Moisturizing should be the most straightforward part of skincare. Just rub in the product, and that's all. Right? Well, not really. There's more to it.
Maybe you've noticed your moisturizer isn't working as you expected. Perhaps you're experiencing an increase in breakouts or dryness. Your first assumption might be that the product doesn't have quality ingredients.
That could be true, but it's also likely that your moisturizing technique needs improvement.
Most People Get Moisturization Wrong
Moisturized skin is radiant and stays looking younger for longer. Dryness emphasizes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, making skin look dull.
Inconsistent application of moisturizer is one big mistake people make. There's a proper way to moisturize your skin to give it maximum benefits.
7 Most Common Moisturizing Mistakes
After reading this post, we hope you'll adopt healthier habits and enjoy glowing skin.
1. APPLYING MOISTURIZER TO DRY SKIN
Moisturizer is the cure for dry skin, right? But applying moisturizer to dry skin is a mistake. As skin dries, it accumulates dead skin cells on the surface. This layer doesn't allow any moisturizer to penetrate.
Do This Instead
What should you do then? Exfoliate first. Use a gentle scrub (we like a honey yogurt scrub), next rinse off, and then apply your moisturizer.
The best thing is to exfoliate, shower, and then moisturize immediately. Do this before the skin dries, to lock in that water content.
2. EXCESSIVE RUBBING
If you're rubbing in your moisturizer, you're unlikely to reap its benefits.
The friction between your hands and skin causes some of the water content in the moisturizer to evaporate. Also, tugging on the skin can damage it by causing premature wrinkles and aging.
The Right Way:
Work gently in circles, with upward motions. When applying products to the eye area, use the weaker pinkie and ring fingers. Don't rub the moisturizer until it disappears. Instead, leave a light layer on the skin and give it time to absorb on its own as you get dressed or apply makeup.
3. CHOOSING THE WRONG MOISTURIZER
Make sure you use a product that's good for your skin. Avoid those that contain harmful ingredients like parabens, chemical fragrances, petrolatum, etc. You also need a product that works best for your skin type.
Those with oily skin could use grapeseed or avocado oil, while dry skin types usually benefit from coconut oil.
4. AVOIDING MOISTURIZNG OILY SKIN
People with oily skin often think they can skip moisturizing since their skin is greasy. However, oily skin can become unbalanced, especially as one ages.
The Right Way:
Use light and gentle moisturizers. Avoid products with petrolatum, mineral oil, and other pore-clogging chemicals.
5. APPLYING MOISTURIZER INCONSISTENTLY
Our bodies quickly adapt to routines. If you moisturize twice daily then go for several days applying only once, your skin will react. It may get dry. Your pores may clog, or respond with more oiliness.
The Right Way:
Create a routine and stick with it. The more consistent you are with your skincare, the better your skin will be.
6. SELECTIVE MOISTURIZING
The skin is the largest organ in the body and works as a unified system. Neglecting a large part of it by moisturizing the face only forces it to compensate. Your skin won't look its best when struggling to balance moisture levels.
The Right Way:
Moisturize your whole body after every bath. For best results, use separate moisturizers for your body and face.
7. NEVER CHANGING MOISTURIZER
Interesting fact: Skin changes as we age. As such, it requires different ingredients in your 40s as compared to your 30s. It's recommended that you change skin products every ten years.
If you move to an area with a different climate, you may require less or more moisturizer.
Hormonal changes cause your skin to behave differently. Even if you change your diet, you're likely to notice changes in your skin.
The Right Way:
Be aware of your skin by monitoring how it reacts. If it gets dry and flaky, pump up your moisture with hydrating masks or richer creams. If your skin is too oily or your pores are clogged, change to a different product.
Have you tried our Awakening Organic Body Lotion? It guarantees silky soft skin that feels smooth and brings a smile at the touch. Get it here.
With love,
The Sole Toscana Skincare Team.
