Should I wear moisturiser?
As a makeup artist I get asked many questions about foundation: what colour should I wear? Which is best for my skin? How should I apply it? But, before I answer any of these I always ask my own - ‘Do you moisturise?’
This isn’t ignoring their question, but it does make sense. Asking this means I can easily ascertain their skin type, which allows me to recommend a foundation and the best way to apply it.
Easy you say, problem solved. No, far from it because there will always be the small percentage of people who answer with ‘I don’t’!
After I’ve regained my composure I enquire as to why. And here’s what I usually get back:
‘I have oily skin, so I don’t use any’
‘I don’t have time’
‘I just don’t’
I’ve worked in the beauty field for 16 years and have had lots of training on all different types and ranges of skincare, so trust me, moisturiser is important.
Moisturiser’s obvious job is to moisturise.
However, it does so much more than that. It will even out the skins surface allowing your foundation to glide on smoothly and evenly. It plumps and rehydrates, reducing the look of tired, sallow skin. Most contain SPF (Sun Protection Factor) which I strongly recommend (one of my favourite sayings is ‘it’s the sun what ages us!’). It also helps to protect our skin from pollutants which, to be honest, are everywhere these days.
The case for oily skin
“It is quite common to steer clear of oil-based products if your skin is oily however, this is quite inaccurate,’” says Nip+Fab product developer, Armandip Ghir. “Often oily skin produces more oil as a defence mechanism to balance out the loss of moisture on your skin. By using oil-based products, the oil attracts oil and can dissolve sebum, grease or makeup without stripping the skin of its natural oils.” (source: The Telegraph.)
I also had it explained to me once like this: your moisturiser tricks your skin into thinking the oil is already there, so your skin doesn’t need to produce as much!
Of course, you have to choose the right kind. To do this you need to be looking out for:
Ones that state they are for oily/combination & normal/oily*
Fluids rather than creams - they’ll feel lighter and sink in faster.
*if you have had to seek medical advice for cases like acne you will likely be advised on which moisturisers to use.
In most cases, with the right moisturiser you should be able to control and even out your skin’s surface.
The case for I don’t have time
Yes, you do. It literally takes less than two minutes morning and night!
One of the biggest concerns I hear from clients is that their skin is looking dull and old or that their foundation doesn’t sit right or stay on at all and I often find that they are not using a moisturiser.
Normal/dry and very dry skin has a habit of looking old before it’s time. This is because it’s not producing enough oil and is therefore trying to absorb something that isn’t there. Imagine vacuum packing and you kind of get the idea!
This also links into my case for wearing moisturiser at night…
Sarah Chapman, facialist and founder of the Skinesis skincare line “For healthy skin around the clock, use both a day and night cream. During the day your skin is in 'protect’ mode so it is wise to use a proper day cream that includes antioxidants and SPF. At night the skin is not defending itself from pollution and light as it is during the daytime – it is in 'repair’ mode, so use a night product loaded with regenerating ingredients such as peptides and vitamins.
“Night creams are usually richer in texture, but a lighter alternative is an oil which is deeply nourishing. If you use retinol, only apply it at night as it can make the skin photosensitive, which results in pigmentation if applied during the day.” (source: The Telegraph).
Your skin will absorb anything that is on it overnight, which is why it is always recommended to remove any makeup before bed.
Trust me, once you get into a routine it becomes second nature. You’ll never say “I just don’t” again!
FAQ’s
Do I need an SPF?
Why not give your skin that extra little insurance policy?
Keep an eye out for UVA protection too, as this will help protect and prevent from Phototaging which is premature aging of the skin due to repeated exposure to the sun.
How much do I need?
Not much at all. The size of an almond should be enough, morning and night. Always apply using upward motions. It keeps everything in the right place!
Can I use it on my eyes?
Only use products that specifically say they are for use around the eyes as it’s such a delicate area. If you have especially sensitive eyes or wear contact lenses, then look for something that is opthalmically tested.
Use a pea size amount for each eye. Place it on your ring finger and gently dab, don’t rub, it around the orbital (socket) bone, where it will be absorbed into all the right places.
And now, about the foundation…
