Moisturizers are important for keeping the skin soft and hydrated, especially for those with dry skin. People with oily & combination skin don’t always need moisturizers.
A moisturizer is one of the most important components of an effective skincare regimen. Besides hydrating the skin, it also helps keep the skin soft, supple and prevent damage. Different skin types have different needs. Learn how to choose a moisturizer for your skin type.
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What are the Qualities of a Good Moisturizer?
A consumer should expect at least the following results from a good moisturizer, irrespective of the brand and cost.
- The moisturizer should smooth and soothe dry skin.
- The moisturizer should help the skin cells retain water.
- The facial moisturizer should reinforce the skin’s protective barrier.
- It should prevent free-radical damage and help avoid inflammation.
How to Buy the Right Facial Moisturizer for Dry Skin Types
People with dry skin should look for moisturizers that have a cream consistency. For extremely dry skin, choose a moisturizer with lecithin, cholesterol, glycerol, glycerides, plant oils. Reapply moisturizer as needed.
It is important to pay attention to the ingredients of the moisturizer, as the list of ingredients has a direct impact on the quality of the product. Ingredients that are present in the largest amounts are listed first. If the advertised ingredient is near the end of the list, then they are practically non-existent.
Anti-oxidants are important ingredients of moisturizers. They are agents that slow the aging process. The container housing the moisturizer also makes a difference. One should choose moisturizers in opaque containers and small openings. Moisturizers should also contain water binders and anti-inflammatory agents. Glycerin, alpha hydroxy acids, urea, and lactic acids are binders.
Using a moisturizer with sunscreen helps avoid damage to the skin because of sun exposure. Moisturizers with SPF 15 or higher should include UVA-protecting ingredients of avobenzone, titanium dioxide, or zinc oxide.
Choose a Moisturizer for Oily and Combination Skin
People that have oily skin may sometimes not need a moisturizer. If a moisturizer is used, choose one with a liquid texture.
A person is said to have combination skin if her nose and chin are oily and the sides of her forehead and cheeks are dry. Skincare products on combination skin either tend to dry out the skin or cause it to break out. Heavy moisturizers should be avoided as using them can cause acne.
Paula Begoun, the author of several books on skincare and cosmetics, advises that not everyone needs a moisturizer and if the skin type is combination or acne-prone, avoiding a moisturizer may be better.
