Introduction
Moisturizers are great for the skin. They provide essential hydration to the skin and nourish it. Improper hydration of the skin can lead to dry skin, which in turn can cause itching and flakiness, affect skin texture, and promote signs of aging. Skin needs to be moisturized on a daily basis. Although moisturizers are a crucial step in the skincare routine, many individuals are unaware of the correct way to use them. No matter how good the moisturizer is, if it is not used properly and with the correct consistency, it is not going to give any benefit. This article will delve into the common mistakes people make while using moisturizers and provide solutions to correct the mistakes. Continue reading to know more.
What Are the Common Moisturizing Mistakes?
Using the wrong moisturizer for the skin type or using it in the wrong way can lead to acne and breakouts. If an individual feels that they are getting breakouts after using the moisturizer, they should consider that they are making the following moisturizer mistakes. These moisturizing mistakes are discussed below.
1) Using a Moisturizer That Has Comedogenic Ingredients: If a moisturizer is causing acne or breakouts, it means it contains ingredients that are comedogenic in nature. This means these ingredients block the pores and hair follicles, and because of this, dirt, oil, bacteria, and sebum all get entrapped in them. When these oils, dirt, sebum, and bacteria get entrapped and cannot come out, it results in a bump formation, which may be in the form of acne, blackheads, whiteheads, breakouts, papules, etc. To avoid it, one must check the ingredient list of their moisturizer before using it. Below is a list of ingredients that can be found in moisturizers and are comedogenic in nature.
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Isopropyl myristate.
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Isopropyl palmitate.
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Isopropyl isostearate.
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Butyl stearate.
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Isostearyl neopentanoate.
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Myristyl myristate.
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Decyl oleate.
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Octyl stearate.
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Octyl palmitate.
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Isocetyl stearate.
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Propylene glycol-2 (PPG-2).
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Lanolin, which comes from wool.
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Coal tar derivatives, such as D&C red dyes.
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Petroleum derivatives, such as petrolatum and mineral oil.
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Oleic acid (a major component of olive oil).
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Cocoa butter.
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Sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS).
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Algae extracts.
Oils:
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Wheat germ oil.
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Palm oil.
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Linseed oil.
2) Using a Very Heavy Moisturizer: How well the moisturizer works depends on its formulation. Some moisturizers are designed to be thick and dense, which can lead to problems for the skin. Firstly, the heavy texture of these moisturizers can suffocate the skin, meaning they do not allow the skin to breathe properly. Additionally, the thickness of the moisturizer can trap oil underneath the skin's surface, which is known to cause breakouts. The skin has a limit to how much product it can absorb at one time, so any excess moisturizer ends up sitting on top of the skin. To address this issue, it is recommended to use smaller amounts of moisturizer and apply it more thinly. This allows for better absorption by the skin and reduces the likelihood of it sitting heavily on the skin's surface, potentially exacerbating breakouts.
3) Inadequate Absorption of Moisturizer: If too much moisturizer is applied or if it is not given adequate time to absorb, it can trap dirt and oil on the skin, potentially leading to acne flare-ups. It is important to apply the right amount of moisturizer and allow it enough time to fully absorb into the skin before applying makeup. The adequate amount of a moisturizer is a nickel-sized amount.
4) Not Using the Moisturizer According to the Skin Type: It is extremely important to use a moisturizer that suits one’s specific skin type. It is recommended to avoid constantly switching moisturizers. If a moisturizer is working well on the skin, one should stick to it and not try every new product launched in the cosmetic industry. Constantly changing moisturizers can lead to skin issues and breakouts.
What Are the Common Mistakes in Selecting the Correct Moisturizer?
The common mistake in selecting the correct moisturizer is ignoring the skin type. One should always try to find out what is their skin type. Once they are sure about their skin type, then only they should select their moisturizer. Below are some recommendations for each skin type.
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Best Moisturizer for Oily Skin: For oily skin, it is recommended to choose a lightweight and oil-free moisturizer. Some suitable options include gel moisturizers, lightweight lotions, or moisturizers with mattifying properties. These formulations help to hydrate the skin without adding excess oil, which can contribute to acne or breakouts.
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Best Moisturizer for Dry Skin: For dry skin, it is best to choose a moisturizer that is rich and hydrating. Ingredients like glycerin and ceramides are particularly beneficial for hydrating dry skin.
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Best Moisturizer for Sensitive Skin: For sensitive skin, it is important to choose a moisturizer that is gentle and fragrance-free to avoid irritation. Additionally, for people with sensitive skin, it is recommended to always do a patch test before applying it to the face.
What Are the Moisturizing Mistakes in the Application of Moisturizer?
The common mistake while applying moisturizer is rubbing it too vigorously onto the skin. Rubbing too vigorously can potentially waste the product and be abrasive to the skin, leading to the appearance of wrinkles and premature aging over time. Instead of rubbing, one should apply moisturizer gently in small, light, circular motions using the ring and little fingers to exert the least pressure. It is recommended to pat the moisturizer on the skin. It is recommended to apply the moisturizer to damp skin.
Conclusion
To conclude, skin care is absolutely necessary for healthy skin. Moisturizer is an integral part of skincare, however, using it in an appropriate way can give the skin what the moisturizer is meant for. Applying the correct moisturizer and understanding the skin type and needs of the skin are important factors that decide the effectiveness of any moisturizer.
