Moisturising
“A key step in any skincare routine that involves hydrating the skin and creating a protective layer to prevent moisture loss. This step is essential for keeping the skin plump, supple, and resilient.”
Why is Moisturising important?
Hydration: Keeps the skin hydrated by preventing water loss, maintaining the skin's natural barrier.
Protection: Protects the skin from environmental damage and pollutants.
Anti-Aging: Helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Balance: Maintains the skin's oil balance, which can help prevent breakouts and other skin issues.
Soothing: Calms irritated or sensitive skin, providing relief from dryness and discomfort.
Types of Moisturisers
Lotions
Best For: Normal to slightly dry or oily skin
Benefits: Lightweight, easy to absorb, and good for everyday use.
Creams
Best For: Dry to very dry skin
Benefits: Thicker consistency, provides intense hydration, and helps restore the skin's barrier.
Gels
Best For: Oily and acne-prone skin
Benefits: Lightweight, non-greasy, and absorbs quickly without clogging pores.
Ointments
Best For: Extremely dry and sensitive skin
Benefits: Very thick and occlusive, locks in moisture effectively.
Serums
Best For: All skin types, depending on the formulation
Benefits: Concentrated active ingredients, can target specific concerns like aging, pigmentation, or dehydration.
How to Moisturise?
Choose the Right Moisturiser
Select a moisturiser suitable for your skin type and concerns. Consider consulting a dermatologist if you’re unsure about your skin type or the best product for you.
Cleanse Your Skin
Begin with a clean face. Use a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and impurities. Pat your skin dry with a soft towel, leaving it slightly damp to help with the absorption of the moisturiser.
Apply Toner (if applicable)
If you use a toner, apply it before moisturising. Toners can help balance your skin's pH and prepare it for better absorption of your moisturiser.
Apply Moisturiser
Dispense an Appropriate Amount: Use a small amount of moisturiser. Typically, a pea-sized amount is sufficient for your face, but you may need more for your neck and décolletage.
Warm It Up: Rub the moisturizer between your hands to warm it up, which can help with even application.
Apply Evenly: Gently apply the moisturiser to your face and neck using upward, circular motions. Focus on areas that are particularly dry or prone to fine lines.
Pat for Absorption
After applying the moisturizer, gently pat your skin with your fingertips to enhance absorption. This technique can also stimulate blood flow, giving your skin a healthy glow.
Follow Up with Sunscreen (Morning Routine)
If you’re moisturising in the morning, always follow up with a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect your skin from UV damage.
Additional Tips
Twice Daily: Moisturise your skin twice daily once in the morning and once at night to maintain hydration and protect your skin.
Layering: If you use multiple skincare products, apply your moisturiser after serums and treatments but before sunscreen.
Adjust for Seasons: Your skin’s needs may change with the seasons. Use a richer moisturiser in winter and a lighter one in summer.
Hydration from Within: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.
Targeted Areas: Pay extra attention to areas prone to dryness, such as around the eyes, mouth, and neck.
Product Selection Guide
Normal Skin
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel
Oily Skin
Olay Regenerist Whip Face Moisturiser
Dry Skin
First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream
Combination Skin (Dry + Oily)
Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel
Sensitive Skin
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturiser
Acne Prone Skin
Cetaphil Pro Oil Absorbing Moisturiser
Mature Skin
Eucerin Q10 Anti-Wrinkle Face Cream