Moisturising is the one step in your beauty routine which you should never miss. The hydrating effects of moisturiser keep skin youthful and in prime natural condition meaning that you look great and need less makeup. But did you know that using the wrong moisturiser for your skin type could actually lead to worse skin? Choose a formula which is too heavy and you could be stuck with breakouts, or pick one which is too light and you might be facing dry skin and more wrinkles. Luckily for you, we’ve made choosing the right moisturiser a breeze. Simply read on to find your skin type and how to care for it properly with the right products.

Dry Skin

Dry skin is often caused by harsh winter conditions. The combination of cold, dry, air outside and heated air inside can leave skin parched and damaged. Often appearing flaky and unappealing while feeling tight and uncomfortable, dry skin needs hydration. Quench your thirsty skin with the right kind of moisturiser. Look for powerful and rich products in creams and gels which contain hydrating ingredients, like shea butter, hyaluronate, ceramides and lanolin. These moisturising superheroes will have your complexion glowing and skin perfectly smooth in no time. Just make sure you double down with both a day and night moisturiser to ensure ultimate hydration.

Oily Skin

Oily skin can leave you constantly reaching for blotting paper and powder touch-ups. If you’re scared that adding moisturiser to your beauty routine will only serve to make the problem worse, you needn’t worry. Skin often produces extra oil due to dryness, so moisturising can help reduce oil if you use the right kind. Control your oily skin by choosing lightweight moisturizers which are oil-free or non-greasy. Look for products which contain hyaluronic acid in a lotion, serum or gel formula to ensure that hydration is locked in while grease is banished.

Combination Skin

It can be hard to find the right facial moisturiser when you have combination skin. Do you invest in a product that will rid you of those pesky dry patches or one that will help you take care of those annoying oily spots? Too much of either and you’ll likely find yourself exacerbating your skin problems rather than solving them. The answer is to opt for a lightweight moisturiser and concentrate it on the areas you need it most. Apply more moisturiser to typically dry areas such as the cheeks and jawline and less to the naturally oily T-zone of your forehead and nose.

Sensitive Skin

Finding the right moisturiser when you have sensitive skin can be hit and miss. Accidentally buy one with ingredients that irritate your skin and you could find yourself with a red, blotchy, itchy or swollen face before you know it. Whether you have allergies, rosacea or eczema, save yourself the trouble and always buy products which calm sensitivity. Choose fragrance-free options to reduce your risk of irritation and avoid moisturizers that use any sunscreen ingredient other than zinc or titanium. Always look out for gentle, cream moisturizers which contain natural ingredients and remember to patch-test new products.

Anti-Ageing Moisturizers

Your skin encounters drying and damaging situations every day. Everything from the sun and air conditioning to pollution and bacteria can harm the health of your skin. Exposure to these elements over time can lead to premature ageing, dark spots, and wrinkles.  Luckily, anti-aging moisturizers work wonders to hydrate skin and keep it looking youthful. These moisturizers work to fight the signs of ageing and reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles. They also brighten the complexion and enhance elasticity. To turn back the clock on your skin choose rich, cream moisturizers and remember to use a night cream as skin regenerates best while you sleep.

Tinted Moisturizers

Tinted moisturizers are perfect for when you’re in need of a moisturiser and some makeup coverage but don’t want to clog your pores. Invest in a tinted moisturiser and use it as a replacement to your foundation when you’re experiencing breakouts or your skin is feeling a bit dry. The light consistency of tinted moisturiser creates a “barely there” makeup look while enhancing the skin’s natural appearance. These dual-purpose moisturizers also make a great base in summer when the hot weather means that foundation may be too heavy. To pick the right tinted moisturiser for you, choose the shade which is closest to your natural skin tone. You’ll soon experience great skin with a subtlety glowing complexion.

Moisturizers with SPF

If you spend a lot of time outdoors, a moisturiser with SPF is a necessity. We all know the harmful effects the sun can have on our skin, including skin cancer and premature ageing, which is why we must protect it. Even if you work indoors, switch up your traditional daily moisturiser for one with SPF during the summer months and keep some on hand for surprise sunny days throughout the year.  Doing so will ensure that you’re always prepared to keep your skin healthy and youthful. Choose a non-greasy formula and you’ll be able to wear makeup comfortably over the top too.

Natural and Organic Moisturizers

Natural and organic moisturizers can be great alternatives to traditional products. Enriched with nourishing plant-based ingredients, they can be just as powerful and beneficial as any generic, chemical-based product. Avoiding the use of harsh detergents, chemical preservatives and artificial fragrances, natural and organic moisturizers often make the best choice for those with sensitive skin. The potent mix of vitamins and antioxidants work to care gently but effectively for skin without causing irritation. Look out for products that contain at least 95% natural or organic ingredients to be sure that you’re choosing the safest option.