Facial moisturizers are an essential component of daily skin care, no matter what type of skin you have. According to "Elle" magazine, keeping your skin hydrated helps protect it from surface damage and keeps it supple and less prone to dryness and wrinkles. Many types of moisturizers exist, but no matter what product you choose, you can take certain preparative measures to ensure you get the most out of your lotion or cream. Clean your skin and exfoliate it with products that complement your moisturizer and achieve the softest, smoothest skin possible.
Step 1
Choose a skin cleanser based on your complexion's needs. If you have dry or sensitive skin, opt for a creamy face wash that promises to cleanse without irritation. Oily skin needs a cleanser with ingredients such as salicylic acid to combat acne and clear out pores. If you have combination skin, choose a mild cleanser that won't make you break out or strip your skin of moisture. Lather the product in your palms and smooth it onto your wet face with a massaging motion. Rinse it off thoroughly and dry your face with a towel.
Step 2
Douse a cotton ball in toner and gently swipe it all over your face. That should remove any residue left from your cleanser, says aesthetician Renee Rouleau in "Marie Claire" magazine. It also helps your skin feel more hydrated and allows your moisturizer to work more effectively. Smooth on the toner and allow it to dry.
Step 3
Apply a moisturizer with SPF 15 or higher in the morning. Sun damage is the leading cause of wrinkles and uneven complexions, so daily sunscreen application is a must, says dermatologist Jeanine Downie, M.D., in "More" magazine. Choose an oil-free moisturizer if you have oily or blemish-prone skin; opt for a cream that promises to be ultra-hydrating if your complexion is dry. Gently rub the product of your choice onto your face and neck before going outdoors.
Step 4
Wash your face again at the day's end, and exfoliate twice a week with a gentle scrub. "Elle" magazine states that this routine gets rid of dead skin cells that can make your skin dull and can inhibit the efficacy of your moisturizer. Scoop a small amount of exfoliant onto your fingertips and massage it into your wet skin, then rinse it away and dry off.
Step 5
Smooth on a rich, nighttime moisturizer that contains ingredients such as glycerin or hyaluronic acid. These ingredients help restore your skin's moisture and seal it in to nourish your face while you sleep, according to dermatologist Jeannette Graf, M.D. Layer on a generous amount of moisturizer before bedtime.
Things You'll Need
- Facial cleanser
- Toner
- Moisturizer with SPF 15
- Gentle scrub
- Nighttime moisturizer with glycerin or hyaluronic acid
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