When it comes to proper skin care many people are left guessing what to do. The market is so saturated with creams, serums, balms and the like that is difficult for the average consumer to know where to turn. There is no product line that works for everyone's skin. However, there are guidelines and suggestions that you can follow so that you are a bit less baffled when it comes to the skincare process. All you have to do is just remember the number three. That's all. The very foundation of healthy skin is adopting a three-step regimen. Step 1: Cleanse. Step 2: Tone: Step 3: Moisturize. It's that simple.

The three step plan is the best approach to caring for your face. On the daily basis your face exposed an unfathomable amount of dirt and pollution. If you wear make, the gunk left on your face once the day is over is compounded. Therefore, our facial skin needs to be thoroughly cleaned twice daily, to allow our pores to "breathe" and recover.

The first step, the cleansing step, removes the dirt that accumulates during the course of the day. It also helps to take off the layer of dead skin cells that develop naturally. The cleansing process freshens and revitalizes your skin and helps rid the face of any residue from makeup (when you wash in the evening), or any night skin care cream (when you wash in the morning.)

The second step, toning, is the most neglected. For some reason people deem it unnecessary. In actuality, one of the best things you can do to develop and maintain healthy skin is to tone after cleansing. Using a toner after you clean can help remove dead skin cells and any residue left over from cleansing. It also appears to aid in the restoration of the skin's healthy pH level, so that the skin can properly absorb the moisturizer in the final step. Furthermore, a good toner is one the key weapons in the battle against oily skin and clogged pores.

Moisturizer, the third and FINAL step in the process restores much needed moisture to the facial skin, which is essential for keeping the skin's elasticity and youthful, healthy look. Even people with oily skin need moisturizing skin care makeup cream. Fortunately, there are some moisturizers designed specifically for the proper care and treatment of oily skin. There is no need fear moisturizer if you have oily or combination skin. Just be sure to look for products that are truly compatible with your skin type.

Now that you know what to do, let's discuss what to use. Some of these products may be just what you need to get your skincare regimen started.

Clinique is one of the most recognizable names in the skin-care industry and one of the most trusted. It is no mistake that they have created one of the most effective and intensive 3-step processes on the market. The company has had the foresight to sell the entire process in individual pieces AND as a kit. It is virtually a fool proof process as all you have do it pick which kit is best for your skin type. The choices are treatment for dry skin, normal to combination skin and oily skin. Just pick your product and see your way to healthy skin. Clinique is available at Clinique.com and various department stores including Macy's and Lord & Taylor. ( $12.50 - $77.50)

Many consumers are looking to go with an all natural alternative to their skincare process. Carol's Daughter has been long known for its natural hair care and bath and body products. The company whose claim to fame is "beauty by nature" now has facial skincare products that make use of nature's best, most delectable and aromatic ingredients. The facial care product line includes ingredients that assist in balancing the skin's moisture; like geranium, lemongrass and lavender. It includes products that are sold separately so that you can pick the right combination for your skin-care needs or pick one of packages that cater specifically to your skin type. You can pick from normal.to-dry skin or normal-to-oily skin, respectively and aptly named the Bring in the Moisture Skin Care Set and Wash Away the Oil Skin Care Set. It is a great investment for various skin types and people that want to use products with ingredients they can readily pronounce. Carol's Daughter is available through its own retail stores and the holy temple of all things beauty, Sephora. ($15–$60)
 

If you are looking to get in some anti-aging while you get in all your steps, look no further than Hydroxatone™, the brand that people are raving about because as their tag line states, they are truly "Rejuvenating Beauty Through Science." Not only does the prestigious line of Hydroxatone™ products have all the essentials to complete the 3-step skin care process, but the line is specifically infused with 3 key ingredients that are proven to visibly reduce the signs of aging: Matrixyl 3000, Argireline and Hyaluronic Acid. The line was specifically designed to be non- irritant and gentle on the skin The Hydroxatone™ Gently Milky Cleanser, Age-Defying Toner and Hydroxatone AM/PM Anti-Wrinkle Complex all combine to give you younger and healthier skin. If you'd like a add a little umph to the cleansing process, try the Hydroxatone Revitalizing Microdermabrasion to further exfoliate any excess dead skin cells and reveal fresh new skin. Hydroxatone ™ is available through the beauty site Hydroxatone.com and in stores through beauty retailer, Ulta. ($20–$80)

If you are looking to enjoy a product line that is as varied as the rainbow, you should definitely look into Philosophy. With product names like Purity made Simple, Hope in a Jar and When Hope Is Not Enough; it is no wonder that consumers are questioning if the product can live up to their lofty names. The Purity made Simple is the cleanser. What's great about this is that its main and most potent ingredient is water. Yes water. From the first step in your treatment your skin is being hydrated. Some cleansers tend to dry out the skin; you will not get this with Philosophy. Then, your already super hydrated skin is ready take on the rest of the process that produces and amazing healthy and long-lasting glow throughout the day. For you convenience, the line is also available for sell in individuals pieces and sets. You can find Philosophy at various department stores including, Dillard's or at beauty retailer, Sephora. ($10–$95)

A proper cleansing, toning and moisturizing routine can keep your face healthy no matter what type of skin you have. Facial cleansing removes built-up oil, sweat and dirt; toning tightens your pores; and moisturizing keeps your skin soft. Follow a regular facial skin care routine you can fight blemishes as well as signs of aging. It is never too early or late in life too to begin caring for your skin with the love that it deserves. Furthermore, the process will take only a few minutes a day to complete and you'll enjoy the results for a lifetime. That is not a bad trade off, is it?