MAXIMIZE YOUR MOISTURIZER

Don't take moisturizer for granted. It may be one of the most basic elements of any skincare routine and not to mention so straightforward that there's no way to mess it up---or so it seems. There's more to moisturizer than just, well, moisturizing. To reap the most benefits from yours (i.e. soft, smooth skin), keep these tips in mind.

TIME IT RIGHT

Slathering on moisturizer onto skin is better than nothing at all, but a little preparation beforehand goes a long way. Apply moisturizer immediately following a shower or cleansing to allow the product to trap some of the water onto your skin, this keeps it from evaporating. In turn, this process is enhanced if your go-to moisturizer is a face oil. Botanical oils are naturally lipophilic (meaning they're attracted to the other oils in your skin) so they penetrate deeply than conventional creams.

WARM IT UP

The temperature of the water you cleanse with matters! Warm (not hot) water is best, as warmth causes the pores and blood vessels to temporarily dilate, allowing moisturizing ingredients to sink in.

HANDLE WITH CARE

Rubbing moisturizer onto your face won't make it work any harder, it only leads to aggravating your skin. Instead, try to gently massage it into your skin in circular motions. Plus, that mini facial massage can temporarily boost circulation and encourage lymphatic drainage to make skin appear brighter and less puffy.

SMOOTH THE SURFACE

Exfoliating on a regular basis can boost the efficacy of your moisturizer. A buildup of dry skin can create a barrier that prevents your skin from absorbing hydration, moisture and nutrients.

Removing that barrier, conversely, helps those ingredients work their magic. Pro tip: exfoliate twice a week. Opt for a gentle treatment that sloughs away buildup with lactic acid and replenishes moisture with avocado oil.

#selfcare #skincare