How To Find The Right Moisturizer For Your Skin

It's no wonder that both men and women these days have a hard time finding the right moisturizer for their skin. There are so many options out there, ranging in price from a few dollars to a few hundred dollars. There are regular store brands and department store brands, even doctors have their own brands.

How do you know which is the right one for you?

According to dermtologist Monica Halem, MD, it is very easy if you follow a few simple guidelines, the first of which is don't spend too much money. If you are anything like me, that should make you VERY happy.

1. Check the ingredients on the moisturizer. There are a few key ingredients in skin moisturizers that help seal in moisture. They are petrolatum, mineral oil, lanolin, and some contain alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), which helps exfoliate dead skin. If you have very dry skin, choose a moisturizer that contains an AHA.


2. Choose one that contains sunscreen. We all know by now that we should be wearing sunscreen every day anyway, so why not choose a moisturizer that contains one? It's one less step in our super busy morning routine. Keep in mind that whatever you choose it should have at least an SPF of 30. You might need to do some extra digging to find one, but it will be worth it in the long run.


3. Choose an appropriate moisturizer for your skin type. If you have sensitive skin, be sure to choose one that is hypoallergenic, which means it won't irritate your skin. For those with oily skin, choose oil-free, and for those with dry skin, choose something thicker. Also, look for the words "noncomedogenic" which means it won't clog your pores.

Once you find the right product, be sure to use it every day and you will go a long way toward preventing dry skin and even camouflaging wrinkles. Moisturizers can not get rid of wrinkles (wrinkles form due to loss of collagen in the skin), but they can help minimize their appearance by plumping up the skin.

Moisturizers work better if you apply them to damp skin. You should apply them to your face and body as soon as you get out of the shower, while your skin is still damp. Remember to gently pat your skin dry, never rub. Applying the moisturizer while skin is still damp also helps seal in much needed moisture.