Skin Therapist Describes Moisturizing Mistakes You Might Be Making
“Just use a moisturizer” – Honestly, it seems like a pretty simple task, but have you ever tried just buying a moisturizer? (It’s as overwhelming as being forced to pick out a new nail polish at a nail salon.) Not to mention how irritated your skin will be if you choose the wrong nail polish.
The moisturizer you choose and use for your skin is important. Plus, it’s not a skincare product that you can just throw away in your daily life. Skin loves moisture, and a good moisturizer can help you replenish moisture to your skin and prevent it from evaporating.
Yes, you still need to use a moisturizer even if you have an oilier skin type, all skin types need a moisturizer. You just need to find a solution that solves your problem. For a skin therapist, that’s easier said than done. I want to share with you some important things to consider when buying the right moisturizer.
First of all, the word “moisturizer” can be used to describe several different consistencies, including: gels, creams, and even occlusive ointments. However, the emollient properties of these products ensure that your skin stays soft.
If you have drier or more sensitive skin, you should go for an occlusive ointment, while creams (which may have a higher oil content) are suitable for most skin types, and lighter gels (usually water-based) are better for skin that tends to produce more oil or is prone to acne/congestion.
If that wasn’t confusing enough, you can also switch up the type of moisturizer you use morning and night based on personal preference. But not everyone has to do this. Only if you like it and it fits your budget and lifestyle.
I would like to mention here that the term “night cream” is mainly used as a marketing ploy and has no real meaning, unless your “night cream” contains active ingredients like vitamin A. Aside from the fact that these night creams may contain a higher concentration of ingredients to provide more hydration before bed, it is important to note that the term “night cream” is mainly used as a marketing ploy and has no real meaning.
So what should we look for in a moisturizer?
Dry skin: You can go for a richer moisturizer with ingredients like glycerin and hyaluronic acid to draw moisture into the skin, as well as occlusive ingredients that may contain lanolin or petrolatum to lock in moisture.
Oily skin: You may prefer a water-based gel with ingredients like clover flower extract, which balances oil production. Even mild alpha hydroxy acids can be beneficial for these skin types.
All skin types can benefit from additional anti-aging ingredients like antioxidants and/or ceramides, or even soothing ingredients like green tea and/or niacinamide and licorice root.
Sensitive skin should avoid fragrance.
Ps. Moisturizers with SPF 30+ or higher are ideal for mornings (also for those who are pressed for time).
But what about common hydration mistakes?
If you feel like you’re using the right moisturizer but a) still break out or b) feel like it’s not working, there could be a number of reasons:
Maybe you’re using too much hydration and the wrong products and/or layering too many things on top of each other. This can lead to blackheads, clogged pores, uneven skin, and even excess oil production. This is the most common problem with oily skin, as too much hydration can lead to excess sebum production. (Proper cleansing and makeup removal, as well as proper exfoliation, are important components here. Your skin can only absorb so much!)
If milia form from your moisturizer, it’s a sign that your moisturizer is too heavy for your skin and you need to switch to a lighter product. (You also shouldn’t try to “squeeze” these spots; they will go away on their own. If not, it’s best to have them removed at a clinic.)
Your other skincare may not be working. You may be using too many irritating active ingredients, so your skin barrier is compromised. Maybe you’re not using the right products, or even over- or under-exfoliating, which means your skincare can’t absorb properly and work as it should.
Moisturize only with a humectant or occlusive. Most skin types need both.
However, we can’t always blame our products. Lifestyle and diet play a role in how hydrated and moisturized your skin is. So it’s best to seek expert advice before changing your product range and routine.
