Choosing the Right Moisturiser for Your Skin Type

If there is one thing all skin needs, it’s moisture. Moisturisers keep skin healthy and hydrated and serve as a protective barrier against harsh weather and environmental conditions. Whether you choose a pharmaceutical brand or a pricier option, moisturising is critical to your daily skincare routine. The right formula can transform your complexion from drab to dewy.

Before selecting a moisturiser, consider women’s five main skin types: Dry, Oily, Mature, Sensitive, and Normal/Combination. If unsure, press a tissue to different areas of your face—forehead, chin, and cheek—to see how much oil the tissue picks up. Of course, a better option is to schedule a consultation and patch test with a trained Mint therapist!

When it comes to product selection, here are some simple rules to follow, along with our top recommendations.

If you have Dry Skin, opt for a heavier cream with hyaluronic acid and glycerin. You could wear a lighter cream during the day and a heavier one at nighttime.

Mint Recommends: Hydra Dew or Dermalogica Intensive Moisture Balance SPF: Alumier Sheer Hydration

If you have Oily Skin, you’re probably prone to acne, so opt for a lightweight, non-comedogenic product with alpha-hydroxy acids to help keep your pores clog-free.

Mint Recommends: Alumier HydraLight or Dermalogica Active Moist. Acne skin – Alumier HydraSmooth 1% salicylic acid. SPFpf for Oily/Sensitive Rosacea Skin – Alumier Clear Shield

If you have Mature Skin, look for products with hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, and Vitamin A derivatives or peptides. They help you hold onto water, plump your dermis, and boost cell turnover.

Mint Recommends: Moisturiser with SPF – Dermalogica AGE Smart Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF50

If you have Sensitive Skin, choose a lightweight, fragrance-free lotion with SPF and organic ingredients like aloe vera and green tea. The fewer the ingredients, the better. More than 10 is too many!

Mint Recommends: Dermalogica UltraCalming Calm Water Gel or Alumier HydraCalm

If you have Combination/Normal Skin, opt for a light to medium-weight, gel-textured formula that’s non-greasy and enriched with salicylic acid and lightweight oils.

Mint Recommends: Hydra Dew or Dermalogica Skin Smoothing Cream 

Six Tips for Achieving Hydrated Skin

Because adding moisture to your skin is the primary process for developing and maintaining a youthful glow, we’ve compiled additional pointers for finding the best-fit moisturiser. Whatever you do, don’t skip reading the labels. The more knowledgeable you become about ingredients, the faster you’ll achieve your ultimate skincare goals.

  • SPF 30 or Higher—Regardless of skin type, we all need sunscreen. You can purchase a moisturiser with SPF or opt to apply separate products. Just don’t skip it!
  • Antioxidants—Moisturisers with green tea, chamomile, pomegranate, or liquorice root extract help neutralise the free radicals that break down skin cells.
  • Fragrance-Free versus Unscented–Fragrance-free options often include essential oils that can contribute to reactions and allergies.
  • Active vs. Inactive Ingredients–Active ingredients, like sunscreen, give the product the power to do more than hydrate.
  • Non-Comedogenic–These products are oil-free and non-clogging. They break down excess oil without stripping moisture.
  • Hypoallergenic–Expect fewer allergic reactions with a hypoallergenic product but check the label for allergic substances.

Next month, we’ll share insights into one of our favourite products and sayings: Life is short, buy the serum.

Until then, keep glowing,

Team Mint