Today, I'm back with a much-anticipated post after a long hiatus, and we're talking skin! One thing I can tell you about my skincare journey is that it has taken a very long time for me to understand my skin and how to best care for it. The good thing is, I love skincare - learning about what works and what doesn't and trying new things, so I enjoy the challenge. It's very important to learn about your skin's individual personality - YES, our skin has a personality ... HAHA ... and mood swings! Once you know what your skin's needs are, you will be better prepared to select the right products and achieve the results you want. Moisturizers have got to be one of the most crucial steps in a skincare routine, so that's what we're covering today. Read on to learn the basics!

Murad Nutrient-Charged Water Gel

Your facial skin is subjected to environmental forces every day, many of which can cause it harm. Sun, wind, heat, dryness, cold, and pollution impact your skin constantly, and all of these can have a damaging effect upon it. The effects of these will be most apparent on those who have dry or sensitive skin, but those with oily skin will also find their skin deteriorating in time. Damage to the facial skin will not only cause irritated, dry skin, but will also contribute to the formation of wrinkles. The upper layer of the skin - the epidermis -  is a very thin and fragile shield against the world, and damage to the epidermis can result in damage to the dermis below it. Using a moisturizer suitable to your skin type is an excellent way to provide more protection for your skin. Moisturizers help to keep your skin softer and less prone to wrinkling.

How

Moisturizers Work

Moisturizers work most basically by helping to seal the skin using what are referred to as occlusives to prevent moisture loss, however, most of these products usually contain other
ingredients that help to make the skin and complexion look fresher and younger.

Emoliants

Emollients are ingredients in moisturizers that are made up of fats, and these work to nourish the skin so that it looks smoother. Emollients help to fill in small cracks in the

skin, as well.

Humectants

Humectants (a substance, especially a skin lotion or a food additive, used to reduce the loss of moisture) are important in maintaining skin moisture because they help to pull water from the lower layers of the skin to the top to help hydrate the outer layers.

Moisturizers

for Every Skin Type

An important thing to keep in mind when choosing a moisturizer is to choose the correct one for your skin type. A moisturizer designed for dry skin could cause problems for someone who has oily or acne-prone skin. Moisturizers are available as creams, ointments, and lotions.

Dry skin

Dry skin really cries out for the use of a moisturizer. Those with dry skin have sebaceous glands that do not produce an adequate amount of sebum to keep the skin properly hydrated. Dry skin is very likely to develop wrinkles, and for those with this skin type, generally a moisturizing ointment or cream will be the best solution. Look for a product that contains oils, and if your face is severely dry, use a moisturizer that contains petroleum jelly. Moisturizers that contain glycerin also can help to nourish dry skin.

Oily Skin

Oily skin actually can benefit from a moisturizer, although it might seem to be counterintuitive at first glance. However, washing your face removes most of the oil there, and can lead to patches of skin that will be too dry. Rather than using a cream or ointment, which might cause an outbreak of acne, try using a water-based lotion. If acne is a problem, you can discover more here for some help with this skin condition.

Mature Skin

Mature skin definitely needs a moisturizer. As we move into our 30s and 40s, regardless of our skin type, our skin will begin to dry out. This is a time when wrinkles begin to form and become established. Existing wrinkles will deepen. In most cases, acne will not be a serious problem, so an oil based moisturizer is the choice here. Look for a moisturizer that contains antioxidants such as Vitamins A and E.

Normal Skin

Normal skin is one that is perfectly balanced. This skin type is the one least likely to experience problems, but keeping normal skin normal is important, which is why those with normal skin should use a moisturizer regularly. Normal skin benefits from a moisturizer that is water based, such as a lotion or light cream.

Combination Skin

As always, combination skin can be the most difficult to moisturize properly. What might be too oily for one spot, such as the nose and forehead, might not provide enough protection for another spot, like the cheeks. For those with combination skin, a neutral lotion will probably work best, and you can always use a second moisturizer if you notice your cheeks drying out too much.

Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin can be almost as difficult to moisturize as combination skin, simply because it will have a tendency to react badly with more moisturizer ingredients. Sensitive skin is much more likely to be irritated by perfumes, acids, or dyes; any of these can cause an allergic reaction such as a rash. Those with sensitive skin should look for a moisturizer that contains ingredients that will be kind to the skin and less likely to irritate it. Natural ingredients often provide gentler moisturizing.

Once you have found the right moisturizer for your skin type, be sure to apply it right after you wash your face. Leave your face somewhat moist, rather than dry it completely after washing, so that the moisturizer has a better chance to be absorbed.

I have currently been enjoying Murad's Nutrient-Charged Water Gel. It is very light and absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving it feeling greasy or sticky. Since my skin tends to be on the dry side, I like to lather moisturizer on with a vitamin e serum as well. The one I've been using for a while now is the JASON Maximum Strength Vitamin E 45,000 I.U. Skin Oil. It really works so well to retain moisture and provide that added level of protection against drying. 

What moisturizers are you currently using and loving? Let me know in the comments!

A special thank you to facingacne.com for partnering with me on this post. Be sure to check them out for all-things skin!

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