Choosing the best hydrating face cream can be a challenge, especially since there is a wide variety of face creams available to consumers. In addition, those who have oily or acne-prone skin will have different skincare needs than those who have normal or dry skin. The ingredients used in skincare products and creams can also vary widely, so choosing a face cream with components that best suit the individual's specific needs is also important. Individuals with sensitive skin may want to choose a hydrating face cream that is fragrance-free and designed for delicate skin, as well.
Hydrating face creams are designed to supply moisture to the skin that is typically lost after washing with soaps and cleansers. Even those who have oily skin usually need to use a moisturizer or a face cream after washing, as the skin can become dry and irritated from the loss of moisture. Choosing the appropriate face cream is important because using a product that does not suit personal skincare needs can result in irritation, dryness, and acne.
Dry skin is a common problem for many, especially those with mature skin. Those who have dry skin need a hydrating face cream that delivers extra moisture and soothes dry or rough areas. Ingredients used in face creams targeted towards dry skin often include essential oils, chamomile, aloe vera, green tea extract, and humectants. Glycerin, water, and panthenol are also commonly used in skin creams for dry skin. When selecting a cream for dehydrated skin in need of intense hydration, it is important to choose a product that contains plenty of emollients and moisturizing properties.
Those who have oily skin usually have entirely different skincare needs than those with dry skin. While oily skin still needs a moisturizer, it can be easy to clog the pores with products that contain oil. The ideal hydrating face cream for those with acne-prone or greasy skin usually consists of water-based moisturizers, silicone, and aloe vera extract. A skin cream that contains too many emollients and oils can easily clog pores on oily skin, so it is wise to choose a product that is oil-free and designed for skin that is susceptible to acne.
Sensitive skin can become irritated by artificial ingredients and fragrances used in skin creams. For sensitive skin-types, it is best to choose a moisturizer that is fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and free of harsh chemicals. Many creams and lotions are petroleum-based, which can often aggravate sensitive skin. While it is not always damaging to use a petroleum-based product, those with sensitive skin usually should avoid it as it can cause irritation.
Those who spend time in the sun often need a face cream or lotion with sun protection factor (SPF). The higher the SPF, the more protection it provides against the sun's damaging rays. Using a hydrating face cream that contains SPF can also help ward off the appearance of age spots and sun damage caused by exposure to the ultraviolet rays.