Yes, and here’s a simple way to think about it. Your daytime moisturizer is like your outfit—it should protect you. Always pick one with SPF 30 or higher to shield your skin from the sun. Your nighttime moisturizer is like your pajamas—it should be all about comfort and repair. At night, you can use a richer, more nourishing cream because your skin is working hard to heal and renew itself while you sleep.
Yes, absolutely! Up to 80% of the sun’s UV rays can pass through clouds, so you’re still getting exposed on gray days. If you’re near windows at home, in the car, or at the office, UVA rays (the aging rays) can reach you. Daily use isn’t just about avoiding a sunburn; it’s about preventing the slow, daily damage that adds up over weeks, months, and years. Making it a habit, like brushing your teeth, is the only way to get constant protection.
Absolutely! Harsh detergents, fabric softeners, and dryer sheets can leave residue on your clothes and sheets that irritates dry skin. Switch to a hypoallergenic or “free and clear” laundry detergent. Skip the scented softeners and dryer sheets entirely. For your towels and sheets, do an extra rinse cycle to make sure all soap is gone. Wearing soft, natural fabrics like cotton can also feel better against sensitive, flaky skin.
Rubbing with a towel acts like sandpaper on your skin. It tugs, pulls, and creates tiny bits of irritation you can’t even see. Patting is a gentle press-and-lift motion that soaks up water without the fight. Think of it as blotting a precious ink drawing instead of smudging it. This simple switch protects your skin’s natural smoothness and prevents that tight, dry feeling you sometimes get after a shower.