What would happen if you skipped your moisturizer for a few days? Perhaps, it would lead to dry skin, that's it. If that's what you think, you're mistaken.
Yes, not using your moisturizer would lead to dry skin, but it'll also lead to several other complications. Didn't know about that? Well, you're not alone.
Most people think of moisturizer as a remedy for dry skin, but it actually performs numerous other functions too. Want to know what those functions are? Read along. This blog talks about six reasons why you mustn't skip your moisturizer, and the role it plays, especially in winter.
6 Reasons Why you Should Not Skip Moisturizer
Here are six reasons why you must never skip moisturizer:
Prevent Wrinkles and Aging
Moisturizers stimulate collagen production, which keeps the skin firm, thereby preventing wrinkles. According to experts, moisturizers sustain the skin, improving fine lines. So, if you wish to prevent wrinkles and delay aging, you should always use moisturizers.
Control Acne Breakouts
Your skin develops pimples as a result of sebum deposition. Open pores and dry skin usually captivate dirt and dust particles, resulting in Acne breakouts. On the other hand, moisturizer prevents this direct contact by forming a layer on the skin. And this way, you can easily avoid unwanted acne.
Maintain Smooth and Glowing Skin
One of the primary purposes of a moisturizer is to prevent your skin from drying up and flaking. And it does that by hydrating your skin and locking in moisture. When the moisture is locked, your skin automatically glows bright, offering you a youthful look.
[ Ways To Manage Oily Skin And Prevent Skin Issues ]
Soothes Sensitive Skin
It's not uncommon to have itchy, dry patches or red and irritated skin, especially during winter. Such symptoms indicate sensitive skin. And quality moisturizers are quite helpful in dealing with sensitive skin.
Pro Tip: When looking for moisturizers effective for sensitive skin, always ensure they contain natural ingredients such as honey, oatmeal, aloe vera, chamomile, etc.
Reduces Blemishes
Blemishes are one of the most common skin issues people suffer from. While during summers, because of humidity, they don't appear dominantly, during winters, they do. However, by using a reliable moisturizer, you can hydrate your skin and thus reduce the intensity of the blemishes to some extent.
Prevent Allergies and Infections
Other than cosmetic use, moisturizers also are of great help for medical purposes. According to a dermatologist, Dr. Jennifer Trent, MD FAAD, moisturizers have been found to show their effectiveness against skin diseases like psoriasis and eczema.
Studies have found that moisturizers reduce the chances of getting skin allergies to a great extent. It has the ability to trap and disarm pathogens.
How Does Moisturizer Act as a Skin Barrier to Pathogens?
When you moisturize your skin, it forms a thin layer that acts as a barrier protecting your skin from pollutants, toxins, and even pathogens. Also, some moisturizers that come with SPF also offer protection from UV rays which is essential if you live in a hot and humid region.
Why is it Important to Use Moisturizer During Winter?
While hot showers during the winter season relieve your body, they also make your skin dry. Also, wearing gloves sometimes absorbs the skin's oil and water, which further makes it rough. And the sun's UV rays don't spare your skin, either.
Therefore, during winter, it becomes essential to wear a moisturizer each day. And if you want to protect your skin from the sun's harmful UV rays, try opting for a moisturizer that comes with SPF, as stated earlier.
How and When Should you Apply Moisturizer?
Well, it's fairly easy. Use moisturizer after your bath, and you are ready to head out. Also, applying some before you hit the bed is also a good idea. All you have to do is apply an appropriate amount of moisturizer over your face, followed by gentle rubbing.
What Type of Moisturizer Should you Choose?
Well, that depends on your skin type. For instance, Normal skin types can benefit from an easy, water-based moisturizer. For oily skin, non-comedogenic moisturizers generally work best. They are water-based and don't allow pimples to grow on your skin.
However, if you have dry skin, try petroleum-based moisturizers like Aquaphor and Vaseline. Such moisturizers would keep your skin hydrated and moist. And if you have sensitive skin, try using a clinically proven, professionally-recommended moisturizer to avoid any side effects.
Pro Tip: Before choosing and applying any moisturizer or skin care product on your skin, it's better to talk to your skin-care professional. Because sometimes, certain ingredients found in cosmetic products can cause allergic reactions to your skin.
Natural Moisturizer: An Alternative to Chemical Products
If you don't like using chemical products or are allergic, you can opt for natural moisturizers or natural remedies that are available at home. Here are some natural moisturizers that you can rely on:
- Honey
- Coconut oil
- Olive oil
- Cucumber
- Avocado oil
Additional Tips on Skin-Care 
Try to avoid using strong soaps, as they might also leave your skin rough and dry. Also, reduce the time you spend in hot showers as they can remove oils from your skin, rendering your skin dry.
Other than moisturizing your skin, it's important to have a healthy diet and a sufficient amount of water every day. Because moisturizers usually work on the outside, you need to stay hydrated and consume healthy, nutrient-rich food to ensure that your skin glow also comes from within.
Also, if you live or work in a polluted area, your skin will be more susceptible to pimples, swelling, and other skin-related issues. In such conditions, moisturizers become even more necessary. However, along with using moisturizers, also include face masks and gentle face washes in your routine for effective protection.
Wrapping Up
Moisturizers are often underrated. However, now that you know what benefits moisturizers can offer, make sure you never miss them, especially during winter. Also, try to determine your skin type before you choose a moisturizer. Otherwise, you might not experience the benefits.
