By: Viraj Shah

Moisturizer — everyone from beauty bloggers to builders should be using one. But are they? As far as skincare goes, moisturizer is one of the basics, the foundational layer for healthy and happy skin that looks good, too. Though most people usually learn the importance of moisturizing (both face and body) from their caregivers growing up, sometimes things like skincare can fall by the wayside as we get older and become a little complacent. Let’s find out what moisturizer actually does for the skin and why it’s important to keep using one consistently.

What Is Moisturizer Really?

Your face moisturizer, or body moisturizer for that matter, is any gel, lotion, balm, ointment, or cream product that helps the skin it is applied to stay hydrated. Moisturizers work on the surface layers of the skin and should operate as a sealant or barrier to hold in nutrients and keep our irritants as well as a hydrating agent. These products stand between your skin and the outside world and help it hold onto the hydration it needs to function as well as possible. You may often hear the words “moisturizer” and “emollient” used interchangeably, but emollients are an ingredient in moisturizers made up of lipids that enhance the skin’s hydration. Occlusives are a type of moisturizer/ ingredient used for severely dehydrated or compromised skin types, which create a hydrophobic (water resistant) barrier. Humectants draw water into the upper layers of the skin from the surrounding environment or deeper layers of the skin itself.

Why Do We Need Moisturizer?

Our skins need moisturizers for many different reasons. There is the aesthetic reason, where moisturized skin simply looks more appealing and attractive than dry, flaky skin does. But these aesthetics speak to something other than just looks. Flaking and dryness are symptoms of a lack of moisture or possibly even a medical issue. Then there are the potential medical reasons: moisturizers can maintain health and balance in the skin.

What Different Kinds of Moisturizer Are There

What does moisturizer really do for your skin aside from helping it stay soft, supple, and hydrated?

1. Anti-inflammation

Many moisturizer ingredients can assist in calming skin irritation and inflammation while hydrating. Conditions like dermatitis are treated by medicated moisturizers.

2. Anti-aging

Certain moisturizers are loaded with ingredients that help to fight the visible signs of aging. Though no treatment or cream can stop the aging process, ingredients like vitamin C, collagen, and others can fight off the visible signs of aging, like wrinkles, sagging skin, or discoloration. Hydration is also key to looking fresh and youthful.

3. Fighting Blemishes

Blemish-prone skin is often just a symptom of another issue, like a lack of proper hydration. The skin may overcorrect and become oily, which may make it seem counterintuitive to use moisturizer, but it’s absolutely essential. When your skin gets dry, it tells your oil glands to produce more oil to hydrate it. This clogs pores and causes breakouts. Properly hydrated skin is well-balanced.

4. Sun Protection

You should certainly be using a standalone SPF of no lower than 30, but preferably 50. That said, ingredients in your daily moisturizer will assist with sun protection and can assist in minimizing existing sun damage. Some moisturizers have a built-in SPF too.

Does Moisturizer Come In Different Forms?

Yes, it does! The kind you’ll need will depend on your skin concerns and your skin type.

• Lotion is the least hydrating form. A light, medium, or thick cream texture.
• Cream is in the middle of the road. Thick, creamy texture.
• Ointment is the most hydrating. A thick, shiny consistency. Usually used only as directed by a skincare or medical professional or in the evenings as a skin mask.
• Gel is the fastest acting. Its thin consistency allows it to sink into the skin quickly and get to work.

Why Is Moisturizer So Important?

Building moisture, and increasing the water content in your skin — these are the basics of making sure that your skin is nourished and healthy. Not only does moisturizer do both of these, but it also prevents the conditions that can follow severely dry skin or skin that has a compromised moisture barrier. Cracked and peeling skin can lay lower layers of skin bare and invite infection, which may even result in scarring. Dry skin can worsen conditions like eczema, which already entails dryness and itching. A lack of moisture can lead to a compromised skin barrier which can allow all sorts of nastiness to get close to your skin: pollutants, irritants, UV rays, and the like.

There’s also something else to consider: moisturized skin feels and looks wonderful. Self-confidence is an important aspect of our daily lives and small things like a little bit of moisturizer can go a long way to maintaining your skin and keeping it looking gorgeous every day.

A Skincare Must

Moisturizer is readily available at a number of price points and is easy to apply. It takes only seconds and can make years and years’ worth of difference to your skincare routine. 

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, nor does it replace professional medical expertise or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, always consult with a physician or other healthcare professional.

Published by: Holy Minoza