The best moisturiser is not automatically the richest or most expensive one. It is the formula that leaves your skin comfortable, layers well with the rest of your routine and is easy enough to use consistently.
How does face moisturiser work?
Moisturisers combine ingredients that attract water, smooth the skin surface and reduce moisture loss. The balance between those functions determines whether a formula feels like a light lotion, gel-cream, everyday cream or richer balm.
Humectants, emollients and occlusives
| Ingredient role | What it does | Common examples |
|---|---|---|
| Humectants | Help attract and hold water in the outer layers of skin. | Glycerin, hyaluronic acid, urea. |
| Emollients | Smooth and soften the skin surface. | Squalane, fatty alcohols, cosmetic oils. |
| Occlusives | Help reduce water loss by forming a protective surface layer. | Petrolatum, dimethicone, richer oils and waxes. |
| Barrier-supporting lipids | Support comfortable, resilient-feeling skin. | Ceramides, cholesterol, fatty acids. |
How to choose moisturiser by skin type
- Dry skin: choose a richer formula with humectants plus emollient or occlusive support. Read our Dry Skin Moisturiser Guide.
- Oily skin: lighter lotions or gel-creams may feel more comfortable. See the Oily Skin Moisturiser Guide.
- Sensitive skin: simplify the formula and prioritise tolerance. See the Sensitive Skin Moisturiser Guide.
- Combination skin: use one balanced moisturiser or vary the amount by area.
When should you apply moisturiser?
Apply moisturiser after cleansing and leave-on treatment products. Many people find it especially comfortable when applied before the skin feels completely dry, as long as the individual product directions allow it.
In the morning, sunscreen is generally the final skincare step. At night, moisturiser can be the last step unless another product has specific instructions.
Do you need a moisturiser with active ingredients?
Not necessarily. A basic moisturiser can do an excellent job without retinol, acids or vitamin C. If you already use separate active serums, a simpler moisturiser may make the routine easier to tolerate.
Browse Face Oils & Serums if you prefer to keep treatment products separate.
Common moisturiser mistakes
- Skipping moisturiser because skin is oily even when the routine causes dryness.
- Using a very rich cream because it is labelled anti-ageing even when the texture feels too heavy.
- Adding several active moisturisers without considering the rest of the routine.
- Continuing a product that repeatedly stings or causes persistent redness.
- Expecting moisturiser alone to treat a diagnosed skin condition.
FAQ
Do oily skin types need moisturiser?
Yes if the skin feels dry, tight or irritated. A lightweight, non-comedogenic formula may be more comfortable than a rich cream.
Is gel moisturiser better than cream?
Neither is universally better. Gel and lotion textures often suit oilier skin, while creams and balms can be more comfortable for persistent dryness.
Can I use the same moisturiser morning and night?
Yes if it suits your skin and layers well with sunscreen in the morning. Some people simply prefer a lighter daytime texture and richer night cream.
For the wider routine, skin-type and ingredient map, see our Complete Skincare Guide.
