Moisturizer is an essential part of any skin care routine, regardless of skin type. While many believe those with acne or oily skin should avoid moisturizer at all costs, this is simply untrue. Moisturizer can have an extremely positive effect on any skin type, especially if you have never used moisturizer before.

Skin cells contain water. This allows skin to stay hydrated and supple. When skin is dehydrated, lines and creases appear deeper. Skin may become flaky or have a “cardboard” texture to the touch. In addition, the dry skin cells that flake away from skin may clog pores, causing blemishes, breakouts, blackheads, and whiteheads.

Moisturizers are intended to create a hydrating layer on top of skin that not only adds moisturize, but also helps skin hold onto its own natural moisture. This is important because skin naturally dries out if not treated with a moisturizer. Think of a glass of water left out on a windowsill: The water eventually evaporates. Your skin acts the same way. In addition, your body is continually ridding itself of excess water via urine, so if moisture is not replenished both internally and externally, skin cells will continue to dry out.

This natural drying out is especially prominent with age. As cell walls become weaker with age, skin cells have a harder time holding onto water. Many believe this is one of the main reasons wrinkles form. So if you are over age 35, it is especially important you use a hydrating moisturizer on a daily basis.

However, even if you are younger, a moisturizer is important. Contrary to popular believe, moisturizer may actually help certain people get fewer breakouts, as flaking is reduced. When skin is moisturized, it also has less need to produce its own oils, meaning that moisturizer may paradoxically help oily skin types become less oily throughout the day.

If you have an oily or combination skin type, simply choose a light, oil-free moisturizer formula so you are helping the problem and not adding to it. Normal skin types may experiment with lighter and thicker products. Dry skin types should use a heavier cream. Very dry skin types may consider a facial oil, balm, butters, or some combination of very hydrating moisturizers. Acne-prone skin types will want to ensure their chosen moisturizer is non-comedogenic, meaning it does not contain ingredients known to cause acne or clog pores.

Most importantly, mature skin types such as those over age 45 should look for moisturizers with high antioxidant content from natural extracts, like from plants, flowers, and fruits. This can help combat the environmental daily damage that contributes to aging, such as wrinkles and dark spots. It is wise at any age to include an SPF in your routine to combat sun damage. While some prefer a moisturizer that contains SPF, others prefer to use a moisturizer that does not contain SPF, and instead apply a strong sunscreen separately. Some sunscreens contain antioxidants as well as SPF ingredients, which is a good choice for someone looking to combat the signs of aging.

Whatever moisturizer you choose, be sure your routine is working for you. If your skin continues to feel too oily or dry, try applying different times of day, different frequencies, or try layering products differently. Everyone’s skin is unique, and will respond differently to different routines. Do what works for you!