Read this before you use a moisturiser!

Tips on choosing the right moisturiser based on your skin type.

A moisturiser is as important for your face as water for body. Just like dehydration, lack of proper moisturising will make your skin look dead. Regardless of your skin type, a moisturiser is a must. So if you have oily skin, don t assume you don t need a moisturiser. Read this to know why oily skin needs a moisturiser as much as dry skin. Even dermatologists recommend moisturising every day for radiant skin.

If you are among those who blindly follow the latest advertisements on beauty products or grab the most expensive moisturiser on the shelf, think twice. Choosing the right moisturiser is essential if you want to see results. Select moisturisers depending on your skin type, says our beauty expert, Shailaja Rao. Try this tissue paper test to know your skin type. Once you know your skin type, picking the right moisturiser won t be difficult. You have to follow just a few basic guidelines.

Dry skin

Are you making these mistakes with your dry skin? It goes without saying that your skin is thirsty for moisture and hence you need a product that provides deep moisturising benefits and has extra hydrating ingredients. Opt for a moisturiser with a thicker consistency, more like a cream or ointment. Lotions are runny and suited for oily skin. Dry skin needs a thick dab of moisturiser. Moreover, dry skin is very prone to sun damage. Hence opt for a product that comes along with sunscreen protection. Since natural oils are good for dry skin, go for products that contain cocoa butter, shea butter, Vitamin E oil, Almond oil and ingredients like glycerin and lanolin.

Oily skin

There are chances you wake up with a pimple at least once a week, thanks to the excess oil on your face. Washing your face 3-4 times and not applying a moisturiser to keep your skin oil-free isn t going to solve your problem. You need a good oil-free or gel-free formulated moisturiser. Light lotions and water-based moisturisers are the best bet. When you check the ingredient list, stay away from anything that has natural oils in it. Opt for products with lactic and glycolic acid and alpha-hydroxyl acids. Ingredients like tea tree oil, lemon, sandalwood, aloe vera will help balance your skin pH level and reduce the greasiness.

Try the orange and sugar scrub to get your skin from oily to naturally glowing.

Combination skin

This skin type can be confusing. But fret not; there are moisturisers available for combination skin too. Opt for ingredients that are a combination of the moisturisers for dry and oily skin. Water based products with alpha-hydroxyl acids are suited well for this skin type. Vitamin A is another ingredient you need along with a good SPF. Avoid excessive oils in the moisturiser but cocoa butter based cream can be used too.

Have you tried homemade face packs for combination skin?

Sensitive skin

Sensitive skin is prone to damage due to chemicals present in moisturisers. To know more about how to care for sensitive skin, click here. Look out for products that are labelled hypoallergenic. Products that contain any kind of alcohol, parabens or sulphates or any artificial fragrances and mineral oils are a strict no-no. Look for products that contain mild oils like jojoba or grapeseed as these will leave your skin moisturised without causing any irritation or infection.

Normal skin

While you should be happy that you have normal skin, picking any and every type of moisturiser isn t a good idea. You cannot use products formulated for dry or oily skin. Opt for water-based products that are not very heavy and are easily absorbed by the skin.

Moisturising tips for all skin types

• Always choose a sunscreen based moisturiser for extra protection against sun damage.
• Always check the ingredients list before selecting your product even if the brand claims it is for a specific skin type.
• Moisturise your skin daily. For dry skin, night creams work best. For oily skin, do not skip the moisturising routine just because your face feels greasy.
• Moisturisers for body and face are different. The skin on your face is thinner and so you must use the right product to enjoy flawless and glowing skin.

Image Source: Shutterstock

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