THE ROSCEA SKIN CARE PICTURE

Consider the bodys largest organ: the skin.

It protects our internal organs against injury and infection.

It works as a cooling system that helps us regulate our body temperature.

It contains a network that relays important sensations ranging including pain to pleasure, and its a daily reminder of our genetic heritage and physical health. The skin also reveals our personal history with scars, freckles, moles and wrinkles.

For some people, the skin is just there. They dont worry about aging or sunburn or myriad skin-related ailments. Theyre fortunate that way. These are the people who didnt have pimples in high school, arent overweight and always tan evenly.

For the rest of us, those who risk a sunburn even while wearing SPF 30, we might need a little guidance in taking care of our largest organ. As always, the library is the best place to start with research:

- Superskin, by Kathryn Marsden. The inspiration for this book came from the authors years of depression and misery caused by skin problems doctors could not resolve. Marsden is a nutritionist with more than a decade of practitioner experience. Her book is full of essential tips for skin care and provides a tailored natural health strategy.

- Total Skin: The Definitive Guide to Whole Skin Care for Life, by Dr. David J. Leffell. This book addresses topics including how to look younger, how to detect skin cancer, vitamin Es effects on scars, treatment for skin infections, allergies and other irritations, whether facials will improve skin quality and safety issues involving liposuction.

- A Dermatologists Guide to Home Skin Treatment, by Dr. William Dvorine. Many of the problems for which dermatologists are consulted can easily be treated at home. Dvorine tells you what he would prescribe for the most common skin ailments, which ones you can take care of yourself and which ones require a visit to the doctor.

- Naturally Healthy Skin, by Stephanie Tourles. The book includes dozens of healing recipes made from natural ingredients, such as essential oils, fruits, herbs and flowers. It includes solutions to common skin problems, including acne, age spots, eczema, hives, psoriasis, rosacea and sunburn; tips for enhancing skin health with vitamins and whole-food supplements; and the authors daily beauty rituals.

- Great Face With Zia Wesley-Hosford. This video features basic skin care and do-it-yourself facials, plus tips for acupressure face lifts and other face-saving techniques.

- Face Fitness: A Mans Guide to Looking His Best, by Daniel Eastman.

- Holistic Skin Is ... In: How to Care for Your Skin Topically, Through Natural and Holistic Ways, by Dalia Santina, Ph.D.