However, following the 5-step guide, people can choose the right moisturiser tailored to their specific skin type. A perfect moisturiser helps to treat problems like acne, flakiness, oiliness or sensitivity, depending on the skin type. Thus, identifying the skin type is important and then choosing the right moisturiser. This 5-step guide is easy to follow, which includes decoding the ingredients, textures and formulas. Here’s all you need to know about the 5-step guide to choosing the right moisturiser for your skin type.
5-Step Guide For Choosing The Right Moisturiser For Skin Type
Identify Your Skin Type
Oily Skin: Shiny T-zone, prone to breakouts.
Dry Skin: Feels tight, flaky or rough.
Combination Skin: Oily in some areas (like the forehead and nose), dry in others.
Sensitive Skin: Reacts easily to products, often red or itchy.
Normal Skin: Balanced – not too oily or dry.
Note: If the skin feels tight right after cleansing, you’re likely on the drier side. If it gets shiny within a couple of hours, you’re probably oily.
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Ingredients That Work Best For Skin
Oily Skin: Look for lightweight, non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores) formulas. Gel-based moisturisers with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide or salicylic acid are ideal.
Dry Skin: Opt for rich, creamy formulas. Ingredients like ceramides, glycerin, shea butter or squalane help lock in moisture and repair the skin barrier.
Combination Skin: Use a balancing formula or apply different moisturisers to different zones. Lightweight lotions with both hydrating and mattifying ingredients work well.
Sensitive Skin: Go fragrance-free and stick to calming ingredients like aloe vera, oat extract or panthenol. Avoid alcohol, artificial dyes and harsh acids.
Normal Skin: Most moisturisers will work. Go for a formula with antioxidants (like vitamin E or green tea) to maintain skin health.
Guide To Choose Moisturiser For Skin Type (Image Credits: Canva)
Match The Texture To Your Needs
Gel: Best for oily or acne-prone skin. Lightweight and fast-absorbing.
Lotion: Great for normal or combo skin. Hydrating but not too heavy.
Cream: Ideal for dry or mature skin. Rich and nourishing.
Ointment/Balm: For extremely dry or damaged skin. Thickest texture with maximum occlusion.
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Climate Considerations
Humid climates: You can get away with lighter, gel-based formulas.
Cold, dry weather: You’ll need something richer to prevent moisture loss.
Monsoon/wet seasons: Go for water-based, quick-absorbing moisturisers that won’t feel sticky.
Patch-Test Before You Commit
Before applying a new moisturiser all over the face, always do a patch test. Apply a small amount to your jawline or behind your ear for 24 hours. If there’s no reaction, you’re good to go.