Important role

Skin does more than just protect our insides from the outside — its also a protective barrier that seals in moisture, and seals out irritants, dirt, and pollution, helps regulate temperature and cools us down when we are hot (via sweating). How does moisturizer play into this relationship?

Moisturizer assists skin by providing protection against dehydration, and delivering anti-aging ingredients to the epidermis, improving texture and tone. Dehydrated skin is vulnerable to UV and free radical damage, making daily application of a moisturizer a vital beauty function.

Is your skin dry and are you looking to pump up moisture in the skin? Opt for moisturizers with emollients and humectants. Emollients strengthen the barrier function of the skin, especially petrolatum and lactic acid, while humectants "attract moisture to the skin from the air," explains Helen Foster in The Beauty Book. Examples of humectants are glycerin and hyaluronic acid.

Skin type and moisturizer texture

Form follows function and the kind of moisturizer you need depends on your skin type. Dry skin will benefit from a thicker moisturizer with a cream texture, while oily or combination skin is better suited to a lightweight lotion or gel.

• Dry skin. Dry skin typically has a weak moisture barrier, adding to dryness. What causes the barrier to break down? Age, genetics, cold weather and sun damage are just a few reasons. To protect the skin and replenish lost moisture go with a rich, thick cream such as Sundari Lavender Moisturizer for Dry Skin.
• Oily skin. It might not seem necessary, but oily skin still needs moisture, especially if products are being used to treat acne or blemishes (which can leave the skin dry and flakey). To minimize shine, search out a lightweight lotion or gel that is oil-free and, preferably find a formula that also helps absorb oil such as AHAVA Matifying Moisturizer for Oily Skin.
• Combination skin. Consider two types of moisturizers to address oily and dry zones. Use matifying moisturizer on your oily T-zone and a lighter weight lotion on dry areas such as cheeks. If you prefer to skip the extra step, reach for a moisturizer designed to address all problem areas like Pevonia Balancing Combination Skin Cream.
• Sensitive skin. Sensitive skin needs moisturizer designed to soothe redness and calm irritation, as well as hydrate. Caudalie Pulpe Vitaminee Energizing Fluid features antioxidants, hydrating grape seed extract and Echinacea extract to minimize redness.
• Body. For the body, think butters, creams or lotions: skin on the body is thicker and more resilient than the face and can stand heavier moisturizer. La Roche Toleraine Body Lotion is a great lightweight option, while L’Occitane Lavender Harvest Ultra Rich Body Cream is perfect for extra-dry skin or whenever you need a boost of healing hydration.

And for all skin types, don’t forget to add sunscreen where and when appropriate, including on the body.

See also:

Double-Duty Products That Ease Your Routine

A Cleaner Clean: Facial Cleansers

Hyaluronic Acid