What is Moisturization?
Hydration / Moisturization is a must for the skin. If the skin barrier is strong, it will lose less water over time. If the skin barrier is weak, skin can lose water fast. Our skin cells lose the capacity to retain hydration, leading to dull and tired skin as we age.
An excellent moisturizing product helps to reduce water loss from the skin. Some products claim to give 24 hours hydration. It means that it can reduce water loss for up to 24 hours, not prevent it.
Types of Moisturization:
Some ingredients hold water in the skin to moisturize the skin. Oils or waxes that physically keep the water in the skin. Lighter oils that make skin smooth.
1.Humectants: ingredients that attract and hold water in skin(Serum)
Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid, Panthenol, Sodium Lactate, Sodium PCA, Urea, Honey, Lactic Acid
2.Occlusives: Oils or waxes that physically block water from escaping the skin
Cocoa Butter, Lanolin, Beeswax, Silicones, Mineral oil, Lecithin
3.Emollients: Lighter oils / Cream that makes the skin smooth.
Oils, Esters, Ceramides, Fatty acids
For Oily Skin, you already have enough Occlusives and Emollients in your skin. But, if it is dehydrated, you need to use a hydrating product such as glycerin or hyaluronic acid or any other water-holding products.
For Combination skin, if it is dehydrated, use a hydrating product or lighter oil/gels. Coconut oil can clog the pores leading to acne. Use lighter oils such as Jojoba, Hemp, Rosehip oil, Tea Tree oil, Watermelon seed oil etc.
For Dry skin, need to use a moisturizer with all the three, i.e., a moisturizer which holds water in skin, oils and creams. Just using hyaluronic acid serums will not help. Use occlusives/ emollient cream on top of a hyaluronic acid serum.
For very dry and acne-prone skin, try a HA moisturizer with Silicones. Silicones are the only Occlusives that won't clog the pores. Some may find silicones non-skin friendly.
Conclusion
Keep applying moisturizers 2-3 times/day. Skin that is well moisturized can exfoliate itself better than dehydrated skin. When skin is hydrated, it can do its functions better so that less acne, redness, etc. Also, when skin gets dry, it gets inflamed, and inflamed skin produces more melanin and hence becomes darker. Moisturization is plumping up the skin and helps to reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles. So it is imperative in the skincare routine.
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