4 Myths and Truths about Skin Moisturizers
Even though each of us is unique and our skin has its own peculiar quirks, we each have tailor-made our skincare routines. Within our personalized routines, there are some similar staples we all have, more specifically skin moisturizers. At the very core of anyone’s skincare routine is going to be their skin moisturizer and moisturizing routine.
The problem is while we have to use a skin moisturizer, many of us simply grab whatever is easiest in the store and slap it on our bodies without much thought. Moisturizers are moisturizers, right? Not quite. While cost will in itself change the quality of moisturizers, the cost is not the only factor. There are actually different functions for different moisturizers.
With the misconceptions existing and myths abound, we felt it time to help clear the air and share the truth about our beloved moisturizers. We even took it upon ourselves to get the help of a dermatologist, Dr. Mark Lupin, director of the Cosmedica Dermatology Centre in Victoria, B.C.
Myth #1 – All Skin Moisturizers are Created Equal
Walk down any cosmetic aisle and you will see whole sections of skin moisturizers. As we already stated price will differentiate a multitude of products, but before that, there is the function of the moisturizer. You can purchase different types of moisturizers depending on what your skin needs.
Humectants, such as glycerin and lactic acid, attract water and help skin retain moisture. Emollients, such as fatty acids and ceramides, soften and soothe. Occlusives (known as “barrier creams”), such as petrolatum, dimethicone or lanolin, leave a film on the surface of the skin and seal in moisture.
Most products contain a combination of humectants, emollients and occlusives, so it’s easiest to choose a skin moisturizer based on your skin type. There are formulas for oily or acne-prone skin (look for “oil-free” and “non-comedogenic” on the label); sensitive skin; and dry or mature skin.
You’ll also notice that moisturizers have different textures. (Occlusives tend to be the heaviest of the bunch.) “Lotions are light, and creams are a little more substantial,” explains Lupin. “For anyone with dry or extra-dry skin, you want something that has more substance—it’s better to use a cream, which tends to protect skin better than lotion.”
If you live in a region that has cold winters, remember that your skin will tend to be dryer in the colder months, so you will need to change your skin moisturizer based on the season. Use the cream in fall and winter and switch to lotion for the warmer weather.
Myth #2 – Different Skin Moisturizer for Different Body Parts
This myth is actually true. Just as there are different types of creams that function differently, our skin varies based on where it is on our bodies. You can use most skin moisturizers on most parts of our body, for instance, Soothe Repair Therapy, but there are some specialty moisturizers you will still need.
Having a high-quality facial moisturizer is important as the skin on our face can be more prone to acne and is exposed to more sun damage than the rest of our body. The complexity of any break-outs plus the possibility of being dryer will require some extra care; a great choice is the Skindulgence Moisturizer.
Still considering the skin on your face, in and around our eyes is very sensitive and you must be careful not to get any moisturizer in your eyes. Only use products that are intended for the skin around your eyes such as Skindulgence Eye Cream. Gentle enough for everyday use but deep moisturizing for effective moisture and removal of fine lines.
Myth #3 – Use of Moisturizer Creates a Dependency
Some people’s belief is the continued use of a moisturizer can make our skin dependent on a moisturizer. “Not at all,” says Lupin. “Our skin cannot become dependent on a moisturizer. If you think your skin is dry, moisturizer is the best thing you can do for it.”
Wind, cold temperatures and heated houses in the winter can all dehydrate the skin, which can cause eczema to flare up and make the skin itchy and dry. “Prevention of this dryness by moisturizing is the single most important factor in protecting the skin from the elements,” says Lupin.
Myth #4 – Skin Moisturizer Sunscreen is Enough Protection
There are many skincare products that will boast they have some form of sunscreen, but you need to pay attention to what type of protection these skin moisturizers offer. You will need to read the small print to get the details.
The first thing you will want to see is an SPF of 30 or greater and make sure it has a broad-spectrum sunscreen. This will protect against both UVA (the rays that can cause skin cancer) and UVB rays. “As long as [the sunscreen in other products] qualifies in those two areas, then you don’t necessarily need another sunscreen on top of that,” says Lupin.
Dr. Lupin adds to ensure better protection, look at the product you are purchasing in a different manner. Look for a sunscreen that moisturizes rather than a moisturizer with some sunscreen.
With these four main myths about moisturizers now cleared up, you can ensure you have the right moisturizer in your skincare routine for your healthiest skin.
Enjoy this information and as always we appreciate all your comments and emails. Don’t forget to share this information with your friends so they too can have healthy, properly moisturized skin.
