Our skin is kind of a big deal.
It is the human body’s largest organ and covers about 20 square feet, accounting for 16 percent of our body weight. It is responsible for many crucial roles in the maintenance of our health. It protects us from the outside world, helps us with vitamin production and temperature regulation.
Our visual health and appearance all start with the skin. So, it is worth taking care of.
Many important steps go into a solid skincare routine, but perhaps the most important of all is moisturizing.
Cetaphil Face Moisturizer, Daily Oil Free Facial Moisturizer with SPF 35, Cetaphil Store
Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion Clinique
L'Oreal Paris Skincare Collagen Face Moisturizer, Day and Night Cream L'Oreal Paris Store
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Neutrogena Store
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream | Body and Face Moisturizer for Dry Skin CeraVe Store
Olay Vitamin C + Peptide 24 Brightening Face Serum Olay Store
Why should I moisturize?
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a moisturizer to trap the existing moisture in your skin and form a protective barrier. It also helps to replenish the moisture that gets lost during the day, whether that’s from things you do, such as washing or from the environment.
What’s more, moisturizing makes our skin look and feel better. It softens and smooths, reduces signs of aging, and restores our youthful glow.
When should I moisturize?
According to The American Academy of Dermatology, you should moisturize immediately after washing your face. Moisturizing is usually the third step in a skincare routine. After using a face wash or cleanser and toning your skin, you should apply your chosen moisturizer.
Cleansing is an essential step in any skincare routine. However, the action is intense, and during the process of clearing the skin of impurities, it also removes your skin’s natural oils and moisture.
Therefore, immediately after washing your face, you should moisturize to lock in hydration. For best results, you should apply your moisturizer before your skin dries (so it should be slightly damp).
Generally, it is recommended not to cleanse your skin more than twice a day. In this case, you should moisturize two times a day as well, once in the morning and once before sleeping at night.
At what age should I start using a moisturizer?
There is no optimal age when you should start moisturizing your skin. However, it is best to start using a moisturizer sooner rather than later. The first signs of aging on the skin surface begin in our twenties. Fine lines appear first, and then gradually, over time, wrinkles, a loss of volume, and elasticity start to become visible.
Irrespective of age, moisturizing every day can prevent dry skin, slow down the development of wrinkles, and make your skin appear plumper. Therefore, when the first signs of skin damage occur in your twenties, it would be an opportune time to start a skincare routine – and moisturize.
What else do I need to use with my moisturizer?
Moisturizing is an important part of a broader skin care routine. In a complete regimen, it is usually the third step. Firstly, you should use a cleanser to clear dirt, excess oil, and impurities from the skin. To maintain moisture, choose a cleanser with hydration properties.
Next, you should tone your skin. A toner prepares your skin and helps it to absorb any moisturizer that follows. Then, apply your chosen moisturizer. After this, you may wish to use a sunscreen (SPF) or an acne/spot treatment gel if you suffer from blemishes.
Should I moisturize if I have oily or acne-prone skin?
Yes, absolutely. There are moisturizers on the market that are made with these skin types in mind. These moisturizers contain ingredients that help regulate the amount of sebum your skin produces. Sebum is the skin’s natural oil.
If your skin overproduces sebum, it can create an oily complexion and lead to clogged pores and breakouts. Using a product that has ingredients to control sebum production, for example, jojoba oil, can help to control sebum production and reduce these symptoms on your skin.
How do I use a moisturizer?
It’s best to apply a moisturizer after you’d showered or otherwise cleaned your face. The best time to apply it to your skin when it is partly dry but still damp. After your skin is cleansed with a gentle cleanser, pat your face and then apply a layer of moisturizer to seal in hydration. Don’t rub or massage into the skin. Let the moisturizer dry before applying other products.
Do I need a face moisturizer with SPF?
Not necessarily, but it is important to protect your skin from UVA and UVB rays, which we receive mainly from the sun. You can choose a moisturizer with SPF, or you can always apply sunscreen after you moisturize. However, if you can use a moisturizer that includes UVA and UVB protection, it will quicken your morning routine.
What is a tinted moisturizer?
As its name implies, a tinted moisturizer is one that has a slight tint to it. It gives the skin a slightly polished look. Titanium oxide is the ingredient used most to provide the tint.
What moisturizer should I use with Retin A?
Use an oil-free moisturizer with Retin A. Also, look for moisturizers that are suitable for men with sensitive skin, and those that are hypoallergenic and fragrance-free.
