I’m back with another “beginners guide to skincare” post and today we’re discussing moisturizers. This is probably one of the most important steps as it not only hydrates the skin but also protects your skin from harmful environmental stressors whilst helping you target your specific skin care concerns.

 

What are moisturizers?

These are creams or lotions that hydrate the skin and helps retain moisture. It contains essential ingredients such as essential oils, lubricants and other natural and chemical agents that help soothe and hydrate the skin. Leaving it feeling soft and supple.

 

Why is moisturizer important?

I’ve mentioned that it protects the skin from harmful environmental stressors. But did you know that our bodies naturally go through a process called trans-epidermal water loss? Our blood vessels only deliver water to the dermis layer of the skin, the water travels upwards to the epidermis where it eventually evaporates. This then leads to dehydrated skin as a result of the moisture loss. When you apply moisturizer you’re basically sealing off the top layer of the skin, trapping the moisture of your skin and preventing it from evaporating throughout the day.

 

Different types of moisturizers

There are generally four types of moisturizers

Gels – this is the thinnest consistency and one of my favourites, especially during hotter seasons. These moisturizers are lightweight and sink into the skin really quickly, therefore ideal for people with oily skin types.

Lotions – slightly thicker than gels but still really lightweight. They contain more water-based ingredients that work effectively for moisture retention.

Creams – Creams are generally thicker than lotions but this could also depend on the brands. The best way would be to test out the consistency at the back of your hand. You’ll notice that creams are thicker and take a while to absorb.

 

What ingredients to look out for?

Oily skin types – Ladies like myself need to look out for water-based moisturizers that are non-comedogenic. Ingredients such as Aha’s are great as these will prevent pore-clogging.

Dry skin types – need to go for something a little thicker and these usually contain oils, therefore petroleum-based ingredients. These will trap the moisture of the skin, preventing evaporation.

Normal skin types – Would generally need to go for something lightweight that contains silicone derived ingredients and glycerine.

Ageing skin – need a boost of antioxidants, collagen, Aha’s and other essential ingredients that help fill in uneven textures and fine lines.

 

Some moisturizers I’ve used and loved

ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Marine Cream

This is the ultimate anti-aging cream from ELEMIS. Clinically proven to reduce the appearance of wrinkles in 14 days improve hydration and leave skin feeling firmer and looking more radiant. Padina Pavonica has been blended with Ginkgo Biloba Chlorella and precious Rose and Mimosa absolutes to moisturize the skin and visibly improve the appearance of fine lines while supporting a feeling of suppleness firmness and elasticity.

Elizabeth Arden Visible Difference Replenishing HydraGel Complex

Hydration Hero This refreshing – oil-free water gel is formulated to plump skin with 24-hour hydration and refine the look of pores.

IT Cosmetics Confidence in a Cream Rosy Tone is your quick-absorbing moisturizer that’s enhanced with rosy tone pigments to deliver the look of instant vitality. Perfect for all skin types and an ideal moisturizer for aging skin, it gently exfoliates dull skin to make your skin look younger.

 

Final thoughts

Choosing your moisturizer depends on various factors. I find myself reaching for more of a lightweight moisturizer in summer and a slightly thicker one during winter just for that added hydration.

You’ll find that some moisturizers target a few skin concerns. I generally gravitate to oil-free, brightening or anti ageing moisturizers.

Let me know which have been your go to moisturizers during the different seasons?

Below is a list of topics I’ve already covered under this series:

• Makeup removers and cleansers
• Exfoliators
• Toners
• Serums

 

XoXo

Yolanda