A scientist shares two important tips when choosing a moisturizer
As the weather starts to cool, dry skin and irritations may worsen for many people.
Why? Well, cold temperatures and low humidity levels aren’t exactly the ideal combination, as they suck moisture away from the skin, leaving it dry, flaky, and sometimes cracked.
But it’s not the end of the world. By making sure your skin is hydrated enough will keep your skin healthy and fresh.
“Moisturization is important to keep your skin healthy no matter your skin type. If your skin is well hydrated, the skin barrier performs its function to protect your skin against external aggressors such as pollutants and irritants,” said Johnson & Johnson’s Research and Development scientist Dr. Era Anwar.
If your skin is moisturized, it can absorb your other skincare products better. Plus, Dr. Anwar says, “A well hydrated skin will look smoother, softer and firmer, it also gives the impression of youthful skin.”
Aside from drinking plenty of water and regular misting, adding a moisturizer to your skincare routine is one of the easiest ways to combat dry skin. We use a moisturizer—either a gel, cream, or lotion—“to relieve, protect or prevent dryness as well as to make it feel soft and smooth,” says Dr. Anwar.
However, finding the right product is easier said than done. With so many options in the market, not to mention, choosing the right type that’s suitable for your skin type, lifestyle, and environment, it can get overwhelming.
Below, Dr. Anwar shares two important tips when looking for a moisturizer.
Don’t just pick anything, get the right one for your skin type!
Everyone’s skin is different—a moisturizer that works for one person won’t necessarily be the best option for another, so it’s best to know your skin type first.
If your skin is oily, a gel moisturizer is fit for you. “[It] is the lightest and is suitable for humid weather or under a mask.”
If your skin is dry, use a heavier cream and one with hydrating ingredients.
If your skin is a combination of oily and dry, you can use a lightweight moisturizer on oily parts of your face, and a heavier one on the dry areas.
Dr. Anwar adds, that those with oily and sensitive skin should choose one that’s formulated to be non-comedogenic. “This ensures that the moisturizer will not not clog pores and irritate your skin.”
Look for the right ingredients
Whether your skin is normal, oily, dry, or combination, a water-based moisturizer is the perfect starting point. “A good moisturizer contains hydrating ingredients or humectants to deliver water to the skin such as glycerin and hyaluronic acid,” says Dr. Anwar.
“Glycerin replenishes the skin barrier, hyaluronic acid helps to attract and lock in moisture, and olive extract is similar to lipids and helps to rebuild our skin’s natural barrier.”
One example of such is Neutrogena’s Hydro Boost line, which contains all three. It gives your skin a “boost," delivering much-needed hydration with that’s not too heavy on the skin because of its “light, watery feel."
And of course, make sure that your moisturizer can last all day. Dr. Anwar also suggests to look for occlusive ingredients that lock the moisture in such as ceramides and oils.
Special thanks to Ogilvy