You probably think that the best way to cleanse skin of make-up and dirt is by using a cream, lotion or one of those so-called gentle soaps. "Wrong," says Peter Pugliese, M.D.,* one of the country's most respected skin scientists. Dr. Pugliese explains that the problem with soaps (and most other conventional cleansers) is that they not only remove surface dirt and oils, "they can actually damage the skin by destroying its natural lipid barrier, generating more free radicals [the skin's worst enemy] and creating a dry, flaky skin, which stimulates the production of more oil."

What does Dr. Pugliese recommend using instead? Surprisingly, the answer is oil. Not just any oil, however, but an ultra-light oil derived from the soybean plant, like that used in the new Sincera Preparative Cleansing Oil. This cleansing oil, developed under the direction of Dr. Pugliese, was specially formulated to dissolve makeup and dirt, while leaving intact the natural lipid barrier to protect the skin's surface. According to its manufacturer, Scandinavian Naturals, the Preparative Cleansing Oil is suitable for all skin types, including oily, teenage skin prone to acne. A "kinder, gentler way" to cleanse the skin, it is remarkably effective.

Dr. Pugliese also had a hand in the development of the two other products which make up the new Skin Survival System. First came the Sincera tablet-or "skin pill" as it is often called. Introduced about a year ago, the "skin pill" attracted a lot of media attention because it claimed to be the first skin-care product to work from within the body to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. It was during the clinical trials he performed on the Sincera tablet that Dr. Pugliese says he became excited by its apparent ability "to make skin appear healthier and more youthful." As a result of recent dermatological research, the tablet's original Swedish formulation was improved by adding a group of vitamins, antioxidants, minerals and nutrients "to protect the skin during the repair processes." Says Dr. Pugliese: "The tablet is at the heart of the Skin Survival System. One tablet taken in the morning and one at night will protect skin during the day and help boost the skin's natural repair mechanism at night."

Another new concept in skin care is based on the new science of "chrono-biology." By taking advantage of the body's biological (or Circadian) cycle, Dr. Pugliese believes product performance can be improved. Our skin, he tells us, follows the same "bi-phasic" or rhythmic pattern as the rest of the body -- hence the Sincera BiPhasic cream. As it's name implies, this cream is said to work during the day to protect the skin from free radical damage and moisture loss, and at night (while the body is in its "resting" phase) it goes into its repair mode.

Because of the extensive research that goes into their development and the high cost of ingredients and manufacturing, the latest skin-care technology does not come cheaply, but most women will admit that "if it works, it's worth it!"

The Sincera Skin Survival System is now available at selected health food stores like GNC, or, for more information, call Scandinavian Naturals direct at 1-800-688-2276.

* Peter Pugliese, M.D., spent some 20 years in private practice in Pennsylvania but it is his work in cancer research and the mechanism of aging skin that has brought him universal acclaim in recent years. As head of a research laboratory responsible for testing literally thousands of cosmetic and skin care products, Dr. Pugliese has earned the respect of his peers and of the media. The author of two books, six book chapters and more than 50 other publications, a popular lecturer and the recipient of numerous awards, Dr. Pugliese enjoys a well-earned reputation as one of the world's most distinguished skin scientists. (NAPSI)