Trust us when we say that we have lathered on luxurious – and highly raved about – creams and serums only to find the results dissatisfying. But here’s the deal: no matter how expensive or raved about the product is, it may not actually be working for you because ultimately, it might not even be suitable for your skin depending if you have oily skin, dry skin or a combination skin type. Thus, it is crucial to know and understand your skin type in order to pick out the right products that best suits your needs.
If you are unsure of your skin type, it is advisable to seek professional guidance (read: you could visit a medi-spa or get insights from your very own facial therapist or dermatologist) to get a proper skin analysis so you are certain if your skin is considered a dry, combination skin or oily skin. Alternatively, you can always tell by feeling the condition of your skin. If it feels taut and dry, your skin is most probably dehydrated but if your T-zone tends to get oily past midday, you probably have combination or oily skin.
Choosing the right moisturiser for your skin type
Now once you have gotten your skin type locked down, it is time to choose the right products that will treat, nourish and better your skin condition. Because the one-step you should never skip out on (apart from cleansing) is hydrating; a hydrated complexion is plump (read: fine lines and wrinkles are smoothened out), feels supple, soft and appears more youthful-looking. More importantly, it is the largest organ our body has and it requires an adequate amount of hydration to perform at its best.
Moisturisers for all skin types and Combination Skin
As for those with combination or skin types, we usually opt for products that are fast-absorbing and feel weightless.
Some products we love that are suitable for all skin types actually come from SK-II’s R.N.A Power line.
SK-II R.N.A Power Radical New Age
The SK-II R.N.A Power Radical New Age (RNA Cream) is said to be the brand’s best-selling anti-ageing cream thanks to its velvety texture and nourishing ingredients that restore skin’s suppleness and improves elasticity. Its key ingredient RNArchitect Complex is made up of hydrolysed soy and yeast extracts to lock in moisture for plumper, firmer skin.
SK-II R.N.A Power Airy Milky Lotion
If you prefer something that is more lightweight, opt for the SK-II R.N.A Power Airy Milky Lotion. As its name suggests, this features an airy and weightless texture that feels fresh and comfortable on the skin while not compromising on the benefits. It is also powered by SK-II’s signature ingredient, PITERA™, but difference relies in that this formula has a high molecular polymer structure that reportedly delivers long-lasting moisture with minimal oil residue, making it perfect for foundation to sit on.
Moisturisers for oily skin
Having an oilier skin type does not mean it is more hydrated than drier complexions. In fact, an oily complexion could actually be dehydrated, which is why it is so important to apply the right skincare. While it may seem counterintuitive, dehydrated skin sends signals to the glands to produce more oil as a defence mechanism. Note that dehydrated skin could also be triggered by external factors such as a change in weather, diet, environment and even caffeine.
Those with oily skin should avoid rich creams and opt for gel-based ones like:
Re:Erth’s Hydrating Gel Moisturiser
Image: reerth.com
This oil-free gel hydrator features ingredients like Glycoproteins and Tumeric Root Extract, which work to protect skin cells from free radical particles while keeping it firm and moisturised. The best thing is – it does not leave your skin feeling “sticky” after application, which is perfect for the humid Singapore weather.
Clinique’s Dramatically Different Hydrating Jelly
Image: Clinique.com
Promising protection from pollution in the air around us alongside the benefits of hydration, Clinique’s Hydrating Jelly is another lightweight moisturiser on our list. Its unique water-jelly texture is cool upon first contact and gives you that dewy glow after application
Other recommended products include La Roche Posay Effaclar Mat Face Moisturizer, Dr. Jart’s Water Fuse Ultimate Hydro Gel and Dermalogica’s Calm Water Gel for Oily Skin. All of these creams absorb into the skin a lot quicker, some even boast anti-sebum clinical efficacy and noncomedogenic properties so they do not feel too heavy or greasy but still ensures that skin gets sufficient moisture.
Moisturisers for dry skin
Those with drier complexions may tend to gravitate towards products that have heavier and creamier textures. So if you have dry skin, we recommend you pick products that are made with hydrating ingredients like vitamin E, argan oil and hyaluronic acid, which are also free of drying alcohols and silicones to replenish and restore skin’s moisture levels so that it can regain its plumpness and softness.
Tatcha’s Luminous Dewy Skin Night Concentrate
Image: Tacha.com
Described as your “beauty sleep in a jar”, Tatcha’s Luminous Dewy Skin Night Concentrate is ultra-hydrating with ingredients such as Okinawa Red Algae and Squalene, which help to retain the skin’s moisture barrier, keeping it hydrated all night long.
Drunk Elephant’s Lala Retro Whipped Cream
Image: drunkelephant.com
The all-purpose moisturiser cream from cult-favourite Drunk Elephant features six rare African oils boosting quenching and nourishing qualities whipped into one. This cream is the perfect balance of luxuriously rich yet quick to absorb into the skin. It finishes without feeling too heavy, leaving the skin looking replenished and supple.
Examples of other moisturizers for dry skin include Kenzoki’s Cosmic Night Cream, IDS Skincare’s Ultra Repair Moisturiser and Dr Jart+’s Ceramidin Cream.
With a huge variety of different products, it really does not matter what skin type you are, there will always be a moisturiser that meets your needs allowing you to achieve a clear, glowing and plump complexion. Now, who does not want that?
This article was done in collaboration with SK-II. All opinions are our own.
