What is a moisturiser?

A moisturiser's job is to seal water into the skin and reinforce the barrier that keeps irritants out. Every skin type needs one, including oily skin — the texture changes, not whether you need it at all.

When should you use a moisturiser?

Second-to-last step, after serums and before sunscreen in the morning

Moisturiser

Q: What should you look for when buying a moisturiser?

Hyaluronic Acid or Glycerin (humectants — draw water in), Ceramides or Squalane (seal water in), Shea Butter (dry or very dry skin), Lightweight, gel-based formulas (oily or combination skin).

Also called: Moisturizer · Face Cream · Moisture Cream · Face Lotion

“Seals in hydration and keeps your barrier intact — skip it and everything else works harder than it should.”

When to use it

Both

Cleanser

Toner

Exfoliant

Serum

Treatment

Moisturiser

SPF

Cleanser

Toner

Exfoliant

Serum

Treatment

Moisturiser

Who needs it

Everyone, including oily skin.

Watch out for

"Oil-free" as the only selling point with no humectant listed
Skipping moisturiser entirely on oily or acne-prone skin

What to look for when buying

Hyaluronic Acid or Glycerin (humectants — draw water in)Ceramides or Squalane (seal water in)Shea Butter (dry or very dry skin)Lightweight, gel-based formulas (oily or combination skin)

Related ingredients

Hyaluronic Acid ›Ceramides ›Squalane ›Shea Butter ›

Have a moisturiseralready? See if it's actually doing the job.

Check my moisturiser →Build my routine →