In this Facially Conscious episode, we tackled one of the most common yet confusing areas of skincare—moisturizers. I'm Trina Renea, your go-to esthetician, joined by my co-hosts, dermatologist Dr. Vicki Rapaport, skincare scientist Rebecca Gadberry, and our savvy consumer Julie Falls. Together, we’re cutting through the noise to bring you actionable insights on how to get the most out of your moisturizer, expose some widely believed myths, and help you achieve healthy, hydrated skin all year round.
Getting the Most Out of Your Moisturizer
Right off the bat, I shared a tip on applying moisturizer to maximize its benefits and longevity. Instead of rubbing moisturizer between your hands, where much of it gets lost between your fingers, try putting it in the palm of your hand and using just two fingertips to dip it into your palm and then spread it on your face. You’ll notice that not only does this prevent wasting the product, but it also allows for a more even application and longer-lasting hydration.
Rebecca and Julie mentioned how we’re often told to “warm up” the product in our palms for better absorption. While warming the product can make it feel soothing, pressing it with your fingertips works just as well.
When Should You Start Using a Moisturizer?
Dr. Vicki emphasized that the right time to start using a moisturizer is determined by your skin’s needs rather than a specific age.
Face vs. Body: Why Different Formulations Matter
Another great question came up: can you use body lotion on your face? The short answer from both Dr. Vicki and Rebecca was no. Body lotions are often heavier and may contain oils and ingredients that, while perfect for hydrating legs and arms, may clog facial pores. Additionally, our skin behaves differently depending on the area, so it’s wise to invest in a dedicated facial moisturizer. While some “all-in-one” products may sound convenient, remember that each skin type and area of your body has unique needs.
One Moisturizer or Multiple?
Should have different moisturizers for day and night? This largely depends on individual skin needs and climate. If you’re in a dry environment or battling a cold winter, a thicker, cream-based night moisturizer may provide that extra hydration while you sleep. In contrast, a lighter, SPF-infused moisturizer is ideal for the daytime. For Julie, it’s all about mood—she changes her moisturizer based on how her skin feels each day, which is a reminder that skin care can be fluid and adaptable to your skin's daily needs.
Rebecca added another layer by explaining the science behind circadian rhythms in skincare. Our skin has its own rhythm: in the morning, it benefits from hydrating and protecting products, while at night, it’s ready for nourishing and restorative ingredients like ceramides, which naturally repair the skin’s barrier as we sleep.
Exposing Moisturizer Myths
We also tackled some persistent myths about moisturizers, such as the idea that oily skin doesn’t need it or that drinking water alone hydrates the skin. As Rebecca pointed out, drinking water is essential for overall health, but it doesn’t directly translate to hydrated skin. Instead, using a proper moisturizer keeps your skin barrier strong and reduces water loss. Dr. Vicki reinforced this by highlighting that well-moisturized skin is less prone to irritation and signs of aging, such as dryness and fine lines.
The Truth About SPF in Moisturizers
One topic that brought out some strong opinions was SPF in moisturizers. While it might seem convenient to combine SPF with a moisturizer, Rebecca stressed that the recommended amount of sunscreen is more than what most of us apply in a moisturizer. For the best protection, it’s better to apply a separate sunscreen on top of your moisturizer—this way, you get the correct level of SPF coverage, especially if you're outdoors.
Specialty Creams for the Eyes and Neck
A question I often get is whether you need separate products for the eyes and neck. I shared that if you have a good moisturizer and maybe a serum, you’re generally fine to use it for the entire face, including around the eyes. However, if you have specific issues like puffiness or dark circles, an eye cream with targeted ingredients can make a difference. Rebecca reminded us that our neck skin is often more sensitive and has fewer sebaceous glands, so it can react differently to products formulated for the face. I agree.
Common Ingredients and Comedogenicity
For those worried about breakouts, Dr. Vicki emphasized the importance of checking for the term “non-comedogenic” on products, meaning they’re less likely to clog pores. Rebecca shared that while many companies label their products this way, it’s wise to do a little research or even contact the company if you’re prone to breakouts. Keeping in mind that other factors—like hormones, diet, and environmental conditions—can also trigger acne is crucial.
The Leaky Skin Concept
In the skincare world, we’re familiar with “leaky gut,” but did you know there’s a similar concept for skin? Dr. Vicki introduced the idea of “leaky skin,” where dry skin with a weakened barrier allows irritants and allergens to penetrate more easily. This is why maintaining a well-moisturized skin barrier is so important—it helps keep the “good” in and the “bad” out, protecting your overall skin health.
Wrapping It Up with a Call to Moisturize
As we wrapped up, we couldn’t emphasize enough that finding a moisturizer routine that works for your unique skin needs is key. From choosing the right texture to applying it properly, there’s so much more to this staple product than most people realize. Our best advice? Stay flexible with your routine and let your skin’s needs guide your choices, whether you’re braving a dry winter or just trying to keep things simple with SPF.
