Skin is the largest organ of the human body that performs several important functions. It protects us from the external environment, regulates our body temperature, provides sensory input and eliminates waste. At the same time, our skin is influenced by such negative factors as temperature and humidity changes, UV rays, polluted air, and wind which lead to the skin dryness and disability to perform its main functions.
So, moisturizing is an important step in maintaining the skin smooth, supple, and healthy.
Skin moisturizers belong to the group of cosmetic products for skin care and hygiene. They are designed to reduce water loss from epidermis and are intended to help skin function properly. Skin moisturizers do not reverse sun damage, but they do prevent further dryness. They can also form a barrier against soot and dirt, ensuring the feeling of smoothness.
Generally, moisturizer mechanism of action can be explained in the following way. Water, which otherwise would have been lost, is held by hygroscopic properties of the moisturizer in the stratum corneum (the occlusive layer that waterproofs the skin). Subsequently, this contributes to the smoothing of the skin surface due to the swelling of its outer layers. The research showed that occlusion of the skin by products, such as paraffin, waxes, or greases, restores and enhances the natural diffusion of moisture from the dermal capillary beds.
Moisturizers fall into two categories: lipids and humectants. Humectants (glycerin, urea) attract moisture, and, depending on their size (molecular weight), they are either absorbed into the skin or stay on its surface. Lipids (lanolin, mineral oils) act differently in comparison to humectants. They block moisture from leaving the skin. They are occlusive or semi-occlusive materials that are applied topically, providing a barrier and allowing skin to better restore itself. Lipids work best when applied while bathing or showering. At this time, your skin will retain some of the moisture, and a lipid-based moisturizer will provide a barrier against moisture loss.
It is very important to know that there are different skin types, each requiring specific skin care. For example, people with oily skin are recommended to use non-comedogenic or oil-free moisturizers. Those, who have dry skin, should remember that moisturizing should be applied to the skin after washing. It is better to have multiple applications rather than using an excessive amount of ointment at a time. For moisturizing hands you should have an oil-based silicone cream. This is a water repellent. It will also prevent the normal fats on the skin surface from being washed away. The variety of skin moisturizers has greatly increased in recent years and it is really difficult to choose a good one.
Finally, one should remember that a good moisturizer will be rich in essential fatty acids and oils, vitamins and minerals, nutrients, botanical extracts, and antioxidants (the latter help prevent skin damage caused by the sun, pollutants, and other harmful environmental factors).
There is one more simple rule - start by experimenting with a couple of different creams to determine which one is the best for your skin type and provides the kind of results you are looking for. Anyway, it is good to remember that moisturizing your skin on a daily basis will help promote hydration, skin cell regeneration, healing, and prevent damaging effects of the environment.
Natalia
| Tip for you : Sign-in with Your OpenID and post faster, easier and with easy access to all your past posts. | |
|
Your Nick: |
