How to choose the right moisturizer - Garnier How to choose the right moisturizer - Garnier

The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best Face Moisturizer for Healthy Skin

Benefits of Using a Facial Moisturizer

Moisturizers are much more than a cream for hydrating your face! There are many different types of moisturizers, and each offers varying skin benefits. It can make choosing a moisturizer daunting, but this article will steer you toward the best face moisturizer based on your needs.


What Are the 3 Types of Moisturizers?

Whether a lotion or a cream, facial moisturizers fall into one, two or all three of the categories below. The type of moisturizer mainly refers to the action their hydrating substances have on your skin.

Humectants

Humectants draw in moisture, either by attracting it from the atmosphere or promoting water absorption from the skin’s top layer. Humectants include hyaluronic acid, glycerin, lactic acid, and amino acids. They can be formulated as a hydrating toner and typically appear in moisturizers for oily skin.

Emollients

Emollients are skin-softening agents that soothe and heal rough or scaly patches. They form a sort of bridge between humectants and occlusives. Most facial moisturizers contain an emollient like grape seed oil, coconut oil or aloe vera.

Occlusives

Occlusives form a physical barrier on your skin to protect against water loss. The names of occlusive ingredients end with the suffix -cone or -siloxane, and are commonly found in moisturizers for dry skin and combination skin because they supplement and complement emollients and humectants.

5 Tips for Choosing a Moisturizer that Promotes Healthy Skin

The best face moisturizer is the one that makes your skin look radiant and feel healthy. Choosing a moisturizer is all about striking the right balance between hydration, softness, and glow that works for your unique skin. Use these tips to find the perfect facial moisturizer.
FAQ
  • When choosing a moisturizer for mature skin, look for terms like “anti-aging,” “anti-wrinkle” or “firming” on the label. They will typically contain all three types of moisturizers: humectants, occlusives, and emollients.
  • Every type of skin should use a facial moisturizer, even acne-prone skin. Un-moisturized skin compensates by producing more sebum, which is exactly what you want to avoid. Choose a moisturizer that’s lightweight (preferably a gel texture) and is clearly labeled “noncomedogenic.”
  • To choose a moisturizer based on your skin type, you need to understand what each skin type needs. Then look for the facial moisturizer that best suits your skin by reading the label and browsing all the different types of moisturizers available. Remember to also consider your age, the climate, and seasonal changes.
  • How often to apply moisturizer can depend on a few variables. A standard skincare routine will use facial moisturizer twice a day: in the morning and at night. If your climate or weather is especially dry, reapply it during the day. If it’s very humid out, you can use less during that time.
  • It’s not recommended to use the same moisturizer on your face and body because they are formulated differently. Body lotions and creams tend to be thicker since most of your body skin is thicker. Facial moisturizers are usually more lightweight to accommodate the thinner skin on your face. They also tend to penetrate more quickly and contain targeted active ingredients that protect facial skin from constant exposure.

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