I've tried THOUSANDS of moisturisers, so you don't have to...
Your no BS guide to facial moisturisers for every skin type, issue and personal texture preference....
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Finding a basic facial moisturiser should be a simple task, but it’s anything but.
Between the ridiculously long and confusing names, the wild claims and sheer volume of options - this simple item has become one of the hardest beauty products to buy. But I’m hoping this guide will debunk all of that and make things way way easier. The world is on f*cking fire ( both physically and metaphorically) - we’ve got enough to worry about without adding ‘find a good moisturiser’ to that list.
What even is a moisturiser? It’s a product that helps the dermis or top layer of the skin to maintain its natural moisture barrier by protecting it from dryness and environmental damage (like pollution and cold weather). Moisturisers lock in moisture preventing it from escaping and can also have added ingredients that target specific ‘concerns’ from the appearance of age-related skin changes and hyperpigmentation (where the skin becomes a bit discoloured).
Moisturisers have pretty big molecules which means they sit on the skin’s surface to essentially ‘keep things out.’ But serums have smaller molecules that can - depending on their formulations and ingredients - penetrate slightly deeper levels of the skin. So if it’s a financial choice, get a serum that targets whatever concerns you have (perhaps you’re looking for an antioxidant like vitamin C for example) and use that before using a cheaper moisturiser.
The moisturiser you pick is entirely up to your personal preference, and the best kind of moisturiser is the one you like using and works for your skin type and budget.
What’s actually in a moisturiser?
Facial moisturisers often contain…
-Humectants: Ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid that draw moisture into the skin.
-Emollients: Such as oils or butters, which soften the skin.
-Occlusives: Like shea butter or petrolatum, which create a barrier to lock in moisture.
-Active Ingredients: Vitamins (e.g., Vitamin E or C), SPF, or anti-ageing compounds.
What are the different types of facial moisturisers?
Balms: These are the heaviest formulations and good for very dry skin types. They’re often higher on the occlusives to prevent moisture loss from the skin with extra occlusives.
Creams - Ideal for dry - balances skins and the winter times for good hydration. They’re high on emollients.
Gels: These are ideal for oily skin types, people with acne, and those with sensory issues who hate the feeling of products sitting on your skin. They’re also great in summer and hot climates.
Lotions: These are the lightest formulations, so are good for layering if you need an extra dose of moisture. But don’t confuse these with an old-school ‘lotions’ which are essentially a more liquidy face cream - modern lotions are inspired by east asian skincare trends and are almost like a toner-meets-super light serum.
How to use a facial moisturiser - AKA the correct order!
Layer the formulations from lightest (aka usually the smallest molecules that can in theory penetrate deeper) to the heaviest aka your SPF to protect the skin from damage.
Cleanse: Start with a clean face, otherwise you’re sort of just trapping dead skin/bacteria under the moisturiser which can cause spots.
Tone: if you like - I don’t TBH.
Serums - Apply any serums you use, starting with the lightest first.
Lotion or essence - you can use these here for an extra boost if you like.
Moisturiser: Use a pea-sized amount, gently massaging it onto your face and neck and chest area.
Eye cream - use this now if you want to.
SPF - SPF in moisturiser is a nice added bonus but it’s ‘diluted’ by the moisturiser, so you always need a proper SPF on top.
My mega simple facial moisturiser guide!
These are the moisturisers I rate and the skin types they might work best for. If you’ve struggled to find one before, I’m hoping this will give you some suggestions - but if you need more help or cheaper/different options just comment and I'll help.
BALMS
AKA The heaviest formulation that is best for very dry skins/cold climates. You probably don’t need this unless you live or are visiting somewhere freezing cold or have sensitised skin.
Ren Overnight Recovery Balm, £46
Although this says overnight you can use it anytime of day - there's nothing in it that is scared of the daylight(!) Its base is a coconut oil derivative, alongside glycerine and other plant oils which gives a hefty dose of moisture without being too heavy on the skin.
BEST FOR: Chapped skin, skiing, winter sports, cold climates, after colds
Oskia Rest Day Barrier Repair Balm, £70
Ceramides help repair the skin’s barrier, colloidal oats help soothe inflammation and there’s a stack of other great ingredients that help skin that needs some TLC. It smells kinda oaty and the texture isn’t too heavy either.
BEST FOR: Dry skin, sensitive skin
Chuckling Goat Sensitive Skin Balm, £22
I was recommended this brand during an eczema flare up and really liked the products. They’re all goat milk based and there’s a stack of calming natural ingredients in here like chamomile and nettle which is particularly good for eczema and kids aged 3+.
BEST FOR: Skin with eczema
CREAMS
AKA what most people would use in the winter, cooler climates and those who have balanced - dry skin types.
Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré Moisturiser, £17.99
This is one of my french pharmacy go-to’s for the winter. It’s pretty cheap, has a lovely rich texture that isn’t heavy at all, sinks in beautifully and is a great base for make-up.
BEST FOR: Dry-balanced skin, cold winters and make-up lovers.
La Mer The Moisturising Cream, £85
I genuinely see a difference when I use this cream in the texture and softness of my skin, and a tiny bit goes a long way, so my pot often lasts 1-2 years. There’s a technique to using this heavy cream, it’s a sort of patting motion rather than smearing or rubbing, which is where a lot of people go wrong using it and think it doesn’t work.
BEST FOR: Dry skin
Avene Tolerance Control Soothing Skin Cream, £21.95
If you have eczema, psoriasis or very sensitive skin then this might be the moisturiser for you. There are no parabens (which may irritate those with sensitive skins) and the tube is a smart sterile design so it won’t pick up any bacteria etc. It has Avene’s mineral rich-water which can help calm sensitised skin.
BEST FOR: Sensitive, eczema-prone, and reactive skins
La Roche-Posay Effaclar H Iso-Biome Moisturiser, £20
This is an excellent range in general for skin that is prone to acne. It’s hydrating without being greasy, it’s non comedogenic, hypoallergenic and uses mineral-rich thermal spring water to help calm the skin.
BEST FOR: Acne-prone skin
