It could be very difficult to choose from the huge number of “miracle,” “ultimate solution,” “The best,” “Anti-Aging,” “Magical”…. skincare products available in the market.
Too many ingredients to choose from, and lots of brands that make it hard to find the right one for your skin type and conditions.
Right?!
The choices are endless. Still, there are a few things to take into consideration, like your skin type, age, and skin conditions. Thankfully, this makes shopping much easier and hassle-free.
Well, I spent the past few weeks searching and reading about the best moisturizers for your skin. What you are about to read, is NOT a list of “The Top 10 moisturizers to choose from“; it is a guide on how to choose the best moisturizer for your skin.
To help you choose the best one, first, you need to answer these three simple questions:
One important ingredient, which your moisturizer should always have, is a sunscreen with SPF of at least 25. If your moisturizer does not contain SPF factor, buy sunscreen, and use it daily.
And for the best anti-aging benefits, make sure one or more of the following are listed as an active ingredient: titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, avobenzone, Mexoryl SX (ecamsule), or Tinosorb. If you have to choose between applying your moisturizer or SPF, then use your SPF in the morning and your moisturizer at night.
Your skin type plays an important role in choosing the best moisturizer for your skin. Using a lotion for dehydrated skin does not make sense; the same applies when using heavy cream for oily skin.
Oily moisturizers can clog pores and cause many problems for oily skin including acne. To avoid that, make sure to follow these simple tips:
Since your skin type might change according to the weather, for example from normal to dry in cold seasons, you may need to switch products according to weather conditions.
Whatever kind of moisturizer you are using, it should have one of the following:
In dry cold weather, you will need occlusives (i.e., an ointment) to prevent your skin from losing moisture. This oil-based cream will help your skin retains moisture by creating a protective layer on the skin.
On the other hand, the hot, humid weather will cause you to sweat, so it is better to use a gel or a light lotion especially if you have oily skin.
My skin type has changed dramatically throughout the past years. When I was a teenager, my skin was very oily, as I grew up, it changed to combination skin in summer, while tends to dry in winter. I noticed that dark spots are developing all over my cheeks and forehead, and a few fine lines started to appear, too.
It makes sense then that what worked for me in my 20’s, may not work the same way now. So, I needed to change my moisturizer and look for one that has more anti-aging power.
To choose the right one for you, you should learn the basics.
It will be useful if you bookmark this post for future reference.
If you are trying to avoid harmful ingredients in beauty products, DIY creams are the best way to go. I managed to make my whipped shea butter with argan oil; you can check my recipe here. I like to use this one for my body, and it works quite well for dry skin around my mouth in winter. Unfortunately, I could not make my light cream for my combination skin.
Whether you wish to make your moisturizer or purchase from a local store, being aware of what you put on your skin is very important. Next time you buy skincare products, make sure you check the ingredients’ list, say NO to Parabens and fancy products’ descriptions, and look for what your skin needs.
Did you like this post? It would be great if you share it with your friends!
Sources:
http://health.howstuffworks.com/skin-care/moisturizing/products/5-important-ingredients-in-face-moisturizers-for-women.htm
http://www.besthealthmag.ca/look-great/skin/5-myths-ans-truths-about-moisturizers
http://www.paulaschoice-eu.com/learn/ways-to-avoid-buying-the-wrong-moisturizer/
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/02/04/how-to-moisturize-your-face_n_4704301.html
http://www.webmd.com/beauty/ten-winter-skin-care-tips
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dry-skin/in-depth/moisturizers/art-20044232
http://www.paulaschoice.com/expert-advice/anti-aging/_/anti-aging-ingredients-your-skin-needs-now
http://www.paulaschoice.com/expert-advice/anti-aging/_/anti-aging-superstars#no-1-best
Copyright: bowie15 / 123RF Stock Photo
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Thanks for all the links here. It helps to be able to have one post serve as a "hub" for many topics I want to research. Also, you are so right to point out that you need to reevaluate your skincare over time. What worked even a year ago might not do the same for you today.
I did not know that every time you open a jar moisturizer, you are exposing the ingredients to air and light and the anti-oxidants and peptides will break down and become ineffective. I did know that you should not dip your fingers in a jar of product because that will contaminate the product. Thank you for sharing this post, it is very informative, and I definitely need to avoid skincare products in jars.
I am looking for a good wrinkle, anti-aging cream. I would also like to combat acne from oily skin at the same time and of course sunscreen. I have gotten creams in the past but am more concerned with targeting anti-aging and wrinkles then back then. I need to reevaluate my choices.
Lea, you are right about evaluating your choices every few years. No one's skin type remains the same for years, because there are many factors that affect one's skin, you made the right thing.
I learned a great deal from this post about choosing (and re-choosing!) a moisturizer. Spot on.
Glad you found it useful, Kay :)
These are some great tips and a wealth of information.I wasn't aware about the jar moisturizer either. I have always been very vigilant about my skin care but have had to switch products over the years.Nice article!
Your skin changes when you get older and the same moisturizer once worked may not be the best choice a few years later.
This is a great post (I love when folks back up their info with science!) One thing I like to mention to people is that if you are going anywhere where you'll be having your picture taken a lot like a wedding or a fancy event, consider using moisturizers and makeup without sunscreen. If it's in the evening hours, it won't be a big deal in terms of sun damage and the titanium dioxide and zinc oxide in a lot of sunscreens can reflect the flash causing your skin to look strangely washed out in the photos.
Thank you for the advice, Leah!
Wow! This was very informative. This is the best article/post I've read that clearly explains what to look for in a moisturizer. Thank you!!!!!!
You are welcome, Marnie!
Glad you found it helpful :)
This is a wonderful, informative post for women of all ages. I am *cough* 50 *cough* but I still like to look my best. I firmly believe that cleansing, exfoliating and moisturizing with the right products for your skin are imperative. Awesome info here.
You said that skin type can change over the years and so does your need for different skin care. I've been looking for a new product to help me as my skin has changed. I also get relatively dry skin during the winter months and will also need to consider that when looking for the right moisturizer. Thanks for the informative read.
You are welcome, Dennis!
You are right about the needs of your skin, and how they change as the weather changes. You may also consider reading this post for tips on how to treat your skin in winter.