Salves, Creams, and Lotions: Which One Is Best For Your Skin This Wint

The colder weather is here, so it's the perfect time to talk about how to keep your skin hydrated and healthy through the season. ESPECIALLY if you have dry or sensitive skin, you might wonder whether you should be reaching for a salve, cream, or lotion.

Each of these has unique benefits, and layering them correctly can make a big difference in how your skin feels and looks.

So, let’s break it down:

Lotions and creams both fall into the "moisturizer" category because they are designed to hydrate and improve the skin's moisture levels. These products typically contain a combination of water and oil-based ingredients, which help to replenish and maintain skin hydration.

Lotions generally have a higher water content, making them lighter and quicker to absorb. They are ideal for daily use and provide a moisture boost without leaving a heavy or greasy feel on the skin.
Creams, on the other hand, are thicker and richer than lotions, offering more intense hydration. They contain a balance of water and oil, which helps to lock in moisture and create a barrier that keeps the skin hydrated for a longer period. Creams are particularly beneficial for those with dry or sensitive skin, providing deeper moisture and protection.

Salves, however, are different from lotions and creams. They do not fall into the "moisturizer" category because they lack a significant water component. Instead, salves are composed mainly of oils and waxes, such as beeswax, which create a protective layer on the skin. This layer helps to lock in moisture from other products but doesn’t add much moisture itself. Salves are excellent for sealing in hydration and providing a barrier against harsh environmental conditions, but they are not designed to provide the primary moisture boost that lotions and creams offer.

So basically, while lotions and creams are designed to hydrate and maintain moisture levels in the skin, salves are used primarily to protect and lock in moisture. All three serve their special purpose and can be used in conjunction. Keep reading to see examples.

I want to add, that as someone who experiences dry, flaky, red, and irritated facial skin, my daily routine focuses on layering the most moisture-rich products. I cleanse only at night unless I’m oil-cleansing in the morning. Here’s a look at my moisture-focused skincare routine for colder weather:

1. Firming Serum and/or Awake Coffee Serum

2. Blue Tansy Ultra-Rich Moisturizer

3. Baby & Mom Balm

4. Glow Balm (Unscented)

5. Mineral SPF

6. The Eye Balm™ for added moisture around eyelids (a problem area for me)

During the warmer months, I make a few adjustments to this routine, but this setup works wonders for me during fall and winter when my skin tends to be chronically dry.

How to Layer for Best Results:

1. Lotion: Start with the lotion as it is the lightest product. It will hydrate your skin and absorb quickly, prepping your skin for heavier products.

2. Cream: Next, apply the cream. Creams are thicker and provide more intense moisture, so they help to lock in the hydration from the lotion.

3. Salve: Finish with the salve. Salves are the thickest and most occlusive, forming a protective barrier that seals in all the moisture from the lotion and cream. This step is especially beneficial for very dry areas or during cold, harsh weather.

For those of us with dry skin, layering products like this can be a game changer! It’s all about building up that moisture and making sure it stays locked in, especially during the colder, dry months.

*P.S. - Not sure which products are best for your skin? We’ve got you covered! Keep exploring our blog for comprehensive skincare guides and find the perfect routine tailored to your needs. Plus, take our skin type quiz to get personalized recommendations!

Here’s to keeping your skin happy and hydrated this season.

Best,

Brier C.

Salves, Creams, and Lotions: Which One Is Best For Your Skin This Winter?

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