The best facial moisturizers for every skin type, according to a dermatologist

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Choosing the right moisturizer for your skin is no easy task. There are so many brands and options out there, it can be difficult to choose the right one for your skin type, especially without expert guidance. To make it easier for you to choose the right moisturizer, I spoke with a board-certified dermatologist to get her recommendations. Here’s what she said.

How to choose the best moisturizer

Ingredients: You’ll want to look for a combination of humectants, emollients, and occlusives in your next moisturizer. “Moisturizers are ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid that attract water to the skin to hydrate it,” says Dr. Caroline Robinson, MD, FAAD and founder of Tone Dermatology. “The softeners act in a different way. They contain ingredients like ceramides and fatty acids that 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 to lock in moisture. The synergy of these substances. The components in the moisturizing cream provide optimal skin hydration.”

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

Anti-aging: Some moisturizers are specially designed with anti-aging formulas. According to Dr. Robinson, you’ll want to look for ingredients like retinoids, hyaluronic acid, peptides, and antioxidants. “These ingredients not only hydrate, but they also address the 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 contains polyhydroxy acids that gently exfoliate, improving skin texture and radiance,” she says. It also contains vitamin C and plant extracts that the brand says can protect your skin from environmental aggressors. You can buy one bottle or subscribe and save so you never run out of moisturizer.

This gel-based moisturizer contains glycerin and hyaluronic acid. According to Dr. Robinson, glycerin “penetrates the top nine layers of your skin for longer-lasting hydration.” Hyaluronic acid, on the other hand, is “a molecule that occurs 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 free of fragrances and dyes, making it great for sensitive skin.

I have combination skin and this gel based moisturizer from It Cosmetics is one of my favorites. Since it is oil-free and weightless, it hydrates my T-zone and reduces oiliness significantly. It also contains anti-aging ingredients like cactus root and acts as a primer for your makeup. The brand says it’s suitable for all skin types, making it a versatile option all year round.

Dr. Robinson especially recommends this remedy for its anti-aging properties. “It targets loss of volume, uneven tone, dryness, dullness, fine lines and wrinkles, resulting in a lifted and re-contoured look,” she says. It’s specially formulated for normal and combination skin types, and Robinson often recommends it to patients who suffer from skin elasticity issues. Although you can use this moisturizer day or night, it’s important to note that the alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) ingredient in this product can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, according to the brand.

If you need a moisturizer with SPF for sun protection, go for 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. My favorite part is that I only need to use a small amount to keep my skin hydrated, so one container will easily last me a few months.

It’s Amazon’s number one bestseller in the facial moisturizer category – and for good reason. You can get it with or without SPF, and it provides long-lasting, all-day hydration, according to the brand. It contains ceramides to help lock in skin moisture, soothing antioxidants, and it’s great for both sensitive and dry skin, according to the brand.

Frequently asked questions:

How often should you moisturize your skin?

“It’s usually recommended to moisturize the skin twice a day – in the morning and before bed,” says DR. Robinson. However, it really depends on your skin type. If your skin is very dry, you may also find it helpful to apply it during the day, she says.

Why is it important to use a moisturizer?

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

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