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What is the difference between lotion and moisturizer?
In an ideal world, our skin would be soft and supple at all times. There would be no need to use a host of skincare products to maintain its hydration and elasticity. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. So, we have lotions and moisturisers to layer on our skin. But are they the same thing, or is there any difference between lotion and moisturiser? Jump into this skincare guide to learn more about these products and which one you need to use.
What is a moisturiser?
A moisturiser is anything that enhances the comfort of your skin by preventing dryness and protecting skin barrier. While comparing a lotion vs moisturiser, it’s important to understand their constituents. The second one can be regarded as a spectrum from water to Vaseline.
In a moisturiser, you will find a combination of water and oil-soluble components. It helps in bringing back the natural condition of the surface layer of the skin. The texture of different moisturisers varies.
While they are supposed to hydrate your skin, you might not be happy with layering something too greasy. In that case, you will have to find a moisturiser that’s lightweight and does not feel sticky on your skin. The Waterlight Gel Moisturiser 72 Hour Hydration is one such formulation with up to 72 hours of hydration and powerful ingredients to nourish the skin barrier.
What is a lotion?
Now you know that moisturisers are a spectrum between water and Vaseline. The power of water alone is not enough for hydration because it evaporates in no time. On the other end of the spectrum is Vaseline.
But since it is straight petroleum, it is too sticky and gooey. Therefore, moisturisers fall right in the middle to meet the hydration requirements of the skin. While understanding the difference between moisturiser and lotion, you should know that the second one can actually be a variant of the first.
In a lotion for your skin, you will usually discover a combination of water with a little vaseline. When the vaseline quantity is increased further, it becomes a cream. Meanwhile, an ointment includes the two alongside a mineral oil.
Due to the high water quantity in a lotion, it usually includes a lot of added ingredients. The extra components are included to prevent the product from spoiling. Lotions are usually thin and can be smoothly applied to the skin.
Also Read: Why moisturising your skin is important
What should I use: Lotion vs Moisturiser
Even after you get the difference between lotion and moisturising cream, there might be doubts regarding which one would be the best for your skin. Well, it’s important to remember that the product which might work for one might not for another. So, you need to concentrate on the unique needs of your skin while making the right choice between the two.
Moisturisers often have a heavy oil and wax content. Are you someone who suffers from dry, flaky, and dull skin? If so, you might benefit from the hydration-sealing and protective properties of a moisturiser.
Zits and pimples are often a common concern among people with dry skin. The Pink Foundry introduced the Acne Care & Healing Gel Moisturiser with Tea Tree & Cica for such individuals. This special product will soothe your skin and heal existing acne while also preventing future breakouts.
Lotions usually have a thin texture that makes them easily absorbable. They are quite ideal for pampering your dehydrated skin on a hot summer day. Most people with normal to combination skin types should embrace a lotion in their daily routine.
The water-like texture of these products won’t clog the pores. They are light and creamy with the right amount of oil to safeguard the moisture barrier. But you will also discover moisturisers that penetrate deeper without sitting on the top layer like a blanket of grease.
Also Read: 5 Benefits of Moisturizer
Conclusion
Understanding what is difference between lotion and moisturiser is essential for embracing the right product. Remember that both of them can hydrate your skin and make it appear fresh, smooth, and glowing. But knowing your unique needs and recognising your skin type plays a crucial role in making an appropriate choice. Check the product ingredients and also consider the weather before putting one of these products on your skin.
FAQs:
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Should people with acne-prone skin wear moisturisers?
Pimples are a result of excess oil combining with dirt and dust to clog the pores. You might be completely against putting anything greasy on your face when you have acne. But these breakouts are often a result of your skin producing extra oil to compensate for the lack of moisture. So, keeping your skin adequately hydrated with a lightweight moisturising formulation will help in keeping acne at bay.
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Do I need to wash my face before applying a lotion or moisturiser?
Cleaning your skin is necessary before layering it up with any product, particularly the ones meant to offer hydration. Moisturisers and lotions can combine with dust and dirt on your face to clog pores and cause breakouts. Therefore, use a face wash to clean your face before applying these products. A secret tip is dabbing moisturiser on slightly damp skin for easy and faster absorption.
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Which is the best moisturiser for oily skin?
Anyone with too much natural moisture should stick to lightweight hydration products. The Waterlight Gel Moisturiser is the perfect solution for such individuals, with its thin texture and powerful ingredients to hydrate your skin.
