Different Kinds of Face Cream

The selection of face creams on the market today is virtually unlimited. Day creams and night creams, cleansing creams and moisturizing creams, anti-aging creams and sun-block creams are some of the types that one will see, and choosing the right kind to use can sometimes be difficult. This is a discussion of certain kinds of face cream to help you decide.

Cold cream is probably the oldest known face cream, having been invented by the Greek physician Galen who lived from 129 to 200 AD. It is an emulsion made from essential oils, beeswax, water, and fragrance. It was named "cold cream" because it leaves a feeling of coolness on the skin. It is used as a cleansing cream and a moisturizing cream.

For normal to dry skin, a cleansing face cream is best for removing make up, dirt, and surface residue because it cleans without drying the skin. An appropriate amount of cleansing cream is applied and gently massaged onto the skin and then either wiped or washed off, depending on the instructions of the maker. Some cleansing creams contain granules that help remove debris and stimulate circulation.

Moisturizing creams replenish the skin's natural lipids, thereby keeping skin soft, smooth, and young-looking. This type of face cream must be used daily in order to get the full benefit from its effects, and the skin best suited to it are the normal to dry types. Some moisturizing cream manufacturers offer 2 kinds of moisturizing face cream, one for daytime use and another for night time.

Sun-block or sun-screen creams have components that protect the skin from the ultraviolet rays of the sun. Overexposure to the sun's ultraviolet rays can cause premature wrinkles, unsightly age spots, sun burn, and skin cancer. Regular use of a face cream that contains sun block or sun screen will forestall sun damage and keep facial skin young-looking.

To reduce the signs of aging such as wrinkles and dark spots, alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) are often used. AHA and retinol, a form of vitamin that stimulates skin cell renewal, are common ingredients of anti-aging face creams. This kind of face cream will renew the skin's surface and make it appear more youthful. It has side effects such irritation, blistering, burning, and discoloration of the skin and should therefore be used with caution.

A medical practitioner should be consulted before using any anti-aging cream. On the other hand, other types of face creams are usually harmless to most individuals. Just to be sure, a face cream should be tested before use. You can test by applying a small amount to an area of your skin which is generally not noticeable. Leave the cream on for 24 to 48 hours and see if it has adverse effects.

There is a correct type of face cream for each individual's needs and skin type. The appropriate kind will make skin healthier and more beautiful. Finding it may take some time and effort but will surely be worth the trouble.

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October 02 2009 | Anti-Aging | No Comments »