daily skin care regimens for patients.