Truth: There are several types of moisturizers you can choose from, according to your skin's needs. Humectants, such as glycerin and lactic acid, attract water and help skin retain moisture. Emollients, such as fatty acids and ceramides, soften and soothe. Occlusives (known as “barrier creams”), such as petrolatum, dimethicone or lanolin, leave a film on the surface of the skin and seal in moisture.
Most products contain a combination of humectants, emollients and occlusives, so it’s easiest to choose a moisturizer based on your skin type—there are formulas for oily or acne-prone skin (look for “oil-free” and “non-comedogenic” on the label); sensitive skin; and dry or mature skin.
You’ll also notice that moisturizers have different textures. (Occlusives tend to be the heaviest of the bunch.) “Lotions are light, and creams are a little more substantial,” explains Lupin. “For anyone with dry or extra-dry skin, you want something that has more substance—it’s better to use a cream, which tends to protect skin better than lotion.”
Skin tends to be drier in colder months, so use a cream in fall and winter, and switch to a lotion for warmer weather.
2. Myth: You need different moisturizers for different body parts.
Fact: Actually, this one is true. Lupin explains that while many moisturizers can be used on most of your body, you should invest in a couple of specialty creams, including a facial product. “The face is more prone to acne than the body, it’s going to have more sun damage, and eventually it could be an extra-dry area.”
He adds that your eyelids need a separate product. “Moisturizers for skin are not intended to be in the eye, and it’s easy to get it accidentally in the eye.”
And don’t forget about your extremities. “For people who have dry, cracked hands and feet, sometimes it’s worth having a special cream for those areas,” says Lupin.
3. Myth: Your skin can become too dependent on moisturizer.
Truth: Some people believe that using lots of moisturizer can increase your skin’s need for the product. “Not at all,” says Lupin. “Our skin cannot become dependent on a moisturizer. If you think your skin is dry, moisturizer is the best thing you can do for it.”
Wind, cold temperatures and heated houses in the winter can all dehydrate the skin, which can cause eczema to flare up and make the skin itchy and dry. “Prevention of this dryness by moisturizing is the single most important factor in protecting the skin from the elements,” says Lupin.