Most individuals begin their day with a skincare routine that includes moisturizing, but a recent study suggests that the benefits of morning creams may dissipate by midday. The research, published in the journal Skin, found that the measurable hydration boost provided by many moisturizers generally lasts only three to five hours.
Experts tested four popular moisturizers, including CeraVe Moisturising Cream, Cetaphil Moisturising Cream, Eucerin Advanced Repair Crème, and a more expensive SkinMedica HA5 serum. The study, conducted by researchers at Nova Southeastern University in Florida, involved 30 adult volunteers whose skin hydration levels were tracked on their forearms after moisturizer application. Measurements were taken at the start, one hour, four hours, and 24 hours post-application.
Using a statistical model, the researchers determined when each product's hydrating effect returned to the level of untreated skin. The SkinMedica HA5 serum provided the longest-lasting hydration, with effects lasting nearly five hours. However, more affordable options like Cetaphil and Eucerin offered benefits for 3.5 hours or less. These findings indicate that such products may require more frequent application to sustain hydration above baseline levels.
The study also observed that untreated skin initially lost hydration before slowly regaining it over the day, a fluctuation potentially influenced by factors like sweating, blood flow, and environmental conditions. Interestingly, the CeraVe Moisturising Cream closely mirrored the hydration levels of untreated skin throughout the study. Researchers theorized this might be because it helps stabilize the skin barrier rather than creating a distinct hydration spike.
The implications of these findings suggest that a twice-daily moisturizing routine might leave gaps in skin hydration during the afternoon. Consistent hydration is vital for maintaining a healthy complexion, as it supports the skin's protective barrier and shields it from environmental aggressors. A failure to maintain adequate hydration over time could potentially lead to issues such as increased oil production, skin sensitivity, and dullness. The study suggests that moisturizing three times a day could be a strategy for maintaining youthful-looking skin by ensuring continuous hydration.