Moisturizers are designed to prevent and treat dry skin, but that’s not the only purpose they have. Moisturizers can repair and protect sensitive skin, firm and plump skin, improve skin tone, color and texture, and mask a number of imperfections.
Moisturizers some in so many different forms, from light to heavy, day and night time, treatment and SPF protection are just some examples.
So which type of moisturizer should you choose?
Essentially, moisturizers help your skin retain moisture in the outermost layers. They also act as a temporary barrier against the environment and against external contaminants.
The majority of moisturizers contain a blend or combination of humectants and emollients, as well as other active ingredients.
There are many factors that determine the type and weight of moisturizer you are best yo use, including your skin type, hereditary factors, your age and whether you have specific conditions, such as blotches, red veins or acne.
- Normal skin. Normal skin maintains a natural balance between dry and oily. For normal skin it is best to use a water-based moisturizer or light oil based formula that is light and non greasy.
- Dry skin. To add or restore moisture to dehydrated or dry skin, you can opt for a heavier, rich oil-based moisturizer that contains ingredients such as antioxidants, heavier essential fatty oil rich oils to keep your skin hydrated. For very dry skin you can use heavy petroleum based creams or natural oils like borage, coconut and wheatgerm oils.
- Oily skin. Oily skin is more prone to acne breakouts and scarring. A common misconception is that oily skin does not need moisturizing, but it is actually better to use a lighter moisturizer so that skin does not try to produce more oil to compensate for the loss of oil on the skin after cleansing. A light water-based moisturizer that is noncomedogenic (won’t clog pores) will protect skin against the environment. Choose an SPF moisturizer where possible.
- Sensitive skin. This is a type of skin that is environmentally sensitive and more susceptible to skin irritations, redness, itching and rashes. Moisturizers and masks that contain ingredients like chamomile, lavender or aloe are excellent for sensitive skin and avoid those products that contain fragrances, acids and coloring which are known to irritate sensitive skin.
- Mature skin. Over the years your skin tends to become drier as your oil-producing glands slow down and become less active. This leaves you with more of a challenge to keep your skin soft, firm and well hydrated. This is why oil-based moisturizer that contains high levels of antioxidants, essential fatty acids or alpha hydroxy acids to combat wrinkles are excellent for mature skins. Choose ingredients that help your skin retain moisture and prevent flaky, scaly skin. You can also use serums and add essential oils like Rose, Frankincense , Fennel, Neroli, Carrot Seed to hydrate your skin and oils like Evening primrose, Starflower and Vitamin E to deeply penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin taking beneficial ingredient benefits directly into the deeper layers of your skin.
Using moisturizers rich in essential and beneficial oil is a great way to keep the signs of aging at bay and help you skin to look and feel it’s best.
You can make your own rich moisturizers customs made for your skin specifically for your skin. Used on a regular you’ll notice a huge difference in the texture, tone, feel and general appearance of your skin including a reduction of lines and wrinkles.
If you like making your own recipes and prefer to have a handy reference at home so you can know what ingredients to use and how to make your own powerful recipes from easy ingredients at home you might like: Natural Home Made Skincare Recipes