A Dermal Therapist Reveals the Moisturising Mistakes You Might Be Making
Let’s be honest—moisturising seems easy. Just grab a cream, rub it in, and call it a day, right? But the second you stand in front of a shelf of moisturisers, the confusion hits.
From gels to creams, ointments to lotions, the options feel endless. And if you have sensitive or reactive skin? The stakes suddenly get much higher.
As a Dermal Therapist, I’ve seen firsthand how often people unknowingly misuse their moisturiser—or worse, skip it entirely. Let’s walk through the most common mistakes,
and how to find the right routine for your unique skin.
Why Moisturiser Matters—For Everyone
Moisturising isn’t optional. It’s not just about making your skin feel soft or smooth. A good moisturiser helps prevent water loss and strengthens your skin’s protective barrier.
Even oily or acne-prone skin needs moisturiser. Skipping it can send your sebaceous glands into overdrive, producing more oil to compensate for the lack of hydration.
In other words, every skin type needs moisture—you just have to choose the right formulation.
What Is a Moisturiser, Exactly?
The term “moisturiser” can refer to a range of products—gels, creams, balms, ointments, and even facial oils. Each type works differently based on your skin’s needs and concerns.
What they all share is one key purpose: to hydrate and protect your skin. But they do this in slightly different ways depending on the ingredients and texture.
Understanding how each type functions helps you avoid choosing the wrong one for your skin type.
Different Moisturisers, Different Benefits
Here’s a quick breakdown of the most common moisturiser types and who they’re best for:
1. Gels
Light, water-based, fast-absorbing
Great for oily or acne-prone skin
Often non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores)
2. Creams
Thicker than gels, with a blend of oil and water
Suitable for normal to dry skin
Provide a balance of hydration and barrier support
3. Ointments
Heavy, occlusive, and deeply moisturising
Ideal for very dry, flaky, or compromised skin
May feel greasy but excellent for intense hydration
What to Look for in a Moisturiser
Choosing the right moisturiser means knowing your skin’s current state and concerns. Here’s a guide to the ingredients that can help different skin types:
For Dry or Dehydrated Skin
Look for humectants like:
Hyaluronic acid
Glycerin
These draw water into the skin.
Pair them with occlusives like:
Petrolatum
Lanolin
These help seal moisture in.
For Oily or Acne-Prone Skin
Choose light, non-comedogenic ingredients like:
Clover flower extract (balances oil)
Salicylic acid (mild exfoliation)
Water-based formulas
Avoid heavy oils or waxes that can clog pores.
For Sensitive Skin
Stick with:
Fragrance-free products
Calming agents like green tea, niacinamide, or licorice root
Watch out for alcohols, synthetic dyes, and harsh exfoliants.
For Aging Skin
Look for age-supporting ingredients like:
Antioxidants (vitamin C, E, coenzyme Q10)
Ceramides (support the skin barrier)
Peptides (support collagen production)
Morning vs. Night Moisturiser: Do You Need Both?
Some people swear by using two different moisturisers—one for morning, one for night. Others just stick to one trusty formula. So, what’s actually necessary?
Here’s the truth: it depends on your skin and your lifestyle.
Night creams are usually richer and more hydrating. But unless they contain active ingredients like retinol or peptides, the “night cream” label is often just marketing.
If your skin benefits from extra hydration overnight, go for it. But it’s not essential unless you notice a difference or it fits your routine.
In the morning, moisturisers with SPF 30+ can save you time. They hydrate and protect—ideal if you’re in a rush or want a minimal routine.
The Moisturising Mistakes You Might Be Making
You may already own a decent moisturiser, but if your skin still feels off, these common errors could be the reason:
1. Over-Moisturising
Yes, too much of a good thing can be bad. Applying too many layers or using overly rich products can:
Clog pores, Cause blackheads, Trigger breakouts, Lead to excess oil production
This is especially true for oily or combination skin. Stick with a lightweight option and listen to your skin.
2. Using the Wrong Texture
If you’re breaking out or getting milia (small white bumps), your moisturiser may be too heavy. Milia is often caused by thick creams that don’t absorb properly.
Solution? Switch to a gel or lighter cream. Avoid trying to pop milia—they usually resolve on their own, or can be safely extracted in a clinic.
3. Layering Products Incorrectly
You might be following a 10-step routine, but if you’re not applying things in the right order, your moisturiser won’t work effectively.
General rule: apply from thinnest to thickest texture. Serums go on first, then moisturiser, then SPF (in the morning).
4. Relying on Humectants or Occlusives Alone
Most skin types need both. Hydrating with humectants (which draw water in) without an occlusive (which locks it in) can leave your skin feeling dry again quickly.
Use both if your skin feels tight or dehydrated despite moisturising.
5. Damaging Your Skin Barrier
Overuse of harsh actives—like AHAs, BHAs, or retinoids—can leave your skin vulnerable. If your barrier is damaged, even the best moisturiser won’t help much.
Focus on repair first:
Use barrier creams, Minimize actives, Avoid over-exfoliating
Don’t Forget Lifestyle Plays a Role
Skincare isn’t just about what you put on your face. Diet, hydration, stress, and sleep also affect how your skin retains moisture.
Make sure you’re:
Drinking enough water, Eating skin-friendly foods (like omega-3s and antioxidants), Getting quality sleep, Managing stress
If you’re doing everything “right” but still struggling, it’s worth consulting a dermal therapist or skin specialist.
Quick Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Moisturiser
Apply to damp skin. This helps lock in more moisture.
Use clean hands. Always apply with clean fingers to avoid introducing bacteria.
Don’t skip it. Even oily skin needs daily moisture.
Adjust with the seasons. You might need a richer product in winter and a lighter one in summer.
The Bottom Line
Moisturising might sound simple, but there’s more to it than just slapping on any old cream. Finding the right texture and ingredients for your skin type can make a massive difference.
Still unsure where to start? Talk to a professional. Skincare isn’t one-size-fits-all, and a little expert advice goes a long way.
Your skin works hard for you every day. It deserves the right kind of care—and a well-chosen moisturiser can help keep it soft, balanced, and glowing.
