By Shahnaz Husain
Moisture is most important to the skin. The amount of moisture, which the skin holds, determines its texture and the rate at which it ages. That is why dry skins are more vulnerable to early aging. Moisture helps to keep the skin soft, smooth and supple. Seasonal conditions, exposure to the sun, air conditioning and heating, soaps and chlorinated water, make-up cosmetics and air pollution can all cause moisture depletion. Therefore, the daily care routine should be adjusted according to the skin’s needs.
The skin absorbs moisture in the form of an emulsion of oil and water. It cannot absorb either water or oil by itself. Therefore, the only way of protecting the skin from moisture loss is to use moisturizers daily, to replenish the loss of moisture and keep the skin soft and moist.
Moisturisersare available in both liquid and cream form. During the dry season, for normal to dry skin, it is better to use a creamy moisturiser, applying it after cleansing and toning the skin. For dry skin, a moisturiser should also be applied under make-up. A light liquid moisturiser may be adequate during the humid season.
Oily skins can hold moisture better than normal or dry skins. But, an oily skin may need a moisturizer too. A light moisturizing lotion should be adequate for an oily skin during the dry season. An all purpose oil-free cream is also suitable if the skin is oily.
First cleanse or wash the face. Apply moisturizer on the face and work it into the skin smoothly and gently, using your fingertips. Wipe off the excess (if any) with tissues or cotton wool.
Natural moisturisers:
Honey is a powerful natural moisturizer and is suited to all skin types. For dryness of the skin, apply honey and wash it off with water after 15 minutes. For oily skin, mix honey with lemon juice in equal quantities and apply.
Aloe vera gel can also be applied on the face to moisturize the skin. It is also a powerful moisturizer.
For oily skin, mix one teaspoon pure glycerin with 50 ml rose water and keep in an airtight bottle. Apply a little of this lotion. It moisturizes the skin without making it oily.
Mix equal quantities of aloe vera gel and mineral water. Then heat over a low fire till it forms a cream. When it cools, store in an airtight jar.
About Shahnaz Husain
Shahnaz Husain, pioneer of the Ayurvedic beauty movement, heads the Shahnaz Husain Group, with a global network of franchise ventures and 375 Ayurvedic formulations. A Case Study at Harvard for Brand Creation, she is now a Harvard Subject for “Emerging Markets” She was honoured with the Padma Shri Award and is the first woman in 105 years to receive the World’s Greatest Woman Entrepreneur Award from Success, the U.S. business magazine. Indeed, Shahnaz Husain is a leading international beauty icon.
