It is time to bust some myths.

Yes, you need to moisturise your skin. Even if you have oily skin. And often times, especially if you have oily skin.

Surprised? Don’t be. Its science. And we are here to convince you of the simple fact that your skin needs, even craves, moisturization.

Why should a moisturizer be included in your skin care routine?

A moisturizer hydrates your skin. This alone means it:

• Prevents dryness of the skin while maintaining its moisture barrier
• Prevents premature ageing of the skin
• Protects your skin from environmental damage
• Soothes sensitive skin
• Helps fight acne

This is true whether your skin is naturally dry or oily to begin with. This is because moisturizing your skin daily not only prevents extreme dryness, but also prevents oiliness. Both of which are harmful, and contribute to skin conditions like acne.

It is natural that we use powerful products on oily, acne-prone skin. But what we may forget is that when the skin has been exposed to harsh washes, medications, and exfoliating serums, it is stripped of its natural oils. This prompts your sebaceous glands to work harder and produce more oil, further exacerbating the oiliness (and the acne).

Applying a light moisturizer helps break this cycle, while at the same time controlling the amount of oil our skin produces.

The right moisturizer can work wonders for your skin. But how do you choose the right one for you?

Here are a few tips:

• Check the ingredients

Certain ingredients work well for oily skin. Others don’t. Checking the ingredients label on the moisturizer can help you avoid the compounds that may aggravate your skin, or those you may be allergic to.

Gel-based moisturizers and lotions are always better for oily skin compared to thicker creams and oil-based moisturizers.

Also look for ingredients such as silicone and hyaluronic acid which are powerful hydrators; along with acne-fighting agents like niacinamide and salicylic acid.

• Does it provide SPF

A moisturizer which provides sun protection? Yes please.

If the label has the words ‘broad spectrum’ and ‘SPF’, its likely to provide some degree of protection to your skin from harmful UV rays; and is therefore a great option to include in your morning skin care regimen.

• Brand

We don’t mean to be particular, but taking care of our body’s largest organ is no minor feat. And we need to make sure the products we use are up to the task.

Therefore, using a skin care brand that is known for its excellent products is a great way to guarantee the best for our skin.

• Expiry Date

Obvious maybe. But it’s always best to check before purchase, especially if you tend to use products sparingly and over a long period of time.

• Personal Standards

The culture we live in ensures that we make informed decisions regarding all our purchases. This includes skin care.

Checking whether the product is labelled as ‘vegan’ or ‘cruelty-free’ allows you to make ethical choices that do not conflict with personal concerns.

What are the best moisturizers for oily, acne-prone skin?

Now that you know what to look for, here’s a peek into our top picks:

• CeraVe Facial Moisturizing Lotion

Oil-free and ultra-lightweight, it is the ideal companion for those with oily skin.

• Cetaphil Oil Control Moisturizer

Perfect for sensitive skin, Cetaphil’s morning moisturizer with SPF 30 soothes and protects.

• La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat Moisturizer

Perfect for oily skin, La Roche- Posay’s moisturizer is effective in reducing the appearance of pores and shine.

• Neutrogena Refreshingly Clear Oil-Free Moisturizer

An incredibly light moisturizer, this product allows skin to breathe without clogging pores.

• Neutrogena Clear & Defend Moisturizer

Specifically, for spot-prone skin, this moisturizer is packed with hydrating and acne-fighting components.

• L’Oréal Paris Hydra Genius Liquid Care

With aloe water and hyaluronic acid, the moisturizer acts as a refreshing serum for all skin types.

• Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel

Another pick from Neutrogena, this oil-free gel is known to be an effective moisturizer that doesn’t feel heavy on the skin.

• Olay Regenerist

Fast-absorbing, light-weight, and anti-ageing, this formula ticks all our boxes.

• Cetaphil Daily Defence Moisturizer

Boasting a SPF 50 rating, this is the ideal daily moisturizer for those with sensitive skin, and for those of us who love the outdoors.

Conclusion

It’s simple really. Your skin needs moisturization. Even if its oily, sensitive, or prone to acne.

Fortunately, the dedicated work of dermatologists and skin care experts ensures that you have no shortage of options when it comes to finding the right products for your skin. And with a little help from us, the perfect moisturizer is only a click away.

For more products and choices, visit essentials.lk to view the incredible range of dermatologist-recommended options available to you!