Face Lotions & Moisturizers

 Dry skin + moisturizers = beautiful skin. True? Not always. Because of the countless number of lotions available, anyone can make a mistake in applying the wrong kind on the face. Using the wrong kind of face lotions and moisturizers can result to an irritated or inflamed skin that may result into scars.

To avoid this problem, first, let us learn the basics of moisturizers. The basic function of face lotions and moisturizers are to soothe and keep water in the skin. They also act as a temporary barrier. Face lotions can protect sensitive skin, improve skin tone and texture, and mask imperfections. Moisturizers prevent and treat dry skin. With so many of these face lotions and moisturizers around, you can find one that claims to address whatever concerns you have, from dull skin to clogged pores. 

The thickest moisturizers are balms, creams and oils and are generally recommended for dry skin types. Experts say that emollient ingredients like lanolin, petrolatum, mineral oil and glyceryl stearates are good options for dry skin. Choose a heavier, oil-based moisturizer that contains urea or propylene glycol (chemicals that help keep your skin moist) to restore moisture to dry skin. Face lotions and moisturizers that are in oil form are preferred for very dry, cracked skin. These face lotions and moisturizers are more effective at preventing water from evaporating from your skin.

Lotions are lighter and less thick than creams and are best used for normal to slightly dry or slightly oily skin. Water-based face lotions are best used for normal skin that is neither too dry nor too oily to maintain its natural moisture balance. These moisturizers have a light, nongreasy feel. These face lotions and moisturizers often contain lightweight oils, such as cetyl alcohol, or silicone-derived ingredients, such as cyclomethicone.

Gels are the lightest, most fluid facial moisturizers and are recommended for oily skin types. People in this category should look for face lotions that contain glycerin, hyaluronic acid or lactic acid. Face lotions and moisturizers to be used should be oil-free and should not clog pores or labeled as “noncomedogenic". This is especially true for acne-prone skin which can benefit from face lotions that have salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide.

Fragrance and potential allergens such as dyes in face lotions and moisturizers should be avoided, by those with sensitive that is susceptible to skin irritations, redness, itching or rashes. The American Academy of Dermatology notes that fragrance is the most common cause of irritant-contact dermatitis. Use face lotions specifically designed for sensitive skin.

For mature skin that tends to become drier because oil-producing glands in the skin become less active, oil-based face lotions and moisturizers that contains petrolatum as the base, along with lactic acid or alpha hydroxy acids are recommended hold in moisture and prevent flaky, scaly skin. Look for moisturizers that have anti-aging properties. 

Remember that face lotions and moisturizers should only be applied on clean skin.