Are You Wearing the Wrong Moisturizer for Your Skin Type?

If You Have Oily Skin…
You should “use moisturizers that aren’t heavy and are water-based,” says Cameron Rokshar M.D., a dermatologist and associate professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York. And stay away from creams, which weigh heavier on your skin. Cetaphil’s facial moisturizers are a safe bet—and the brand even makes one especially for oily skin: Cetaphil Oil Control Moisturizer ($19, ulta.com). Idriss also likes Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Oil-Free Lotion ($27, kiehls.com) and La Roche Posay Effaclar Mat Daily Moisturizer ($32, ulta.com).

If You Have Combination Skin…
Combo skin can be difficult to deal with—you could potentially need two different moisturizers depending on how oily your T-zone is compared with the rest of your face. If things are too off balance, you may also want to see a dermatologist, says Rokshar. Three good all-over options that help balance the skin: Neutrogena Naturals Multi-Vitamin Nourishing Moisturizer ($11, drugstore.com), Mario Badaescu AHA Ceramide Moisturizer ($20, mariobadescu.com), and Tata Harper Rebuilding Moisturizer ($100, tataharper.com).

If You Have Sensitive Skin…
If your skin is sensitive and prone to rosacea or other conditions, avoid products that contain retinol or acids. Instead, look for ones with niacinamide, which can calm skin. CeraVe Facial Moisturizing Lotion ($14, ulta.com) is a good one to try. And go for anything with a sensitive skin label, like Neutrogena Oil-Free Moisture Sensitive Skin ($10, drugstore.com). Another option is RosehipPLUS Organic Rosehip Hydrating Day Cream ($22, available from our e-tailer, Rodale’s, shop.womenshealthmag.com), which contains rosehip seed extract to soothe inflammation.

If You Have Aging Skin…
“Unfortunately, the thing about aging products is that people make a lot of claims without any science,” says Rokshar. And a lack of regulation for beauty products means they don’t all live up to their miraculous expectations. But some scientifically proven ingredients, like Retin-A, or in over-the-counter form, retinol, as well as fruit acids, are out there. Keep in mind that aging skin may also require a thicker moisturizer. “Our skin naturally gets more dry with age,” says Kenkare. Try RoC Deep Wrinkle Night Cream ($25, ulta.com) or ask your derm about starting Renova, a prescription anti-aging cream.

If you’re still not ready to brave the moisturizer aisle or you have specific skin concerns, don’t be scared to give your derm a call—she should be able to help you tailor your skin-care routine to your specific needs.