Skincare Treated

Use the Right Skin and Face Moisturizers

Skin and face moisturizers are mixtures of chemical agents which are specially formulated to make the skin softer by reducing evaporation and increasing hydration.

They basically prevent moisture from the skin from evaporating and therefore are effective in treating dry skin. They also protect sensitive skin and improve skin texture. 

What do Moisturizers Contain?

Moisturizers consist of natural oils, humectants, occlusives, emollients and lubricants, among other things.

Sometimes naturally occurring skin lipids and sterols are added to skin and face moisturizers to repair the damaged barrier function of the skin. Antioxidants and vitamins are also added to improve the skin’s elasticity.

Humectants increase the water content of the epidermis by attracting water from the dermis. They can also attract water from the air into the epidermis in very humid conditions. An example of a humectant is glycerin.

Retaining Moisture

Occlusives reduce the evaporation of water from the skin’s surface and thus help to retain the skin’s moisture. They are usually greasy.  Mineral oil and lanolin are commonly used occlusives.

Emollients remain in the outermost layer of the epidermis and act as lubricants. They maintain the soft and smooth texture of the skin and reduce fine lines and wrinkles.

In general, the drier the skin, the heavier should be the moisturizer.  A person whose hands are continuously in water needs a heavy moisturizer containing a large percentage of glycerol.

A lighter moisturizer containing a little water and humectant would be appropriate for the face. 

Choosing a Moisturizer

Lighter skin moisturizers are used by younger people as their skin has a better capacity to retain water than older people. People with oily skin should only use moisturizers which are oil-free.

The face has numerous sebaceous glands, which produce natural oil. But these are scarce on the arms and legs.

Therefore, moisturizers need to be applied liberally on the arms and legs, especially if the skin is exposed to sun, windy and cold weather. Moisturizers containing a sun block should be used in people who work outdoors.

Skin Diseases

Skin and face moisturizers play an important role in the treatment of several skin conditions, such as atopic dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, ichthyosis and rosacea. They provide a temporary skin barrier, allowing time for the damaged natural barrier to repair itself.