One product for ALL SKIN TYPES: this is simply NOT possible!

No one moisturizer can truly “fit” every skin type

I am using a moisturizing lotion for all skin types. It says that it is “a light, non-greasy, easily absorbed lotion for daily use,” “pH balanced,” “fragrance free,” and “dermatologist tested.” I always thought a lotion was very light, but after I put it on, my face becomes so shiny. Why is that, and should I use oil-free products instead?

My first instinct is that this lotion has mineral oil or some type of petroleum derivative as a top ingredient. These types of products won’t penetrate well because mineral oil tends to sit on the surface of your skin without being absorbed. Technically, I suppose, “lotion” does connote a lighter texture, whereas a “cream” could have a heavier consistency. This might not always be the case, so be careful when choosing products. As an aesthetician, I use the two terms interchangeable. And to confuse matters, Yonka’s toner is called “Lotion.”

“Oil-free” products may have fillers in them that are the same of worse than oils. There is nothing wrong with oil in products, in fact they are necessary ingredients. It’s the type of oils that becomes important when shopping for your skin care products. Rather than oil-free products, I would recommend using creams (or lotions) that contain vegetable oils vs. mineral oil or petroleum. You may not find such an animal at the drug store, but most other places (department stores, health food stores, salons) should provide many choices of mineral oil-free moisturizers.

I recommend this reader try to locate a product for normal to oily or oily skin. Using any product made for all skin types is like saying one size fits all. This may work with a cleanser, since it goes on and comes right off your skin, but when it comes to moisturizers, you definitely want to purchase a product that if for your particular skin type.

That this product is pH balanced and fragrance free is good. Being “dermatologist tested” doesn’t necessarily mean a product will be good or right for your skin. With all the descriptions this lotion had, it just goes to show you that you can’t rely on product packaging. Sometimes you just have to try the product before you know if it will work for you. That’s why I’m a big believer in knowing the return policy of the store where you are purchasing your products.

Unless you have no-problem skin, or in some cases a drier (oil-dry) skin type, using a one-size-fits-all moisturizer will probably not work for you. And if you have oily skin, you will no doubt have the same results as this emailer: your skin will feel oily and greasy because a product for all skin types is really a product for certain skin types only. You just don’t know which type it is for by the label.

For more information, see:

• Oily Skin explained
• Why you want to use a moisturizer
• Mid-40s with oily, irritated skin: Questions from someone who has “spent a fortune” on skin care