Moisturizing should be an essential component of one’s beauty routine especially during the winter. The low temperatures, low humidity and strong, harsh winds drain the skin of its natural lipid layer, a barrier that keeps the skin from dying out. Therefore, moisturizing is key to supple and healthy looking skin and hair. The job of a moisturizer is not to add moisture to your skin. Instead, it stops your skin from losing the water that’s already there leading to a dewy, hydrated complexion.
A. Choose the right moisturizer
If you have severely dry skin and the humidity is low, you may want to try a moisturizing ointment. If you have oily skin, try using a lotion because these tend to be less greasy than other types of moisturizers. For sensitive skin, try to avoid moisturizers with lots of fragrances and dyes.
B. Know when to moisturize
After finding the moisturizer that works best for you, it is important to use the moisturizer at the right times. While there is never a bad time to moisturize, there are times when it is more beneficial than others. One of the best times to do so is after a bath or a shower. While your skin is still slightly damp, apply moisturizer to help epidermis retain the extra water. Applying at night is also rewarding, as you will defiantly be able to feel the difference in your skin in the morning.
C. Homemade facial masks
Instead of spending your time and money at a local spa, try preparing (and pampering yourself!) a simple, homemade facial mask from the comfort of your own kitchen.
DIY Oatmeal Facial Mask
Combine ½ cup hot water and 1/3 cup oatmeal. Wait for the water and oatmeal to settle for 2 to 3 minutes. Next, mix in 2 tablespoons plain yogurt, 2 tablespoons honey and 1 small egg white. Apply a thin layer of the mask to your face, and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes then rinse with warm water.
D. Exfoliate on a weekly basis
Moisturizer is considerably more effective when used on properly exfoliated skin. Exfoliation jump-starts your skin’s renewal system, getting rid of dead cells to expose the fresher skin that’s underneath. Try using a salt or sugar scrub on your body in the shower and using a mild scrub made for the face at least once a week.
DIY Honey Scrub
Add 1-teaspoon pure honey to ¼ cup light olive oil. Blend 1-cup raw or granulated sugar. Mix in 2-teaspoon fresh citrus zest. Blend until well mixed, then store in a jar.
E. Hydrate from the inside
Drinking water throughout the day is crucial to staying hydrated. Water is your body’s main chemical component and makes up about sixty percent of your body weight. Every system in your body depends on water. Therefore, aim to drink about eight 8-once glasses of water a day.
Sources
http://www.rd.com/slideshows/homemade-facial-masks-recipes/#slideshow=slide4
http://health.howstuffworks.com/skin-care/moisturizing/basics/moisturize-face.htm