Part 1 Continued, Back to Basics: Cleansers & Moisturizers for Healthy, Balanced Skin
Now that we’ve mastered cleansers and you’ve learned more than you ever thought you could about that simple, yet crucial step in your skin care routine we’re diving into moisturizers!
MOISTURIZERS 101: HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST ONE FOR YOUR SKIN TYPE
Now that we’ve covered cleansing, let’s talk about the other non-negotiable step in your skincare routine: moisturizing.No matter your skin type, yes, you need a moisturizer. Let’s break down why, what to look for, and how to pick the best one for your skin.
Why Do You Need a Moisturizer?
Your skin naturally loses water throughout the day, and without proper hydration, your barrier weakens—leading to dryness, irritation, and even more oil production (yes, even oily skin can get dehydrated!).
A good moisturizer does two key things:
✔ Locks in hydration to keep skin balanced and healthy.
✔ Supports your skin barrier, preventing sensitivity and inflammation.
Skipping moisturizer can lead to redness, flaking, excess oil production, and breakouts—all things we want to avoid!
What Makes a Good Moisturizer?
A great moisturizer isn’t just about hydration—it reinforces your skin’s barrier, which protects against dryness, irritation, and environmental stressors. Your skin barrier is made up of a precise ratio of lipids:
💛 3 parts ceramides (strengthen & protect) – e.g., ceramide NP, ceramide AP, ceramide EOP
💛 1 part fatty acids (nourish & soften) – e.g., linoleic acid, oleic acid, stearic acid
💛 1 part cholesterol (maintains balance & flexibility) – Look for cholesterol or phytosterols in ingredient lists
When a moisturizer aims to restore this 3:1:1 golden ratio, it helps maintain a healthy, resilient skin barrier—which is key to hydrated, calm, and balanced skin. This is also why I don’t advise using ingredients from your kitchen like coconut or olive oil as a moisturizer. They don’t have the correct ratio and over time lead to a impaired barrier function.
PRO TIP: Epionce Moisturizers are formulated with this ratio in mind which is why we love them!
Choosing a Moisturizer for Your Skin Type
For Dry, Sensitive, or Acne-Prone Skin
✔ Look for barrier-repairing ingredients like ceramides, squalane, and peptides.
✔ Avoid fragrance, alcohol, or harsh actives that can trigger sensitivity.
✔ If acne-prone, opt for non-comedogenic formulas that hydrate without clogging pores.
🔗 Best Picks for Dry/Sensitive/Acne-Prone Skin:
For Normal or Combination Skin
✔ A lightweight, non-greasy formula with both hydration (humectants) and nourishment (emollients).
✔ Look for niacinamide (calms redness & regulates oil) and antioxidants (protect skin).
✔ Adjust seasonally—lighter in summer, richer in winter.
🔗 Best Picks for Normal/Combo Skin: [Insert Links]
For Oily or Acne-Prone Skin
✔ Choose a gel-based, oil-free moisturizer with lightweight hydration.
✔ Look for niacinamide and hyaluronic acid to hydrate without heaviness.
✔ Skip thick creams and heavy occlusives (they can trap oil and cause congestion).
🔗 Best Picks for Oily/Acne-Prone Skin:
Moisturizer Myths, Hot Takes & Pro Tips
🔥 Even Oily Skin Needs Moisturizer
Many people with oily skin skip moisturizer thinking it will make them less greasy. Wrong. When your skin lacks moisture, it overproduces oil to compensate. The key is using the correct lightweight formula.
🔥 Dry Skin Needs a Separate Moisturizer apart from their SPF.
Moisturizer-SPF combos aren’t hydrating enough—there’s simply not enough room to formulate an SPF that is hydrating enough with adequate sun protection. We recommend layering an appropriate moisturizer underneath your sunscreen in the morning.
🔥 Look for These Underrated Ingredients
Panthenol – Soothes irritation and strengthens the barrier.
Glycerin – Suitable for all skin types. Attracts and retains moisturizer in the skin’s outer layers.
Centella Asiatica – Calms redness and supports healing.
Urea – Gently exfoliates while hydrating (great for rough, dry skin).
Final Thoughts: Keep It Simple, But Get It Right
Your cleanser and moisturizer are the foundation of your skincare routine. Choose wisely, keep it consistent, and your skin will thank you.
🔗 Shop Our Top THREE Moisturizers:
We’ve Covered the Foundation Layer of our Custom Skin Care Regimen Pyramid Built. Now, we’re on to SPF & Antioxidants!
🔗 Missed the Cleansing Guide? Read It Here.