Top 10: best facial moisturizers

Signs of problem skin

Problem skin is skin that, due to heredity, poor ecology, age-related changes, bad habits and general health, has defects.

Dermatologists and cosmetologists identify the following signs that indicate skin problems:

• Excessive oily skin – increased secretion. It is usually provoked by improper care and low-quality cosmetics. Oily skin is characterized by clogged and enlarged pores and frequent inflammatory processes.
• Unhealthy skin looks due to bad habits, overwork, systemic diseases and inflammatory processes in the body.
• Non-healing and festering scars are the result of infections.
• Flaky spots with a diameter of 1-2 cm. These are symptoms of diseases such as allergies, fungal infections, sexually transmitted diseases, and disorders of the nervous system.
• Abundant scattering of wrinkles in older people - with age, the elasticity and firmness of the skin decreases.

  

• Non-congenital pigment spots covering half of the face. Such problems are provoked by prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays, kidney and liver diseases, allergic reactions to drugs, and severe skin injuries.
• Acne – warts, comedones, blackheads and nodules. This is a consequence of introduced infections, poor ecology, and age-related changes.
• Excessive dry skin occurs due to the use of low-quality cosmetics, as well as frequent washing of the skin with hard water.

How to moisturize problem skin:

1. AVOID USING ROUGH CLEANSERS

Most (not all, but many) of them contain harsh detergents* and other ingredients that dry out your skin. If you are the kind of person who consistently has two or three spot inflammations on your face, analyze the effect that your cleansers have: perhaps you can reduce the number of inflammations to one or two. Blemish-drying products have a dark side: drying out the skin leads to a thickening layer of dead cells, under which oil and bacteria accumulate, leading to the “unexpected” appearance of new pimples.

First of all, Rene Rouleau recommends switching to sulfate-free cleansers. Labeling “sulfate-free” means that the composition does not contain components such as sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate or ammonium lauryl sulfate - these surfactants are the most and dry the skin. For oily skin, a product in gel format is best; it may contain salicylic acid, while remaining gentle and soft.

The break between the cleansing stage and applying the next product should take no more than 60 seconds. The longer this break, the more moisture has time to evaporate from the skin of the face. It is important to understand here that if during the cleansing stage the skin loses a large amount of moisture, then all subsequent products (serum, toner, moisturizer) will try to replenish the water deficit caused by too harsh a cleanser.

The second important tip here is to listen to your feelings. Even if the cleanser does not contain sulfates, if the skin still feels tight after washing, it’s better to part with it.

*Detergents are surfactants that reduce the surface tension of liquids, thereby having washing, cleansing, and dissolving effects. [Tarantula V.Z. Explanatory biotechnological dictionary]

2. AFTER CLEANSING, USE AN ALCOHOL-FREE MOISTURIZING TONER

Facial toners are often underestimated - perhaps because the principle of their action is not understood. Meanwhile, Rene Rouleau calls skin toning an important step in daily care, and even necessary for oily and combination skin.

Toner deeply hydrates the skin, and skin with excess subcutaneous oil often needs additional moisture (yes, skin can be oily and dry at the same time, but we may not always recognize this). After washing, wipe your face with a toner that does not contain alcohol, then immediately apply serum, and then moisturizer. Thus, water molecules and microelements obtained from the tonic will be “sealed” under a layer of cream - which means that they have a greater chance of penetrating the skin cells and filling them with moisture.

3. WHEN YOU DON’T HAVE TIME – USE A GEL MASK

You can get your skin in order in a short time in two stages: peeling and moisturizing. Peeling is needed to exfoliate the skin and rid it of dead cells. There is no point in hydrating cells that are no longer functioning. A soft scrub will help you with exfoliation (it is recommended to massage your face in circular movements for no longer than a minute) or acid peeling (a deeper version, keep on your face for no longer than 10 minutes). The next step is to apply a thick layer of the mask to the skin. Why should the mask be in gel format? There are no oils in gel masks – that’s it. Two – the texture itself pleasantly soothes the skin. Three - the gel form best saturates skin cells with moisture without clogging pores.

4. USE SKIN PROTECTIVE OIL ON VACATION

Oil and acne-prone skin? Incompatible, you will think, and you will be partly right. But not all oils clog pores. Protective oils create an outer layer on the skin that prevents moisture from evaporating. So in dry climates, when moisture tends to evaporate from the surface of the skin (a process called osmosis), using a protective oil over moisturizer can prevent dryness. This rule, however, applies not only to hot countries, but also to all premises in general where there are a lot of air conditioners (airplane cabins, train compartments, shopping centers, regular buses).

5. ALWAYS SELECT PRODUCTS ACCORDING TO YOUR SKIN TYPE

It is impossible not to note the remarkable fact that modern women have become much more educated than their mothers and grandmothers in everything related to care and beauty. However, here too it is important to rely on trusted sources and not trust the first article on the Internet. Self-diagnosis can also be erroneous; I can’t even count how many times people have come to me who thought all their lives that they had one skin type, but in reality it turned out to be completely different, says Rene Rouleau. Take the time to visit a professional with many years of experience, or even several; Be sure to tell us in detail about your skin problems to receive appropriate recommendations.

What properties should the best cream for problem skin have?

Face cream for problem skin has the following properties:

• natural protection against bacteria;
• normalization of water balance;

  
  The best creams for problematic facial skin with a moisturizing effect

• matting, eliminating oily sheen;
• cleansing and exfoliation of dead cells;
• hypoallergenic - this means that the cream will not provoke the appearance of new irritations and allergic reactions;
• hydration and nutrition;
• healing of damaged areas;
• antibacterial and antiviral effect;
• restoration of skin firmness and elasticity.

Features of problem skin

People with problem skin always have difficulty choosing a foundation. There are too many requirements, and not every cream, even the most advanced, is able to satisfy them.

For example, increased greasiness of the skin leads to the fact that makeup does not adhere well to the face and begins to “float” literally after a couple of hours. Therefore, you need to look for stable tonal formulas.

First, choose the texture and format of the foundation. © iStock

How to find foundation for oily and problem skin? How to decide on texture? Too light has weak masking abilities. And if it’s too dense, it can clog pores and cause inflammation. In addition, you need to ensure that the cream does not contain ingredients that can worsen the already difficult situation typical for oily and problem skin.

What should be included

The product that comes first in the composition is the main ingredient and its percentage is much higher. As you move towards the end of the list, the amount of the specified component in the composition decreases. What is listed last is contained in the cream in a small volume and often in such quantities does not provide any benefit.

Selecting a cream is an individual process, since what benefits one person may cause an allergic reaction in another. But at the same time, there are general recommendations on the composition of the cream.

The components of the face cream should not include:

Tools Overview

Having decided on the parameters that the best foundation for problem skin should meet, you can start making your choice.

Toners for oily and problem skin

Corrective cream-gel for oily problem skin with toning effect Effaclar Duo+ Toning, La Roche-Posay

The cream provides problematic skin with everything it needs: helps reduce inflammation, prevents post-acne, and is enriched with components that prevent the development of bacteria. Exfoliates dead cells and does not clog pores.

Corrective makeup Dermablend 3D, SPF 25, Vichy

“The technique of applying medical camouflage has its own characteristics. For example, apply Dermablend 3D to well-moisturized skin only after the cream has been completely absorbed. First, apply the texture to the back of your hand, like a palette. And then spread it over your face with your fingertips, smoothing it out easily. No brush or sponge needed. Then the product will last up to 16 hours, mattifying the skin.”

READ ALSO: Rash on hands in the form of small pimples, itchy, photo

BB cream “Clean Skin Active” for problem skin, SPF 15, Garnier

It is absorbed very quickly, evens out the skin thanks to mineral pigments, and at the same time fights acne and pimples due to the action of components with antibacterial properties. Protects from the sun.

Corrective SOS stick to disguise dark circles and skin imperfections, Vichy

During the day, it reliably hides dark circles under the eyes, hyperpigmentation, scars and other imperfections. It gives dense coverage, has a pleasant creamy texture, good staying power, includes UV protection and is suitable even for sensitive skin around the eyes.

Hydreane BB cream care for sensitive skin, SPF 20, La Roche-Posay

Toners for sensitive problem skin

Moisturizer for perfect skin tone Aquasource BB Cream, Biotherm

The cream works in two directions: intensively moisturizes and masks skin imperfections. Apply to cleansed facial skin.

Moisturizing cream Clarins “Eclat du jour”

Face cream for problem skin is produced by the French brand Clarins.

"Eclat du jour" is an effective remedy for sensitive and dry skin. The product gives a radiant effect, maintains elasticity and freshness of the face.

Ingredients: water, glycerin, flower extract, glycoside, limonene, stearic alcohol, silicon dioxide, ethylhexylglycerin, silicone.

According to reviews, the cream is easy to apply to the face and does not leave a greasy residue. "Clarins Eclat du jour" does not mattify the skin, but creates a natural shine effect.

Volume: 30 ml. The cream is consumed within 2-3 months with daily use.

Average price: 1200-1500 rub.

Avon Nutraeffects Moisturizer

The product from Avon can be ordered from the catalogue. The manufacturer claims that the product quickly saturates the skin with moisture and retains it inside, smooths out wrinkles, and cleanses pores. The product is suitable for daytime and summer use.

Among the ingredients of the cream are:

• glycerol;
• vitamin E;
• chia seed extract;
• panthenol;
• Shea Butter;
• sunflower seed extract.

Standard volume: 50 ml.

Price: 200-250 rub.

Noreva “Exfoliac” foundation

In 60% of cases, girls use face cream for problem skin to mattify areas of the skin. The company produces Noreva in only two shades that can adapt to skin color. The product has a light, delicate texture that is suitable for summer and winter. When used daily, the product reduces sebum production.

According to customer reviews, it is best for girls with oily or combination skin to purchase the cream, since the buyer focuses the product on the needs of these types.

If the skin is initially dry and flaky, irritation may occur. The cream lasts for 20-24 hours.

It contains high-quality, natural ingredients that are rarely used in creams of this type:

• alpha acids;
• salicylic acid;
• zinc gluconate.
• vitamins PP, A, E;
• ceramides;
• zinc.

Volume: 30 ml.

Average price: 900-1000 rub.

Preventing dehydration

Let's focus on the basic rules.

Don't overexfoliate

Daily use of peelings and scrubs leads to a pronounced thinning of the lipid layer, which becomes a serious stress for the skin. It can react with redness, pimples, peeling, and itching.

It is recommended to use products with exfoliating and abrasive particles no more than twice a week.

READ ALSO: How to squeeze out blackheads on the nose at home? Is it possible to squeeze out blackheads on the nose?

Wash your face twice a day

Regular washing with water is not enough for oily skin. Use gels, foams and mousses that contain both exfoliating (salicylic and fruit acids) and healing (aloe vera and green tea extracts) components. It is important that the products are washable.

Add a toning step to your treatment

Immediately after washing, apply a refreshing toner to your face. It will perform several tasks at once:

removes remnants of cleansing foam or mousse;

visually tightens the pores and prepares the face for applying gel or fluid.

If you use the toner regularly for a month, your skin condition will noticeably improve.

Use the cleaning machine

Those with oily skin are advised to regularly carry out cleaning procedures in the salon and acquire a cleansing device at home. For example, the Clarisonic Mia2 gadget is suitable. Choose a nozzle for deep pore cleansing and use it every morning or every evening.

The bristles not only cleanse the pores, but also massage the face, thereby improving blood flow and absorption of care products.

Stock up on products with a light texture

Optimal textures for oily skin are light, non-greasy and non-sticky gel, cream-gel, fluid. The day cream should contain moisturizing (hyaluronic acid) and sebum-regulating (salicylic acid, minerals, clay) components.

READ ALSO: Lipoma: what is it, causes of origin, symptoms, methods of therapy |

Use cleansing masks

Once or twice a week, cosmetologists suggest making detox masks with clay or charcoal. They “pull out” toxins, prevent inflammation and also help reduce sebum production.

Foundation “Healthy Mix” from Bourjois Paris

Dry facial skin is capricious and requires hydration. But the product from Healthy Mix will solve this problem, as it contains a whole cocktail of useful ingredients that nourish, moisturize, tone and add shine to dry, problem skin. The palette consists of 6 shades.

People who have left reviews for this product call it a “miracle foundation.” Pleasant fruity aroma thanks to

natural ingredients, a plastic dispenser, easy application and non-clogging of pores - these are the main advantages of this foundation.

Girls also note that the duration of the effect of using the product is 3-5 hours, but a good powder prolongs the effect for another couple of hours. The cream is suitable for daily use and gives a slight shine.

Compound:

• panthenol;
• mineral filler;
• complex of vitamins - PP, E, A, F, B, C groups;
• white tea extract;
• extract of pomegranate, apple, melon, lychee.

Volume: 30 ml.

Average price: 500-600 rub.

Sunscreen Uriage “Hyseac Fluide SPF 30”

When choosing a sunscreen, consider these factors:

• level of protection;
• water resistance;
• effect on problem skin;
• the possibility of allergic rashes.

The Uriage cream has excellent results. Thanks to the SPF 30 protection level against two spectra of ultraviolet rays, the product is suitable for use in the city and on the beach. The cream has a mattifying effect, forms a high-quality base for makeup, nourishes moisture-deprived skin, and does not cause allergies.

Girls who have used sunscreen note the advantages of its consistency - liquid white cream, which is economically consumed. 4-5 drops are enough for the product to be well absorbed and leave no traces. The product has a pleasant aroma. It is not felt on the face throughout the day.

Main components:

• water;
• glycerol;
• dicaprylyl carbonate - a product of coconut oil;
• thermal water.

Volume: 50 ml.

Average price: 700 – 800 rub.

How to choose a shade

Foundation for problem skin does not need to be changed with the onset of the new season. © iStock

There are no special recommendations when choosing a foundation shade for problem skin. First of all, good coverage is required in order to properly camouflage all pimples and uneven spots. Test the cream in natural light to choose a shade that is as close to your skin color as possible, and avoid textures with reflective particles - they will only highlight imperfections.

“The toning effect in foundations for problem skin is usually provided by mineral particles so that the cream does not become comedogenic. In most cases, it has a light tone, adapted to phototypes 1–3.”

Focus on your natural skin tone and existing problems.

Look for antibacterial and sebum-absorbing components in the product.

Keep powder or mattifying wipes on hand to control shine throughout the day.

Apply nourishing cream or base to dry areas.

Our test will help you determine your skin type if in doubt.

READ ALSO: Rash in a child: treating the skin from the outside and inside

Sunscreen "Ultra Facial Defense SPF50" from SkinCeuticals

The face cream from this company combines the properties of a sunscreen and moisturizer for problem skin. Thanks to its reliable sun block with SPF50, it is suitable for use in hot countries.

Customers note the convenience of packaging - a small tube with a thin spout. The consistency is liquid and light. The product does not whiten or dry the skin. Ultra Facial Defense, according to the girls, moisturizes the skin for up to 12 hours and serves as an ideal base for makeup.

Active components:

• ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate;
• silicone;
• glycerol;
• propylene glycol.

What to look for when choosing a cream

The first rule is not to use oil-based products. They do not stick well to oily skin, clog pores and can cause comedones, and in the worst case, new inflammatory elements. Problem skin does not like to deal with oils, even natural ones, not to mention mineral ones.

Avoid foundations with oils.

READ ALSO: Body skin rash - how to treat? Causes and treatment of skin rashes

If the skin is dry and in dire need of hydration, look for hydrants in the composition:

The simplest solution is to choose a cream from a range of pharmacy brands. They complement their lines for problem skin with foundation creams that meet all the necessary requirements and parameters. Pay attention to the markings on the packaging:

“does not contain oils” (oil free).

Composition of foundations for problem skin

The composition of foundation for problem skin should include special anti-inflammatory substances. Remember or write down:

Just like in a day cream for the care of problem skin, a foundation usually contains sebum-regulating and mattifying components:

Texture

As a rule, new generation foundations for problem skin have a very light texture. They literally dissolve on the face, giving the skin a pleasant matte finish and hiding oily shine.

Non-comedogenic cream Lumene “Arctic Aqua 24H Deep Moisture Face Cream”

The “non-comedogenic” label on creams means that the product is intended for skin prone to clogged pores.

It must include the following components:

1. chamomile, calendula, tea tree, green tea extract;
2. allantoin;
3. salicylic acid.

   

The Lumene brand has created a non-comedogenic pore cleansing cream. It has noticeable moisturizing properties for the skin, is quickly absorbed, does not leave an oily sheen, and does not roll off. It is best to use it in autumn and winter. It is also suitable for dry skin in summer. With frequent use, the cream lasts for 4 months.

Main product components:

• water;
• nitroglycerine;
• Shea Butter;
• glycerol;
• polydecenes.

Volume: 50 ml.

Average price: 250-300 rub.

Non-comedogenic cream "Physiogel" from Stiefel

This special cosmetic product helps to activate the protective properties of the skin, smoothes out fine wrinkles, treats skin diseases and cleanses pores.

Everyone who has used this product talks about its wonderful properties. It adapts to any skin type, does not cause allergic reactions, softens the skin, and evens out the complexion.

The cream is not greasy and applies easily to the skin. The product is intended for the winter period. It is recommended to use it at night as there is no sun protection.

Active components:

• water;
• nitroglycerine;
• glycerol;
• coconut whey;
• lecithin.

The product contains no emulsifiers, dyes or silicone.

Volume: 75 ml.

Average cost: 550-600 rubles.

Mary Kay Clear Proof Spot Cream

A targeted face cream for problem skin is designed to treat acne in specific areas. The product from Mary Kay comes in a small tube with a thin spout.

It has a light, loose texture and a pleasant aroma. Clear Proof regulates the functioning of the sebaceous glands and relieves redness. Manufacturers claim that for effective treatment, the product must be applied daily for 2-3 weeks.

Buyers note that the cream is easy to use. It is enough to apply the product from the spout to the problem area without getting your hands dirty, and wait 4-5 minutes until it dries completely.

The product contains the following components:

• 2% salicylic acid;
• avocado extract;
• vitamin A;
• hyaluron.

Volume: 29 g.

Average price: 500-600 rub.

Features of oily skin

Dermatologists often classify oily skin as problematic, and this happens for a reason. Among the main characteristics of this type:

overactive sebaceous glands;

with age - a tendency to sag in the chin and lower jaw;

predisposition to the formation of comedones and acne.

Oily skin especially needs hydration. © iStock

Librederm “Seratsin” spot action cream

Librederm cosmetics are becoming more and more popular. This Seracin cream, according to the manufacturers, reduces acne. For effective treatment, it must be applied 2 times a day - morning and evening.

Buyers love the ease of use. The product comes in a tube with a small spout, is easily absorbed and invisible on the skin. When a pimple matures, the product reduces inflammation, and after 2-3 applications it disappears.

The cream is antimicrobial and does not cause redness, allergies, peeling or itching.

Active components:

• salicylic acid;
• zinc citrate;
• beet root extract;
• hydrolyzed corn starch.

Volume: 20 ml.

Price: 300-350 rub.

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The best pharmacy creams for problem skin

Pharmacy products differ in their composition. The components of these products are natural and are more thoroughly tested.

The main tasks performed by pharmaceutical creams:

• hydration;
• skin regeneration;
• cleaning the sebaceous glands.

At the pharmacy you can purchase antiallergic, affordable creams that give a noticeable positive effect:

1. “Avene Cleanance Hydra” is a light cream of uniform consistency with moisturizing properties. The company produces space products exclusively for problem skin.

Active components:

• thermal water;
• bisabolol;
• zinc;
• vegetable oil.

The product is quickly absorbed and cools the surface of the skin. Due to the absence of mineral oils in the composition, the product does not leave greasy marks or film.

Volume: 40 ml. With daily use, it can be extended for 7-8 months.

Average cost: 900-1000 rubles.

2. Cream mask from the CORA brand is a surefire remedy in the fight against problem skin and acne. The components in the product remove peeling, relieve inflammation, improve the functioning of the sebaceous glands, and increase skin immunity. Users note the pleasant texture of the cream.

Active components:

• furatsilin;
• zinc oxide;
• hyaluronic acid;
• kelp extract, chamomile;
• olive oil.

When dry, the mask does not crumble. It is better to leave it on your face for no more than 20-30 minutes.

The cream mask actively nourishes and moisturizes the face. When used according to instructions, it helps to narrow pores.

Volume: 50 ml.

Average price: 900 rub.

3. Pharmacy cream “F 99” was initially intended to combat eczema and dermatitis. But only this inexpensive product began to be used for cosmetic purposes. The product, using natural ingredients, fights active peeling and evens out the complexion.

There are two types of cream you can buy at the pharmacy – bold and semi-bold. The first is suitable for those with dry and normal skin types, the second for oily and combination skin. The cream is perfectly absorbed by the skin and leaves no greasy residue. After using it, the skin has a light natural shine.

Composition of the product:

• water;
• omega-3 fatty acid esters;
• vegetable oil;
• stearin;
• milk thistle oil;
• wax.

Volume: 50 ml.

Price: 100-150 rub.

Proper moisturizing of problematic facial skin

Dehydrated skin often becomes shiny. Many people mistake this shine for excessive oiliness and make the mistake of starting to fight this problem. They wipe their face with alcohol toner and often use clay masks and hard scrubs. As a result, the shine only intensifies, pimples and comedones appear. Then hyperkeratosis is added - due to constant aggressive exposure, the stratum corneum of the skin becomes thicker. So the skin becomes problematic simply because there was no cosmetologist nearby who would say: “Your skin simply does not have enough moisturizer.”

With proper and careful care, oily and problematic skin can become pleasantly matte. © iStock

It is important to follow the following steps.

Cleansing

Even if your skin is very oily, use exfoliating masks and scrubs no more than 1-2 times a week - and only if there is no inflammation on your face. Cleansing foams, tonics and lotions are suitable for daily care - they remove impurities and improve complexion. By the way, they often contain moisturizing components.

Multimasking is the optimal solution for combination skin. © iStock

According to our expert, the main requirement for modern cleansers is “to be as careful as possible with the hydrolipid mantle of the skin.”

Hydration

Today, a great variety of moisturizers are produced: creams, gels, serums, masks. Ideally, look for products labeled “suitable for acne-prone skin.”

Nutrition

Products with moisturizing and soothing ingredients will suit you as nourishing ingredients.

How to cook at home

Expensive cosmetics cannot compare with homemade natural cream. By making such a product at home, you don’t have to worry about the composition and be absolutely sure of the effectiveness of the cream.

Nourishing night cream with vitamins

Ingredients:

• baby cream – 1 tbsp;
• aevit – 3 drops;
• fish oil – 3 drops;
• rosewood ethereal extract – 4 drops;
• combilipen, or vitamin B1 and B6 – 1 amp.

Cooking method:

1. The base, baby cream, is squeezed into the prepared container.
2. The vitamin and fat capsules are punctured and the contents are mixed into the cream.
3. After opening the combilipen ampoule, pour the liquid into the jar.
4. Add 4 drops to the cream. rosewood ethereal extract.
5. Mix the product thoroughly with a spoon.
6. The result is a thick consistency cream that can be stored in the refrigerator for 5-6 months.
7. With frequent use, the product lasts for 1.5-2 months.

The cream must be applied to damaged areas 2-3 hours before going to bed. It should be spread evenly over the surface of the skin, and not driven in with your fingers. Before going to bed, moisten the surface of the skin with a damp cloth.

The night nourishing cream contains a complex of vitamins, thanks to which after just a couple of uses the skin of the face will become more elastic, fresh and clean.

How to properly apply cream for problem skin

For maximum and effective effect, cosmetologists recommend following the sequence and rules of application:

1. First of all, face preparation is necessary. It needs to be cleaned. It is useful to use a tonic after the cleansing procedure; it neutralizes the effects of hard water.
2. Night cream should be used 2 hours before bedtime, day cream 30 minutes before going outside.
3. To protect the skin from stretching, cosmetologists recommend applying the cream along massage lines:

• From the central point of the forehead, arcuate lines to the right and left.
• Massage the skin around the eyes from the outer corner of the eyes to the bridge of the nose.

  

• The nose line is from top to bottom.
• From the center of the upper lip to the ear.
• From the center point of the chin to the cheeks.
• From the chest in different directions up.

As you know, a high-quality and effective product does not necessarily cost a lot of money. If you choose the right face cream, focusing on the characteristics of problem skin and the components in the composition, you can preserve the beauty and freshness of your face for many years.

Author: Alina Vern

Article design: Mila Friedan