The Best Facial Moisturizers for Every Skin Type, According to a Dermatologist

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Choosing the right moisturizer for your skin is not an easy task. There are so many brands and options out there that it’s hard to choose the one that suits your skin type, especially without some expert guidance. To make it easier for you to choose the right moisturizer, I spoke with a board-certified dermatologist to get her recommendations. That’s what she had to say.

How to choose the best moisturizer

Ingredients: In your next moisturizer, you’ll want to look for a combination of humectants, emollients, and occlusives. “Humectants are ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid that attract water to the skin to provide hydration,” says Dr. Caroline Robinson, MD, FAAD and founder of Tone Dermatology. “Emollients work in different ways. They include ingredients such as ceramides and fatty acids, which help smooth and soften the skin by filling the gaps between skin cells. Finally, occlusives such as petroleum jelly and dimethicone form a protective layer that retains moisture. The synergy of these substances The components of the moisturizer provide optimal hydration to the skin.”

Type: There are both cream and gel moisturizers to choose from, depending on your skin type. “For oily skin, look for lightweight gel-based moisturizers that feel lightweight on the skin but still provide deep hydration,” says Dr. Robinson. “If you have drier skin, I recommend choosing rich creams that contain skin-healthy oils or butter.” If you have sensitive skin, make sure you choose a moisturizer that’s free of fragrance and parabens—you’ll want something with aloe vera or chamomile, according to Dr. Robinson.

Anti-aging: Some moisturizers are specially formulated with anti-aging formulas. According to Dr. Robinson, you should look for ingredients like retinoids, hyaluronic acid, peptides, and antioxidants. “Not only do these ingredients hydrate, but they also fight signs of aging by promoting collagen production, improving skin elasticity, and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles,” she says.

The best moisturizers

According to Dr. Robinson, this is a great option for people with sensitive skin. “It’s formulated with polyhydroxy acids to gently exfoliate to improve skin texture and radiance,” she says. According to the brand, it also contains vitamin C and botanical extracts that can protect your skin from environmental aggressors. You can buy one bottle or subscribe and save to ensure you never run out of moisturizer.

This gel-based moisturizer contains glycerin and hyaluronic acid. According to Dr. Robinson, glycerin “penetrates the nine superficial layers of your skin to provide longer-lasting hydration.” On the other hand, hyaluronic acid is “a molecule that is found naturally in your skin as well as in the connective tissue of your body,” she says. “It’s special because it keeps your skin moist and lubricated, allowing the inner layers to retain water throughout the day.” The formula is also fragrance and dye free, making it ideal for sensitive skin.

I have combination skin and this gel-based moisturizer from It Cosmetics is one of my favorites. Because it is oil-free and weightless, it keeps my skin’s T-zone hydrated and significantly less oily. It also contains anti-aging ingredients such as cactus root and serves as a makeup base. The brand says it’s suitable for all skin types, making it a versatile option all year round.

Dr. Robinson especially recommends it for its anti-aging properties. “It targets loss of volume, uneven tone, dryness, dullness, fine lines and wrinkles, resulting in a lifted and refreshed appearance,” she says. It is designed specifically for normal and combination skin types and Robinson often recommends it to patients suffering from skin elasticity issues. While you can use this moisturizer for both day and night wear, it’s important to note that the alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) ingredient in this product may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, according to the brand.

If you need a moisturizer with SPF for sun protection, choose this one from Origins. It is highly rated by Amazon shoppers and is a personal favorite of mine during the summer months. According to the brand, it’s oil-free, rich in antioxidants, and can help protect your skin’s natural barrier. What I love most is that I only need to use a small amount to keep my skin hydrated, so one container easily lasts me for months.

It’s the number one bestseller on Amazon in the facial moisturizer category—and for good reason. You can choose it with or without SPF, and the brand says it provides long-lasting hydration throughout the day. According to the brand, it contains ceramides that help retain moisture in the skin, soothing antioxidants and is great for both sensitive and dry skin.

Frequently asked questions:

How often should you moisturize your skin?

“It’s usually recommended to moisturize twice a day—in the morning and before bed,” says Dr. Robinson. However, it really depends on your skin type. If you have very dry skin, you may also benefit from applying it at midday, she says.

Why is it important to use moisturizer?

“When skin is dehydrated, it is more prone to irritation, redness, and inflammation,” says Dr. Robinson. “Over time, lack of proper hydration can compromise the skin barrier, making it susceptible to infection and accelerating the aging process.” Using a moisturizer keeps your skin hydrated, healthy, and plump.

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