SKINCARE GUIDE

How to Choose the Right Moisturizer for Your Skin Type

Choosing a moisturiser is not simply about finding the richest cream available. The right product depends on your skin type, skin concerns, texture preference and the ingredients used in the formula. Learn how to choose a moisturiser for oily, dry, combination and sensitive skin.

Moisturizer Guide Oily Skin Dry Skin Sensitive Skin Skin Barrier
MOISTURIZER BASICS

Why Does Your Skin Need Moisturizer?

Moisturisers are designed to help improve the feel and hydration of the skin. They can contain a combination of ingredients that attract water, help reduce water loss and condition the skin.

Even people with oily skin may benefit from moisturisation. Having oily skin does not necessarily mean that the skin does not need hydration.

The goal is not to make the skin as oily or as dry as possible. Instead, choose a formulation that feels comfortable and suits your skin type and routine.

The best moisturizer is one you can use consistently.

Texture, comfort and compatibility with your existing skincare routine all matter. A product that feels comfortable is often easier to use consistently than a formula that feels heavy or irritating.

CHOOSE BY SKIN TYPE

Which Moisturizer Is Right for Your Skin?

Different skin types can have different preferences when it comes to moisturiser texture and formulation. Use your skin's behaviour as a starting point rather than choosing a product solely because it is marketed for a particular skin type.

Oily Skin

Lightweight lotions, gels and gel-creams may feel more comfortable for oily skin. Look for a formula that provides moisturisation without leaving an excessively greasy feel.

Dry Skin

Dry skin may prefer richer creams or lotions containing moisturising and skin-conditioning ingredients. The ideal texture depends on how dry the skin feels and your personal preference.

Combination Skin

Combination skin can benefit from a balanced formula. Lightweight moisturisers can be useful when some areas feel oily while others feel normal or dry.

Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin may benefit from a simpler formula with fewer unnecessary sources of potential irritation. Introduce new products gradually and discontinue products that cause persistent irritation.

Normal Skin

Normal skin can generally be matched with a variety of textures. Focus on comfort, hydration and how the formula fits into your daily skincare routine.

Acne-Prone Skin

If you are prone to blemishes, you may prefer a lightweight formulation that feels comfortable and is labelled non-comedogenic where appropriate.

INGREDIENT EDUCATION

Moisturizer Ingredients Explained

Understanding common moisturising ingredients can make it easier to compare products without relying only on marketing claims.

Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is a humectant commonly used in skincare formulations to help attract and retain water in the outer layers of the skin.

Glycerin

Glycerin is a widely used humectant that helps draw water into the outer layers of the skin and is found in many moisturisers.

Ceramides

Ceramides are lipids naturally found in the skin barrier. They are commonly used in moisturising formulations designed to support the skin barrier.

Panthenol

Panthenol, also known as provitamin B5, is commonly used for its conditioning and skin-comfort properties.

Squalane

Squalane is an emollient commonly used to help condition the skin and improve the feel of moisturising formulations.

Niacinamide

Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 used in many skincare products. It is commonly included in formulations designed to support the skin barrier and overall skin appearance.

FORMULA & TEXTURE

Gel, Lotion or Cream: Which Should You Choose?

The texture of a moisturiser can make a major difference in whether you enjoy using it every day. There is no single texture that is universally right for everyone.

Gel

Gel moisturisers tend to have a lightweight feel and may be preferred by people who dislike heavy or rich textures.

Lotion

Lotions generally sit between gels and creams in texture and can provide a balance of hydration and comfort.

Cream

Creams are typically richer and may be preferred by people whose skin feels dry or uncomfortable with lightweight formulations.

Texture is personal.

If two moisturisers contain suitable ingredients but have different textures, the one that feels comfortable enough for you to use consistently may be the more practical choice.

PRODUCT LABELS

What Does “Non-Comedogenic” Mean?

The term “non-comedogenic” is generally used to indicate that a product is formulated with the intention of being less likely to clog pores.

However, everyone's skin can respond differently to products. A product being labelled non-comedogenic does not guarantee that it will work perfectly for every individual.

  • Consider the overall formula rather than one ingredient alone.
  • Pay attention to how your skin responds after introducing a new product.
  • Avoid introducing several new skincare products at the same time if you are trying to identify what works for you.
  • Choose a texture that feels comfortable for your skin type.
HOW TO USE

When Should You Apply Moisturizer?

Moisturiser can be used as part of both morning and evening skincare routines. The exact routine depends on the products you use and your skin's needs.

01

Cleanse

Start with a cleanser appropriate for your skin type and routine.

02

Apply Treatment Products

If your routine includes a serum or treatment product, apply it according to its directions.

03

Moisturize

Apply an appropriate amount of moisturiser over the skin. Adjust the amount according to your skin's needs and the product instructions.

04

Sunscreen in the Morning

During daytime, finish your skincare routine with a broad-spectrum sunscreen and follow the product's application instructions.

COMMON MISTAKES

Moisturizer Mistakes to Avoid

Choosing a moisturiser is relatively simple, but a few common habits can make skincare unnecessarily complicated.

Better Approach

  • Choose a texture that suits your skin.
  • Introduce new products gradually.
  • Keep your routine consistent.
  • Consider the overall ingredient formula.
  • Moisturise regularly when your skin benefits from it.

Avoid

  • Choosing a product only because it is trending.
  • Assuming oily skin never needs moisturiser.
  • Applying excessive amounts because more feels better.
  • Changing several products simultaneously.
  • Continuing a product that causes persistent irritation.
COMMON QUESTIONS

Moisturizer Questions, Answered

Can oily skin use moisturizer?

Yes. Oily skin can still benefit from moisturisation. A lightweight gel, lotion or gel-cream may feel more comfortable than a very rich cream.

What moisturizer is best for dry skin?

Dry skin may prefer richer creams or lotions containing moisturising, conditioning and barrier-supporting ingredients. The ideal choice depends on how your skin feels and which textures you find comfortable.

Is gel moisturizer better than cream?

Neither texture is universally better. Gel moisturisers tend to feel lighter, while creams are generally richer. Choose based on your skin type, preference and comfort.

Should I moisturize every day?

Many people use moisturiser daily as part of their skincare routine. How frequently you need it can depend on your skin type, climate, products and personal comfort.

What ingredients should I look for in a moisturizer?

Common moisturising ingredients include glycerin, hyaluronic acid, ceramides, panthenol and various emollients. The most suitable combination depends on your skin and product preferences.

Can moisturizer cause pimples?

Some products may not suit an individual's skin and can feel heavy or contribute to congestion. If you are blemish-prone, you may prefer a lightweight formulation labelled non-comedogenic.

Should I moisturize before or after serum?

In many routines, lightweight treatment or serum products are applied before moisturiser. Always follow the specific directions provided with your products.

Can sensitive skin use moisturizer?

Yes. Sensitive skin can benefit from moisturisation. A simpler formula may be preferable if your skin is easily irritated, and new products should be introduced carefully.

Looking for a Simple Daily Moisturizing Routine?

Build your skincare routine around products that suit your skin type and everyday needs. Explore the NDERMI range for cleansers and skincare designed for different skin concerns.

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