Many people, both men, and women, are dreaming of having silky and supple skin. But with a lot of products today in the market, which is the good ones? Some beauty enthusiasts say lotions are better than oil moisturizers, while others believe it is the other way around. With this longstanding debate, here are some experts' analyses.
Oil Moisturizers
"Oils sink right into the skin," makeup artist and Noto Botanics founder Gloria Noto said, via Byrdie. "It's like food for your body."
Oil moisturizers, especially the vegetable-based ones, have the same natural lipids found in the skin. It can help repair and reorder your skin's moisture barrier that produces oil.
The majority of dermatologists recommend their patients, who have acne-prone or oily skin, to try oil moisturizers. Contrary to popular belief, oil helps to tone down your skin's natural sebum production as it doesn't have to produce more.
Research shows that when the skin absorbs oil, its top layers accept it like it naturally comes from you. It will then repairs and moisturizes your skin.
Lotion
NYC-based dermatologist Rachel Nazarian, on the other hand, believes lotion is much better than oil, especially if the user is looking for moisturizing abilities. "Lotions are a mix of oil and water and typically work better for dry skin," she said. "... often better at penetrating skin because they are partly water-based, and can deliver ingredients that improve the ability of skin to maintain moisture."
However, you should always check if the lotions you are buying have "phantom" ingredients or elements that can make your skin dry. You should avoid opting for gel-based products or the ones containing alcohol as it can make your skin drier than "ointments, lotions, or creams."
Perfect Products To Use
If you are confused about` what products to buy or to look for, here are some of the best examples that you can try. You only have to make sure that you are using them correctly.
According to the South China Morning Post, you should use a product with "thicker texture" if you have itchy and scaly skin like Chantecaille's Bébé Camellia and Lavender Balm (HK$390). It has a deeply nourishing formula that can cure your chapped lips and even cracked heels. It is best to use this product before bed.
If you are more of an oil-moisturizer person, you can try Caudalie's Thé des Vignes Body & Hair Nourishing Oil (HK$198). It is a multi-purpose oil that is rich in antioxidants that you can use from head to toe. It also has a pleasant smell that will surely make you opt for more.
For intense hydration, people with dry or mature skin can try L'Occitane's Shea Butter Ultra Rich Body Cream(HK$370). It also has a lighter one, Shea Delightful Tea Ultra Light Body Cream (HK$340) that dries easily and will not give you the sticky feeling.