Why So Many Skincare Products on the Market and Which One Should You Buy?
This is one of the most common questions I got and honestly, I feel you. With serums, face oils, daily creams and more, it’s overwhelming. Which one actually benefits YOUR skin? Let’s step back, look at the main types and break down their compositions. This will help you decide what to buy, how careful to be when shopping, and whether it's worth the price.
The Hydration Family
Skincare products are usually layered from thinnest to thickest (most watery to most occlusive) so each can absorb properly without blocking the next. Here's how they stack up:
These are general guidelines, always patch test new products and adjust based on your skin's response. In NZ and Australia, don't forget broad-spectrum SPF daily (our UV is intense!), even on cloudy days.
Application Tips & Routine Integration
How do you choose? Match to your skin type and our climate:
- Acne-prone, oily, or younger skin: Focus on water-based products (like lotions or gels). Choose non-comedogenic (won't clog pores) and avoid heavy oils.
- Normal skin (no flaking/tightness): You might get away with just a few drops of face oil for nourishment and softness, lucky you! :)
- Dry, flaky, or compromised barrier skin: Hydrate first (serum or humectant-rich layer), then lock it in with stronger occlusives (cream + oil or balm). This is key in drier winters or windy coastal areas.
- Mature skin (usually 50+): Target smoothing with serums, oils, and balms. Always finish with a richer layer (cream, oil, or balm) to seal everything in.
Pro tips: Apply emollients/occlusives on damp skin for better absorption, use a pea-sized amount, layer lightly, and don't forget your neck and décolletage. In humid summers, keep it light; in cooler months, go richer.
Common Myths & FAQs
- "Oily skin doesn't need moisturizer" → Myth! Oily skin often overproduces sebum to compensate for dehydration. A gentle, lightweight moisturizer helps balance it and prevents more oil buildup.
- "More expensive = better" → Not always. Focus on ingredients (e.g., effective humectants like hyaluronic acid) over price. A simple, single-oil product can outperform a fancy blend if it suits your skin.
- "Can I use body lotion on my face?" → Usually no—body lotions are thicker, often fragranced, and lack face-specific actives, which can irritate facial skin.
- Other FAQs: Can I use day cream at night (or vice versa)? Many brands make lighter formulas for day (less greasy under makeup/SPF) and richer ones for night (when skin repairs). Some actives like retinol are light-sensitive, so they're best PM.
The End Isn't Here Yet!
Skincare is a huge topic with ongoing research and innovations. But your skin is unique, only it will tell you what truly works. The "best" product is the one your skin loves. Start simple, listen to it, and build from there.
Stay tuned for upcoming posts where I'll dive deep into individual product types.
What's your go-to moisturizer texture? Drop it in the comments below!