No Flakes For Me, Thankyouverymuch!

I’m travelling home from vacation today, so I’m pulling up a post from the archives.  As we head into winter, I’d love to get your suggestions for a quality daytime moisturizer.  I think I’m going to need something heavier as the cold weather wrecks havoc on my dry skin.

A daily moisturizer is ESSENTIAL.  There are lots of products whose necessity is debatable, but I couldn’t survive without a quality daily moisturizing lotion. 

And did you also know that it’s best to cleanse your face every morning?  I just learned this a few months ago.  I figured, I cleansed my face before I went to bed, I can just wash it down with water in the morning, but I read somewhere that it’s better to cleanse again and get rid of the nighttime oils.  As usual, I have thoroughly researched this topic and cited my sources.  Ahem.  So anyway, for what it’s worth, there you go.

I always follow my cleansing with a moisturizer.  One important thing about a daytime moisturizer, especially in the summer months, is that it has an SPF.  Right now I’m using Mary Kay Time Wise Day Solution with SPF 25.  I like it just fine. 

You want your moisturizer to leave your skin feeling smooth and lubricated.  In other words, if your skin feels tight after applying moisturizer, then you need a richer cream.  If you feel too oily, and you find your makeup sliding off your face by mid-morning, then you might want to try something lighter.

Many products will offer you free samples to try before you invest in them.  I highly advise this.  Because it really does take some trial and error to find the right product.

Also, I find I have to change moisturizers in the winter.  I get ve-r-r-r-r-y dry in the wintertime, and I need a richer moisturizer in those cold winter months.  Otherwise my face starts peeling off, one attractive flake at a time.

In the past I have used Lancome Clarifiance (my very favorite, but I can’t seem to find a link online, perhaps it has been discontinued?  drat!), Arbonne (not a favorite — goes on rather sticky),  Clarins (hello, Pricey!)  (It was a free sample.  LOVED it.  But can’t afford it.), and… golly, I can’t even remember what else I’ve used. 

If you are looking for a more affordable option, I have heard good things about Purpose Dual Treatment Moisture Lotion with SPF 15.  And I know Megan has great things to say about Eucerin Everyday Protection Face Lotion, SPF 30

So let’s hear from you.  What is YOUR favorite daytime moisturizer?  Do you use one every day?

Originally posted June 9, 2008.