Alpha hydroxy (hy-DRAWKS-ee) acids, or AHAs (A-H-As), are substances used in certain cosmetics and by skincare professionals to improve the look of the skin.

Proper cleansing can help skin look its best, but you don't need to go overboard. For most people, washing the face twice a day with mild soap and water is sufficient.

Collagen and Botox (BOE-tawks) are substances that are injected into the body for a variety of medical purposes, including the treatment of facial wrinkles.

If part of your face is normal or dry, with other areas that are oily, you're said to have "combination skin." This type of skin is very common, especially when seasonal changes in temperature may increase dry or oily patches.

Dry skin tends to be thin and fragile, with almost invisible pores. It often feels tight or rough to the touch. You may be born with dry skin or it may become that way as you age, when oil production gradually declines.

Exfoliation (eks-foal-ee-AY-shun) is the process of removing superficial layers in the outermost skin layer called the epidermis (ep-ih-DERM-ihs). Just below the epidermis is a layer of cells that divide and move upward to replace those which have died.

Having adequate fat under the facial skin can help a person look younger, but sometimes, excess fat may gather in certain areas like the cheeks, chin, or jaw line.

Glycolic (gly-CAWL-ihk) acid is a type of alpha hydroxy acid that's derived from sugar cane. It's one of most common substances used for light peels, procedures designed to rejuvenate the skin by removing its outermost layers.

The way your body feels, whether good or bad, tends to be reflected in your skin, especially on your face. Thus, a diet that promotes good general health can have a positive influence on your skin's appearance.

Moisturizers work by preventing the moisture inside your skin from escaping. While all skin needs moisture to stay healthy, those with dry skin will usually require heavier products.

In general, oily skin tends to resist aging longer than dry skin, but it may also develop shiny patches, have larger pores, and be prone to break-outs.

There are several ways to go about finding a dermatologist. One approach is to ask your primary care physician whom he or she might recommend; another is to obtain referrals from friends or co- workers.

Today, there are many options to address conditions like acne, wrinkles, blotchy skin, and general signs of aging. Treatments range from products available at a drug store to procedures performed by a skin care professional.

Sports can be a great way to stay in shape, but they can also take a toll on your skin by exposing you to the elements. Prolonged sun exposure can cause premature aging and increase your risk of skin cancer.

As you grow older, skin cells don't renew themselves as rapidly and the inner layer of skin called the dermis begins to thin. Underlying fat that helps fill out the skin is lost or migrates downward due to the effects of aging.