The selection of face creams on the market today is virtually unlimited. Day creams and night creams, cleansing creams and moisturizing creams, anti-aging creams and sun-block creams are some of the types that one will see, and choosing the right kind to use can sometimes be difficult. This is a discussion of certain kinds of face cream to help you decide.

Cold cream is probably the oldest known face cream, having been invented by the Greek physician Galen who lived from 129 to 200 AD. It is an emulsion made from essential oils, beeswax, water, and fragrance. It was named “cold cream” because it leaves a feeling of coolness on the skin. It is used as a cleansing cream and a moisturizing cream.

A cleansing face cream removes dirt, make up, and surface residue without drying the skin. It is applied and massaged onto the skin. Some cleansing creams are wiped off and others are rinsed off with water. There are cleansing creams that have granules that stimulate the skin and help in removing surface debris. Cleansing creams are best for dry to normal skin; a cleansing lotion will be better for oily skin.

A moisturizing face cream must be used everyday to replenish the natural lipids of the skin and maintain a youthful glow. Soft, smooth skin is the result of regular application of moisturizers. There are usually 2 kinds of moisturizing cream, one which is appropriate for night use and another which is used during the day. Moisturizing creams are beneficial for the dry to normal skin types.

Sun-block or sun-screen creams have components that protect the skin from the ultraviolet rays of the sun. Overexposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays can cause premature wrinkles, unsightly age spots, sun burn, and skin cancer. Regular use of a face cream that contains sun block or sun screen will forestall sun damage and keep facial skin young-looking.

Face creams that contain AHA (alpha hydroxy acids) and retinol (a form of vitamin A) are called anti-aging creams. This type of face cream stimulates the renewal of skin cells and reduces the signs of aging such as dark spots and wrinkles. While anti-aging creams offer a lot of benefits, these also carry adverse effects which include skin irritation, burning and blistering, and discoloration and should be used with care.

Although most have been extensively tested and are generally safe, any face cream should be tried before use. A small amount applied to the skin, left for 24 to 48 hours, will show what effects the cream has on the individual. A doctor should be consulted in the case of anti-aging creams as these pose greater risk to the skin.

The purpose in using a face cream is to improve the condition and appearance of the skin. If the results are less than optimal, alternative products should be looked into. It may take a bit of time but the right kind of face cream for a particular individual can be found.