Once upon a time when I was in middle school I began
discovering the benefits of proper skincare. I remember constantly asking my
girlfriends who complained about their skin, “Do you use a moisturizer?” I was
quite the smart one already ;). Moisturizing is an incredibly important step in
maintaining flawless skin. It is necessary for every skin type, even you oily
gals out there! I’m here today to share some tips, products, and even chemistry
to educate you ladies on moisturizing.
Lets start off with the science shall we?
Well we all know that biological reactions take place in our bodies constantly. Those biological reactions need water! If there isn’t enough water in or around the cells normal metabolism and tissue repair become damaged. This translates into Dehydrated skin which equals decreased repair and regeneration. Moisturizers are designed to hold water in the skin. They most often have ingredients known as humectants, and emollients. Humectants (urea, glycerin, alpha hydroxyl acids) work by absorbing water from the air around you. Emollients (mineral oil, petroleum) work by filling in spaces between skin cells to improve the smoothness of the face.
Lets start off with the science shall we?
Well we all know that biological reactions take place in our bodies constantly. Those biological reactions need water! If there isn’t enough water in or around the cells normal metabolism and tissue repair become damaged. This translates into Dehydrated skin which equals decreased repair and regeneration. Moisturizers are designed to hold water in the skin. They most often have ingredients known as humectants, and emollients. Humectants (urea, glycerin, alpha hydroxyl acids) work by absorbing water from the air around you. Emollients (mineral oil, petroleum) work by filling in spaces between skin cells to improve the smoothness of the face.
How do I moisturize?
While this is an easy process, there are a few tips I have on how to apply moisturizer that will allow you to get the most out of your products. The first is to moisturize immediately after washing your face. Typically you have a three minute span to put moisture back in skin after exposing it to water. The sooner the better when it comes to the face! When applying moisturizer remember to use light upward strokes. Facial skin is delicate and prone to damage so avoid tugging at the skin. The area around the eyes is EXTREMELY delicate and requires an ever so slight ring finger touch. Finally, when it comes to moisturizer, twice is nice. Applying moisturizer day and night will double the good results. When apply moisturizer at night time allow it at least 30 minutes to sink in before hitting the sack. This will keep the product from coming off on the pillow.
While this is an easy process, there are a few tips I have on how to apply moisturizer that will allow you to get the most out of your products. The first is to moisturize immediately after washing your face. Typically you have a three minute span to put moisture back in skin after exposing it to water. The sooner the better when it comes to the face! When applying moisturizer remember to use light upward strokes. Facial skin is delicate and prone to damage so avoid tugging at the skin. The area around the eyes is EXTREMELY delicate and requires an ever so slight ring finger touch. Finally, when it comes to moisturizer, twice is nice. Applying moisturizer day and night will double the good results. When apply moisturizer at night time allow it at least 30 minutes to sink in before hitting the sack. This will keep the product from coming off on the pillow.
Which Moisturizer is best for me?
There are so many to choose from it can overwhelm anyone. From drugstore to department stores the aisles/counters are stocked with different brands and types to choose from. For dry skin I recommend using a product that contains natural oils such as olive, almond, jojoba, or avocado oils. These natural oils can be used alone or in a product. They will help retain water for a longer period of time. For Oily skin an “oil-free” noncomedogenic product is necessary. This means it will not clog your pores and we all know clogged pores lead to acne. Many of these products will be in lotion form since it tends to be lighter. Remember ladies the leading cause of skin aging is sun exposure so all moisturizers should have an SPF of 15… atleast.
There are so many to choose from it can overwhelm anyone. From drugstore to department stores the aisles/counters are stocked with different brands and types to choose from. For dry skin I recommend using a product that contains natural oils such as olive, almond, jojoba, or avocado oils. These natural oils can be used alone or in a product. They will help retain water for a longer period of time. For Oily skin an “oil-free” noncomedogenic product is necessary. This means it will not clog your pores and we all know clogged pores lead to acne. Many of these products will be in lotion form since it tends to be lighter. Remember ladies the leading cause of skin aging is sun exposure so all moisturizers should have an SPF of 15… atleast.
Any Recommendations?
Both of the moisturizers I use are from the drugstore! I
absolutely love discovering products that are readily available to all without
breaking the bank. If you would like to see some of my past more high end loves
let me know :)
Simple skincare Vital Vitamin day cream SPF 15: I have combination/normal skin and I am absolutely in love with this product. Simple skincare is popular in the UK which intrigued me into giving it a go. It is a white cream that smells like a typical sunscreen. The scent does disappear almost immediately after application. At first this does look a little greasy on my skin but that quickly goes away within about 5 minutes of sinking into my skin. This brand is formulated for sensitive skin gals, so it is gentle in every single way. I have suffered no breakouts from this product. It can be found at any drugstore for around $10.00
Aveeno Smart essentials Night Cream: I believe in using a
different moisturizer at night because it’s the time when my skin is
regenerating and certain moisturizers can assist in that process. This night
cream contains antioxidants and vitamins that give my skin a healthy glow every
morning. I haven’t seen my skin look this bright in a while. It provides an
extreme amount of moisture so that it is hydrated all night. This cream is
rather thick with no distinct smell. It soaks into my skin almost immediately
without a greasy residue left over. I have also not suffered any breakouts from
this product. This can be purchased at any drugstore for $12.00.
I hope you ladies learned at least one new thing from this post!
Until Next Time.. Xo
Until Next Time.. Xo
