What a facial moisturiser is and what it's for
Facial moisturiser is the product that provides water to the skin of the face and helps retain it in the surface layers, preventing the feeling of tightness and keeping the skin looking smoother and more radiant. It's one of the most consistent steps in any facial care routine, as almost all skin types benefit from some level of daily hydration, although the texture and amount vary depending on each case.
How to choose a facial moisturiser according to your skin type
Not all skin types need the same facial moisturiser. The key is to choose a texture that provides what the skin needs without overloading it or leaving it lacking hydration.
- Dry skin: rich, creamy formulas with hyaluronic acid, ceramides or shea butter.
- Oily skin: lightweight gels or emulsions, oil-free, with niacinamide or salicylic acid.
- Combination skin: balanced textures, applying more product to the drier areas.
- Sensitive skin: fragrance-free formulas with soothing ingredients like aloe vera or oats.
- Skin prone to oiliness or blemishes: non-comedogenic moisturisers that don't clog pores.
Day cream and night cream
Day face moisturisers usually have a lighter texture and often include sun protection, while night creams can be richer and make the most of the hours of rest to boost hydration and skin comfort. It isn't essential to use two different creams, but it's worth bearing in mind if your skin's needs change a lot between day and night.
Common ingredients in a face moisturiser
Hyaluronic acid is one of the most sought-after ingredients because it attracts and retains water in the skin. Ceramides and fatty acids help strengthen the skin barrier, reducing water loss throughout the day. Glycerin is a classic and effective humectant, while niacinamide provides extra comfort and helps improve the appearance of pores. Antioxidants, such as vitamin C or vitamin E, are often added to visibly improve skin radiance.
How to apply face moisturiser
It's usually applied to clean skin, after toner or essence and before sunscreen in your morning routine. Spread an amount about the size of a hazelnut with your fingers, using upward movements from the centre of the face outwards, without forgetting the neck and décolletage. Giving it a few seconds to absorb before applying makeup helps achieve a more natural finish.
Facial sunscreen: a common addition
Many routines combine face moisturiser with a facial sunscreen as the final step in the morning. While the moisturiser focuses on providing and retaining water, sunscreen protects against radiation, one of the factors that most affects the appearance of skin over time. Some moisturisers already include sun protection, simplifying the routine into a single step.
Formats and textures of face moisturiser
Besides skin type, there are different formats that may suit each person's preferences or routine better. Gel-cream provides hydration with a very light feel, ideal for warm climates or oily-prone skin. Emulsion offers a balance between lightness and nourishment, useful for most combination skin types. Rich-textured cream is designed for dry skin or periods of intense cold. And thicker moisturising balms are reserved for very dehydrated areas or to reinforce a night-time routine.
Common mistakes when using face moisturiser
Applying too little is one of the most common mistakes, as the skin can end up under-hydrated without it being immediately noticeable. Another frequent mistake is choosing a texture that's too rich for oily skin, which can cause a heavy feeling or excess shine. It's also best to avoid changing creams too often, since skin needs some time to show whether a product suits it.
Final tips
Applying face moisturiser to clean, slightly damp skin always helps improve absorption. Adjusting the texture according to the season, lighter in summer and more nourishing in winter, keeps skin well cared for at all times. And staying consistent, using it every morning and every night, is what really makes a difference to the skin's appearance in the medium term.
