Do you moisturize your face daily? You should, as moisturizing helps keep your skin hydrated and healthy. This is especially important during winter when the humidity is lower. A moisturizer can help you avoid skin problems such as extreme dryness and it can conceal blemishes through adding a shiny sheen to your face. It works by sealing moisture into the outer layer of skin and by pulling moisture from the inner layers of skin to the outer. There are many moisturizers on the market, making it tricky to decide which works best for you. Here are factors to consider when choosing a moisturizer.
Skin type:
If you have normal skin (neither oily nor dry), look for an oil-free moisturizer that is light and non-greasy. If you have dry skin, look for a thicker moisturizer and make sure it absorbs into the skin rather than sitting on the face. As for people with oily skin, they should still use a daily moisturizer. Look for a light, oil-free moisturizer that is noncomedogenic (which means not pore-clogging).
Essential vitamins:
You should look for moisturizers with Vitamins A, B5, E, and C in particular. Vitamin A is an anti-aging chemical that boosts collagen production to keep skin supple and healthy. Vitamin B5 moistens, soothes and heals the skin. As for vitamin E, it’s an anti-oxidant which protects the skin from damage as well as providing moisturizing and healing benefits. Vitamin C is also an anti-oxidant that helps brighten and tighten the skin. It also acts as a mild exfoliator and can help fade dark spots.
SPF benefits:
Since sunscreen should be applied daily, moisturizers with SPF can make your daily routine easier. These hybrid products offer hydration for the skin as well as defense from harmful UV rays. Look for a broad spectrum moisturizer with an SPF 15 or higher to get a 2-in-1 benefit for your skin.
Ingredients to avoid:
You should avoid facial moisturizers with fragrances, harsh acidic components, steroidal ingredients, and ones that are body-specific (don’t use body moisturizer on your face).
Read our blog post on the benefits of vitamin A for skincare here.
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