How to choose the best moisturiser for your skin: A beginner’s guide

Whether you are battling dry patches or aiming to keep your oily skin in check, the right moisturiser can make all the difference. But as much as it sounds easy, finding a perfect moisturiser can be a daunting task and feel like a skincare puzzle. From different formulations like gel-based moisturisers and lotions to varied skin types, several factors need to be considered while choosing a moisturiser. And with ingredients to SPF factors, things just get complicated and confusing. Between all these things, you might feel like getting sandwiched. But, don’t worry, we have curated a guide for you that includes certain strategies from Dr Shareefa Isa Chause to help you choose the best moisturiser for your skin type and needs.

Why are moisturisers important for the skin?

Moisturisers help maintain the health of the skin by boosting hydration and nourishment. They help to lock in moisture and soothe and soften dry skin. By creating a barrier against environmental stressors, moisturisers help protect your skin, prevent dryness and improve skin elasticity. This skincare product may also help enhance the skin, minimise the appearance of pores, soothe irritated skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The American Academy of Dermatology Association suggests using a moisturiser right after getting out of the shower to prevent water loss. Moisturizers help to increase skin’s water content and increase hydration and also help to maintain skin’s inner protective barrier, says dermatologist, Dr Shareefa Chause.

Also Read: Best moisturisers for normal skin: 5 top picks

Factors to consider when choosing the best moisturiser in India

1. Understand your skin type

Before choosing a moisturiser or any skincare product, you must have a better understanding of your skin type, including dry skin, oily skin, normal skin, sensitive skin and combination skin. Different skin types like dry skin, oily skin, normal oil, combination skin and sensitive skin have unique needs. Using a moisturiser that is suitable for your skin type may help prevent clogged pores, irritation and ineffective hydration, leading to healthier and more balanced skin.

Also Read:Think you can skip moisturiser because of oily skin? Here’s why you’re wrong

2. Ingredients

Pay attention to the ingredients list of the moisturisers as it can tell you about the effectiveness of the products. There are a few common ingredients like humectants, emollients, occlusives and antioxidants that you must look for when buying a moisturiser.

• Hyaluronic acid: It is a humectant that works by drawing moisture from the environment into the skin and providing hydration. This ingredient is ideal for dry skin, ageing skin and combination, providing a plumping effect, reducing the appearance of fine lines, and wrinkles, and deep hydration without a greasy feel. According to the Dermatology Therapy Journal, hyaluronic acid can support skin rejuvenation, and healing and boost hydration.
• Glycerin: This humectant helps to attract moisture to the skin and strengthen its natural barrier. Ideal for dry skin and sensitive skin, it can help retain moisture. According to the Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, glycerin can help improve skin barrier function for up to 24 hours after application.
• Ceramides: These are lipids that may help to restore the skin’s natural barrier. It can also help lock in moisture and prevent transepidermal water loss. This ingredient is suitable for dry skin, sensitive skin and eczema-prone skin. It may help to reduce dryness, and irritation and soothe your skin. According to a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, ceramides help to structure and maintain the water permeability barrier function of the skin.
• Niacinamide: Packed with anti-inflammatory properties, niacinamide can help to reduce inflammation and redness. It may also help to even out skin tone, diminish dullness and enhance the skin’s barrier function. Suitable for oily skin, acne-prone skin and hyperpigmentation, it can help regulate oil production, minimise pores and lighten dark spots. A study published in the IFSCC Magazine, states that niacinamide can help improve skin texture.
• Peptides: These ingredients help stimulate collagen production to improve skin elasticity and firmness. It can also repair and regenerate the skin, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and sagging.
• Shea butter: It is a popularly used ingredient, which is ideal for dry skin, sensitive skin and eczema-prone skin. Shea butter and provides intense hydration, nourishment, reduces inflammation, soothes irritated skin and reduces dryness.
• Vitamin C: This antioxidant may help to protect your skin from free radicals and environmental damage. It may help reduce hyperpigmentation, brighten the skin and evens out the skin tone. Suitable for ageing skin, sun-damaged skin and hyperpigmentation, it can improve your skin health.

3. Type of moisturiser

There are several types of moisturisers available in the market. But you may wonder which kind of product will benefit and suit your skin type. Dr Shareefa says occlusive moisturisers work best for all skin types from normal, dry, and oily to sensitive and acne-prone skin. This kind of moisturizer helps to prevent water evaporation from the skin. Another kind of moisturiser is humectant-based. These are suitable for dry skin and they help to attract and bind water from the environment.

4. Formulation

Moisturisers come in various formulations, each suited for specific skin types:

Cream-based moisturisers have rich, thick and luxurious textures. They often contain oils, butter and emollients. This kind of moisturiser can provide long-lasting hydration. Dr Shareefa says people with dry skin should choose a cream-based moisturizer that contains shea butter, ceramides etc.

They are lighter and more fluid than the cream-based moisturisers. Lotions can also absorb quickly into the skin without leaving any residue. Packed with humectants, emollients and occlusives, this kind of moisturiser is suitable for combination skin as per Dr Shareefa.

Gel-based moisturisers are generally considered to be safe and suitable for oily, sensitive and acne-prone skin. With their oil-free, lightweight and non-greasy texture, these moisturisers can help absorb quickly.

Other factors to consider when choosing the best moisturiser

1. SPF

SPF stands for sun protection factor. It measures the ability of sunscreen to protect your skin against UVB rays, which can lead to sunburn. Choose a moisturiser with SPF 30 or higher for daily protection. According to the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, the increase in SPF value indicates increased sun protection.

2. Fragrance-free

Products that contain fragrance may cause allergic reactions to some. So always opt for fragrance-free moisturiser, especially if you have sensitive skin. A study published in the journal, Anais Brasileiros De Dermatology states that cosmetic products with fragrance can lead to burning, itching and stinging sensations.

3. Non-comedogenic

Opt for moisturisers that are labelled as “non-comedogenic”. This will ensure that it contains ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide or tea tree oil, which have little to no potential of causing blocked pores. It can help prevent acne formation, which makes the product suitable for acne-prone skin.

The best moisturiser based on different skin types

Each skin type has its challenges. So, to tackle them, it is important to use a product that is specially formulated to suit that particular skin type. A study published in StatPearls suggests a few things that you must consider while choosing a moisturiser for your skin type.

Dry skin lacks moisture and it is mainly caused due to low humidity, harsh soaps, ageing, genetics, environmental factors, nutritional deficiencies and medical conditions. People with dry skin must look for moisturisers that contain rich and nourishing ingredients like shea butter and ceramides. They should avoid gel-based moisturisers as they may not provide adequate hydration. The best moisturiser for dry skin must make the skin remain hydrated and supple throughout the day.

Oily skin is often characterised by the overproduction of sebum, which is an oily substance that is produced by the sebaceous glands of the skin. There are several factors which contribute to oily skin like hormonal fluctuations, genetics, stress, poor skincare routine and diet. Individuals with oily skin should opt for a gel-based moisturiser as it is lightweight and non-greasy. The best moisturiser for oily skin must contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin, which may absorb quickly into the skin without clogging pores.

Combination skin combines the characteristics of both dry and oily skin. This skin type has an oily T-zone, which includes the forehead, nose and chin, dry cheeks and balanced jawline. For combination skin, lightweight and oil-free moisturiser is enough. Make sure it contains active ingredients like glycerin and dimethicone as they can help provide balanced hydration without clogging pores.

Sensitive skin is often characterized by skin that is easily irritated, reactive and prone to inflammation. People with this skin type may experience redness, itching, dryness and increased reactivity to products, temperature and environmental changes. So, they must use a moisturiser that is fragrance-free and hypoallergenic as they are less likely to irritate. Opt for the best moisturiser for sensitive skin that contains soothing ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile.

With age, skin becomes drier and thinner. So for mature skin, cream-based or ointment moisturisers are best. Make sure to opt for a product that contains retinol or peptides as these ingredients can help improve skin texture.

How to use moisturisers for effective results?

The right application of moisturisers is important for effective results. Dr Shareefa suggests a few tips for using moisturiser to boost hydration and nourishment:

• Make sure to apply the best moisturiser on wet skin as it can help with better water absorption. This will ensure that your skin stays hydrated.
• If you have oily or acne-prone skin, using the best night moisturiser is more than enough.
• People with dry skin should apply moisturiser twice or thrice a day. This can help keep their skin hydrated and supple.
• If you are actively using products that contain vitamin C or retinol, make sure to not skip using moisturisers. These ingredients tend to make your skin appear drier, so using moisturisers can help combat the issue.

How to patch test a moisturiser?

Before using any skincare products, it is important to perform a patch test to ensure that it is safe to use. The American Academy of Dermatology Association suggests a few tips for performing a patch test of any skincare product, including moisturiser.

• Start by applying the moisturiser on a discreet area of your skin twice daily for seven to ten days.
• Use the product in the normal amount that you would use when applying the product regularly.
• If after seven to ten days, you do not notice any skin reaction like redness, itching or swollen skin, you can go ahead and use the moisturiser.
• If you develop any skin reaction, make sure to gently wash off the skin immediately.

All these steps may help you make a wise choice. So, make sure to consider these points when you buy a moisturiser.