These Derm-Approved Moisturizers Will Vastly Improve Your Skin’s Dew Point

I think we all know that moisturizing is so important. But not all moisturizers are created equally—and I don’t mean just in terms of quality, I’m also referring to which ones will work for your own particular skin type and needs. In fact, one of the most important things to keep in mind when shopping for a moisturizer is looking for one that suits your skin type—every dermatologist that I spoke to for this story gave that piece of advice.

“Choose your moisturizer based upon your skin type, skin conditions, and goals,” says Corey L. Hartman, MD, FAAD, founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology. “If you have oilier skin, choose a lighter moisturizer that’s serum- or oil-based containing glycerin or squalane. If your skin is dry and needs help with the skin barrier function, choose a heavier product with ceramides. If you suffer from atopic dermatitis, perhaps an ointment would be best.”

If you don’t choose a product for your skin type or aren’t moisturizing regularly, Caroline Robinson, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist, and founder of Tone Dermatology., says that the skin cells become sluggish in their turnover process and it can be difficult for the skin to hold on to the water it needs. “One of my favorite tips to combat dry skin is to ‘wet moisturize,’ meaning don’t completely dry your skin before you apply your lotion, this will give you a hydration boost,” she adds.