Better Skin, Fast and Cheap

Sept. 27, 2006 — -- So many women look for the fountain of youth in a tube of high-priced skin cream or plastic surgery.

But "Good Morning America" contributor Dr. Loretta Ciraldo, professor of dermatology at the University of Miami, says that you don't need to spend a lot of money -- or go to the dermatologist -- to rejuvenate your skin.

"The solution to some of the most common problems is a mixture of common sense and medical knowledge," Ciraldo said.

"And it took me a long time, too, to discover what works and what doesn't. I heard some of these things, but I didn't always believe them. Experience -- personally and in my practice -- is the best teacher."

Ciraldo's new book, "6 Weeks to Sensational Skin," is filled with low-cost and free tips on how to freshen up your skin, no matter your age.

Below are a few of her favorites.

Take "orientation" photos of your face to get a clear picture of your problem spots. You'll want to take three -- one head-on shot and profiles for each side of your face.

Photographs will give you a much more accurate depiction of your skin problems than a magnifying mirror, which distorts the appearance of your face. The pictures will help give you a realistic idea of what to address.

Over a six-week period, keep updating the photos to see how far you've come.

Puffy eyes happen for a few reasons. Many of the most popular lotions women use at night contain Retin-A or glycolic acid. Both can cause a minimal irritation to the skin. Then, when you lay your head on your pillow, you're increasing the risk of irritation.

An easy solution is to get a pillowcase with a high-thread count, like 400 -- which is much softer on the face.

Another solution is to wash the case in a detergent like All Free & Clear, one that removes all dust mites, cat dander and fragrance -- three things that might cause allergies and contribute to puffy eyes and creases. Wash your pillowcase twice a week to really protect your skin.