Moisturisers - why you can afford to keep it simple

The skincare staple that many people tend to over think.. 

Our experts share why you can afford to keep it simple and how to choose the right one for you.  

Do you need to moisturise?

Yes! Even oily skins need to moisturise. (albeit a light lotion or gel formula will do great)

Why? 

When it comes to skin health hydration is everything and we are constantly losing it to the environment from sun, wind to air conditioning. It’s called TEWL (trans epidermal water loss) Your moisturiser protects your skin from the elements and locks in hydration.

It’s a non-negotiable for healthy, hydrated skin.  

Why it’s not your most important purchase? 

Moisturisers don’t have to be expensive; they just have to do the job and suit your skin. 

If you are applying a moisturiser to dull skin with a buildup of dead skin cells that expensive moisturiser won’t be doing anything other than moisturising your dead skin cells at the top surface of your skin. Those expensive ingredients are simply wasted. Similarly, if you’re stripping your skin of moisture with the wrong cleanser, you’ll only be replacing lost moisture and not getting ahead in your routine.

Prioritise cleansing, exfolation and serums in your routine before opting for an expensive moisturiser.

A standard moisturiser and a potent serum is going to penetrate deeper (where change can happen) and do far more for your skin than a single expensive moisturiser.

How to choose a moisturiser for your skin?

Choose your moisturser primarily based on your skin type; balanced, oily, dry, sensitive.  

Moisturisers for dry skins will contain more noursihing and emollient ingredients. Whilst those designed for oily skins will have lightweight humectants and can come in oil-free gels.

TOP TIPS:

• Keep it simple

• The 1^st job of your moisturiser is to moisturise. Protect and lock in hydration.

• Treat any additional skin concerns with targeted treatments through serums, exfoliants, facial oils. 

• If you’re over 35+, have exfoliation and serums done and want further support. Choose a moisturiser with peptides and other pro-aging benefits.

A word on oily / acne prone skins.  

Most oily skins are dehydrated. Having an excess of sebum yet lacking in water content. 

When skin is dehydrated it will produce more oil to compensate. Locking in your hydration will help balance your oil production.  Don’t skip it but keep it light.   

If you choose the right moisturiser for your skin, it will not break you out and will actually help prevent acne by keeping your barrier strong and bacteria on the outside.

Where in your routine to moisturise?  

Last step before your seperate SPF. 

Do I need a different night and day cream? 

No. 

Whilst some prefer a thicker moisturiser of a night time, which is fine, it would be the last thing on my list to invest in skincare wise. 

Key Moistursising Ingredients

Occlusives -  sit on the surface of the skin creating a barrier to trap moisture where is belongs whilst protecting against external irritants. Found in thicker moisturisers. Best for drier, compromised skins.

Emollients - similar to occlusives but not as heavy.  In addition they soothe and hydrate the skin.  Can be formulated for all skins types, including oily. Used for itchy and eczema type conditions too. 

Humectants - attract water from the atmosphere or from deeper in the skins dermis. Beneficial for dehydrated and oilier skins. Typically formulated alongside emollients to help keep hydration in.

Our Expert Picks

 

 

Words by: The Skincare Edit - Team x 

Image by: Zelens and @HaileyBieber

Product choices: The Skincare Edit