Facial Moisturizers Are More Important Than You Think

If you have normal or oily skin, you may be under the impression that a facial moisturizer isn't an integral part of your skin care regime. But don't be so quick to put that bottle in the back of your beauty shelf.

"Everyone needs to moisturize," says Dr. Nathalie Issachar, PhD, casting aside the myth that facial moisturizer is only for women with dry complexions. Dr. Issachar is the Global Director of Product Development at Clarins and has over 20 years of experience developing effec- tive skin care solutions for younger, healthier looking skin.

Washing your face, eating well, and exercising are all great ways to achieve youthful, glowing skin, but nothing can take the place of moisturizing. When you moisturize, you're not just hydrating your skin; you're also protecting it from stress and pollution. So while every part of your skin care routine is important, moisturizing is an essential step.

Women of all skin types should moisturize their skin as much as it calls for. Usually this is twice a day: once in the morning and once before bed. However, being in touch with your body is the key to healthy living, so don't be afraid to listen to your skin and give it the moisturizer it needs. If you find that your skin is feeling tight, you might want to apply a facial moisturizer more frequently.

When it comes to moisturizing during different seasons, a good rule of thumb is to match your moisturizer with your wardrobe. In warmer months, a lightweight moisturizer will generally do the trick. The dry, blustery days of fall and winter can be more trying on the skin, so during these seasons you may want to switch over to a facial moisturizer that's a little more substantial. However, it is possible to over-moisturize, so remember to tune in to your skin according to its needs to avoid clogging pores.

Dr. Issachar notes that women with combination or oily skin have thicker skin, which keeps them looking younger for longer. If you fall into either of these categories, congratulations on your genetic gift – but this doesn't mean your skin needs any less hydration. If you have combination or oily skin, try a facial moisturizer that's specific to your skin type, or one with a light texture to keep your skin in balance.

Keep in mind that if you use a serum, it shouldn't take the place of a moisturizer. Clarins Double Serum is one of the most effective, and it's right for people of all ages, skin types, and ethnicities. When you use Double Serum, apply it with the Clarins Touch, then moisturize, and put yourself on the path to a youthful and radiant complexion.

Clarins Flash Tip
All facial moisturizers are not created equal. Have one moisturizer for morning use and another to use at night, before bed.