We all know that winter is the time for itchy, flaky and dry skin that ups our moisturizing game. While it's important to do so, it can be tempting to go overboard with moisturizer. After all, the merrier, right? Not too good! In fact, applying too much moisturizer can damage and harm your skin.
Below is everything you need to know about overhydrating your skin, its symptoms and prevention.
Is it possible to overmoisturize the skin?
© Powered by iDiva © ShutterstockBelieve it or not, most of us overmoisturize our faces without realizing it, especially in the winter. There is a misconception that the more moisturizer you apply, the more effective it will be.
But in reality, moisturizers are usually very concentrated, and a good moisturizer only needs a small amount. Applying more than necessary is not only unnecessary, but can make your skin worse.
This shows that you are over-moisturizing your skin
© Powered by iDiva © ShutterstockWondering how to tell if your skin is too hydrated? Here are some signs that you may be using too much moisturizer.
1. Your pores are clogged. Overhydration weakens the skin barrier, causing pores, blackheads and pimples.
2. You break down more than usual. Excess skin layers and facial oils that are not absorbed attract dirt and bacteria and cause pimples to appear.
3. Your skin is dry. Have you ever wondered why your skin feels dry after applying moisturizer? This is a very common symptom of over-moisturized skin.
4. There are small spots all over the face. If your skin is covered with a slight red rash, this is a sign of overhydration.
How does excess moisture damage the skin?
© Powered by iDiva © ShutterstockThe production of sebum keeps our skin healthy, nourished and hydrated. But when you moisturize too much, your skin thinks it's had enough and stops producing the amount of sebum it needs to keep the skin healthy. It makes the skin look pale, dry and tired.
As mentioned above, it causes acne, clogged pores, blackheads and breakouts because it increases dead skin cells.
How to prevent your skin from being overmoisturized
© Powered by iDiva © ShutterstockThere are two main ways to prevent overhydration of the face. One way is to apply moisturizer when the skin is wet. It provides more hydration than you get when applied to dry skin. So you don't need to apply an extra layer that can damage your skin.
Another good way is to exfoliate your skin with a chemical exfoliator once a week before applying moisturizer. This ensures that your moisturizer doesn't clog up dead skin cells, which can lead to clogged pores.
Main and social image credits: Instagram/deepikapadukone, Instagram/aliaabhatt