Myths and facts about moisturisers

Medically Reviewed By:
Dr. Hema Sathish M.B.B.S., D.D(UK)
Dermatologist, Founder of Cureka

Moisturisers are the most basic form of skin care. It hydrates the skin and addresses many skin issues with nil side effects. Let’s dispel some common misconceptions around it.

Moisturisers are universal skin care products which will benefit all skins in the long run. They enrich and protect skin’s natural barrier and have numerous other skin health benefits like delayed ageing, smoother skin, lesser allergies and more.

Moisturisers are needed only for winter.

The type of moisturisers need to be varied based on skin type and season. Dry winters may need thicker creams for more intense hydration. While in summer water-based lotions are preferred to avoid occlusion and retention of sweat by creamy formulations. But skin needs to be hydrated all year round.

There is no need to continue moisturisers after the eczema flare subsides and treatment is completed.

Moisturisers are to be used regularly for people with any form dermatitis or allergies as their skin barrier is likely to be weak. Further weakening due to factors like stress, weather and infections can result in frequent flares of disease and moisturisers play an important role in preventing or shortening these flares.

Moisturisers have to be applied only when skin looks dry and flaky.

Skin looks flaky only in conditions of extreme skin barrier damage. It is better to use moisturisers proactively to keep barrier healthy.