Moisturizing, or hydrating, is one of the most important steps in your skincare routine. But what exactly is a moisturizer? What is it made of? What are these 'serums' you hear of? Which is best for you? This post looks into all those details and more.
WHAT IS A MOISTURIZERS? A moisturizer is an emulsified combination of a viscous substance and humectant. That's just a fancy way of saying essential oils and water whipped together into a cream-like texture. In general a moisturizer is primarily 65-85% water.
WHAT IS A SERUM?
A serum is a mixture of 100% pure essential oils.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A MOISTURIZER AND A SERUM?
The main difference is that the moisturizer has added water and emulsified to create a cream texture. Th reason for this is that skin doesn't easily absorb essential oils, but it does absorb water. So water is added for better absorption of the products into your skin. However the same effect can be achieved with the serum by simply damping the skin with water or toner before applying serum.
WHEN SHOULD I USE MY MOISTURIZE / SERUM?
Always use a moisturizer/serum on a clean face. So use it after you've used your cleanser and toner. If you're not using a toner, then just after your cleanser. If you will be using a mask after your cleanser, then use it after your mask. The point is to have it be the last thing you put on your face, sort of like a sealant.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I USE MY MOISTURIZE / SERUM?
Daily, or every time you cleanse you face which should be in the morning and at night. Remember, if you're using it in the morning, try finding a moisturize/serum with zinc oxide to protect against UV rays. For the night, you can always use a moisturizer AND serum for a super hydrating boost! But only do this at night before bed. It can be too heavy for the day.
HOW DO I USE MY MOISTURIZER / SERUM?
A moisturizer (the one with the creamy consistency), can be placed on the face on it's own since it has water already added into it. A serum needs water to be properly absorbed into the skin. Make sure your face is damp with water, or still wet from your toner. You can spray a little more than usual if you like to add extra moisture.
SHOULD I USE THE SAME MOISTURIZER / SERUM YEAR-ROUND?
Skin changes from season to season. It's a good idea to check on what your skin in doing as in the summer it will sweat and can produce more acne, while the winter can dry out skin more than usual. Judging by how your skin works, it's a good idea to change your moisturizer/serum to match your skin needs depending on the season.
DO I REALLY NEED TO USE A MOISTURIZER / SERUM?
When you cleanse your face which you should be doing daily, you've removed all excess oils, but now you need to replenish them in a controlled way. If not, your body will over-produce oils to compensate. Using a moisturizer ensures that your skin doesn't do that and you get the added bonus of the properties in those products to help with whatever skin issues you are trying to fight.
WHAT'S MY SKIN TYPE?
There is such a wide variety of skin types out there, all of them unique and different. However, as a general rule, here is the basic skin types and how to tell which one you are:
Oily Those who have excess oil along their nose, forehead, chin and sometimes jaw area and are prone to break-outs. After cleansing, their cheeks don't feel dry.
Combination Those who have oily noses, foreheads or chins, which occasional or no break-outs. After cleansing, their cheeks tend to feel tight or dry.
Sensitive Those who react easily to products. With redness along the nose or cheeks. Irritations, mild itching sensations. Usually those who suffer from eczema, rosacea or other skin conditions.
Mature Those usually aged 35+ when the skin starts to lose it's elasticity or develops sun spots etc.
Normal Those blessed with no excess oil, or dryness, or irritations. Don't feel down if this isn't you. It's rare that someone usually doesn't have any issues. Mostly those who don't, already follow a dedicated skincare routine!
WHAT MOISTURIZER / SERUM SHOULD I USE FOR MY SKIN TYPE?
Now we get to the good stuff, finding your perfect moisturizer/serum! This can take some trial and testing, but to help your search, here are the top ingredients to look for in moisturizer/serum that benefit your skin type, and our products in shop for them.
Oily The following ingredients are great for fighting over production of oil, reducing redness from acne and brightening the skin: Tea Tree, Lavender, Orange, Eucalyptus, lemongrass.
Skin Essence Organics Light Serum $35
Combination These ingredients will fight against breakouts, but still hydrate dry areas and give an oll-over glow: Rosehip, Apricot, Orange, Almond.
Skin Essence Organics Nourish Serum $35
Graydon The Green Cream $35
Sensitive These ingredients help sooth skin irritations and calm redness: Rosehip, Chamomile, Calendula, Primrose, Sage
Skin Essence Organics Sooth Serum $35
Graydon Super Sensitive Skin Stuff $35
Mature These ingredients offer a deeper hydration, fights age spots and nourishes skin to combat lines: Apricot, Rosehip, Grapeseed, Sea Buckthorn, Pumpkin Seed.
Schmear Rosehip & Sea Buckthorn Oil $35
Graydon Elements $35
And that's all you need to know...I think. We hope to have answered all questions you may have. If not, please comment or write to us. We're also happy to work with you to find the perfect products for you.
Please contact or comment if you enjoyed the post, have any other questions or suggestions.
And always...Be the change.