How to Find the Right Skin Moisturizer

Feel  overwhelmed when you want to buy skin moisturizer for your dry skin? That’s no surprise, as there are dozens to choose from at the drugstore and hundreds more at high-end cosmetics and department stores — creams, lotions, ointments, some with sunscreen, others with an exfoliant. Choices range from the basic P25 jar of petroleum jelly to a P4, 000 five-ounce tub of designer skin moisturizer. And all the options in between can make your head spin. Here’s how to find a perfect product for you.

Note the first five ingredients. Look for common active ingredients, such as lanolin, glycerin, or petrolatum. Glycerin is less likely than lanolin to cause an allergic reaction. Pick a moisturizer that’s made by a reputable company.

Go for added sunscreen. Protecting your skin from harmful sun damage is one of the best things you can do to keep your skin looking young, so buy a moisturizer with a sun protection factor of at least 30. You’ll have to do some searching, but more companies are offering face and body moisturizers with sunscreen.

Make it skin-type appropriate. The skin on your face is thinner and more sensitive, so it’s a good idea to use a different moisturizer on your face than you do on your body. Purchase one that’s labeled “non-comedogenic” because it won’t clog your pores. Of course, choose one that’s right for your skin type. If you know you have sensitive skin, it’s always a good idea to look for a moisturizer labeled hypoallergenic. If you have oily skin, go with a light, oil-free moisturizer. If you have dry skin, get something richer. And if you have combination skin, go with a lighter moisturizer for your whole face and dot drier areas with a heavier cream. Keep in mind that you may need a lighter lotion in the summer, and a cream or ointment during colder months.

Consider using a moisturizer with retinol before bed. Retinol is vitamin A for your skin, and works by increasing the speed at which your skin cells turn over. You can find it over the counter or by prescription, but use it carefully as it may cause a skin irritation, redness, or dry skin.(Adapted by Jessy Pearl)

Source: www.everydayhealth.com