Choosing A Moisturizer Right For Your Skin Type

Yesterday I spoke about some basic moisturizing terminology, as well as citing a few examples. Today, I'd like to guide you on how to choose a mositurizer that is right for your skin. There are 5 skin categories that I would like to address: oily, dry, normal, mature and sensitive.

Oily skin is generally problematic and prone to acne and breakouts. It is widely thought that oily skin does not need moisturizers. However this is farthest from the truth. Cleansers designed for oily skin do just that. They clean and remove the oil, and sometimes so much so, they leave behind dry, flaky skin. People with oily skin should look for water based moisturizers to help protect your skin. These moisturizes are generally used only after cleansing. People with oily skin should also pay close attention and look for products labeled "noncomedogenic", meaning that it will not clog your pores. Be on the lookout for products that contain the essential oils cedarwood, lemon and rosemary, which are all know to benefit oily skin. Look for products that contain oils such as sweet almond oil or avocado oil, which are know for their low comedogenic properties and will be less prone to clogging your pores.

Normal skin is neither too dry or too oily. When choosing a moisturizer for this skin type, your goal should be to maintain your natural moisture balance. It is best to look for mositurizers that are water-based. These type of moisturizers will have a light, nongreasy feel and contain lightweight oils such as grapeseed oil or apricot kernel oil, just to name a few.

People with sensitive skin are susceptible to skin irritations. Ingredients that can set off sensitive skin range anywhere from dyes to fragrances. Even though a product may be labeled all natural, that does not imply that it will not irritate your skin. People with sensitive skin will need to be especially vigilant and pay special attention to ingredients to learn what causes their skin to flare up. Look for moisturizers that are fragrance and dye free. Althought I just mentioned to steer clear of fragrances, people with sensitive skin have found that the essential oils Chamomile , Lavender , Neroli , Rose and Sandalwood tend to help their sensitive skin, so be on the lookout for products containing these essential oils.

Mature skin is characterized by wrinkles, crow's-feet, and blemishes. Age spots start to appear. The skin begins to lose its elasticity and cells are not replaced as quickly. The glands that are responsible for producing the skin's natural oils slow down dramatically. With that in mind, it is best to choose a moisturizer that is oil based. Mature skin will benefit from mositurizers that contain the essential oils carrot seed, which helps with revitalization and frankincense, which is thought to reduce the signs of wrinkles. Other essential oils to look out for are chamomile, patchouli, and sandalwood. Also be on the lookout for products that contain either avocado oil or butter and shea butter are just a few to look for.

The final skin type: dry skin. The obvious goal of a mositurizer for dry skin is to restore moisture. You will want to look for a heavier, oil based product. Good oils to be on the look out for are evening primrose oil, hempseed oil and emu oil. Emu oil is very pricey, but well worth the extra cost. Look for products that contain the essential oils lavender, rose or sandalwood.