We all know that moisturizers make the skin soft and supple. However, they don’t actually provide moisture to this skin. They only help to seal in moisture or water particles on the skin’s surface.

The basic function of moisturizers is to increase the amount of lipids in the skin. These lipids smooth the cragged skin surface; thereby preventing further water loss from the epidermis.

There are many types of moisturizers available in the market. They can be oils, ointments, creams, and lotions. Choose a type of moisturizer after examining the nature and type of your skin.  To do this it is essential to know your skin type. There are many moisturizers available addressing the unique needs of your skin; whether it is dry, oily, acne-prone, or sensitive skin etc.

Oils and ointments are very nourishing and effective, but way too greasy. This is because ointments are composed of only 20% water content. Using them can attract even more dirt and grime to your face, making it prone to breakouts.

Lotions are lighter as they primarily contain water and are absorbed into the skin quickly. Their effect wear off quickly; therefore frequent re-application is required. The density of creams is somewhere between the density of ointments and lotions, so is their efficacy. Usually, creams have 50% water content.

Using ointments and creams is also recommended during the winters, when it gets extremely dry. Try using less dense products like lotions during the summer months.

People with a normal skin should use a light water-based moisturizer. Problems of oily skin can be tackled with water based or oil-free moisturizing formulas. People with a sensitive skin should go for a fragrance and dye free products. Look for products labels saying “for sensitive skin”.

Dry skin needs intense care to replenish the scarce moisture content, so choose an oil-based moisturizer. Ointments or creams suit dry skin immensely as they require intense care. However, avoid using ointments in body parts that tend to get sweaty. If you have dry skin, pick moisturizers containing glycerin, lactic acid, urea etc.

As one ages, the skin loses its elasticity. Therefore, skin care products for the elderly should contain water-binding ingredients such as urea, lactic acid, hyaluronic acid and glycerin. There are other moisturizers also containing peptides, vitamin C with magnesium ascorbyl phosphate.

There are many such anti aging moisturizers available in the market. They thicken the collagen and plum up the skin, thus helping to deal with wrinkles and fine lines.