According To Derms, Dry Skin Doesn’t Stand a Chance Against These Moisturizers

For Dr. Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD, finding the perfect moisturizer match is all about identifying the the ingredients that are most beneficial to your skin. Glycerin or hyaluronic acid, for example draw in moisture while ceramides lock it in. “Some moisturizers may also contain occlusive ingredients like petrolatum, which can be especially helpful for those with dry, flaky skin,” says Garshick. “Other ingredients that can be helpful include emollients to help to soften and smooth the skin like squalane and niacinamide which helps to calm the skin and reduce redness.”

But what about individuals dealing with a compromising skin barrier? Another dermatologist, Mara Weinstein Velez, MD, FAAD, recommends choosing a moisturizer that has ceramids, lipids, and peptides to encourage repair. Alternately, those with acne-prone skin, should opt for oil-free moisturizers using hyaluronic acid and glycerin in their formulas. 

Beverly Hills-based board-certified Integrative Aesthetics Doctor, Rahi Sarbaziha, MD, also offered her take on simplifying the decision process based on the specific needs of your skin type. “First, identify if you have dry, oily, sensitive or combination skin. It’s important to note that you still need to moisturize oily skin,” Sarbaziha begins. “Most moisturizers contain three categories of ingredients; humectants, emollients and occlusives. Humectants draw water into the skin, emollients seal the skin’s outer layer and occlusives prevent moisture loss.” She recommends looking for moisturizers crafted from formulas that contain hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and glycerin to provide the skin with its required hydration and protection.