Part one of a new series...

Several of you wanted me to get into anti-aging products. Retinols and such. So, each day, I am going to cover different skin types and the anti-aging products they should use. I'm going to start with normal skin today.

Oh, and really quickly- if you aren't familiar with retinols (or retinoids) they are a vitamin A derivative. This helps erase wrinkles and creates more collagen. More collagen= a more youthful appearance.

Ok, let's be clear. If you are serious about a retinoid, you need to get a prescription from a dermatologist. Because that stuff is THE REAL DEAL. Retin A being the mother of all. If, however, you are wanting something that you're not going to have to pay a co-pay and then possibly an arm and a leg for at the pharmacy, I am going to recommend some of the over the counter products I think you would like.

If your skin is pretty normal, not too oily or dry, Olay's "Regenerist" line has gotten nothing but positive reviews since it came out. And it should! They've been in the skin care business since our grandmothers were buying cold cream at the dime store! The great thing is that it is an entire line- not just one cream. They have cleansers and eye treatments and moisturizers and serums! They are all made to work together. Visit http://www.olay.com/ and wander over to the Regenerist page. It has all the products, user reviews, and you can even chat live with a skin care expert on what products you should use! Did I mention you can also print out a coupon for your first purchase?

What the heck is that?

I know you've all heard of serums for your face. And, I'm sure there are some of you who are thinking "What is that? Do I need that? What's the deal?"

Here's the cool thing about a serum- it wears several hats. First, it packs a WALLOP of anti-oxidants for your skin. That helps your skin fight off all the junk that's floating around in the air every day. What does this mean for you? Oh, it only helps ward off those wrinkles/age spots/etc that show your age before you want them to.

Another plus? If you use a serum and then use a moisturizer on top of it, the serum acts like a microscopic ferry boat, if you will. Carrying the moisturizer deeper and more effectively into your pores.

Finally, some serums can also act as chemical exfoliants. Yet another way to get those pores cleaned out, making them appear smaller!

So, what serum is right for you? Choose one based on your skin type (dry? combination? oily?) and needs (age spots? clarifying?). A few that I think are note worthy would have to be Philosophy's "When Hope is Not Enough", First Aid Beauty's "Anti-Redness Serum", Patricia Wexler's "Acnescription Anti-Aging Acne Serum", and Olay "Regenerist Daily Regenerating Serum."