Dryness is the Enemy—Fight it With These 5 Moisturizers

Why you still need a moisturizer

Ah, the moisturizer. It’s one of those products whose function and benefits are already apparent in its name (as compared to, say, a serum). 

It’s a no-brainer: it keeps your skin moist by locking in moisture. And since dry skin is the enemy, moisturizers should then be a non-negotiable in your routine, right?

For some, not exactly. Especially in hot and humid Southeast Asia, some skip this step because their skin is already oily to begin with, and our natural oils already keep hydration locked in.

Another protective layer would just make our faces quite sticky; hence, some moisturizers claim to be ‘lighter’ in texture, working well even for those with oily skin. 

So what’s the lesson here? As always, know your skin type first before grabbing that bottle of moisturizer from the shelf, because they’re surely not created equal. There are moisturizers that do much more.

From reducing the appearance of fine lines to making your skin look bright and healthy, the following VMAN SEA-approved recommendations should earn a spot in your routine.

1. Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion+™

Hydration need not be a sticky situation

Texture is the selling point of the Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion+™. It’s silky to the touch and fast-absorbing, so it won’t leave an icky feeling on your face. 

Good news for those with sensitive skin: it’s fragrance-free and allergy-tested, so you’ll enjoy its hydrating properties all day without any fuss. Best applied twice a day, depending on your skin type.

2. Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream 50 ML

Lightweight feel, heavyweight benefits

A peptide, in a nutshell: think of it as a substance that tells your skin to produce more proteins that can strengthen it further. This moisturizer from Protini is packed with those good guys. 

This lightweight gel-cream makes your skin bouncy, reducing the appearance of texture, fine lines, wrinkles, and sun damage. It’s also free from essential oils, alcohol, and other additives that may irritate the skin.

3. Embryolisse Hydra Cream

Vitamins for the skin

Yes, vitamins can be applied on your skin, too.

A daily dose of Embryolisse’s energizing Hydra Cream gives you vitamin E and orange extract, which brightens you up, firms up your skin, and leaves your face feeling refreshed. Promising immediate hydration, it’s best for normal to dry skin.

4. La Mer The Moisturizing Soft Cream

For hydration that’s also a pampering session

Applying moisturizer can also be an indulgent moment. If that’s your idea of self-care, La Mer’s The Moisturizing Soft Cream is your best friend. 

It renews your skin barrier to strengthen and protect your face from environmental stressors, on top of reducing the appearance of fine lines. Ideal for combination (dry-oily) to dry skin, The Moisturizing Soft Cream is lightweight and soft in texture.

5. Nature Republic Soothing & Moisture Aloe Vera 92% Soothing Gel

Mild yet multi-functional

Perhaps the mildest and a wildcard among the creams in this list, aloe vera gels are mostly used as herbal remedies for many skin conditions, such as sunburns or small abrasions. It’s also a popular product for immediate cooling and hydration.

However, it’s a solid choice for those who have really sensitive skin. You can be as liberal with applying it on your face, arms, legs, and even hair.

Photos courtesy Clinique, Drunk Elephant, Embryolisse, La Mer, Nature Republic