How to moisturize your face

Everyone wants to put their best face forward. For some people, that means removing facial hair — whether that be on the upper lip and chin, surrounding bushy brows or excessive peach fuzz on the cheeks.

Before reaching for the razors, let’s take a step back and figure out the method that best suits different skin types and goals. Here are some facial hair removal options and what they work best for.

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Importance of moisturizing your face

Moisturizers help reduce water loss from the upper layers of the skin, helping to make it plumper, softer and smoother.¹ They serve an important function by maintaining the skin barrier to keep dryness at bay.

As we age, our skin's water content goes down.² Consistent moisturizing with products made for your skin type may help reduce visible signs of aging and aid in maintaining hydrated skin at any age.³

Factors that affect your skin’s moisture levels

Signs of dehydrated skin include dryness, noticeable fine lines and itchiness.⁴ The skin is our largest organ, and all skin types can experience dehydration. Environmental stress (such as pollutants and UV exposure), diet and aging are among some factors that can disrupt your skin's hydration.⁵

Understanding different types of moisturizers

Moisturizers come in serums, lotions, gels, ointments and creams.⁶ Thicker product consistencies, such as ointments and creams, can deliver active ingredients more easily and distribute them more evenly than products with higher water content like lotions.⁷ Many supplemental products, such as serums, face oils and masks, also aid skin hydration.⁸

Day creams vs. night creams

Day creams are lightweight and frequently contain SPF so you can moisturize and get sun protection in just one step, though the additional use of sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher is always recommended.⁹ Night creams are typically richer in consistency.¹⁰ Active ingredients like glycolic acid and ceramides are often found in night creams, with the goal of restoring skin overnight.¹¹

Moisturizers for different skin types

There are five skin types: oily, normal, combination, sensitive and dry.¹²

For normal and oily skin, try water-based, oil-free formulas.¹³ Those with oily skin may be able to use a gel-based moisturizer.¹⁴

If you have sensitive skin, opt for fragrance-free and oil-free moisturizers that won't clog pores.¹⁵ Thick creams work well for dry skin because they offer added protection.¹⁶ The La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Facial Moisturizer suits all skin types.

Role of serums, oils and hydrating masks

Serums are lightweight liquid formulas with high concentrations of active ingredients.¹⁷ Face oils are a blend of oils that help lock in moisture.¹⁸ Serums go on before moisturizer, whereas oils are commonly applied afterward.¹⁹ According to board-certified dermatologist Sanober Pezad Doctor, “No matter what your skin type is, moisturization is a must. Choose a moisturizer based on your skin type and skin concerns.”²⁰

How to choose the right moisturizer

Choosing the right moisturizer involves several factors, including skin type and the level of skin dryness.²¹

Reading and understanding ingredient labels

Water is a critical ingredient in many moisturizers.²² Here are three other types of ingredients to know and look for in the cosmetics aisle:

• Occlusives such as petroleum jelly, mineral oils and plant oils help protect the skin, block water evaporation and lock in moisture.²³
• Emollients help improve elasticity and reduce tightness. Ceramides, vitamin E (tocopherol) and shea butter are a few examples.²⁴
• Humectants attract and absorb moisture in and on the skin. These include ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, panthenol and urea.²⁵

If dimethicone is on a label, it can serve double duty as an occlusive and emollient.²⁶

“The addition of different ingredients helps with different purposes,” says Dr. Sanober Pezad Doctor. “For example, the addition of dimethicone helps with better spreadability of the product. Choosing a moisturizer with tested ingredients will help improve the deliverability of the intended result you wish to achieve.”²⁷

Considering your skin type

Creamy moisturizers work well for daily use on dry skin, while normal and combination skin types may want to try a gel-based moisturizer.²⁸

For example, consider the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Moisturizer, which is formulated with hyaluronic acid.

Oily skin types may benefit from ingredients like niacinamide that may help reduce excess oil.²⁹

A lightweight option for any skin type is the Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion.

The role of the environment and season

The same moisturizer you loved in the summer may not meet your hydration needs in the cold winter. Consider switching up your skin care routine as the seasons change.

A thicker moisturizer is beneficial in colder and drier climates.³⁰ In contrast, a lightweight moisturizer would work well in warmer, more humid environments. Try applying more of your favorite moisturizer in the winter than usual or adding a serum to boost hydration.

Step-by-step guide on how to moisturize your face

Application can matter just as much as the product’s formula. Here's how to use moisturizer in your skin care routine.

Daily moisturizing routine

Think of moisturizing as a regular step in your daily health maintenance, similar to brushing your teeth. Apply moisturizer twice daily, once in the morning and once at night.³¹

When to apply face moisturizer

Apply moisturizer after cleansing. It is usually the final step of your beauty routine at night. In the daytime, use your moisturizer before applying SPF and makeup.³²

How to properly apply face moisturizer

Dr. Doctor recommends the following steps for applying face moisturizer, although you should also read product instructions. Squeeze a dime-sized amount of moisturizer onto your fingertips and dab some on your chin, cheeks and forehead.³³ Gently pat it into the skin. Then, lightly rub it into your face using small circular motions. Move upwards instead of dragging the skin down and include your neck as you seamlessly blend the product into your skin.³⁴

Tips for effective moisturizing

Generally, people benefit most from moisturizing by using a tried-and-true technique (such as applying products to damp skin), layering products correctly and remaining consistent. Since facial skin is delicate, you should avoid massaging too vigorously. Eyes are particularly sensitive, so you may want to use an under-eye cream for this area.³⁵ Remember to use products as directed.

Consider CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion for Normal to Dry Skin for a lightweight moisturizer.

Using the "damp skin" technique

When your skin is damp, moisturizer is more effective because it traps water in the skin. Apply moisturizer while skin is damp to lock in the moisture and prevent water loss.³⁶

Layering products correctly

Apply moisturizer after using toners, serums and wash-off masks to help lock in hydration and active ingredients.³⁷

When wearing sunscreen and makeup in the daytime, apply moisturizer beforehand. For best results, avoid the following: applying too little product, using products not suited for your skin type, inconsistently applying product and rubbing too vigorously.³⁸

If your skin still feels tight after trying a moisturizer, it likely needs more nourishment.³⁹ All of these missteps may disrupt the skin barrier. Consult a professional esthetician or dermatologist if you have recurring concerns.

Moisturizing and reducing the appearance of aging

As skin ages, it loses collagen, water content and elasticity, resulting in fine lines, wrinkles, creases and sagginess.⁴⁰ However, steps can be taken to reduce premature signs of aging.

How moisturizing can help reduce signs of aging

The skin becomes drier as we get older. Consistent moisturizing helps keep skin hydrated by trapping water within the skin.⁴¹ This practice mitigates water loss and helps the skin feel more taut while appearing more youthful.

Anti-aging moisturizers

Anti-aging moisturizers typically help reduce fine lines and wrinkles and lead to a smoother, toned appearance.⁴² Look for ingredients like Vitamin C (for reducing sun damage and discoloration), hyaluronic acid and retinol (made of Vitamin A compounds). Retinol is a common feature in many anti-aging products as it can help improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and skin brightness.⁴³

Role of diet and hydration in facial moisture

Consuming healthy foods and drinking water complements your topical skin care routine and promotes overall skin health.⁴⁴

Foods that help keep your skin looking healthy

A healthy diet, including fruits and vegetables, lean proteins and healthy fats, helps promote healthy skin overall.⁴⁵

The importance of drinking water for skin health

Hydration can have an impact on skin appearance. Having sunken-looking skin around the eyes or dry skin may indicate dehydration.⁴⁶ Severe dehydration can show on the skin through dry patches, flakiness and uncomfortable tightness.⁴⁷ But unless you’re water-deficient, drinking more than the recommended daily amount is not guaranteed to hydrate your skin above expectations.⁴⁸

Consistency in moisturizing for healthy skin

It may take a little while to see initial results, so remaining consistent is vital.⁴⁹ While your habits might shift seasonally, be consistent with your application and stay hydrated year-round. Your skin type will also determine which moisturizer is best for you. If you are unaware of your skin type, visiting a board-certified dermatologist can help.

Key takeaways

• Learn your skin type and which ingredients work best for it
• Listen to your skin (and your medical providers)
• Apply moisturizer with care to avoid disrupting the skin barrier
• Internal hydration boosts the effects of moisturizers

Frequently asked questions

How do you apply moisturizer to your face?

Begin with slightly damp skin. Put an adequate amount as needed on your hand. Next, dab the moisturizer onto your chin, cheeks and forehead. Lightly pat and rub it into the skin using upward circular motions until it blends in.⁵⁰

When to apply moisturizer?

Apply moisturizer as part of your morning and nighttime skin care routine.⁵¹ This will help keep your skin balanced, properly nourished and hydrated. Also, the skin goes into repair mode at night, and ingredients in your moisturizer can help with cell turnover and repair for improved skin.⁵²

Should you rub moisturizer in?

For a gentle approach, pat the product on your face first. Then lightly massage it in circular motions and avoid rubbing too vigorously.⁵³

This content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult your health care provider before taking any vitamins or supplements and prior to beginning or changing any health care practices.