When it comes to skincare, choosing the right moisturizer can make or break your routine. With so many options on the shelves, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But the good news? A little knowledge about what to look for in a moisturizer can help you pick the perfect one for your skin’s needs.

• Hyaluronic Acid
  A hydration powerhouse that attracts water into the skin, keeping it plump and smooth.
  
  

• Ceramides
  These natural lipids strengthen your skin barrier, preventing dryness and irritation.
  
  

• Glycerin
  A humectant that draws moisture to the skin and helps maintain hydration levels.
  
  

• Antioxidants
  Ingredients like vitamin C or green tea protect against environmental stressors that age the skin.
  
  

• Dry Skin: Look for rich creams with shea butter, squalane, or ceramides.
  
  

• Oily/Acne-Prone Skin: Go for lightweight, oil-free, or gel formulas that hydrate without clogging pores.
  
  

• Sensitive Skin: Choose fragrance-free moisturizers with calming ingredients like aloe vera or centella asiatica.
  
  

• Combination Skin: A balanced formula—hydrating but lightweight—is ideal.
  
  

If you’re choosing a daytime moisturizer, make sure it includes broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher. This saves you a step while protecting your skin from harmful UV rays.

How a moisturizer feels on your skin matters. A heavy cream may be comforting at night, but during the day you might prefer a fast-absorbing lotion or gel that layers well under makeup.

• “Non-comedogenic” (won’t clog pores)
  
  

• “Hypoallergenic” (gentle on sensitive skin)
  
  

• “Fragrance-free” (reduces irritation risk)
  
  

Our Top Picks

• Jan Marini Transformation Face Cream - Exclusively formulated with Thymosin beta 4 combined with Transforming Growth Factor (TGF) beta 1, peptides, and hyaluronic acid to rejuvenate the skin.

• Epionce Renewal Facial Lotion - Lightweight formula that hydrates, tightens and improves texture with key botanical ingredients and active complexes.

• iS Clinical Moisturizing Complex - This luxe and intensively moisturizing formula is packed with botanicals, vitamins, potent antioxidants, and essential bionutrients, which work to support a moisturizing, protective barrier against environmental stressors.

• Revision Skincare Intellishade® Matte SPF 45 - Multi-benefit formula protects from sun damage while it corrects, brightens, and hydrates skin with ingredients like peptides, antioxidants, and sodium hyaluronate.

The Glow Down

The best moisturizer is the one that fits your skin type, includes hydrating and protective ingredients, and feels good on your skin. Once you know what to look for in a moisturizer, shopping becomes less confusing—and your skin will thank you for it.