Do I need to worry about moistuizer being contaminated with bacteria?

Hi Dr. Irwin. I am a huge fan of yours and have purchased both of your books and followed your recommendations. I have heard, though, that it is better to use a moisturizer from a tube as opposed to a jar to cut back on bacteria and preserve ingredients. Do you have any suggestions for good hydrating moisturizers that come in a tube? Thanks so much. Wendy

For better or for worse, most moisturizers have multiple antibacterial preservatives in them.  So, I hear your concern but it’s really almost never an issue unless you’re living in the tropics in a tent or you’re keeping it for more than 6 months.  One less worry maybe!  Organic moisturizers don’t last as long so use them up over 3 months and don’t leave them in a hot environment.  If you’d still like a tube or a pump, you could try the SkinCeuticals Face Cream in a pump bottle or how about even just drugstore Cetaphil Cream in the tube?  Dr. I

Dr. Brandith Irwin, MD

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Hi, I’m Dr. Irwin. I believe that consumers deserve a medically trained and unbiased skin care advocate.

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