Your face is probably the most visible part of your body. It’s also the part of your body that is most exposed to the elements, and the delicate skin on your face can quickly become dry, irritated, and flaky.
That’s why it’s so important to take care of your face with a good moisturizer.
How Does Moisturizer Work?
Moisturizers don’t really add much moisture to your skin. Instead, they help restore and repair your skin barrier, preventing moisture from escaping.
When your skin barrier is healthy, it can retain more moisture and protect your skin from the elements.
Moisturizer Ingredients
Moisturizers typically contain three main ingredients: humectants, emollients, and occlusives.
Humectants help attract and retain moisture. They pull water molecules out of the air and from the deeper layers of your skin and hold onto them. Common humectants include:
- gelatin
- glycerin
- lactic acid
- sea salt
- sorbitol
- urea
Emollients smooth and soften your skin and act as a lubricant. This makes your skin feel more supple and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Common emollients include:
- castor oil
- Cyclomethicone
- jojoba oil
- lanolin
- propylene glycol linoleate
Occlusives create a barrier on your skin that prevents moisture from escaping. This helps to lock in moisture and keep your skin hydrated. Common occlusive ingredients include:
- beeswax
- candelilla
- dimethicone
- lecithin
- mineral oil
- paraffin
- petroleum
- vegetable oil
When Should You Apply Moisturizer?
The best time to apply moisturizer is while your skin is still damp, immediately after cleansing. This will help lock in moisture and prevent your skin from drying out.
When cleansing your face, lightly exfoliate your skin with a washcloth or facial scrub to remove any dirt or dead skin cells. This will help your moisturizer work more effectively.
If you can, apply moisturizer overnight. This will allow the ingredients to work their magic while you sleep. This can be especially helpful if your bedroom is not humid enough.
How to Apply Moisturizer
When applying moisturizer, use gentle circular motions and avoid tugging or pulling at your skin.
Start with a small amount of product – a pea-sized drop – and add more if needed.
Apply moisturizer to all the dry areas of your face, including your neck and any other area prone to dryness.
Avoid getting it in your eyes, as this can irritate you.
Also, make sure you are drinking plenty of liquids every day to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.
If the air in your home is dry, install a humidifier to help add moisture to the air. Dry air will suck the moisture out of your skin, making it more challenging to keep your skin hydrated.
If you notice any irritation, redness, or allergic reaction after using a lotion or moisturizer, wash your face thoroughly, stop using the product and consult your doctor.