Best facial moisturizers for your skin, according to a dermatologist

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As the winter months approach and the air becomes increasingly dry, using a facial moisturizer can help keep your skin healthy and well hydrated. But with so many brands and options available, it’s not always easy to choose the right moisturizer for your skin type, especially without some expert guidance. To make it easier to choose the best facial moisturizer, we spoke to a board-certified dermatologist to get her recommendations. Here’s what she had to say.

How to choose the best facial moisturizer

ingredients: You’ll want to look for a combination of humectants, emollients, and occlusives in your next moisturizer. “Humectants are ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid that attract water to the skin to hydrate it,” says Dr. Carolyn Robinson, MD, FAAD, and founder of Tone Dermatology. “Emollients work differently. They include ingredients like ceramides and fatty acids that help soften and smooth the skin by filling in the gaps between skin cells. Finally, occlusives like petrolatum and dimethicone form a protective layer to lock in moisture. The synergy of these ingredients in the moisturizer ensures the skin is optimally hydrated.”

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

Anti-aging: Some moisturizers are specifically designed with anti-aging formulas. You’ll need to look for ingredients like retinoids, hyaluronic acid, peptides, and antioxidants, according to Dr. Robinson. “These ingredients not only moisturize, but also target signs of aging by boosting collagen production, improving skin elasticity, and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles,” she says.

Best facial moisturizers

This is a great option for people with sensitive skin, according to Dr. Robinson. “It’s made with polyhydroxy acids that gently exfoliate and improve skin texture and radiance,” she says. It also contains vitamin C and plant extracts, both of which can protect your skin from environmental aggressors, according to the brand. You can buy a single bottle or subscribe and save, making sure you never run out of moisturizer.

A more affordable option, this gel-based moisturizer features hyaluronic acid as one of its signature ingredients. Hyaluronic acid is “a molecule found naturally in your skin as well as in the connective tissue in your body,” she says. “It’s special because it keeps your skin hydrated and lubricated, allowing the inner layers to retain water as you go about your day.” This moisturizer also comes with a trial size of the brand’s Hydro Boost Facial Cleanser for extra value.

This product is especially recommended for its anti-aging properties by Dr. Robinson. While on the pricier side, “it targets loss of volume, uneven tone, dryness, dullness, fine lines, and wrinkles, resulting in a tightened and reshaped appearance,” she says. It is specially formulated for normal and combination skin types and is often recommended by Robinson for patients with skin elasticity issues. While you can use this moisturizer day and night, it is important to note that the alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) component in this product can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight.

If you want a moisturizer with SPF for sun protection, choose this moisturizer from Origins. It’s highly rated by Amazon shoppers and is perfect for the winter holidays. It’s oil-free, rich in antioxidants, and can help protect your skin’s natural barrier, according to the brand.

This product is a top seller on Amazon in the facial moisturizers category – and for good reason. You can choose to get it with or without SPF, and it provides long-lasting hydration throughout the day, depending on the brand. It contains soothing ceramides and antioxidants to help maintain skin moisture and can suit sensitive and dry skin.

FAQ:

How often should you moisturize your skin?

“Typically, it is recommended to moisturize 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 benefit from applying it in the middle of the day, she says.

Why is it important to use a facial moisturizer?

“When skin is dry, it is more susceptible to irritation, redness, and inflammation,” says Dr. Robinson. “Over time, a lack of proper hydration can weaken the skin barrier, leaving it vulnerable to infection and accelerating the aging process.” Using a moisturizer keeps the skin hydrated, healthy and elastic.

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