Your face is continuously exposed to the elements. Regular maintenance and care are required to keep the skin of your face well hydrated and healthy. Understand your skin to help you determine the best method and type of moisturizing routine. Moisturizing lotion can keep your skin from drying out and suffering harmful damage.
Skin Types
Most individuals have one of three types of skin: dry, oily, or a combination of dry and oily. According to dermatologist Sonia Badreshia-Bansal, M.D., FAAD, individuals with a dry or a combination skin type should wash their face two times per day, once in the morning and again in the evening, using warm water and a gentle cleanser. Immediately apply a moisturizer while your face is still damp to seal in the moisture. If you have extra dry skin, minimize your facial cleansing to once a day in the evening, and rinse with cold water only in the morning.
Products
It can be a daunting task to sort through the vast assortment of moisturizers available on the market to find the best product for your skin type. Before shopping, become familiar with the two main types of moisturizers, occlusives and humectants. Occlusive products create a film-like layer on the surface of your skin to prevent moisture loss. Humectants are compounds that improve the water-holding ability of your skin.
Occlusives
According to the DermNet NZ website, ointments, creams, lotions and oils are occlusive products that provide your skin with an added layer of protection against dryness. Ointments, such as petroleum jelly, are the most occlusive products, and are generally recommended for individuals with extra dry skin. Creams are thicker in consistency than ointments and slightly less occlusive. Lotions are the least occlusive products. Use lotions on the hairier parts of your face, like the eyebrows and hairline. Ointments and creams may make these areas appear slick and oily.
Humectants
Some of the most common humectants used in moisturizing products include glycerin, urea and alpha hydroxy acids, states the DermNet NZ website. Glycerin, also known as glycerol, is a popular additive in moisturizers, as it is clear, odorless and thick. Urea in moisturizing products is a synthetic copy of the natural urea compound found within healthy, well hydrated skin. Alpha hydroxy acids are often included in moisturizers to promote exfoliation of dry, scaly skin.
UV Protection
You can enhance the overall health of your skin by regularly applying a UV protective sunscreen lotion regardless of the season. According to Dr. Badreshia-Bansal, the daily use of a "broad-spectrum sunscreen" will protect the delicate skin of your face from the damaging effects of free radicals and ultraviolet radiation. Such effects can include dehydration, sun spots, wrinkles and skin cancer. Many moisturizers and makeup products include sunscreen.
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