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Choosing the right moisturizer for your skin is not an easy task. There are so many brands and options that it’s difficult to choose the right one for your skin type, especially without expert advice. To make it easier for you to choose the right moisturizer, I spoke to a board-certified dermatologist to get her recommendations. Here’s what she had to say.

How to choose the best 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,” explains Dr. Caroline Robinson, MD, FAAD and founder of Tone Dermatology. “Emollients work differently. They contain ingredients like ceramides and fatty acids that help smooth and soften the skin by filling in the gaps between skin cells. Finally, occlusives like petroleum jelly and dimethicone form a protective layer to lock in moisture The synergy of these The components of a moisturizer ensure optimal hydration of the skin.

Type: There are cream and gel-based moisturizers to choose from, and you will need to choose based on your skin type. “For oily skin, look for lightweight gel-based moisturizers that feel light on the skin while still providing deep hydration,” says Dr. Robinson. “If you have drier skin, I recommend opting for rich creams with skin-friendly oils or butter.” If you have sensitive skin, be sure to choose a moisturizer that’s free of fragrance and parabens — you’ll need something with aloe vera or chamomile, according to Dr. Robinson.

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

The best moisturizers

Neostrata PHA Daily Moisturizer

It’s a great option for people with sensitive skin, according to Dr. Robinson. “It’s formulated with polyhydroxy acids that gently exfoliate, improving skin’s texture and radiance,” she says. It also contains vitamin C and herbal extracts, both of which can protect your skin against environmental aggressors, according to the brand. You can buy just one bottle or subscribe and save, ensuring you never run out of moisturizer.

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Moisturizing Gel

This gel-based moisturizer contains both glycerin and hyaluronic acid. Glycerin “penetrates all nine surface layers of your skin for longer-lasting hydration,” according to Dr. Robinson. Hyaluronic acid, on the other hand, is a “molecule naturally found in your skin as well as the connective tissue of your body,” she says. “It’s special because it keeps your skin hydrated and lubricated, allowing the inner layers to retain water throughout your day.” The formula is also fragrance and dye free, making it ideal for sensitive skin as well.

IT Cosmetics Confidence in a gel lotion

I have combination skin and this gel-based moisturizer from It Cosmetics is one of my favorites. Since it’s oil-free and lightweight, it keeps my skin’s T-zone hydrated and noticeably less oily. It also contains anti-aging ingredients like cactus root and doubles as a base for your makeup. The brand claims it’s suitable for all skin types, making it a versatile year-round option.

NEOSTRATA Rebound Sculpting Cream

This is particularly recommended for its anti-aging properties by Dr. Robinson. “It targets volume loss, uneven skin tone, dryness, dullness, fine lines and wrinkles, resulting in a lifted and reshaped appearance,” she says. It is formulated especially for normal to combination skin and is often recommended by Robinson to patients with skin elasticity issues. While you can use this moisturizer day or night, it’s important to note that the alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) ingredient in this product may make your skin more sensitive to the sun, depending on the brand.

Origins A perfect moisturizer for a world

If you want a moisturizer with SPF to protect you from the sun, choose this one from Origins. It’s highly rated by Amazon shoppers and is one of my favorites during the summer months. According to the brand, it’s oil-free, rich in antioxidants, and can help protect your skin’s natural barrier. My favorite part is that I only need to use a small amount to keep my skin hydrated, so one container easily lasts me a few months.

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Facial Moisturizer

It’s the number one bestseller on Amazon in the facial moisturizer category – and for good reason. You can choose to get it with or without SPF, and it provides long-lasting, all-day hydration, depending on the brand. It contains ceramides to help retain skin’s moisture, soothing antioxidants, and it’s ideal for sensitive and dry skin, according to the brand.

Frequently asked questions:

How often should you moisturize your skin?

“In general, it is recommended to moisturize twice a day – in the morning and before bed,” says DR. Robinson. That said, it really depends on your skin type. If your skin is very dry, you might also benefit from a midday application, she says.

Why is it important to use moisturizer?

“When skin is dehydrated, it is more prone to irritation, redness and inflammation,” says Dr. Robinson. “Over time, a lack of adequate hydration can compromise the skin barrier, making it vulnerable to infection and accelerating the aging process.” Using a moisturizer keeps your skin hydrated, healthy and resilient.

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