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Dark under eyes, blemishes, fine lines, and enlarged pores. Skin is a constant source of grief for many. That is why Fashionlines is publishing the ultimate guide to overcoming dermatological catastrophes. So back away from the mirror and begin to read.

Redness (Otherwise Known as Rosacea)

Redness and uneven skin tone have a number of causes. Determining the exact origin of the problem is the key to devising the appropriate cure. In case you are a retinol or glycolic acid junkie, discontinue use or apply the abrasive creams every other night before going to bed. If the red patches and discoloration disappear after a few days, then you have successfully identified the source of the problem. Remember: products containing Vitamin C-Complex and grape seed extract have anti-aging properties sans abrasive after effects. Granted the culprit is hot wax or chemical peels, apply an over-the-counter cortisone cream over the effected area twice a day to lessen the pain and irritation. Finally, when confronted with symptoms of Rosacea, characterized by broken blood vessels, take care to stay away from extreme temperatures, spicy foods, alcohol, tanning beds, and sun exposure.

Enlarged Pores

If your complexion resembles the porous surface of a bath sponge, you are not alone. According to medical research, 18% of all women suffer from the same problem. Although one cannot permanently change the size of pores, getting them under control is possible. For starters, search through the beauty cabinet and get rid of all products containing keratin and oil, as these substances are notorious for clogging the pores. The right strategy is to keep the skin as clean as possible. Then again, do not misinterpret this recommendation as a green light to abuse detergent based soaps. Instead, use salicylic acid, retinol, or alpha hydroxy acids to get rid of dead skin cells.

Sun Damage

Dermatologist Nicholas Perricone argues sun damage is the number one cause of aging. While a sun kissed complexion has long been considered a must-have fashion accessory (thanks to Coco Chanel) the raving effects of the sun are not worth a fleeting golden tint. Soon after the bronze glow is gone you will be confronted with unsightly dark spots, compliments of hazardous UV rays. Dark spots are symptomatic of melanin overproduction. One way to treat them is to use bleaching agents loaded with kojik acid and hydroquinone. Another solution is the good old alpha hydroxyl acid.

Note: Instead of trying to reverse the effects of hyper pigmentation, try applying SPF religiously.

Dark Circles

If only we could wipe away dark under eye circles like running mascara! But DNA is far more stubborn than Dior Show. You can go ahead and blame your parents for hyper pigmentation around the yeux area, but smoking, drinking, partying, and overeating are also contributing factors. In addition to signing up for a yoga/detox retreat, wage war on this beauty debacle by investing in a heavy-duty eye cream infused with retinol and vitamin K. In the meanwhile, rely on yellow based concealers for maximum coverage. Apply and blend well with light pats and dabs.

Fine Lines

It may not be possible to erase the past when it comes to romantic blunders, but why should a woman’s complexion be a road map to guessing her honest-to-God age? To ward off Father Time and reduce the appearance of fine lines: wash the face with a glycolic or salicylic acid cleanser daily. Pat dry and follow with an anti-aging AM moisturizer containing SPF as well as antioxidants. At night switch to a retinol cream designed to increase the skin’s Collagen synthesis.

Flaky Dry Skin

Suffering from taught, dry, flaky skin? Relax, as the right cleanser-exfoliator-moisturizer trio can make a significant difference in the feel and appearance of scaly complexions in less than a week. For immediate results work a cream cleanser appropriate for your skin type all over the face using gentle circular motions. Rinse with lukewarm water and apply a glycerin based cream while the skin is still damp to lock in the moisture. Also, use an exfoliator designed for sensitive skin types bi-weekly because dead skin cells clog pores and prevent hydrating agents from penetrating deep into the epidermis.

Beauty needs to be nurtured like a rare orchid. In arid, harsh, inhospitable conditions its delicate exquisiteness withers. Nourish nature’s precious gift to you by treating your body with care and tenderness. Like Katherine Anne Porter said, "The real sin against life is to abuse and destroy beauty, even one's own--even more one's own, for that has been put in our care and we are responsible for its well-being."