9 Products to Moisturize Your Face (from Store-Bought to Natural Options)

If you're looking to add moisturizer to your skincare routine, you've come to the right place. This article is here to help you learn all the basics of moisturizing. We'll walk you through how to correctly apply moisturizer, how to pick a moisturizer for your skin type, and which natural alternatives work just as well as name brands. Your skin will look clear, fresh, and hydrated in no time.[1]

Method 1
Method 1 of 10:
Moisturize daily to receive the full benefits.

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    For the best results, put on your moisturizer after you shower each day. First, gently dry off your face with a towel. Then, squirt a small dollop of moisturizer on your fingers (about the size of an almond) and apply it to your face, neck, and décolletage.[2] When you apply the product, touch your fingers to your skin in circular, outward motions.[3] This helps seal the moisture in your skin so that you can receive its full replenishing benefits.[4]
    • If you don't shower that day, moisturize your face after you wash it.

Method 2
Method 2 of 10:
Use a water-based moisturizer if you have oily skin.

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    You may have oily skin if you have clogged pores and regular breakouts.[5] To moisturize while keeping the oiliness at bay, choose a product that is labeled oil-free or non-comedogenic. Water-based moisturizers are lightweight, making them a good choice for oily skin types. These won't clog up your pores as much as a heavier moisturizer.[6]
    • If you're really worried about a potential breakout from using moisturizer or your skin is especially oily, go for a lotion rather than a cream-based product. These are much less heavy and won't have as much potential to clog your pores.[7]
    • Some affordable, dermatologist-approved moisturizers include Neutrogena HydroBoost Water Gel, Revision Skincare Hydrating Serum, and M-61 Hydroboost Collagen+Peptide Water Cream.[8]

Method 3
Method 3 of 10:
Try an oil-based moisturizer if you have dry or aging skin.

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    You likely have dry skin if your skin is tight, flaky, and itchy.[9] In that case, oil-based moisturizer can give your dry skin the extra water it needs. For really dry skin, try products like Vaseline or Aquaphor. These are heavier products that give your skin some wonderful intense hydration. These are also great for mature, wrinkled skin, as they can help soften your skin, decrease the visibility of wrinkles, and help your skin stay hydrated.[10]
    • Dry skin may also benefit from moisturizers containing alpha hydroxy acid. These help tame especially dry, rough patches.
    • Moisturizers with lactic acid can be especially helpful for people with dry skin.
    • Opt for moisturizers like Aquaphor Healing Ointment or CeraVe Moisturizing Cream.[11] If you have mature or aging skin, try Cetaphil Rich Hydrating Night Cream.[12]

Method 4
Method 4 of 10:
Opt for an oil-free moisturizer if you have acne.

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    Acne-prone skin means that you are prone to frequent breakouts. Though you may need to be more careful about what products you choose to avoid an acne flareup, your skin can still really benefit from daily moisturizing. Opt for a product that is oil-free and non-comedogenic. These won't clog your pores like other moisturizers might.[13]
    • Acne medication like Benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and isotretinoin can dry out your skin. Make sure you moisturize daily if you're on any of these medications.
    • If you have severe acne or are worried that moisturizer may worsen your skin, talk to a dermatologist about what moisturizer they recommend. They can give you a specific treatment plan to help your skin look fresh and clear.
    • Try products like La Roche-Posay Double Repair Moisturizer or Aveeno Calm + Restore Oat Gel Moisturizer.[14]

Method 5
Method 5 of 10:
Use 2 different moisturizers if you have combination skin.

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    This means your skin is both dry and oily.[15] To moisturize each part of your face, use a combination of products. Apply a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer on the oily portion of your face, and a thicker, oil or gel-based moisturizer on the dry portions.[16]
    • On dry parts of your skin, apply a product like Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream or Aveeno Calm and Restore Gel Moisturizer.[17]
    • For the oily parts of your skin, use a moisturizer like Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Hyaluronic Marine Oil-Free Moisture Cushion or Ambi Even & Clear Daily Facial Moisturizer with SPF 30.[18]

Method 6
Method 6 of 10:
Apply hypoallergenic moisturizers if you have sensitive skin.

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    Frequent rashes, redness, and itching can be a sign of sensitive skin. You may also have sensitive skin if you break out when you try new products.[19] For products that are easy on your skin, go for moisturizers that are hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and include ingredients like chamomile and aloe vera. These gentle products will help hydrate your skin without any unwanted reactions.[20]
    • Be wary of unscented moisturizers. These can still include fragrances, unlike products labeled as fragrance-free.
    • Use products like EltaMD Intense Face and Body Moisturizer for Very Sensitive & Dry Skin or Avene Skin Recovery Cream. These are free of fragrances and irritating additives, which make them a perfect choice for sensitive skin.[21]

Method 7
Method 7 of 10:
Choose aloe vera for its soothing effects.

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    A study found that aloe vera has moisturizing properties. This study, published in Skin Research and Technology, concluded that aloe vera was able to hydrate skin and work effectively as a moisturizer. Opt for moisturizers containing aloe vera or apply aloe vera gel as a moisturizer.[22]
    • The study concluded that products containing aloe vera can be especially helpful in treating dry skin.

Method 8
Method 8 of 10:
Select shea butter as a natural moisturizer.

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    This is another great option for dry skin. Shea butter helps seal moisture into your skin due to its emollient properties. One study found that an ingredient in shea butter, linoleic acid, is super helpful for dry skin due to its hydrating and anti-inflammatory agents.[23] Use a product made from unrefined shea butter to receive the most of its moisturizing benefits.[24]
    • Don't use shea butter if you have acne-prone skin, as it can clog pores and lead to further breakouts.[25]

Method 9
Method 9 of 10:
Make use of avocado oil for its moisturizing vitamins.

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    Avocado oil contains vitamins A, D, and E as well as fatty acids. These all help give your face some much-needed hydration.[26] To add avocado oil to your moisturizing routine, mix 2 tablespoons (30 mL) of avocado oil with 2 tablespoons (30 mL) of a carrier oil like jojoba oil or almond oil. Apply the mixture to your face in gentle, circular motions to help your skin absorb all of its healthy properties.
    • One study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences found that avocado oil can be a great moisturizer for dry, chapped skin in particular.

Method 10
Method 10 of 10:
Pick olive oil as a natural option.

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    Olive oil is high in vitamin E and can be used to moisturize your skin. It also contains vitamins A, D, and K, which can benefit your skin. To moisturize your face with olive oil, always go for extra virgin olive oil. Apply 1-2 drops on your hands and lather before applying it to your face.[27]
    • Olive oil that's not labeled as extra virgin olive oil can be too harsh on your skin, as it contains a higher level of acidity.
    • Don't use olive oil as a moisturizer if you are prone to acne. It's highly comedogenic and can clog up your pores.

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References

  1. ↑ https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/how-to-moisturize-your-skin
  2. ↑ https://www.today.com/style/how-much-skin-product-apply-serum-moisturizer-more-t105697
  3. ↑ https://youtu.be/wH3s5zscg7A?t=44
  4. ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/dry/dermatologists-tips-relieve-dry-skin
  5. ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/dry/oily-skin
  6. ↑ https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/BeautySecrets/skin-care-moisturizing-tips-skin-type/story?id=11460763
  7. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dry-skin/in-depth/moisturizers/art-20044232
  8. ↑ https://nymag.com/strategist/article/best-moisturizers-for-oily-skin.html
  9. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dry-skin/symptoms-causes/syc-20353885
  1. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dry-skin/in-depth/moisturizers/art-20044232
  2. ↑ https://nymag.com/strategist/article/best-moisturizers-for-dry-skin.html
  3. ↑ https://nymag.com/strategist/article/best-moisturizers-for-mature-skin.html
  4. ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne/skin-care/moisturizer
  5. ↑ https://www.cnn.com/2021/04/16/cnn-underscored/best-acne-products-dermatologists/index.html
  6. ↑ https://youtu.be/StG474yiR8I?t=123
  7. ↑ https://youtu.be/StG474yiR8I?t=301
  8. ↑ https://nymag.com/strategist/article/best-moisturizers-for-combination-skin.html
  9. ↑ https://nymag.com/strategist/article/best-moisturizers-for-combination-skin.html
  10. ↑ https://youtu.be/StG474yiR8I?t=364
  11. ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dry-skin/in-depth/moisturizers/art-20044232
  12. ↑ https://www.cnn.com/2020/10/28/cnn-underscored/best-face-moisturizer-2020/index.html
  13. ↑ https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.0909-752X.2006.00155.x
  14. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5759849/
  15. ↑ https://greatist.com/health/shea-butter-for-face#buying-shea-butter
  16. ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne/DIY/skin-color
  17. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5796020/
  18. ↑ https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/beauty/anti-aging/a28775913/olive-oil-for-skin/

About This Article

Madeleine Criglow
Co-authored by:
Madeleine Criglow
wikiHow Staff Writer
This article was co-authored by wikiHow staff writer, Madeleine Criglow. Madeleine Criglow is a wikiHow Staff writer based in the Pacific Northwest. She has over six years of experience working in copywriting, editing, and journalism. In addition to her work for wikiHow, she writes a monthly film column for Tigard Life and Tualatin Life newspaper. Madeleine graduated from the University of Puget Sound with a BA in English with an emphasis in Creative Writing.
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Co-authors: 5
Updated: August 5, 2021
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Categories: Face Care