Moisturising is one of the most soothing parts of any skincare routine. Lathering rich creams on your face feel relaxing and rewarding, especially since our skin loves hydration. But even if you have a go-to moisturiser, are you sure you’re applying it correctly?
Well, it turns out that there’s a proper way to use your moisturisers and get the most out of them. It’s not just about the ingredients; it’s also about your skin type and where the product falls into your regimen.
Read on to find out how you can always nail the game for dewy, soft skin!
Why do you need a moisturiser?
What you use on your skin is up to your perusal – you can add retinol, acids, or other active ingredients. However, there are non-negotiables that you should never skip in your routine: cleansers, moisturisers, sunscreens, and exfoliants. These products lay the foundation for your entire skincare regimen and have pivotal roles.
As for moisturisers, they are in charge of keeping your skin barrier intact. Your skin barrier is the outermost layer that shields your skin against irritants, dirt, and moisture loss. Furthermore, your skin consistently loses moisture through transepidermal water loss. This is where moisturisers come to the rescue – they replenish moisture levels to reinforce your skin barrier. Moisturisers feature potent ingredients like humectants, occlusives, and emollients that soften and smoothen the skin’s surface.
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How can I moisturise the right way?
Apply moisturiser on damp skin.
Applying moisturiser on damp skin is more effective than on a dry one! Your skin absorbs the nourishing & hydrating ingredients and locks in more moisture better this way. Apply your moisturiser as soon as you get out of the shower or as soon as you finish cleansing your face. If you use a toner, essence, or serum, apply them first, then moisturise before your skin gets completely dry.
Dab it first before massaging it in.
Most people rub moisturiser into their palms before putting it onto their face, which is a total no-go. Much of the good stuff in your moisturisers will only get absorbed into your hands this way! Instead, put a little amount on the back of your hand first. Then, dab your favourite moisturiser all over your face using your ring finger before gently massaging it. Doing it this way is much more soothing, and you can work the product into your skin better!
Choose the right moisturiser for your skin type.
Every skin is unique, so what worked for your favourite celebrities or influencers might not work for you. Choosing the right moisturiser for your skin type is essential so your skin can benefit from it. A good moisturiser must have humectants that draw water into the skin and occlusives that seal in hydration. It is important to note, though, that depending on your skin type and concerns, you may need a different formulation or ratio of those ingredients.
Case in point: a thicker, heavier moisturiser with hyaluronic acid or ceramides would work better if you have dry skin. For those with oily or acne-prone skin, opt for lighter formulas that are non-comedogenic or say “oil-free” on the label. These moisturisers won’t clog your pores or cause acne breakouts.
Apply your products in the proper order.
The order in which you apply your products also matters – it ensures that your skin absorbs all the ingredients properly. The rule of thumb is to start with the lightest formulations and work your way up to the heavier ones. Layering your products in this particular order keeps the heavier formulas from getting in the way of the lighter ones.
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