Regularly applying moisturiser helps to replace some of the natural fluids lost from the skin during cleansing and daily activities. Skin moisturising provides a nourishing, protective layer of fluid that helps to maintain skin elasticity and integrity.

Moisturisers are specifically designed to alleviate dry skin. The top layer of skin is made up of 10 to 30 per cent water and is protected by a thin lipid coating which comes from oil gland secretions and natural moisturising factor substances. This layer has highly compacted skin cells that shed. Normally, with smooth, supple skin, the cells shed one at a time. If this skin layer is not able to retain enough water, large clumps of cells will flake off at once.

Many different factors influence dry skin. They include seasonal weather, indoor heating and air conditioning, stress, illness, chemical soaps, medication, age and skin type. Moisturisers work by locking in the skin's own moisture to prevent dryness and cracking. The more water content in the skin, the more flexible it is, leading to a silky-smooth appearance.

The two main ingredients in moisturisers are humectants, the substance that is used for moistening, and occlusives, a substance used to keep the moisturising ingredients on the skin. Moisturising ingredients such as cocoa butter, shea butter, jojoba, sesame, apricot or sweet almond oil will draw the water to your body, while occlusives, such as natural amino acids and proteins, bind the water to the skin. The best time to moisturise is after a shower or bath to keep the moisture in.

Moisturisers are formulated to suit most skin types from teenagers experiencing a problem with clogged pores and blackheads to mature men and women wishing to maintain a smooth, healthy looking complexion. It is recommended that all people, regardless of skin-type, should use a moisturiser to replace the skin's natural oils. Younger people tend to prefer lighter moisturising products than older generations. This is because the younger the skin, the greater its capacity to retain water, and to produce sebum.

Choosing the right moisturiser depends on personal preferences and requirements and include oil-based and water-based manufactured moisturisers. The water and oil work together to allow the water to soak into the skin. Oil-based products contain more oil than water and should be avoided by individuals who are acne prone, given that they clog pores.

Natural moisturisers are widely available and include lavender, chamomile and rosemary essential oils as well as honey and shea butter.

Cleansing and moisturising are the key components to maintaining healthy, youthful skin and should form part of a daily routine, combined with drinking plenty of water and eating a diet rich in fruit and vegetables, to prevent the body from taking its necessary moisture at the expense of the skin.

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