How to Get The Most from Your Facial Moisturizer

 
Face Lotion
 
 

Moisturizers are an essential part of any good skincare routine. Even ancient Egyptian royalty knew the benefits of milk baths! Many factors contribute to this. Moisturizers trap hydration in the stratum corneum, the skin’s outermost layer, resulting in less dryness. Not only do they help skin look younger and healthier, but also fight the signs of aging. With the vast selection of moisturizers available, it can be tricky to determine which one is best for you or how to use it properly.

How to moisturize

Make sure to use a moisturizer after you clean your face. This will help keep your skin from drying out. Moisturizers are also most effective when applied to slightly damp skin, as they seal in moisture. Try lightly exfoliating your skin, which you can do by using a washcloth when washing your face or using a personal skincare device. This will help to take off the dead skin on the face so that the moisturizer penetrates deep into your skin. Then, rub your pea-sized amount of moisturizer onto your face using circular motions until it’s completely absorbed. Don't forget to apply moisturizer to your neck and décolletage.

How to moisturize overnight

With so many night creams and lotions on the market, it's hard to know which one is right for you. Popular options include CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream and Cetaphil Rich Hydrating Cream. You may prefer a more "all-in-one" product so a great night serum moisturizer is MMRepose which contains rich humectants plus microbiome, antioxidant, and peptide ingredients. Overnight masks are perfect for when your skin is looking dull and dry. Try Doppeltree Renew Overnight Sleeping Facial Mask or Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Sleeping Mask. Numerous studies have found that sleep and relaxation help to improve skin moisture levels. If you want to have healthy skin, it's important to prioritize a good night's sleep and use quality night creams or lotions. These practices will help your skin retain moisture and eliminate dryness.

How to moisturize naturally

There are several natural ways you can moisturize your face, including using aloe vera or algae gels to soothe and hydrate the skin or utilizing milk for its anti-inflammatory properties. If those don't seem to be your cup of tea, a 2006 study discovered that freeze-dried aloe vera can help hydrate the skin and reduce dryness.

Moisturizing without product

There are a few easy lifestyle changes you can make to keep your skin hydrated and looking its best. Stress can cause the skin to crack and become dehydrated, a condition known as transepidermal water loss. Here are some other ways to help your skin retain moisture include:

  • Frequent exercise

  • Limiting alcohol consumption

  • Reducing salt intake

  • Eating foods high in water content

  • Maintaining relaxing habits that help reduce stress

When should you moisturize

Ideally, you should cleanse your face twice a day, morning and evening. After cleansing, it is crucial to put on moisturizer. If you want to maximize hydration, apply lotion right after bathing or showering to help seal in as much moisture as possible.

Why it matters

When the skin lacks proper hydration, it can become uncomfortable and irritated. This happens because of things like exposure to the environment, excessive cleansing or bathing, and certain medical conditions. By moisturizing your face, you help to prevent any irritation that could occur to the skin's barrier. Not only does it help prevent dry skin, but can also revive your skin if it is already dry. By keeping your skin hydrated, moisturizer acts as a barrier to the drying effects of things like sun exposure and cold weather. Not only does moisturizing help keep your skin hydrated, but it also boosts the water retention capacity of the skin. This can be done by using products that replace lost moisture, safeguarding the skin from further dehydration, and warding off outside factors.

What to look for in a moisturizer

The primary method of adding moisture and treating dry skin is through products such as lotions, creams, serums, and ointments. Try looking for moisturizers that have:

  • Hyaluronic acid

  • Glycerin

  • Ceramides

  • SPF

  • Squalene

  • "Non-comedogenic" listed on the label

The term non-comedogenic is used to describe products that won't clog your pores. In addition, it is beneficial to find a moisturizer that includes SPF for protection from the sun. In addition to the above, other ingredients to consider in moisturizers include:

  • Occlusives: oily substances that block the evaporation of water, such as petrolatum, cetyl alcohol, lecithin, mineral oil, paraffin, and stearic acid

  • Humectants: substances that pull water from the air into the outer layer of the skin, such as glycerin, honey, and panthenol

  • Vitamins: help reduce fine lines and wrinkles and stimulate the production of collagen, such as vitamins C and E

While moisturizers are typically not known to cause negative effects, some people may experience skin discomfort or irritation. Always do a patch test with new products to prevent reactions. If you react, consult a dermatologist. A dermatologist can help you determine which products to use if you have skin conditions such as acne or allergic dermatitis.

Regularly using a moisturizer can help your skin lock in hydration, reduce dryness, and establish a barrier against environmental or external elements. Depending on your skin type, different products will work better for you. For the best results, ask a dermatologist what they recommend for you.

 
Jeffrey Martinskincare, lotion, serum