Why moisturiser works better on damp skin
A good moisturiser does not simply pour hydration into skin. Much of its usefulness comes from controlling where water goes next. The outermost layer of skin, the stratum corneum, continually loses water to the surrounding air, a process called transepidermal water loss. Occlusive ingredients create a film that slows that evaporation, and dermatology literature notes that their effect is…
Moisturiser works more effectively when applied to damp skin rather than dry skin. This is because skin naturally loses water to the environment through a process called transepidermal water loss. A moisturiser containing occlusive ingredients can slow this evaporation, but these ingredients are particularly effective when the skin is slightly damp.
Dermatologists recommend waiting until after washing to apply moisturiser, leaving a light film of water on the skin. Moisturisers contain three main types of ingredients: humectants that attract water, emollients that smooth the skin's surface, and occlusives that reduce water loss. Applying moisturiser to damp skin allows it to retain moisture at the surface.
Humectants such as glycerin and hyaluronic acid attract water, while occlusives like petrolatum and dimethicone reduce evaporation. When applied to damp skin, these ingredients help retain moisture. After cleansing, it's recommended to apply a water-based hydrating serum, followed by a moisturiser, and then a facial oil if desired.
The serum supplies a water-rich layer, while the moisturiser slows subsequent moisture loss. Facial oil is used last for an extra layer of richness. For hydration, focus on formulas that combine water-binding ingredients with those that reduce evaporation, such as glycerin with petrolatum or dimethicone. Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream is a recommended product, containing glycerin, petrolatum, and dimethicone.
The Face Shop Rice & Ceramide Moisturizing Cream is another option, targeting readers who prefer a ceramide-focused moisturiser.
Written by urgent.news from Gulf News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
