The Importance of Moisturizing

As February arrives, the cold weather intensifies significantly.

How is everyone doing?

During the chilly season, some may experience a decline in skin condition due to factors such as dryness.

In such times, the first thing that comes to mind is moisturizing the skin.

So, what effects does moisturizing have?

This time, let’s delve into the topic of skin hydration.

What is skin moisturizing?

Skin moisturizing refers to skincare that replenishes the necessary moisture in the skin, preventing the evaporation of water to maintain a hydrated complexion.

When we think of moisturizing, we often associate it with replenishing moisture to the skin. However, moisturizing goes beyond just adding moisture; it also involves sealing in the hydration with moisturizing ingredients such as gels or creams, preventing the moisture from evaporating out of the skin

The Consequences of Not Moisturizing

Many people intuitively recognize the importance of moisturizing. However, why is moisturizing crucial? In this context, we will discuss the consequences of not moisturizing.

＜The disruption of the turnover cycle＞

If skin hydration is inadequate, it can lead to a disruption in the skin’s renewal cycle, known as turnover.

An imbalance in turnover causes the accumulation of old keratin that should naturally shed from the skin’s surface, potentially leading to issues such as spots, wrinkles, dullness, and clogged pores.

＜Decrease in skin barrier function＞

The barrier function inherent in the stratum corneum, the outermost layer of the skin, plays a crucial role in maintaining skin moisture, protecting against external stimuli like ultraviolet rays, and preserving overall skin health.

For the barrier function to operate effectively, it is essential that there is a balance between the skin’s moisture and oil levels. When hydration is insufficient, and the skin becomes dry, the barrier function weakens. Consequently, the skin becomes more susceptible to external stimuli, such as UV rays, leading to an increased risk of skin issues like excessive melanin production and other skin troubles.

＜Excessive sebum secretion＞

When the skin lacks moisture due to inadequate hydration, the body compensates by overproducing sebum. Excessive sebum secretion can lead to clogged pores, providing a breeding ground for acne-causing bacteria and making the skin more prone to developing pimples.

Things You Can Do to Moisturize Your Skin

To prevent skin problems caused by dryness,

Here’s what you need to do.

＜Using a humidifier＞

Winter is a time when indoor spaces tend to become dry, especially when using heating systems such as heaters. Rooms with heating can create a very dry environment, so it’s recommended to use a humidifier to prevent air dryness.

In particular, for those who use heating while sleeping at night, the skin can easily become dry during sleep. To ensure that the moisturized skin from nighttime skincare doesn’t dry out, use a humidifier to maintain humidity between 40-60% while sleeping.

Moreover, maintaining humidity above 40% is also believed to reduce the risk of catching a cold. To prevent colds, it’s advisable to use a humidifier.

＜Thoroughly Performing Cleansing and Facial Cleansing＞

When removing makeup or washing your face, make an effort to use a gentle cleansing routine that avoids causing irritation. For stubborn point makeup like mascara, use a dedicated remover to gently wipe it away.

For the subsequent cleansing step, ensure gentle application without causing friction, smoothly spreading the cleanser across the entire face. It is crucial to avoid cleansers that are too harsh and might strip away essential oils from the skin.

When using a facial cleanser, create a rich lather and delicately wash the face as if enveloping it with the foam. Rinse thoroughly with water or lukewarm water to ensure no residue of the cleanser is left on the skin.

＜Use skincare products that can provide sufficient moisturization＞

After washing, the skin is prone to dryness and is in a vulnerable state. Without delay, apply toner to moisturize the skin immediately. Following this step, it’s essential to seal in the moisture with a moisturizing item such as cream, creating a protective barrier.

Even if you’re concerned about a slightly sticky feeling, skipping the cream can result in the loss of moisturized skin despite your skincare efforts. Additionally, skincare products containing moisturizing ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid are recommended.

After gently applying toner to the entire face, softly press the hands against the face to envelop it.

Summary

Plump and radiant skin is characterized by a high level of moisture. However, as one ages, the skin’s moisture content decreases, making it challenging to retain hydration. Consequently, as we age, moisturizing care becomes essential.

Skin rich in moisture is more resilient against external factors like UV rays, displaying refined texture, elasticity, and translucency. Conversely, dry skin experiences a decline in its barrier function, making it more susceptible to external stimuli and prone to skin issues.

To prevent skin troubles, it is crucial to prioritize thorough moisturization and support the skin’s barrier function. Moisturizing is undoubtedly an indispensable aspect of skincare for achieving beautiful, healthy skin.