Skincare Battle – Part 5

*This post is not sponsored by any of the products or brands mentioned therein*

For the first four parts of the Skincare Battle, please reference the following posts:

• https://amateurconnoisseur.com/2021/02/11/skincare-battle-part-1/
• https://amateurconnoisseur.com/2021/02/14/skincare-battle-part-2/
• https://amateurconnoisseur.com/2021/02/28/skincare-battle-part-3/
• https://amateurconnoisseur.com/2021/03/21/skincare-battle-part-4/

Hello my lovelies! We are getting to the last few battles for our skin. Today we review Moisturizer. What is a moisturizer? Why do I need it? What does a moisturizer actually do? What one is best for my skin?

What is a moisturizer? Is it the same as lotion? A moisturizer is a preparation used for protecting, hydrating, and lubricating the skin. This is something that would normally be done by the sebum naturally produced in healthy skin. A lotion is similar to a moisturizer but has a higher water content. A lotion works on top of the skin to cause some sort of effect, preventing sunburn. A moisturizer is a cream, that is designed to bring benefits into the skin. They can include; minerals, vitamins, or moisture.

Why do I need a moisturizer? There are many reasons you may need or want a moisturizer. It can help reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles, reduce the number of other blemishes you may have, helps your skin stay young, or even help your skin maintain it’s proper balance. If any of these reasons are something you are concerned with, keep reading for some options that may work for you.

What does a moisturizer actually do? Moisturizers can do many things, depending on your needs and your skin type. A moisturizer can treat and prevent dry skin, protect sensitive skin, reduce sebum production, help improve the overall texture and mask imperfections.

*As with past postings, please do not change your routine without testing your skin. If you have a skin condition, please consult with your doctor. Do not stop taking any prescribed medications/lotions/creams that your doctor has ordered to help with your skin.*

To determine your skin type, please check with an esthetician, dermatologist, or other skin professional.

For those with normal skin you have many options for a moisturizer. I have tried many moisturizers and my skin is normal to dry depending on the year. So the one that I’m currently using is from a brand that has been around for as long as I can remember. Olay. A heavy duty moisturizer from their brand is the Olay Regenerist Whip SPF 40. This product is lightweight, whipped like cream formula, that transforms into a liquid once applied for faster absorption. Priced at $29 USD, you can find it at most drugstores or retailers.

If you are prone to dry skin, you need something hydrating. Neutrogena Hydro Boost is highly recommended ant contains Hyaluronic Acid to help with moisture. This is a gel cream formulated for extra-dry skin, and in addition to the hyaluronic acid, it contains glycerin which will quench your dry skin and leave it soft, smooth and hydrated. You can purchase this product online, or in retail stores. Prices start at $14 USD.

When you have acne prone skin, or oily skin, you need a moisturizer that will not cause more breakouts. Oil free are the key words you need to find on your moisturizer. A popular choice, and a brand that I absolutely love is Dermalogica. They have a moisturizer called Active Moist. This is a sheer, lightweight, oil free moisturizer that has ingredients to provide deep hydration. Now the price point is higher, but in general the most you need to apply should be no more than a quarter sized amount for your face and neck. Available online or at beauty stores, prices start at $66 USD.

Combination skin is frustrating. Some areas are overly dry, some are excessively oily. What are you to do? That’s why brands have created moisturizers for combination skin, these moisturizers help restore and maintain the natural barrier to keep skin moisturized. An option that is pretty popular is Garnier Skinactive 3-in-1 Face Moisturizer with Rose Water. This is an oil free hydrating option, and smells amazing. Available at local retailers, starting at $13.49 USD.

Those with sensitive skin, need to make sure they aren’t irritating their skin with their moisturizers. The process to find the perfect option, can be long, painful and frustrating. One brand that is known for helping those with sensitive skin, eczema, and psoriasis, is Aveeno. They have a product for sensitive skin called Calm+Restore. It is a product with lighter hydration, fast absorbing and provides plenty of moisture. Also for sensitive skin, this product has a prebiotic oat and feverfew blend known for calming irritation. Product can be purchased online or in beauty stores, starting at $10 USD.

Lastly, I wanted to touch on those with mature skin. Not always can we use the same product as we age. No matter what age we are we want healthy, glowy skin. We may still have the same skin concerns, but may need to find alternates. One that is highly recommended is CeraVe Moisturizing Cream. It provides hydration for dry skin, glycerin, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid to help replenish skin moisture. This product can be purchased online or at retailers, starting at $16 USD.

Be strong, be beautiful, be you