This is a nice list of ways to keep your skin healthy and beautiful. This list is courtesy of the University of Washington with my notes in italics and in parenthesis:

Tips for maintaining good skin care:

• Avoid soaps labeled “antibacterial” or “antimicrobial.” These tend to reduce the skin’s acidity, which acts as a protection from infection. (my note–Yesssss. I’ve been saying this for years!)
• Keep the skin clean and dry. Wash with soap and water daily, then rinse and dry thoroughly. (not positive I agree with this one. I don’t think many people need to bathe every day and I certainly don’t use soap everyday and just about never (my whole life) on my face.)
• Skin folds or creases (as in the groin area and underarms) need washing more frequently – twice a day, morning and bedtime. Rashes can easily form in these areas because of increased moisture and warmth. Increasing the air circulation to these areas to help prevent rashes can be accomplished by positioning the arms and legs so the skin surfaces are separated. For example, use the “frog” position to air the groin area. Air these areas two times a day. (funny visual with this one…we should most likely do as little ones do and try to be naked more!)
• Rashes can be caused by tapes, soaps, fabrics or other irritants. Total body rashes may result from food or drug allergies. Consult your health care provider for treatment of these and any other rashes you may have. (try wearing clothes made from natural fibers-organic if possible)
• Avoid using items that may dry the skin – for example, harsh soaps or alcohol based products such as lotions. (A good non-drying lotion to use is Alpha Keri.) (Check the Environmental Working Groups’s web site for a list of safe products)
• Lubricate dry skin with moisturizing creams or ointments (such as Eucerin or Aquaphor). Use care in applying creams over bony areas, since they may soften the skin and promote skin breakdown. (again, see the EWG web site. Eat organic food and use organic products on your skin as much as possible)
• Soiled skin can break down easily. Urine and stool have irritants in them and should be cleaned up immediately to prevent weakening and breakdown of the skin surface. (can’t argue with this one…elderly people need to be very careful about this as UTI’s are common and dangerous)
• Avoid using talc powders, as they may support yeast growth. They can also “cake up” and keep moisture in, causing skin breakdown.
• Calluses may form on your feet and hands. These can be removed by soaking frequently in warm water and toweling briskly to remove dead skin. You can use moisturizing creams to help soften calluses. Note that calluses may indicate an area of excess friction or pressure.
• Finger and toe nails require special care. Soak them and rub gently with a towel to remove dead skin and decrease the chance of hangnails forming. Nails are easier to cut after soaking; be sure to cut them straight across to avoid ingrown nails, and keep them short for safety. If ingrown nails develop, see your primary care provider or podiatrist.