Choosing the best hydrating body cream means carefully comparing the ingredients found in different brands. One of the most important things to consider is that the skin may absorb some of whatever is applied to it. If a skincare product is full of toxic chemicals, they may make their way into your bloodstream and damage your health. For example, parabens are preservatives that are frequently found on hydrating body cream labels, but some studies have linked them to cancer. Besides parabens, there are many other potentially toxic chemicals in skincare products, including those used to create fragrances; the best body hydrating cream is one that is free of potentially harmful substances.
Since hydrating body cream is supposed to moisturize and nourish the skin, the type of oil included in a formula is very important. Some companies opt to use mineral oil in their formulas, but many manufacturers claim this oil is not the best choice. They claim mineral oil clogs the pores and contributes to the development of acne. Research shows that it may even make a person more sensitive to the damaging effects of sun exposure. For this reason, it may be best to select a hydrating body cream that uses natural plant oils that have been proven safe and effective for the skin.
Consumers may also find that the best hydrating body creams address collagen and elastin. Collagen is a protein responsible for helping to connect and support body tissues, and elastin, another important protein, gives the skin elasticity. Together collagen and elastin help to keep the skin firm and flexible, preventing sagging, wrinkles, and lines. The body produces less of both as people age, however, contributing to the development of dry, wrinkled, sagging skin.
A good hydrating body cream should stimulate the body to produce more of these proteins. An ingredient called Coenzyme Q10, for example, is said to help stimulate the production of collagen and elastin. It may also help to fight free radicals, which are molecules that contribute to cell damage, disease, and signs of aging.
Antioxidants should also make the list of ingredients found in the best hydrating body cream. Like Coenzyme Q10, they help the body neutralize the damaging effects of sunrays, pollution, and other things that affect the body from the outside. Antioxidants are also known to neutralize the effects of damage that may occur inside the body, such as damage that happens as the result of oxidation, which is a reaction between oxygen molecules and other substances, including cells.