Skin is considered the largest organ we possess as human beings and as it covers us from head to toe. It goes without saying that it requires some attention and maintenance.
While our skin has the essential job of literally holding us together from the outside in, it’s also one of the most noticeable features of our appearance.
Considering its imperative biological role combined with the emotional weight the condition of our skin carries, it makes sense that we would want to invest some significant time and energy into making sure we are properly caring for this essential covering we call our own.
Moisturizing is the first line of defence in not only protecting the condition of skin but prolonging its efficiency over the long-term. While moisturizing sounds like a simple solution, every individual’s skin is comprised of several layers and is uniquely affected by a combination of hormones that lead to the skin being considered overall dry, oily or even flaky. It’s rare to find anyone with skin that maintains perfect balance without intervention.
Additionally, the condition of the skin is bound to fluctuate with age, illness and climate. Paying attention to the type of moisturizer you use as well as how you apply it should not be considered vain but instead, considerate. It’s important to care about moisturizers in the sense that they are a route to retaining the healthy skin that does so much for your quality of life.
Long-Term Rejuvenation
Skin cells have a natural tendency to want to rejuvenate and restore themselves, but exterior conditions or an influx of hormones may make it difficult for the skin to replenish the moisture and elasticity a person is born with.
When you regularly utilize moisturizer on the face and body, you’re essentially giving your skin cells a fighting chance to retain their ability to rejuvenate long-term.
Some moisturizers work as a top-line barrier to trap moisture within the skin while others are specialized products that are absorbed into the skin and work to attract moisture to the surface.
Along with the application of moisturizer comes improved overall skin hydration. Well-hydrated skin provides the environment skin cells need to shed and rejuvenate, leaving you with a healthier glow and firmer looking skin in the long run.
Acne Resistance
Acne doesn’t play favorites and is a skin condition that can follow us from our teenage years well into adulthood. While it’s often the source of emotional distress, severe acne can also be extremely painful and if left untreated, result in deep, permanent scarring.
While acne is often caused by more than one factor, individuals who stick to a regular moisturizing plan tend to see improvements in their acne condition as well as preventative benefits. Acne happens when pores become over-clogged with oils.
Moisturizers are manufactured specifically to remove oils and work as a hydration agent. Applying moisturizer regularly holds the potential to remove the excess of oil that will cause acne over time.
Similarly, moisturizers open pores up as they penetrate the skin creating less of a chance for oils and dirt to fill up contracted pores. While some individuals will benefit from a prescription-based acne treatment program, moisturizers are a highly recommended first-step solution when treating minor acne conditions.
UV Protection
Skin that is over-exposed to the sun’s harmful UV rays will suffer the effects of skin cells that are quickly and permanently damaged.
The damage and death of skin cells lead to an overall loss in skin’s elasticity which most commonly presents as wrinkles and sun spots with the scary potential for the development of skin cancer down the road. While the best way to avoid this scenario is always to look for alternatives to spending too much time in direct sunlight, moisturizers are also a great way to create an extra barricade of protection for your skin.
Many, but not all moisturizers come complete with the added benefit of SPF coverage. This means that every time you apply moisturizer to your face and body you are simultaneously applying sunscreen-like protection that decreases your chances of UV damage.
For this simple reason, it’s important to check the label on your preferred moisturizer to make sure the ingredients include an SPF.
Once you get into a good moisturizing routine, you’ll feel great knowing you’re helping block out harmful rays and your skin will surely thank you for it in the years to come.
Caring for Your Unique Skin
With so many moisturizing products on the market, it can sometimes feel overwhelming when trying to decide where to start.
Whether you have oily skin, dry skin or a combination depending on the day, it’s best to consult a dermatologist when it comes to the best course of action. These licensed professionals will be able to help you plan for a moisturizing routine that addresses your skin’s particular needs.
The sooner you start moisturizing, the sooner you’ll start protecting your skin and giving it exactly what it needs to glow for years to come.
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Author Bio
Caitlyn Knuth is a writer with a passion for the field of health and wellness. Working in association with The St. Louis Laser Lipo and Vein Center, she has come to understand and appreciate the many intricate facets and benefits of customized skin care. She enjoys contributing insights that may benefit others on their own unique journeys through the world of health and wellness.
Verona Pinder 
Calida Jenkins