Are you using your moisturiser correctly?
Okay, the temperatures have plummeted in the South East and your instinct might be to reach for that moisturiser that will moisturise you like the ocean. Anything to keep your skin cosy during the festive chill. But would you ruin your day if I told you that you might be using your moisturiser completely wrong? In today’s article, I’m going to give you some tips on how to make the most of your moisturiser!
How to apply your moisturiser?
Whether you are new to skin care or a seasoned pro, you may find that sometimes your moisturiser isn’t quite the right fit for your skin issues. This could be because you’re not applying them to the right places, or it could be that you’re applying too much. The best way to apply your moisturiser is to apply a 10p-sized amount of the product to your forehead, cheeks, chin and neck. Gently rub the product into the skin. Remember to distribute it in upward motions. This will help you avoid sagging of the skin due to gravity for as long as possible. Finally, you can pat your skin off. Remember to apply the product along your neck to your décolleté, as these areas are where the signs of ageing, fine lines and wrinkles first appear.
You can use your moisturiser as an eye cream. If you don’t have sensitive skin or eyes, you can apply facial moisturizer under the eyes along the orbital bone. Use your ring finger to avoid unnecessary pressure and pulling on the delicate, thin skin around the eyes. Be careful not to apply eye cream too high in the eye area, as this can overload the skin and make it painful and form small white bumps called milia.
When should you apply moisturizer?
It’s best to apply moisturizer in the morning and at night before bed. If you use it twice a day, you’ll find that it helps regenerate and heal your skin by keeping the water and oil levels of your skin balanced and giving it a healthy look!
During the day, remember to apply sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun. Even on cloudy days, the sun’s UV rays are still there, and UVA can penetrate glass and cause premature aging of the skin. Reapplying sunscreen throughout the day is ideal if you want your moisturizer to have an SPF of at least 30, as this will give you 3 hours of protection, but it’s understandably difficult for some people. Using a facial sunscreen spray is a quick and easy way to protect yourself from the sun.
Of course, you don’t have to worry about whether your moisturizer has an SPF at night. In fact, if you use products with SPF overnight, it can clog your pores and cause breakouts. Nighttime moisturizers are usually thicker than day creams, which usually means they contain more antioxidants, anti-pollutants, and repairing ingredients to hydrate your skin while you sleep. In the morning, your skin should still feel gooey, comfortable, and hydrated.
How do I know my moisturizer is working?
You’ll know your moisturizer is working when you see how comfortable your skin feels throughout the day. Moisturizers work to balance the water and oil levels of your skin, as well as the overall health and appearance of your skin. Signs of aging or other issues are often better addressed with serums and other products.
If you find that your skin is still tight and dry, or that it may be too oily, you should reevaluate whether your moisturizer is the best fit for your skin. Remember, it’s best to use a moisturizer even if you have oily skin, because even oily skin can be dehydrated, and using a moisturizer can help restore your skin’s balance.
If you develop a rash or skin irritation, it could be a reaction to an ingredient in the formula, or the method of application is too harsh on your skin. If the rash or reaction persists, stop using the product and seek advice from your GP.
Can you have too much moisturiser?
You can have too much of a good thing. Dousing your face in moisturiser can actually have the opposite effect and cause your skin to break out and become clogged. After applying moisturiser, your skin may still feel a little sticky. Allow the product to fully absorb into your skin before applying make-up.
Moisturiser prices vary widely, from under £10 to over £100. However, using too much (more than 10p) at a time not only means you’re spending a fortune on new jars, but it can also alter the effects on your skin, meaning your moisturiser isn’t doing its job!
Pre- and post-flight benefits
If you’re planning a trip, whether it’s long or short haul, the intense drying effect of cabin air on the skin can be significant! To prevent your skin from becoming extremely dry, use a highly hydrating, water-infused gel moisturiser to keep your skin comfortable, rather than overdoing it with heavy formulas. You may need to reapply your moisturiser, or even a nourishing mask, during your flight to ensure the moisture is locked into your skin.
These are some tips for moisturizing. You’d be surprised how many of us make these simple mistakes. You can easily fix them and you’ll find your skin looks healthy, radiant and plump. If you use moisturizer correctly, you can also prevent wastage or the appearance of acne, clogged pores, milia or skin blemishes. Plus, you’ll save money, which is always a good idea, especially now that Christmas is around the corner!
