Slathering up layers of moisturizers may seem easy, but to make sure that the moisturizer works best, it is crucial to use the one that fits your skin type.
Here’s a short guide for you that will help you buy the right moisturizer and use it the right way.
4 Types of Moisturizers and What They Mean Broadly
– Humectants: They hydrate your skin by drawing water from the air or from the layers of skin called epidermis and dermis. They’re usually used along with other moisturizers. Eg: glycerin, sorbitol, urea, AHA, honey, and sugar.
– Occlusives: They’re oil-based and beneficial for people with dry skin. They seal the moisture by forming a protective layer upon the skin and work best when applied on moist skin. Eg: petroleum jelly, beeswax, dimethicone, and bath oils.
– Emollients: They soften the skin by filling up the spaces between the skin cells with fatty substances such as stearic, linoleic, oleic, lauric acid, and fatty alcohols. Ideal for people with sensitive skin.
– Protein rejuvenators: Made of small protein molecules, they help revive your skin by replenishing it with essential proteins. Eg: keratin, collagen, etc.
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The Right Way to Moisturize
– What to apply: Unlike lotion and tinctures, cream and ointments have a thick consistency which allows them to spread evenly and provide longer protection. When using during the day or as an after-shave, prefer a lotion-based moisturizer on face, body, and hairy areas whereas for the night, pick a cream-based moisturizer.
– When to apply: Apply on moistened skin after a shower or sponge bath to ensure maximum absorption by the skin.
– How much to apply: Take sufficient quantity in your palm. Rub the moisturizer between your palms and apply gently along the direction of the hair follicles to ensure even distribution on the skin.
– How frequently to apply: This depends on the texture of your skin and on how dry your skin is. Dermatologists recommend moisturizing your skin one to three times a day, with three times being recommended for those with extremely dry skin.
Important Tip for Diabetics
Moisturize your feet but not between your toes: Wetness between your toes might cause fungal infection. This area is supposed to be kept dry.
Neglecting dry skin can lead to infections and eczema flare-ups. Utilize your FREE premium e-consult to reach out to a skin specialist TODAY.
Choosing the Right Moisturizer for Your Skin
Type of Skin: Dry Skin
Signs to look for: Flaky, itchy, rough
Moisturizer to use:
– Use heavier, oil-based moisturizer.
– For very dry skin, prefer petroleum jelly or products with lactic acid or lactic acid and urea.
Type of Skin: Oily Skin
Signs to look for: Shiny, greasy, visibly large pores, acne-prone
Moisturizer to use:
– Use light, water-based lotion labeled oil-free or non-comedogenic.
– For very oily skin, use sunscreen instead of moisturizer.
Type of Skin: Normal skin
Signs to look for: Neither oily nor dry
Moisturizer to use:
– Use water-based, light, and non-greasy moisturizer.
Type of Skin: Combination skin
Signs to look for: Dry in some places (cheeks) and oily in some (forehead, nose, chin)
Moisturizer to use:
– Use a light moisturizer for your face and a heavier one for your arms and legs.
Type of Skin: Sensitive skin
Signs to look for: Prone to irritation, redness, itchiness, or rashes
Moisturizer to use:
– Use moisturizers having soothing ingredients like chamomile or aloe.
– Read labels well to opt for mild, fragrance-free, and hypoallergenic products. Avoid products having acidic molecules.
Now that you know how to identify your skin type and the right moisturizer for it, tailor your search and pick the product that suits you best.
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Other Things to Take Care For Better Skin
Watch the temperature of water: Hot showers and baths should be avoided. Try not to spend too much time in the shower and use warm water.
Pat dry, don’t rub dry: Gently pat your skin dry after a shower instead of rubbing your skin dry. Pat dry method helps to retain more moisture. Seal the moisture with your best-suited moisturizer.
Drink water: Hydration is the ultimate key. Drinking water at regular intervals alone can show visible positive effects on our skin. Drink at least 8 cups of water every day!
Use mild soaps and shampoos: Harsh soaps and shampoos may strip away natural oils from your skin. Use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser that has natural minerals and vitamins.
Get friendly with Sunscreen: Sunscreen is considered the ultimate savior of the skin against the harmful UV rays of the sun. Choose SPF according to your daily sun exposure.
Remember
You don’t necessarily need to buy the most expensive brand. Just take care of the above-mentioned tips and choose (and use) a moisturizer as per your skincare needs.
(The article is reviewed by Dr. Swati Mishra, Medical Editor)
Disclaimer: The information produced in this article in the form of text, tips, suggestions, and products, comprise general advice for consumers. This is a sponsored article and 1mg does not promote or endorse any products or services.
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