An excellent moisturizer is one among the cornerstones of an efficient skincare regimen for dry, aging skin. Moisturizers can soothe dry skin and make wrinkles less noticeable, although the effect is temporary. But with so many to select from, how do you select?
Petroleum jelly is probably the most effective moisturizers, especially when used immediately after bathing to seal in moisture. It can be one among the least expensive. But many individuals dislike using it on their faces since it looks greasy. Instead, creams and lotions that contain little water are higher selections for facial moisturizers. Many of those creams and lotions are humectants, a category of oil-free moisturizers that bind water to the skin, so the smoothing, softening effects can last more.
Most moisturizers contain water, glycerin, petrolatum, stearic acid, propylene glycol, and lanolin. Some contain botanical ingredients, akin to jojoba oil, coconut oil, safflower oil, and linoleic acid, which help maintain the skin's outer layer of keratin and keep skin supple. Manufacturers use other ingredients, akin to cetyl alcohol, palmitic acid, and dimethicone, to offer moisturizers a creamy, velvety, or translucent appearance and to assist shore up the “mortar” that keeps skin soft and smooth.
Some moisturizers also contain sunscreens and cosmeceuticals, which help prevent or correct high-quality lines, uneven skin tone, and other signs of aging and photoaging.
