Moisturisers are a cornerstone of nearly every skincare routine, but their role is often underestimated or misunderstood. While they may seem simple — a cream or lotion applied after cleansing — the science behind moisturisers and the benefits they bring are surprisingly complex and crucial to maintaining skin health.
Whether you’re battling dry patches, sensitivity, premature ageing, or simply want a smoother, more radiant complexion, the right moisturiser can make all the difference.
What Is a Moisturiser?
At its most basic, a moisturiser is a topical product designed to increase and retain the skin’s moisture levels. But modern moisturisers are far more sophisticated than just “hydrating creams.” They combine humectants (which draw water into the skin), emollients (which soften and smooth), and occlusives (which prevent water loss).
In other words, they don’t just add moisture — they help your skin hold onto it, repair the barrier, and restore balance. Many are also infused with vitamins, peptides, antioxidants, and SPF for added skin support.
How Do Moisturisers Work?
To understand how moisturisers work, we first need to understand the structure of the skin — specifically the stratum corneum, the outermost layer of the epidermis. This layer acts like a wall of bricks and mortar: skin cells (the bricks) are held together by lipids (the mortar). When this wall becomes damaged — due to environmental stress, age, harsh products, or dehydration — water escapes more easily and irritants can enter.
A good moisturiser helps restore this wall by:
- Replenishing moisture with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin (humectants).
- Softening the skin with emollients like squalane, ceramides or shea butter.
- Creating a protective seal to prevent further water loss with occlusive agents like silicones or oils.
Some moisturisers are formulated to absorb quickly and leave a matte finish — ideal for oily skin — while others are richer and more nourishing, suited for dry or mature skin types.
Why Moisturisers Are Essential
Even if your skin isn’t dry, using a moisturiser regularly is beneficial for nearly every skin type. Here’s why:
1. Hydration = Healthier Skin
Proper hydration helps maintain your skin’s elasticity, smoothness, and barrier function. Dehydrated skin can become dull, flaky, and more prone to inflammation or premature lines.
2. Supports the Skin Barrier
Your skin’s barrier is essential in keeping out bacteria, pollutants, and allergens. When it’s compromised, skin becomes more sensitive and prone to redness, dryness, and breakouts. Moisturisers support this barrier by replenishing lipids and locking in moisture.
3. Helps With Skin Conditions
For those with eczema, rosacea, or psoriasis, moisturisers aren’t just beneficial — they’re critical. They soothe irritation, reduce inflammation, and help manage flare-ups.
4. Reduces the Signs of Ageing
Well-hydrated skin appears plumper, smoother, and more radiant. Moisturisers with ingredients like peptides, antioxidants, or retinoids can reduce the appearance of fine lines and promote firmness over time.
5. Improves Makeup Application
A properly moisturised face provides a smoother base for makeup, preventing patchiness and enhancing finish. Without it, foundation can cling to dry patches or fine lines.
6. Balances Oil Production
It may seem counterintuitive, but even oily skin needs moisturising. Skipping moisturiser can trigger your skin to produce even more oil to compensate, leading to congestion and shine. Lightweight, oil-free options help regulate sebum without clogging pores.
Choosing the Right Moisturiser for Your Skin Type
Just as skin types vary, so too should your moisturiser. Here’s a quick guide:
- Dry or Mature Skin: Look for rich creams with ceramides, shea butter, or hyaluronic acid. These restore lipids and provide intense hydration.
- Oily or Acne-Prone Skin: Gel-based or oil-free moisturisers work best. Look for non-comedogenic formulas with niacinamide or salicylic acid.
- Sensitive Skin: Choose fragrance-free, hypoallergenic products with soothing ingredients like oat, aloe vera or allantoin.
- Combination Skin: Balancing moisturisers that hydrate without heaviness are ideal. Lightweight lotions or gels that offer hydration and barrier support are often the sweet spot.
When and How to Apply Moisturiser
For best results, moisturiser should be applied twice a day — morning and night — to clean skin. The best time to apply is while the skin is still slightly damp, to help trap in moisture.
Use gentle, upward strokes and don’t forget your neck and décolletage, as they too are prone to ageing and dryness.
At night, richer moisturisers or overnight masks can deeply nourish and repair, while daytime moisturisers with SPF add protection from UV damage.
Moisturisers and the Seasons
Your skin’s needs change throughout the year. In winter, low humidity and central heating often demand a richer moisturiser to combat dryness and irritation. In summer, you might prefer a lighter texture that still hydrates but doesn’t feel heavy in the heat.
It’s entirely normal (and wise) to have a few moisturisers in rotation depending on the season, your current skin condition, or treatment products in your routine.
Conclusion
Moisturisers are not just a finishing touch – they’re a vital part of skincare that support the health, resilience, and appearance of your skin. Whether you’re dealing with dryness, dullness, or simply want to maintain youthful-looking skin, the right moisturiser is your best friend.
Used daily, they create a foundation for everything else in your routine to work more effectively – and they help your skin withstand whatever the day throws at it.