Everyone knows you have to moisturize if you want healthy, glowing skin. But do you know what moisturizer actually does? And are you using it the right way? If you answered “no”, where here to help! From finding the right daily face moisturizer for your skin type to knowing when and how to use it, read on to become a moisturizing master!
It’s probably exactly what you’re thinking – the basic job of a hydrating face moisturizer is to add moisture to dry skin and help keep it from drying out again. Beyond that, there are a ton of things moisturizers can do, which we’ll get into shortly.
We know, applying moisturizer can feel like an annoying extra step in your skincare routine but trust us, it’s super important. So don’t even think about skipping it!
Let’s break it down by the top 5 benefits of moisturizing:
1. Prevent Dryness
Cold weather or hot weather, air conditioning or indoor heat; did you know that all of these environmental factors can suck the moisture right out of your skin? That’s where a good moisturizer comes in. It not only replaces moisture that’s already been lost but helps prevent future loss.
2. Slow The Signs of Aging
Fact: Hydrated skin is younger-looking skin. You’re thinking, “why do I need to think about that now?”. Because it’s never too early to start preventing future fine lines and wrinkles. And that plump, firm feeling you get after giving your face a dose of hydration is actually helping to slow down the process. You can thank us later!
3. Help Fight Acne
It might seem strange to add more moisture to already oily-prone skin, but it actually makes sense. Think of it like this: When your skin gets dry, it sends a message to your glands to produce more oil that can clog your pores and cause breakouts. So, if skin is properly hydrated, it can actually help stop it from producing more oil than it needs.
4. Protection From The Sun
We can’t tell you enough how important it is to use a product with SPF, even in colder months. Since dermatologists recommend using SPF every day, why not go for a 2-in-1 moisturizer that contains sun protection?
5. Soothe Sensitive Skin
Got red, irritated skin? Have dry, itchy patches? Sensitive skin needs extra special care. Look for a moisturizer that has soothing ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, oatmeal, and honey, just to name a few.
Since you wash your face morning and night, it’s a good idea to moisturize right after. In the a.m., opt for a light moisturizer. In the p.m., go for something more heavy duty like St. Ives Renewing Collagen Elastin Moisturizer. Inspired by collagen and elastin proteins, this rich lotion helps renew skin’s glow with 100% safflower oil for soft, smooth skin. Don’t feel like using a different face moisturizer for morning and night? We’ll let you in on our favorite new daily face moisturizers in a few.
You know you need to put moisturizer on every day, twice a day, but is it good to put moisturizer on before bed? Yes, but here’s a tip – make sure to wait at least 30 minutes to give it time to soak into your skin, and not rub off on your pillow!
We mentioned that you should moisturize after you wash your face, so here are the details:
1. After washing your face, pat it dry before applying your favorite moisturizer.
2. Make sure you apply moisturizer gently, using upward strokes. Never press or pull on your skin.
3. If you’re going to put on makeup, apply moisturizer before foundation or any other makeup.
And, that’s it! Build into your daily routine and thirsty skin will thank you.
Searching for a moisturizer you can use day and night? Check out new St. Ives Face Moisturizers! Perfect for those with combination to oily skin, St. Ives Watermelon Glowing Moisturizer is made with 100% natural watermelon juice and delivers lightweight, oil-free hydration.
For combination to dry skin, creamy St. Ives Hydrating Avocado Moisturizer offers a major dose of hydration thanks to 100% natural avocado oil. Each moisturizer is non-comedogenic (aka it won’t clog pores) and absorbs instantly for a comfy, non-greasy feel. Plus, both contain Vitamin E and Niacinamide, which is known to strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier and brighten dull skin. The result? Healthy, glowing skin every day!
There are so many “a-peeling” things about physical exfoliation, and we love the power it has to make your skin feel refreshed. Our St. Ives Board-Certified Dermatologist partner, Dr. Claire Wolinsky loves the benefits of physical exfoliation as much as we do, so we asked her to share the advantages of this important step in your skincare routine, all year round!
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Fact: Working out is a great way to burn off stress and boost your mood. That’s because exercise has been shown to lower cortisol levels (aka the body’s stress hormone) and release endorphins (the body’s happy hormone). And when you do it in a park, the woods, a beach or any natured-filled space, you get the added benefits of nature!
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How do you deal with stress? If you opt for exercise, meditation, yoga, or journaling you’re on the right track. But do these activities out in nature, and their stress-lowering benefits go to the next level. In fact, just 15 minutes with nature is proven to have a serious de-stress effect!
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Curious to know why we love nature so much? Because it has serious benefits and is seriously fun! From lowering stress levels to boosting your mood, keeping you healthier to helping you focus, it’s the cure-all we all need to tap into more.
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