Actually, there is no such perfect product! How can we say this? Because, only our skin can produce the perfect skin cream! Our body naturally produces sebum, Cholesterol, lecithin and hydration for suppleness and protection.
Why then do people need a moisturizer? In a perfect world where we had perfect nutrition, the humidity was optimal and our bodies were perfect, there probably would be no need for a moisturizer. But because of the above mentioned factors, many find the need to augment their skin's inherent moisturizers.
What really is a moisturizer?
When a plant needs water, how do we moisturize it? Do we pour oil on it? Of course not! Rather, we water it. This reveals what a moisturizer actually does. It hydrates the skin. But we can't simply hydrate our skin by sprinkling water on it as we would a plant. What good would that do if there is nothing to prevent the water from evaporating? Our skin can actually produce enough hydration for itself if it is not compromised by internal and external factors such as; not drinking enough water, over-cleansing, sun exposure, dehydration from heating and air conditioning systems. But when it can't meet the demand, we need a water binding agent for our skin. This substance will act as a delivery system to the skin, holding the water, and making it available upon demand to the skin. But are all water binding agents or Natural Moisturizing Factor’s (NMF's), that are commonly used, good for our skin?
Propylene glycol - friend or foe?
The most common water binding agent that is used in 98% of all moisturizers is propylene glycol. It draws water and holds it for long periods of time. But, because it is a chemical, it does this too well. When conditions are perfect, as for example
under humid conditions there is no problem. But when the air is extremely dry, and all water is evaporated from the cream that we have applied to our skin, what will happen? Where will propylene glycol draw it's water? The only available source is the skin. This chemical will not disintegrate, and will not stop leaching water from whatever source it can find. Propylene glycol will adversely dehydrate the skin. It is similar to a pre-programmed robot that will do everything it was programmed to do, unless it is disabled. This chemical is rejected by the body as foreign, and therefore can not be readily absorbed and assimilated. Rather as a last resort it ends up in the body's filtration system, the kidneys and liver. There it continues to do harm to human health. Why do cosmetic manufacturers use this deadly chemical? Basically for two reasons. The public does not know the dangers of propylene glycol, and it is very inexpensive.
Is there a better alternative?
For a healthy complexion, we must look for a natural, organic humectant. Natural ingredients, for the most part, are completely beneficial and seldom cause any harmful side effects. That is why pharmaceutical companies and chemists try to design pharmaceuticals that mimic whatever nature has already produced. First they find the herb or compound in nature, and then they try to fabricate something similar to it. In the natural world there is a substance called hyaluronic acid, which is far superior to propylene glycol. The body itself produces it, recognizes it, and readily accepts it when it is in contact with the skin. Depending on the needs of the skin, it can be metabolized in various ways. The hyaluronic acid molecule can be broken down piece by piece and utilized by the skin. All components are used efficiently and metabolized without waste, irritation, and chemical toxicity. It is not surprising that burn treatment centers at major hospitals use hyaluronic acid on second and third degree burns. Could you imagine using propylene glycol for that same purpose? Hardly!
What to look for in a moisturizer?
As consumers we should always read ingredient labels and look for the most natural constituents. Granted, we should try to choose natural oils that are the most similar to our skin’s sebum. However, we should also try to avoid any constituent that even sounds like a chemical. Why? Chemicals are not recognized and assimilated by our bodies. Chances are, even though our body might be able to tolerate them, this does not mean that chemicals are beneficial to our health in the long run. We can compare this to eating at a fast food restaurant every day of the week. At first our stomach might not be upset, but given enough time, our health will surely suffer.
How to read a product label?
When we look for a desirable natural ingredients in a product, we must make sure of percentages. Why? A small percentage of a beneficial ingredient will have little effect on the skin. How can we determine percentages? Seldom do cosmetics manufacturers reveal exact percentages. But we can determine if a particular product has a good amount of a certain ingredient. If a certain ingredient is located close to the top of the ingredient list, this indicates that it is one of the major ingredients. We must look for a moisturizing cream that is formulated to closely match the properties of the natural protective layer of the skin. With this advice, you will find the best skin cream for your needs.
Xavier is an expert cosmetics formulator who knows what ingredients to choose to get the best results. If you would like to learn to do the same, he would be happy to share his knowledge. More information can be obtained on his website Skin Cream
