When it comes to a healthy complexion, the importance of skin hydration is unmatched. Finding a moisturizer best suited for your needs can be tricky though! There are just so many moisturizer products on the market — different textures, different ingredients, products for different skin types — it can be overwhelming. That said, in order to help you find the best hydrating skin products, in this article we will provide tips on how to choose a moisturizer for your skin type, and outline ingredients that will leave your skin hydrated and smooth.
How to choose a moisturizer
How to hydrate skin is fairly simple — just apply and reapply a quarter-sized amount of moisturizer onto your face and neck. However, how to choose a moisturizer greatly depends on your skin type, as some product textures can be too heavy to use on a daily basis. If you are unsure what moisturizer to use, here’s some moisturizer recommendations for each skin type:
- Normal and combination skin types should select a moisturizer that is lightweight and non-greasy in texture.
- Dry and mature skin types should opt for thicker, hydrating skin products, which help the skin barrier stay moisturized.
- Acne and oily-skin types should opt for non-comedogenic moisturizers with lightweight and non-greasy textures. Products that are comedogenic (or contain oil) can easily clog the pores and lead to more breakouts.
- Sensitive skin types should select moisturizers with soothing ingredients that won’t cause irritation.
How to hydrate your face and when it’s best to moisturize
While moisturizing the skin is as easy as applying a quarter-sized amount of moisturizer onto your face, how and when you apply it is key.
To make the most of your moisturizer, always apply it when your skin feels dry or after the cleansing step of your routine — that way, your skin seals in the moisture.
Hydration secret ingredient – hyaluronic acid
The ingredients used in hydrating skin products also matter — you’ll want to select a product that has moisturizing ingredients with plenty of research to indicate that they work. Hyaluronic acid is definitely one of these ingredients. This moisture-retaining substance is naturally found in our bodies, it is generally well-tolerated by all skin types including sensitive skin. Some other notable hyaluronic acid perks? It helps boost skin hydration levels and overall firmness.
Thankfully, hyaluronic acid isn’t hard to find, as it’s incorporated into many of the skincare products we use today. Our Proactiv+® Complexion Perfecting Hydrator and the Green Tea Moisturizer both use the ingredient, and both products can be used daily to keep skin hydrated.
Wrap-up
How to hydrate skin properly definitely starts with a good moisturizer, as these products help protect the skin barrier and help manage certain skin conditions.
But while there are many hydrating skin products on the market, it's always best to tailor your search based on your skin type. And when in doubt, remember to consult your dermatologist.