When you have dry, itch-prone skin, a lightweight face or body moisturiser that sinks in is not what you need. What you do: a substantial hydrator that leaves a non-greasy film to lessen moisture loss.
When you have dry, itch-prone skin, a lightweight face or body moisturiser that sinks in is not what you need. What you do: a substantial hydrator that leaves a non-greasy film to lessen moisture loss.
Dry, itchy, sensitive, or easily irritated skin is compromised skin. A lightweight moisturiser isn’t made for it. “The skin barrier is imbalanced due to a lack of lipids in the hydro-lipid film,” says Doreen Chia, brand general manager of Korean beauty label Hera. “This film protects the skin surface, which is vital for keeping bacteria and pollutants out and keeping moisture in.” That’s why it’s crucial to rebuild the skin barrier “by using a more emollient product that will help restore lipids, lock in moisture and prevent skin inflammation”, says Chia. Sensitive-skin specialist Aveeno has the same take. The brand’s country director for Malaysia and Singapore, Prashant Mahalingam, says keeping dry or eczema-prone skin comfortable and hydrated often requires rich moisturisers with a higher proportion of oil to water than those for normal skin. These leave a protective barrier on skin, ensuring that moisture is sealed in. – GYH
2 Medicube Red Cream Plus, $65. Made for acne-prone faces, its thick formula prevents skin from producing more sebum to compensate for dryness.
4 Boscia Tsubaki Swirl, $56. Literally a cream in a gel, this face hydrator has the 4 comforting feel of cream and the fresh finish of gel.
