The Moisturiser Paradox: Why Giving Up that Lotion Or Moisturiser Often Means Better Hydrated Skin

Have I got a skincare tip for you.

It's a skincare tip that goes against a lot of what most "skincare" experts would say. But having been in this industry for a while and realising how we have been sold complicated skincare regimes - often unnecessarily - to get us to spend a lot more than we should, I'm ready to call "B.S" on what we nowadays call the norm when it comes to skincare. I mean, however did we get to this point where we think a plastic bottle filled with mostly water and ingredients concocted in a lab should be our go to for cleansing?

So here goes: Stop using traditional moisturisers, creams and lotions and see your skin transform. And let me tell you why:

It might sound counterintuitive, but hear me out. Sometimes, the very moisturisers we rely on to combat dry skin can actually hinder our skin’s natural oil production, leaving it dependent on artificial hydration. So, what’s the alternative?

The Right Cleanser Matters: Our soaps at The Australian Natural Soap Company are crafted with a specific focus on maintaining the integrity of your skin's natural oils. Here's why they stand out:

By combining these gentle cleansing properties with the natural hydration benefits of plant oils, our soaps offer an effective and skin-friendly alternative to conventional soap products, making them ideal for anyone struggling with dry skin.

Ditch the Lotion & Embrace Pure Plant Oils: Here’s the real kicker—instead of your usual cream based moisturiser, try natural plant oils - the kind that you will find in the cooking oil section of the supermarket rather than the cosmetic aisle. These include:

Macadamia Oil: This luxurious oil is a hydration hero due to its high content of monounsaturated fats, particularly oleic acid and palmitoleic acid. Oleic acid is known for its ability to penetrate deeply into the skin, providing intense moisture and helping to maintain hydration by forming a barrier that prevents water loss. Palmitoleic acid, on the other hand, is a natural component of skin sebum, which supports skin’s natural lipid barrier, enhancing elasticity and promoting youthful, soft skin.

Avocado Oil: Renowned for its rich nutrient composition, avocado oil is packed with vitamins A, D, and E, which are potent antioxidants that help protect the skin from oxidative damage. The high levels of essential fatty acids in avocado oil help to soothe and heal dry, irritated skin. The oil’s sterolin content also helps to soften the skin and has anti-inflammatory properties that can calm itchy, dry skin conditions.

These natural oils mimic the skin’s natural sebum, making them particularly effective as moisturizers that don’t feel heavy or greasy. Their natural affinity with our skin means they are absorbed quickly, providing nourishment and protection from the inside out.

Stay Hydrated: First things first, keeping your body hydrated is crucial. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin cells plump and happy from the inside out.

Eating foods rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids can also make a huge difference. Focus on incorporating more nuts, seeds, and avocados into your diet. Reducing caffeine and alcohol intake can further help maintain your natural skin moisture.

Opt for clothing made of natural fibres like cotton, which are less likely to irritate your skin. Plus, don’t underestimate the power of stress management—keeping stress in check can lead to clearer, healthier skin.

So there you have it—ditching traditional moisturisers in favour of natural oils might just be the secret to unlocking your best skin yet.