How do you find the best moisturizer that suits you? Tap on these practical tips from professional dermatologists for picking a suitable moisturizer to give your skin a radiant glow.
Sun Protection
Regardless of skin type, most practicing clinical dermatologists suggest purchasing a moisturizer with a sunscreen of a minimal SPF 30. When you are looking for a moisturizer for facial use, we recommend purchasing one that is fragrance- and oil-free.
Antioxidants
Moisturizers containing antioxidants such as green tea, pomegranate, chamomile, and licorice root supplements can actively make all skin types look healthy and fresh. Antioxidants actively neutralize free radicals -- molecules that damage one’s skin cells.
Oily Or Acne-Prone Skin
If you have oily skin or are having issues with frequent acne breakouts, non-comedogenic facial moisturizer might be what you are looking for. This type of moisturizer is less likely clog pores and hence less likely to cause acne.
Dry Skin
For people with dry skin, look for moisturizers that contain ingredients that actively maintain skin hydration, including hyaluronic acid or dimethicone. Glycerin, proteins, propylene glycol, or urea may also help hydrate your skin. Mineral oil, lanolin, or petrolatum prevent your skin from losing moisture to the environment as well.
Sensitive Skin
Skincare ingredients such as fragrances, alcohol, sulfates, and preservatives are triggers for sensitive skin. If you think that any of these may be causing irritation to your skin, you are highly recommended to utilize hypoallergenic or fragrance-free moisturizer.
Itchy Skin
If your hypoallergenic moisturizing cream does not alleviate itching, try applying a 1% hydrocortisone steroid skin cream for a week. Consult your doctor when this does not help to relieve the itchy sensations. You might have other skin issues.
Eczema
Apply an appropriate amount of moisturizing ointment that contains petrolatum and petroleum jelly to slowly heal the cracks.
What to Avoid When Choosing a Moisturizer
Less is more when it comes to the l ingredients of any moisturizer. To derive the optimal benefits for your skin, avoid the following components: .
- Colorings And Perfumes
If you seek to moisturize dry skin, sensitive skin, or combination skin, experts advise avoiding superfluous or irritating ingredients, including perfumes and colors. Antibacterial agents may also purge skin of necessary oils, causing more itching.
- Body-Friendly Ingredients
What works for your body isn’t necessarily beneficial for facial use. Dermatologists recommend avoiding trendy body product ingredients, such as shea butter on the face. "These can clog pores and cause acne on the face,” they said.
- Acids and Alcohol
Avoid alpha-hydroxy acids, retinoic acid, salicylic acid, or glycolic acid if you have sensitive or dry skin. These ingredients can tend to irritate sensitive skin. Also, avoid products that contain alcohol.
- Overusing Steroidal Ingredients (For Itchy Skin)
Restrict your steroid ointment or cream to just once or twice a week unless your doctor recommends otherwise. Over applying such creams may lead to more skin issues.
- Urea Or Lactic Acids (For Eczema or Cracked Skin)
Keep away from moisturizers that have ingredients that are gentle on dry skin. These may worsen old skin allergies.
Tips to Optimize Your Skin Moisturizer Use
You can apply more than one moisturizer. Use a thin lotion on your face and apply a dense cream for your body for comprehensive skin care. You should always put on moisturizer so that your skin remains moisturized. After a shower wash, gently wipe your skin dry before applying your preferred moisturizer.