Doctors at the Mayo Clinic suggest using a moisturizing lotion or skin cream daily---as often as you wash your face and hands. Most lotions contain greater water than oil content, and creams have more oil than water. On facial skin, use the lightest formula of moisturizer that is effective for your skin type. You may wish to choose a cosmetic product that adds a sunblock. Dermatologists recommend an SPF 15, 30 or higher-strength sunscreen component. Your hands may require a heavier cream or oil if they are chapped.
For Dry Skin
Skin that tends toward dryness or experiences temporary dryness due to wind, sun or low humidity needs intensive care. Cosmetic products that do no further damage are a must. Doctors at the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) report that fragrance and color dye are among the most common irritants, so choose a hydrating skin cream that has neither. Some beneficial ingredients to dry skin are glycerin, mineral oil, lanolin, urea, allantoin and propylene glycol.
For Oily Skin
Even oily and acne-prone skin types need hydration to keep skin soft and pliable. Moisture is essential to skin function as a barrier, because it keeps skin from drying, cracking and becoming permeable. Heavy skin creams are out for oily skin. You may need an oil-free moisturizing lotion that contains glycerin and water infusions, such as rosewater or green tea. Choose a noncomedogenic cosmetic product and add an acne treatment, such benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid ingredients, if you wish. The Mayo Clinic endorses these compounds as effective for acne.
For Aging Skin
Moisturizing lotions for aging skin may have active ingredients designed to aid night repair and cellular growth. The AAD notes that the more expensive cosmetic products in this category don't always perform better. For nighttime application, choose a skin cream with one of these proven ingredients: retinoic acid, azelaic acid, lactic acid, kojic acid or salicylic acid. These synthetic vitamins and hydroxy acids are known to increase the turnover of skin cells on the epidermis, while the cream base maintains hydration.
For Winter Skin Care
Your skin may experience greater dryness in winter. If you normally use a moisturizing lotion, bump it up to a heavier cream formula during winter months. If you already use a cream, switch to an oil. Some options include almond, sesame and jojoba oils, and shea and coconut butters. Dermatologists at the AAD suggest petroleum jelly as an inexpensive and effective wintertime moisturizer.
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