Choosing a good moisturizer for dry skin can be a daunting task. Your skin type is the most important factor to take into consideration. Acne-prone skin requires an oil-free moisturizer whereas clearer complexions can opt for the most hydrating oil-based formulas. Also consider other needs that can be satisfied by a moisturizer such as wrinkle prevention and sun protection. Your budget can also help narrow down the selection.
Moisturizer is an important part of your skin care routine. If you have dry skin, you might find that your face feels tight and itchy after washing. You might even end up with flaking skin if your face is extremely dry. A good moisturizer for dry skin will eliminate these problems and leave your skin feeling soft, smooth and hydrated.
Some moisturizers can actually make skin even drier. For example, glycolic acid moisturizers contain a strong acid that slowly peels off layers of your skin. You can use exfoliating lotions on occasion to help reduce flakiness but avoid daily use of these types of moisturizers if your skin is dry.
The first consideration when choosing a moisturizer for dry skin is the degree of dryness. You want to choose something that will hydrate your skin without clogging your pores. If your skin is only slightly dry, a lightweight moisturizer that is water-based can usually get the job done without causing further problems. If your skin is extremely dry, you might need to use an oil-based formula but do so with caution if your skin is acne-prone.
You can solve two problems at once if you choose the right moisturizer. Some types of moisturizer for dry skin offer additional benefits. If you have aging skin or a lot of wrinkles, you should look for moisturizers that contain antioxidants. An acne moisturizer that contains complexion-clearing ingredients such as tea tree oil can keep breakouts under control. Moisturizers that contain sunscreen are ideal for people who spend a lot of time outdoors.
Sensitive skin types should be especially cautious when choosing a moisturizer for dry skin as many of the available options contain synthetic ingredients. These moisturizers don’t cause a problem for most people but they can be very irritating to those with sensitive skin. If your skin is easily irritated, check the label to ensure the moisturizer in question is hypoallergenic and does not contain perfumes. You might also want to look for natural moisturizers such as olive oil, vitamin E and aloe.
Another important factor to consider when shopping for moisturizers is your budget. Drug stores offer plenty of cheap options that do a great job of hydrating your skin. If you have a bigger budget, you can find fancy products in department and specialty stores that feature elegant packaging. You can often find generic versions of more expensive moisturizers in larger supermarkets.