So back to the basics:   moisturizing.  I’m sure most of you use a moisturizer, if not you need to start using one in the morning and at night because the skin craves moisture, especially in the winter.  Between the cold air and hot, dry heat in the house, your skin is definitely going to need some extra TLC (tender love and care).

Just in case you are unsure when to incorporate moisturizing into your skin care regime, it comes after cleansing or if you use a toner, after that.

When it comes to moisturizing, it’s pretty simple to choose what’s right for you…

Dry Skin:  Your skin is lacking oil, which makes it flaky, peely, and it may feel rough.

You don’t necessarily need to use a heavy thick cream, but you do want to make sure your using something that is going to draw moisture to the skin.  Dry skin is the most fragile and needs the most care when it comes to keeping it moist so choose something that is oil-based.

One thing to look for is Hyaluronic Acid because it traps and draws moisture towards the skin.  Black current seed and grape seed oil is also very hydrating.

               

Normal Skin:  Your skin’s water-oil balance is about the same.

               

You want to choose something that is water-based and light-weight.  Stay away from anything too greasy because your skin doesn’t need it.

Oily/ Acneic Skin:  Your skin overproduces oil, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. 

People with oily skin age the slowest because their skin isn’t dried out.

               

You need to be using a water-based moisturizer that is noncomedogenic (doesn’t clog pores).  Maybe you would prefer a gel moisturizer, but please use one.

               

Don’t think just because you have oily skin that you don’t need a moisturizer because you would be wrong.  If anything it’s just as important for you to keep moisturized as someone with dry skin.

               

You most likely are using products that are stripping the oil from your skin, so you need to replace that oil.  If you don’t, what you’re causing your skin to do is produce more oil to compensate from you stripping it, just know that’s not a good thing.  By using a light weight moisturizer you’re tricking your skin into thinking it has enough and it will stop over-producing oil.

               

Maybe something that has beta-hydroxy acids like salicylic acid.

If you are sensitive too, stay away from products that have perfumes and dyes.  Try to look for calming ingredients like chamomile and aloe.

Also, for mature skin use oil-based moisturizers and products with antioxidants and alpha-hydroxy acids like glycolic and lactic acids.

If you have any specific questions, just ask and next week I’ll talk about exfoliating.