When it Comes To Skin Moisturizers, None Of Us Really Know

Nevin Barich

LOS ANGELES , May 30, 2019 (Industry Intelligence Inc.) – I was coming out of the bathroom one day when my wife asked me a question I didn’t expect:

“How do you like the new moisturizer I got you?” she asked.

I answered with a vacant gaze. I had no idea what she was referring to. The only thing I use on my skin is Irish Spring soap.

My wife replied with a sigh, rolled her eyes and grabbed my wrist. Leading me back to the bathroom, she pointed to a small bottle of moisturizer on the counter that I had never noticed before and would supposedly prevent me from ever looking old.

“It was right in front of you,” she said. “Weren’t you at least curious?”

The answer to that question was no. But even if I was, I’d have no knowledge—and perhaps no real confidence—as to whether the product would actually work. A new survey conducted for the new Remedy Dermatology Series Moisturizing Body Lotion indicates that this is the case for most U.S. consumers.

According to the survey:

Seventy-four percent lack confidence that they're using the right moisturizer for their skin

Eighty-four percent aren’t knowledgeable about the ingredients in their moisturizer

Sixty-one percent believe that using a moisturizer can prevent wrinkles (False)

Seventy-three percent think the more you moisturize the more hydrated your skin will be (False)

“With so many products to choose from, it’s not surprising that many consumers are confused about what ingredients to look for in their skin and body moisturizer,” said dermatologist Dr. Christina Weng of Harvard Medical School. “For example, those with sensitive skin or who are prone to allergies, should try to find lotions that are free of allergens, parabens, sulfates, and other possible skin irritants – information they can usually find listed on the packaging.”

Forty-nine percent believed that you should only use moisturizer if you have dry skin, which according to experts is simply not true.

“Although it may seem counterintuitive, you should actually apply moisturizer onto damp skin, as this will help lock in any excess water sitting on the surface before it evaporates from your skin,” Weng said.

Another commonly held myth is that the more moisturizer you use the more hydrated your skin will be. That, Weng said, isn’t true.

“Good quality moisturizers are highly concentrated and are designed to be effective even without requiring a thick layer,” Weng said. “If you use too much product, it’s more likely to sit on the surface of your skin, occlude the surface, and potentially trigger breakouts.”

Nevin Barich is the Consumer Products Analyst for Industry Intelligence, which can help YOU better address your own industry challenges. We invite you to come take a look at our service. Call us today at 310-553-0008 and we’ll schedule you for a 15-minute demo.

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