Are you taking care of your body as best as possible? Maybe you eat clean. Maybe you hit the gym twice a week. But are you keeping your skin smooth and moisturized? On top of the daily necessities such as water and healthy food, moisturizing is a must throughout the year.
But you can’t just slab on the first lotion you see in your house. Moisturizer is much more complicated than that. You need to consider your scent preferences and your skin type. Here are some moisturizing tips to get you started in the right direction.
Why should you moisturize?
There are many benefits when it comes to moisturizing. Specialists in Dermatology states, “Both men and women can find many benefits to using high quality facial moisturizer each day. Moisturizing your face will help you to look and feel younger, you will have softer, more elastic skin, and it will keep your skin hydrated.”
What type of lotion should you use?
When it comes to your face, throwing on any lotion won’t do the trick. Doctors say you should only be using lotion that compliments your skin type, taking into account how much oil your skin produces, its sensitivity or possible allergies. Monica Halem, MD, of Columbia Doctors Eastside in New York City, told Everyday Health that it takes trial and error to find the one that works best.
According to Dr. Francesca Fusco MD, assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York City, out of several common active ingredients, glycerin is less likely to cause an allergic reaction.
Where should you moisturize?
While you should moisturize your face every day, you should not forget the rest of your body. Even if your skin isn’t very dry in some locations – such as your forearms – you should still apply lotion in order to prevent dryness and to make sure your skin stays smooth all year round.
If you suffer from cracked skin, however, don’t opt for a normal lotion. Instead, upgrade to something thicker like a cream. Cream can help any ashy elbows or knees recover from their dryness.
For those of you who are sensitive to sweet scents, you can try more subtle smells or unscented lotion.
How often should you lotion?
Specialists in Dermatology says it is best to moisturize after you shower or after you shave. The moisture from showering and shaving gel helps the lotion go on easier and absorb better into the skin. When you moisturize your face, apply the lotion in an upward motion so that your pores are able to absorb the cream.
If you suffer from dry skin, however, don’t be afraid to apply lotion more than once a day.
It’s important to take care of your body – both inside and out. If you’re a forgetful person, apply lotion the same time every day to create a routine. This will allow you to create the best opportunities for smooth, healthy skin.
