Make Moisturizer A Part Of Your Daily Skincare Routine

Do you feel your skin turning rough and lifeless? You need a moisturizer.

A moisturizer, says US-headquartered Mayo Clinic, holds the water in the outer layer of your skin. “Most moisturizers are water-based lotions, creams, gels and serums. They contain ingredients that draw water into the skin (humectants)—such as glycerin, lactic acid or urea—and others that smooth the skin (emollients)—such as lanolin, sunflower oil and jojoba oil.” 

Benefits of moisturizing

Your skincare routine is incomplete without moisturization. A hot shower can leave you stripped of all the moisture. Make sure you apply a moisturizer immediately after a bath or shave. Besides checking dryness, a moisturizer can also help conceal skin blemishes. “Using a daily moisturizer ensures that the skin’s blemishes are camouflaged. That is because moisturizing tends to make the skin have a slight sheen, and those with any tint or self-tanner even out different skin tones,” says The University of Tennessee Medical Center.

If you want to fight wrinkles, make sure you include a moisturizer in your skincare regimen. “When the skin barrier is compromised, which is what we see when it becomes dry, there’s actually a low-grade chronic inflammation ... Low levels of ongoing inflammation ultimately lead to a breakdown of collagen and accelerated ageing,” dermatologist Whitney Bowe tells GoodHousekeeping. 

Mind your skin type

For dry and flaky skin, an oil-based moisturizer with ingredients like lactic acid can work. Those with sensitive skin should be extra-cautious when choosing a moisturizer. An aloe- or chamomile-based cream can moisturize and soothe your skin.

If you are someone who has combination skin, some parts are oily while others are dry, you can use a light lotion for the oily areas and a heavier cream for the dry parts. Always choose a moisturizer that allows your skin to breathe.