When To Moisturize

Using good moisturizers on a daily basis will help keep your skin healthy, soft, and supple. Learn when to moisturize and how to choose the right moisturizers for your skin type.

When it comes to keeping skin healthy and glowing, one word is key: moisturize! Using the right moisturizers on a daily basis not only prevents dryness by locking moisture into your skin, it’ll also help plump up fine lines and reduce the appearance of wrinkles — and who doesn’t love that? So how do you get the most out of your moisturizer? Simple — just know what type will work best with your skin and the right time to use it.

When to moisturize

On a damp skin – One of the biggest misconceptions about moisturizer is that it “hydrates” the skin, says the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). In reality, moisturizers help the skin retain its own moisture by “locking” moisture in. The best time to slather on your hydrator is when skin is still damp — in other words, within three minutes of your bath, shower, or washing your face.

On dry skin – Stash a travel-sized bottle or tube in your purse so you’re ready to rub in a little moisture anywhere, anytime. And remember, plane travel can be especially dehydrating, so be sure to pack a FAA-allowed bottle of lotion or cream (three ounces or less) in your carry-on bag.

After Morning rinse – Apply your daily moisturizer after your morning rinse-off and before you put on your makeup. Opt for a lighter day formula, preferably one that contains a minimum SPF 15 broad-spectrum sunscreen. (If your moisturizer doesn’t contain sunscreen, it’s a good idea to apply a thin layer over your moisturizer before you put on your makeup.)

Evening time Moisturizing – Once you’ve thoroughly washed away the day’s makeup, dirt, and leftover sunscreen, it’s time to apply a thicker, richer moisturizer, a.k.a. night cream. An eye cream or serum is an added bonus for the thin, sensitive skin around your eyes.

During Summers – Warmer weather calls for lighter moisturizers that allow skin to breathe, especially when you’re perspiring.

During Winters - As the temperature plunges, so does the moisture content in your skin. To the rescue: thicker, more emollient moisturizers that penetrate and protect against outdoor elements and indoor dryness. Cold-weather ingredients to look for: petrolatum, mineral oil, linoleic acid, ceramides, dimethicone, and glycerin.