Misconceptions about Moisturizers
Hydrate! Moisturize! Slather on the lotion! The call for action to protect skin against the damaging and drying effects of winter has been made loud and clear. Dermatologists and skin care professionals urge individuals to “weatherize” skin by incorporating thick, heavy moisturizers into their normal skin care routine.
However, is there a point where skin loses ability to moisturize itself? Additionally, is it possible for skin to be addicted to moisturizers? The physicians of Knoxville Dermatology Group understand the importance of addressing skin care questions such as these. 
Is Your Skin Addicted?!
Chapped and dry lips never seem to go away, even when using lip balm. That is because constantly applying lip balm can reduce the lips ability to moisturize itself. This may be true, but people do not get addicted to skin lotion because the skin on the rest of the body is different than the skin on the lips. Lip skin is very thin and doesn’t share the same thick, protective stratum cornea layer that the rest of the body has, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Furthermore, lips dry out faster because they lack the sweat and oil glands that provide moisture.
Keep in mind, lip balms are classified as emollients, which work to seal the skin; and body moisturizers are humectants which draw moisture in.
Tip: Make sure to remove dead skin cells with exfoliation before applying balm. As this prevents flaking and drying, it also triggers new cell growth.
Another misconception is that lotions disrupt the skin’s water barrier with repeated use, thus making skin addicted to moisturizers.
Only irritants (negatively charged agents) can disrupt this protective barrier through the removal of fat and protein structures found in skin. Moreover, these structures are largely responsible for keeping skin hydrated and smooth.
Tip: Pay attention to skin care products, especially soaps and cleansers that work as irritants as they offset the skin’s natural moisturizers.
Similar to this misconception is the belief that when skin cells get “lazy” and slow down, skin relies on moisturizers for hydration.
Dermatologists recommend using moisturizers because they are designed to help reconstitute some elements of healthy skin lost as a result of drying factors. In other words, a moisturizer with quality ingredients simply replenishes the skin and protects against moisture loss.
As mentioned earlier, products classified as emollients (waxy sealants) are the biggest threat to cell growth. Exfoliation is key to stimulating cell growth because it promotes proper blood circulation and sloughs away dead skin cells.
If you would like further information regarding skin care and/or skin conditions, schedule a consultation with one of our board certified physicians. Call 865.690.9467 today!
