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The best moisturiser brand goes to Sukin, thanks to its great texture, scent and value for money. It also rated highly for ease of application.
The range of moisturisers on the market today, and the benefits they claim to offer, can be overwhelming.
Generally speaking, moisturisers come in three main varieties:
But you'll also see products designed for people with:
So, how do you decide which product is right for you? The first step is to work out what skin type you have. For example, people with oily skin can benefit from water-based lotions, while dry skin often responds well to heavier creams that lock in moisture.
Next, you can consider any specific skin concerns you want to address. For example, if you've got sensitive skin, you may want to consider a fragrance- and paraben-free moisturiser specifically designed for easily irritated skin.
Once you've narrowed down your options, you can then start sampling products to find out how they feel on your skin.
The beauty industry is notorious for products that make big claims that aren't backed by science. So don't get sucked in by slick marketing or Instagram hype. Instead, shop around to compare the key features of a range of moisturisers and work out whether they're right for your skin. The factors you should consider when comparing your options include:
Different types of moisturisers work better on different skin types. Work out what type of skin you have and then compare suitable products.
You can also shop for products designed to address specific issues, such as wrinkles. However, remember to take those marketing claims on the packaging with a grain of salt.
It's also worth pointing out that some products may have multiple uses. Retinol, for example, is a common ingredient in anti-ageing moisturisers, but it's also useful for treating acne.
Moisturiser prices vary greatly, ranging from $2.75 tubs of petroleum jelly through to big-name brand creams and lotions that cost several-hundred dollars per 100ml. However, paying extra doesn't necessarily mean that you'll be buying a better product — it all comes down to finding a moisturiser that works for your skin.
If you'll be spending any time in the sun, look for a moisturiser that includes sunscreen. In Australia, moisturisers with an SPF of more than 15 are regulated by the TGA. However, according to the Cancer Council, many cosmetics aren't water-resistant, so they may not provide the necessary protection if you're swimming or sweating.
If you're concerned about what is actually in your moisturiser, check the first five ingredients listed on the label. Ingredients are listed in descending order, so look for items that help keep skin hydrated to feature high on the list.
The way a moisturiser smells may not affect how it performs, but it will influence how you feel. Remember to do a quick sniff test before you buy to make sure you like the fragrance.
To keep your skin looking its best, it's important to moisturise your face at the right time. The best time to apply moisturiser is when your skin is damp, so this will typically be after you hop out of the bath or shower. This seals in the moisture and ensures that your skin stays hydrated.
Sticking to a consistent routine also helps. Instead of applying cream sporadically, or constantly chopping and changing between different products, making moisturising part of your daily skincare routine should help improve overall skin health.
There are a few other factors you should consider when choosing moisturiser:
Check out our list of the best moisturisers in Australia
Overall rating | Value for money | Texture | Scent | Ease of application | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Aesop | 4 | 4 | 4.25 | 4 | 4.58 |
Aveeno | 4.52 | 4.16 | 4.4 | 4.16 | 4.6 |
Clinique | 4.43 | 3.92 | 4.46 | 4.24 | 4.54 |
Dermalogica | 4.5 | 3.95 | 4.4 | 3.9 | 4.5 |
Kiehl's | 4.6 | 4 | 4.4 | 4 | 4.8 |
Moogoo | 4.32 | 4 | 4.32 | 4.05 | 4.63 |
Neutrogena | 4.41 | 4.25 | 4.47 | 4.27 | 4.59 |
Nivea | 4.31 | 4.27 | 4.41 | 4.16 | 4.53 |
Olay | 4.33 | 4.2 | 4.31 | 4.1 | 4.47 |
QV | 4.54 | 4.16 | 4.38 | 3.86 | 4.62 |
Redwin | 4.24 | 4.42 | 4.24 | 3.88 | 4.4 |
Sukin | 4.45 | 4.43 | 4.47 | 4.33 | 4.65 |
Vaseline | 4.34 | 4.36 | 4.18 | 4.16 | 4.46 |
Other | 4.51 | 4.22 | 4.59 | 4.14 | 4.65 |
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