We often hear about complex skin care regimens that require extra time from your day and a significant investment of your money. All of us would like to have great looking skin that has a healthy, radiant glow.

Having great skin begins with a healthy skin care routine. A simple skin care tip is to evaluate your current routine before spending any money on fancy skin care products.

By following these basic skin care tips, you can help enhance your skin and not empty your pocketbook.

Tip 1: Wash Your Skin Daily

Pure water will get your body clean. You should use a mild, unscented soap on your face, under your arms and in the groin area. Be sure the soap has emollient and moisturizing ingredients. Don't use antibacterial cleansers; they can dry your skin.

Tip 2: Moisturize Your Skin
Drink plenty of clean, filtered water; healthy skin needs hydration from the inside as well as out. After you shower and before completely drying your skin apply a moisturizing cream or lotion to your skin This will help lock in the moisture already on your skin.

Your most effective moisturizers will contain ingredients derived from plant oils and natural antioxidants.

Tip 3: Don't Smoke
Smoking causes wrinkles around your mouth. It also dehydrates your skin and can give it a dull look.

Tip 4: Protect Your Skin from the Sun

Over time, ultraviolet radiation from the sun damages your skin Both UVA and UVB rays harm your skin cells. In addition to using a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) 15 or more, don't forget the simple things:

- Avoid the mid-day sun between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.
- On strong sunny days, wear hats that cover your face

Be sure to also review what you eat. A well balanced diet that is rich in dark, leafy green vegetables like spinach and broccoli is great for your skin These vegetables contain antioxidants which help your skin to fight off the damage from free radicals.

While there are certainly more steps you can take to improve the health of your skin these tips should give you a good start without having to spend hundreds of your hard earned dollars on elaborate skin care products.