Scars and spots are a nuisance for those of us who are aesthetically minded and can be a real pain to get rid of. Most scars can be faded to non-visibility and all of them can be reduced somewhat. The key to maximum reduction is a mix of treatments like chemical peels and lasers with a good routine of cleansing and moisturising. This piece will focus specifically on the moisturiser you need depending on your skin type.
There are many things your moisturiser is doing without you even knowing! It acts as the skin’s barrier for one, and it can prevent transepidermal water loss, which keeps your skin well hydrated and prevents fine lines and damaged skin. Retaining water in the skin can also reduce its sensitivity to environmental irritants. All of these functions are important when it comes to reducing scars and also acne. Although it may seem counterintuitive to use a moisturiser if you are prone to pimples, moisturising your skin is actually very important for treating acne. However, the wrong moisturiser can exacerbate the issue and clog your pores.
Okay, so the key is to use the right moisturiser, but what is ideal for me?
The ideal moisturiser for you: know your skin type
Consider your skin type. If you have dry skin, it may become easily sensitive and become prone to itching. Oily skin will tend to attract more blackheads and blemishes – scarring is also more common with larger pores. And diffused redness of skin from conditions like rosacea or eczema, may also be prone to scarring.
So your moisturiser must be matched to your skin type. Oily skin types benefit greatly from slightly drying ingredients, while those with dry skin will need more hydration to stimulate elasticity and bolster the skin’s natural barrier. And those who have diffused redness of skin must be extremely careful not to aggravate their skin by choosing the wrong moisturiser.
Here are some of the best moisturisers that will help repair and strengthen your skin, that won’t clog your pores, and will stop irritation.
Skinstitut offer high-end skincare products catered to particular skin types and ailments. They have an extensive product range and we have seen amazing results, especially when it comes to dealing with acne-prone or more abrasive skin conditions. Skinstitut provides excellent moisturisers within their Correct, Hydrate, and Protect product lines.
Products for sensitive skin
Although not a moisturizer per se, the Even Blend Serum can be used for all skin types and is excellent for pigmentations and uneven skin tone including age spots. It addresses unevenness with glycolic acid, as well as daisy flower, wakamine, and lotus extracts. The overall effect is a more luminous appearance for your skin that will work to reduce marks. And you can use it as a moisturiser combined with the range’s Vitamin C 100% to leverage the power of an antioxidant in the mix.
Skinstitut’s Retinol is another notable pick that, although not a moisturizer, works well on pigmented and break-out skin. The vitamin A promotes cell renewal through collagen and elastin production, which helps the skin repair itself more rapidly.
Moisturiser for dry skin types
For ultra dry skin, the Hydrate range’s Moisture Defence – Ultra Dry product nourishes the skin and is anti-inflammatory. If you’re prone to conditions like eczema, or even milder itchiness, its ingredients of Progeline™, olive fruit oil, green tea extract, and oat extract will relieve the skin and prevent scarring.
The Protect range’s Laser Aid will take care of red skin as it has cooling and ultra-soothing properties including Canadian willowherb, which cools hot or reactive skin. Also, vitamins A, B5, E, F, and H concentrate as well as antioxidants help repair irritated skin. Witch hazel extract, aloe vera, and cucumber oil also help to reduce redness that can provoke blemishes and scars.
In the same range, Repair Balm increases moisture and hydration forming a solid barrier for the skin. This will do a number of things such as strengthen the skin and reduce sensitivity and irritation, particularly for those who suffer from very dry and hypersensitive skin.
Proudly 100% Australian made and owned, ASAP is another name in the beauty world synonymous with quality. They have a wonderful philosophy in that they have simplified the approach to skincare and only stuck to ingredients that have been shown to be effective in clinical trials. Its product range is also straightforward and improves ageing, sun-damage, dry skin, fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin tone, and oily and acne-prone skin.
ASAP Advanced Hydrating Moisturiser for instance is a very light moisturiser that can be used over acne. It contains vitamins, antioxidants and ceramides that develop collagen to help repair skin. By increasing moisture in the area skin cells are revitalized, and by strengthening blood circulation the skin is kept supple and less prone to stretching or dryness. Couple it with any other product including Moisturising Daily Defence SPF50+ which also works to hydrate and promote skin elasticity. The Niacinamide (vitamin B3) targets pigmentation and boosts the skin’s resilience to harmful UV rays preventing sunspots. It can be applied to all skin types – even if you have oily skin or are prone to acne, this moisturiser won’t aggravate it or clog pores.
Tinted moisturiser to save time in the morning rush!
While all of ASAP’s moisturisers can be used under makeup, Jane Iredale also has a product that combines color with moisturisers like the Jane Iredale Dream Tinted Moisturiser. It is available in a number of shades for a range of complexions and can be used to cover up pigmentation or other marks. But it also helps to prevent transepidermal water loss, protecting your skin from the elements and allowing it to repair itself.
There are numerous brands and products on the market, many of which we have tried on many clients. Over the years we have converged upon these three brands as being the most effective in maintaining healthy and glowing skin for all skin types. Stripped back and not overhyped, they tackle specific issues with effective ingredients that have been shown time and again to get results.
If you want a consultation with one of our dermal clinicians for advice on the perfect moisturiser for you, please don’t hesitate to give us a call or contact us via the form below.