Importance of Moisturizer

At the very least, you need one moisturizer specifically formulated for the face and another for the body. (An eye cream or serum is really important too!)

With literally hundreds of ingredients to choose from, there’s a moisturizing formula for everyone, depending on your preferences and needs. You might opt for a moisturizer with sunscreens that protect or humectants that absorb water from the air and seal in moisture, or antioxidants to help fight the effects of pollution. Or you could choose a moisturizer that does all of the above! Here are a few rules of thumb to go by when shopping:

• Look for noncomedogenic, fragrance-free moisturizers that won’t clog pores or irritate sensitive skin.
• For normal skin, use a light, water-based moisturizer.
• If you have dry skin, choose an oil-based moisturizer or one that contains glycerine, lactic acid (found in U-Lactin) or urea (found in Carmol 20), all of which do a better job of holding moisture in your skin.
• Got oily skin? Stick with an oil-free formula to help prevent breakouts.
• If your skin is sensitive, choose a fragrance- and dye-free product that says it’s for sensitive skin right on the label.
• For wrinkles and fine lines, choose an antiaging formula that contains peptides (look for Matrixyl or Argireline) or vitamin C with magnesium ascorbyl phosphate (MAP). These ingredients may help thicken collagen, the body’s natural skin plumper.
• Remember, expensive moisturizers are not necessarily better than drugstore brands — it could just be the fancy fragrance and pretty packaging that bumps up the price.

Not Just Moisturizing Folks!

Don’t rely on your moisturizer to do all the work. Make this a team effort by incorporating other beauty products that help promote soft, supple, younger- looking skin. In the drugstore or department store, shop for moisturizing versions of:

• Soap
• Face wash
• Body wash
• Scrubs
• Masks
• Shaving cream
• Sunscreen

Source: Daily Glow Online Beauty Magazine