They say an apple a day keeps the doctor away. Well, that same logic applies to moisturizers, but swap “doctor” for “wrinkles”. A moisturizer a day keeps the wrinkles away. Like all skincare, the type of moisturizer you use should be based on your skin type and all the other factors that play into it, like the climate you live in, the time you spend in the sun, other products you are using, and the like. Believe it or not, moisturizer is not a one-size-fits-all situation. There are different kinds of moisturizers that carry different benefits. If this is the first time you’re hearing this, this is the article for you!

 

There are three main categories of moisturizers: emollients, humectants and occlusives. 

 

Emollients are oil-based moisturizers that are designed to rebuild lost lipids in the skin. Emollients are great at softening dry, itchy, or flaky skin. They also act as a balancing agent for your skin that lowers inflammatory tendencies. Dry skin is a result of a loss of water in the skin, so emollients help the skin to retain that water. The oils in their formula form a barrier over the skin that traps in water.

 

Humectants are water-based moisturizers that act as a magnet for hydration. The substances in humectants bond with water molecules, essentially sucking them out of the environment around you and onto your skin. If you are using other skincare products that leave your skin feeling dehydrated and tight, humectant moisturizers are a great addition to your routine. They also encourage the shedding of dead skin cells by breaking down the proteins that hold them together, leaving your skin smoother and more flawless. 

 

Occlusives act as a physical barrier to your skin to prevent water loss. It’s almost as if you’re caulking your skin – occlusives fill in the miniscule cracks in your skin that would normally release moisture, thus sealing the water in. They also help reduce irritation while building up the skin’s protective barrier. Occlusives protect your skin from harsh external irritants like pollen, sharp wind, and friction.  

 

So how do you know what kind of moisturizer is best for you? If you have dry, flaky skin, an emollient could be the perfect product for you. However, if your skin is oily you should avoid them as they could lead to clogged pores and breakouts. Because humectants are water-based, they are lightweight and more conducive to all skin types. They won’t clog your pores, but may not moisturize as deeply as emollients. Occlusives are the most hydrating, and thus the heaviest of the bunch. If your skin is irritated, dry and cracked you’ll want to opt for an occlusive moisturizer. That being said, if you don’t need the intense moisture then skip the occlusive, as you don’t want to unnecessarily clog your pores.

 

In reality, it’s all a balancing act, and at certain times your skin might be calling out for one type over the other. Listen to your body – it’s important to remember that finding your perfect skincare routine often involves a lot of trial and error. If you’re ever really unsure of what to do, pick up the phone and consult a dermatologist!

 

We hope you can use this article as another tool in your skincare toolbox. If you’re at the very beginning of your skincare journey, or you’re new to our community, check out our articles on anti-aging practices, hyaluronic acid, how to *properly* wash your face, and more!