3 Steps to Choose a Moisturizer that is Healthy for Skin
Daily facial skin care that is classified as good includes the use of moisturizers and sunscreens to fight free radicals and protect the skin from ultraviolet (UV) rays. Why use a moisturizer? Facial moisturizers serve as protection for the skin, keeping your facial skin healthy and well hydrated. Moisturizers work by trapping moisture in the outer layer of the skin and pulling moisture from the deeper layers of the skin to the outer layers of the skin. The American Academy of Dermatology recommend using a facial moisturizer after bathing so that your moist skin can bind fluids well. But, how to choose a moisturizer that is healthy for the skin, and will not cause problems?
Tips for choosing a healthy moisturizer
1. Know your skin type
Before using a moisturizer, you must know your skin type first to ensure that the moisturizer you use is suitable for your needs. Your skin type is determined by various factors such as genetics and diet. In general, there are five groups of skin types:
- Dry: Suitable for using oil-based moisturizers
- Oily: Suitable for using a water based moisturizer
- Adult (mature): We recommend using an oil based moisturizer
- Sensitive: We recommend using a moisturizer that contains aloe vera or a cool material against the skin
- Normal / combination: Suitable for using a water based moisturizer
ALSO READ: 9 Steps To Wash Your Face Properly If Your Skin Is Oily
2. Pay attention to the ingredients in your moisturizer
Now that you know your skin type, and have been dealing with the based moisturizer products that suit your skin, the next step is to carefully read the labels on your product packaging. A good moisturizer is a moisturizer that can protect the skin and does not contain harmful ingredients.
Active and inactive ingredients
Are you confused when you read the label printed on the moisturizer package? Usually, the ingredients contained in the product will be listed on the moisturizer. In general, the ingredients in moisturizers can be classified into two, namely active and inactive ingredients. In simple terms, the active ingredients are the ingredients that make the product function as it should. For example, a moisturizer that protects the skin from UV rays will contain titanium oxide which acts as the main sunscreen ingredient.
The active ingredients most often used in moisturizers are lanolin, glycerin, and petrolatum. Of the three products, glycerin is the least likely to cause allergies. Inactive ingredients, on the other hand, are the support ingredients that complement your product.
ALSO READ: Tips for Recognizing Dangerous Skin Whitening Creams
Non-comedogenic
Products that label themselves non-comedogenic means it has properties that do not clog pores. These products usually contain no oil, which means they are ideal for you if you have oily, acne-prone skin types.
Hypoallergenic
This term means that the product causes less allergic reactions in consumers. This product is suitable for those of you who have sensitive skin and are prone to allergies. However, keep in mind that this does not guarantee that the product will not cause allergies. So, what can you do about it? If you have had a previous allergic reaction to a moisturizer, you should pay attention to the ingredients in the moisturizer and avoid it next time.
Natural vs organic
You may feel confused, some moisturizing products claim to use natural products, while some claim to use organic products, what’s the difference? A product is said to be a natural product when it uses ingredients derived from plants (with or without chemical products). Meanwhile, a product is said to be organic if the ingredients contained do not use chemical products, pesticides, or artificial fertilizers at all.
ALSO READ: 7 Facts About Organic Skin Care You Need to Know
3. Use your moisturizer properly
After finding the right moisturizer, make sure you apply the product properly for optimal results. Always use your moisturizer after your face is clean. Immediately after washing your face is the best time, because a moisturized face will help trap the fluids contained in your moisturizer. When you use your product, do not forget about the eyelid and neck area, unless the directions for use say otherwise. Wait for a few minutes if you want to wear makeup on your face. If your moisturizer does not have the dual function of protecting against UV rays, you can use sunscreen after applying the moisturizer.
After using your moisturizer regularly for a few days or weeks, try to evaluate it. Do you feel that your face is fresher, hydrated and comfortable? If, yes, congrats! This means that you have found a moisturizer that is suitable for your skin. If not, don’t be disappointed, you can always choose another product, of course, by looking at the ingredients contained in it.
Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
