With the onset of winters, most of us start experiencing dryness on our skin. The harsh and dry winter winds coupled with loss of natural hydration from the skin surface leaves it extra dry and seemingly more damaged. Add to that, age-related factors, and you have the perfect recipe for a disaster.
As you age, the body produces less collagen. Collagen is the most abundantly found protein in the body that is essential for skin repair and the healthy maintenance of bones, muscles and tendons. Unfortunately, collagen production in the body, keeps on decreasing as one ages. Collagen has a direct impact on the skin. As collagen production decreases, it also affects the water-retention capacity of our skin. As a result, our skin loses it self-hydrating capacity. Mature skin, therefore, tends to get drier than younger skin. Furthermore, older skin is also prone to fine lines. These lines eventually lead to wrinkles that become permanent. All these factors come naturally with age and are irreversible after a point. However, if one undertakes a healthy skincare regime, one can naturally delay the process of aging.
Why is a moisturiser important?
A moisturiser is emollient that mimics the properties of sebum, a microscopic exocrine gland that lubricates and waterproofs the skin and hairs of all mammals. Therefore, it is imperative that we use a good quality moisturiser that reduces the appearance of fine lines, restores collagen production and lubricates the skin, in order to prevent it from getting drier. Here are some of the benefits of using a moisturiser:
First, it prevents dryness. We constantly operate in air-conditioned environments. Furthermore, in winters, the dry air outside makes our skin even drier. Lastly, hot showers are nice, but they can also leave our skin dehydrated after a while. Soaps made from harsh chemicals also play an important role in making our skin dry.
Second, it reduces the appearance of lines and wrinkles. As we grow older, or skin becomes less elastic. Constant stretching on the surface area of the skin leaves it wrinkled. While collagen naturally helps to make skin more elastic, that too decreases as we get older.
Finally, even for oily or combination skin, moisturiser is important. This is due to the fact that as our skin gets dry, it sends a signal to brain that prompts the skin glands to produce excess oil. This oil gets trapped in our pores and attracts all sorts of dirt and grime. This leads to acne or eruptions on our skin.
For all these reasons, one should apply a good quality moisturiser prescribed by a doctor or a medical professional. Prescription moisturiser is better than cosmetic products that might contain harsh chemicals that are bad for sensitive skins. Further, thick moisturisers are also not suitable for combination and oily skins as they make the skin look oily. For all these reasons, a prescribed gel-based moisturiser that has an overnight water-retention capacity is best suited for all skin types. So, without further delay, consult a skincare professional today to understand which moisturiser works the best for you.
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