Proper hydration is a cornerstone of healthy, radiant skin, making moisturizer an essential part of any skincare routine. Whether your skin is oily, dry, combination, or sensitive, choosing the right moisturizer can protect your skin, enhance its glow, and delay signs of aging.
Let’s explore how moisturizers work, their importance, and how to select the perfect one for your skin type.
Why Is Moisturizer Important?
As skin cells journey through the epidermis, they lose moisture. According to Anna De La Cruz, Glo’s VP of Product, a skin cell begins with about 90% moisture content and ends with just 10% by the time it reaches the surface.
This process naturally strengthens the skin’s moisture barrier, which serves as the first line of defense against external aggressors.
However, when the moisture barrier becomes compromised, the skin can feel tight, flaky, and irritated. This is where moisturizers step in. By replenishing lost hydration, moisturizers help fortify the barrier, leaving your skin supple and resilient.
How Do Moisturizers Work?
Moisturizers rely on three main types of ingredients to maintain hydration:
- Humectants: These attract water from the air and deeper layers of the skin. Examples include hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and panthenol.
- Emollients: These soften and smooth the skin. Ingredients like squalane, jojoba oil, and shea butter fall into this category.
- Occlusives: These create a barrier to prevent water loss. Ingredients include dimethicone, cyclomethicone, and caprylic triglycerides.
How to Choose the Best Moisturizer for Your Skin
Moisturizers for Oily or Acne-Prone Skin
Even oily skin needs hydration to maintain balance. Lightweight formulas that absorb quickly work best:
- Oil Control Emulsion: This liquid moisturizer actively reduces shine and helps prevent breakouts.
- Oil-Free Moisturizer: Ideal for hydration without clogging pores.
- Phyto-Calm Aloe Hydrator: A soothing option that calms skin while delivering weightless hydration.
Moisturizers for Combination Skin
Combination skin needs a balance—hydrating dry areas while avoiding excessive oil in the T-zone:
- HA-Revive Hyaluronic Hydrator: Combines lightweight hydration with anti-aging benefits.
- Hydra-Bright AHA Hydrator: Features vitamin C and AHAs to brighten and energize the skin.
- Bio-Renew EGF Moisturizer: Contains vegan EGF and phyto-retinol to target aging while maintaining hydration.
Tip: Apply an oil-free formula to oily areas and a richer cream to dry patches.
Moisturizers for Dry Skin
Dry skin requires rich, deeply hydrating creams to alleviate tightness and flakiness:
- Restorative Cream: Repairs and nourishes very dry skin.
- Vita E Essential Cream: Soothes dryness and reduces redness.
- HA-Revive Hyaluronic Hydrator: Uses hyaluronic acid to replenish and maintain moisture levels.
- Bio-Renew EGF Moisturizer: Clinically proven to enhance hydration and restore the skin’s barrier.
Specialized Moisturizers
Best Anti-Aging Moisturizer
For those combating dryness and early signs of aging, incorporating a targeted anti-aging moisturizer can work wonders.
- Bio-Renew EGF Moisturizer: Powered by vegan EGF and phyto-retinol, this moisturizer minimizes fine lines, wrinkles, and dullness, delivering visible results within 30 days.
Additional Tips for Maximizing Hydration
- Layering for Extra Hydration: Add a few drops of HA-Revive Hyaluronic Drops before or mixed into your moisturizer for a hydration boost.
- Adjusting for Seasonal Changes: Use heavier moisturizers or oils during cold, dry months. A humidifier can also help maintain skin moisture levels.
- Tailoring to Your Needs: Customize your routine with zone-specific moisturizers for areas that require more or less hydration.
Conclusion
Moisturizers are more than just a skincare staple—they’re vital for maintaining healthy, glowing skin. Whether your skin is dry, oily, or somewhere in between, selecting a moisturizer tailored to your needs can make all the difference.
By understanding your skin type and using moisturizers with the right ingredients, you can protect your skin’s barrier, combat premature aging, and achieve long-lasting hydration. Prioritize your skincare routine—your skin will thank you!