Skin Moisturizing - How to choose moisturizers

How to choose your moisturiser

Choosing the moisturiser to suit your skin type is very very important The proportion of oil varies accord-ng to the type of skin for which the product is formulated. The label on the product generally states this ~ so do read the instructions care-fully! Generally speaking, products meant for well balanced normal skins are water-based, containing a little oil. Those designed for dry skins make up for the lack of oil on the skin, by adding oil to the skin. Humectants like glycerine and lactic acid, are also added to retain moisture. . Sensitive' skins also need moisturisers having a high oil content.

Moisturisers are, generally, not to be used on oily skins, because they can cause spots. But today safe synthetic chemicals are available-these oil-free moisturisers do not contain any mineral oils, vegetable oils or animal fat, but contain either modified oils or other synthetic ingredients. So now you can enjoy the luxury of using such products, even if you have an oily skin. Use them on patches of dryness caused by excessive use of anti-pimple remedies, yet don't use them too often or too liberally.

Now, newer light non-greasy creams and lotions are also available - these are as effective as the heavy, thick and greasy creams and are competitively priced. They are the best type to be worm under-make-up, as they give a superb finish to the make-up.

Is it worth using a moisturiser regularly? Yes, regular use of a suitable moisturiser does benefit your skin. By guarding against the excessive loss of water, these agents protect the skin against the drying influences of the environment - the effects of sun, cold and heat. A moisturiser is particularly helpful for naturally dry skins, but whatever be your skin type a moisturiser does compensate for the deficiencies in the natural oil-fIlm and keeps your skin lubricated making it soft, smooth and looking more youthful.

Further, moisturisers give a smooth 'finish' to make-up. Ptting on a light moisturising cream will make make-up much easier to apply and reduce the risk of 'dragging the skin'.

Most dermatologists agree that moisturisers effectively combat skin dryness and make the skin soft and supple. But the role of special ingredients, like vitamins, proteins, collagen and hormones, in many of the expensive creams is quite doubtful. In fact, it is only the simple lubricating action of the ingredients in the creams that do any good. So using exotic oils (such as deer oil) instead of ordinary oils, will not make the moisturiser any more effective, though it will add enormously to the cost.

However, certain natural and synthetic sub- stances, humectants - like urea, lactic acid, and phospholipids, might improve the efficacy of moisturisers as they increase the hydration of the skin.

If you like this page, please post it on: