The Absolute Best Moisturizers For Every Skin Type
Published on January 29, 2020. Updated May 14, 2020Applying moisturizer is a daily step in many skincare routines, but it’s important to be using the right one for your skin type. In order to do this, you must first recognize the state of your skin and treat its needs with proper ingredients to hydrate, smooth and plump. Whether your skin is dry, oily, acne-prone or mature, there’s a product out there to fit your needs. Doing your research ahead of time will save you time and money – and will ensure you get the best product for your specific skin type.
Acne-Prone Skin: La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat
When searching for a moisturizer for acne-prone skin, look for keywords like “oil-free” and “lightweight.” Moisturizers with more of a gel-like consistency are key for those with acne-prone skin to ensure the product isn’t too heavy and can clog pores. Hyaluronic acid is a great skincare ingredient for those with acne-prone skin because it will give your skin added hydration without being overly thick. Salicylic acid is another great for acne-prone skin since it will help to reduce excess oil and exfoliate dead skin cells which can contribute to acne.
A great moisturizer option for those with acne-prone skin is the La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat. This product works flawlessly to minimize shine and oil, which is a huge contributing factor to acne. Tamara Lazic Strugar, M.D., told SELF Magazine that she “often recommends Effaclar Mat by La Roche-Posay because it mattifies skin and refines pores. It’s also oil-free and non-comedogenic, which is great for acne-prone skin types.”
Dry Skin: Tatcha The Dewy Skin Cream
When it comes to dry skin, it’s important to note that there is a difference between dry skin and dehydrated skin. Those suffering from dehydrated skin may have a temporary loss of water retention in their skin due to external factors such as winter weather, strong cleansers, hard water, etc. Dehydrated skin can occur with all skin types, not just dry skin. True dry skin, on the other hand, is a skin type that occurs all year round and is consistently dry no matter the season. Dry skin can be described as flaky, red, tight and sometimes even itchy.
If you have dry skin, it’s important to look for a daily moisturizer that has a thicker, creamier consistency. Key ingredients such as shea butter, lanolin, hyaluronic acid and glycerin which help your skin attract and retain water. The Dewy Skin Cream from Tatcha is a great example of a rich moisturizer with ingredients that deeply hydrate, plump and moisturize dry skin to provide a dewy, healthy glow.
Oily Skin: Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Pink Juice Moisturizer
If your skin has larger pores and tends to become shiny throughout the day, it’s likely you fall under the oily skin category. With oily skin, many may believe you don’t have to moisturize, but this actually isn’t the case. With this skin type, however, it’s important to look for a lightweight, oil-free formulation that will add moisture but won’t further contribute to the oily skin. Look for keywords like “water” and “gel-based” when trying to decide on a moisturizer.
According to skincare guru Susan Yara, a great moisturizer option for those with oily skin is the Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Pink Juice Moisturizer which is oil-free and a gel consistency. This moisturizer contains high levels of hyaluronic acid and watermelon extract which works to hydrate and plump the skin without adding more shine.
Mature Skin: Kate Somerville Deep Tissue Repair
Those with mature skin likely have issues with fine lines, wrinkles and dark spots. When looking for a moisturizer for aging skin, some of the key ingredients to look for are alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), antioxidants and peptides which boost moisture and protect the skin from free radical damage. Another great ingredient to look for is retinol, which is a powerhouse to increase cell turnover and stimulate collagen. Retinol tends to be quite strong, however, so it’s important to incorporate it slowly or only use it a few times a week.
A great moisturizer option for mature skin is the Kate Somerville Deep Tissue Repair. This product contains peptides that help to improve skin texture and plump fine lines and wrinkles. It provides intense hydration that helps to create younger-looking skin and minimizes the appearance of wrinkles.
