Why Everyone Needs a Moisturizer in Their Skincare Routine

Some people whose skin is prone to acne or increased oil production shy away from using moisturizers due to the fear of exacerbating their skin problems. The truth is, everyone needs a moisturizer in their skincare routine, not just those with dry or “normal” skin types. This article will review some of the misconceptions about moisturizers and why you should include them in your skincare routine.

Moisturizing Improves Your Skin’s Protective Barrier

The main two jobs of your moisturizer are to be emollient and occlusive in your skincare routine. This means that when you wash your face, your moisturizer should be locking moisture in your skin. In doing so, your skin cells have the chance to absorb this moisture and become hydrated. When your skin cells are properly hydrated, your skin looks plumper and firmer and has an overall glow. This glow is a sign of a healthy epidermis and a strong protective stratum corneum, the uppermost protective layer of the dermis.

Moisturizing Helps Reduce Oil Production

Believe it or not, moisturizing your skin daily may help your skin reduce oil production. One of the top reasons skin produces too much oil is because it’s overcompensating for a lack of moisture. When consistently moisturizing your skin, you’re sending it the signal that it doesn’t have to overcompensate for lack of moisture. In doing this, you’re allowing your skin to actually absorb the oil and water and become hydrated.

Moisturizing Mitigates Break Outs

One of the most common misconceptions about moisturizer is that it blocks pores and causes breakouts. However, one of the main causes of blemishes, such as blackheads, whiteheads, and cysts, is dead skin falling into open pores. Your skin tries to push them out, and this is what causes most acne. If your skin is moisturized, that is less likely to happen. This is also one of the most common misconceptions about face oil, but if you have overly oily or dry skin, you may want to consider pairing the two.

Ultimately, these are only a handful of reasons everyone needs a moisturizer in their skincare routine as there are many more out there. To experience all the benefits, start looking for a moisturizer that works for you, and give your skin the moisture it needs to stay hydrated and happy.