Problematic skin is called oily or combination skin, which is prone to inflammation. They arise due to the active production of sebum by sebaceous glands. It is a genetic feature of this type of derma. Improper care can worsen the situation. Problem skin is capricious, it requires gentle, constant care, which should include all stages.
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Characteristics Of The Problematic Skin Type
To choose care products, you need to determine your skin type accurately. The main features of the problematic dermis type:
- increased sebum secretion, oily shine
- inflammatory elements and redness
- uneven relief, post acne
- Large and clogged pores – “black spots
Care Mistakes
- The lack of a moisturizing step. Water quality, decorative cosmetics, the environment, and aggressive cleansers are factors that require the use of moisturizers. Under such conditions, the skin cannot normalize the water balance and restore the barrier on its own. Then the mechanism of thickening of the stratum corneum of the epidermis is activated, which leads to clogged pores and the appearance of acne.
- Harsh cleansers. Washing “until you squeak” damages the hydrolipid mantle, drying the epidermis and disturbing the pH balance. More sebum is secreted in compensation.
- Incorrect choice of cosmetics. Dense textures mask imperfections and perfectly clog pores, creating a thick film on the face. This inevitably leads to rashes.
Why Do All Skin Types Need Hydration?
Problem skin sufferers are used to skipping the moisturizing step. Why? Sebum is already secreted in excess. But it’s not as simple as all that. A lack of moisture will gradually lead to tightness, dryness and flaking – that is, dehydration of the dermis. And while dry skin lacks moisture and lipids and requires oily creams, dehydrated, problematic skin lacks water.
The hydrolipid barrier is responsible for moisture retention and absorption. If there is a lack of water, it weakens, the pH of sebum decreases the barrier’s permeability decreases and creates favorable conditions for the growth of microorganisms. All this leads to an imbalance of the microflora, resulting in rashes, irritation and redness.
How To Choose A Moisturizer?
There is a massive selection of creams in store windows. A quality products can be found in both the budget and luxury niches. Just look for the ingredients listed in the composition. The more of them, the better.
- Zinc (Zinc Oxide). Regulates the production of lipid metabolism products, inhibits the reproduction of bacteria, and has an anti-inflammatory effect.
- Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) promotes collagen production, regulate sebaceous glands activity, and stimulates epithelium renewal.
- Niacinamide (Nicotinamide, vitamin B3) soothes and relieves irritation and accelerates blood circulation and metabolic processes.
- Salicylic acid (Salicylic Acid) exfoliates the epithelium, stimulates regeneration and evens skin relief.
- Hygroscopic components: glycerine, panthenol, hyaluronic acid – retain moisture, and prevent hyperkeratosis.
- Absorbents (silicon, kaolin, perlite) have matting properties.
- Extracts of medicinal plants: aloe vera, chamomile, and green tea have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
- Natural moisturizing factor (NHF) – look for it in the composition if you have a lot of inflammation on the skin. It does not form a film and does not allow bacteria to multiply under it faster.
Daytime Or Nighttime?
My first thought is, “What difference does it make?” Many people don’t have a single cream in their arsenal or easily substitute one for the other. But there is a difference. The main difference is the texture and the degree of sun protection. It is simply not reasonable to replace one with the other.
The day cream aims to protect against the effects of the external environment. It will perfectly cover your cosmetics, prevent UV rays and protect your skin from polluted air.
The night cream helps to regenerate and repair the skin while you sleep. It is heavier in texture and uncomfortable to apply makeup on. But if you apply it at night, in the morning, you will get nourished skin and a fresh, healthy complexion.
What Is A Substitute For Moisturizer?
If, however, the relationship with the cream did not work – too heavy. Leaves sticky and provokes inflammation; there are alternatives.
The moisturizing gel can replace cream if you don’t like heavy textures. These products do not contain fatty ingredients in their composition. But they often leave a sticky layer, so it is a good option only at night.
The most intense product is the serum, which has a high concentration of active ingredients, a light texture and a low consumption rate. Depending on the type of serum, it can be used both in the morning and evening.
Many active ingredients contain facial masks, which greatly add to basic care. This option is not for every day; use them 2-3 times a week.
Give preference to drugstore cosmetics. These are medium-price products containing working components and will not harm your skin. Adapt your care for yourself and the time of year, sometimes replacing the cream with tonic, gel, serum or milk. But never skip the moisturizing step. Moisture is essential for every skin type.
