Which moisturizer is best for you?

On the most basic level, moisturizers hold water in the outer layer of skin. Most moisturizers are water-based lotions, creams, gels and serums. They contain ingredients that draw water into the skin (humectants) — such as glycerin, lactic acid or urea — and others that smooth the skin (emollients) — such as lanolin, sunflower oil and jojoba oil.

You might want to try various moisturizers to find those that suit you. You may decide to use a cream for the eyes and neck and a lotion, which is easier to spread, for the rest of the body. You may also want to choose moisturizers that are easy to apply and leave no visible residue.

The moisturizers that are best for you depend on many factors, including your skin type, your age and whether you have specific conditions, such as acne. Consider the following:

• Normal skin. Normal skin is neither too dry nor too oily. To maintain this natural moisture balance, use a water-based moisturizer that has a light, nongreasy feel. These moisturizers often contain lightweight oils or silicone-derived ingredients, such as cyclomethicone.

• Dry skin. Dry skin tends to be flaky, itchy or rough. To restore moisture to dry skin, choose a heavier, oil-based moisturizer that contains ingredients that help retain water. If you have tried moisturizers but still feel dry — especially on the lower legs, feet, arms and hands — look for one that has lactic acid or lactic acid and urea in it.

  For very dry and cracked skin, look for ointments with petroleum jelly (Vaseline, Aquaphor). They have more staying power than lotions do and are more effective at reducing water loss from the skin. If this type of product is too greasy for daytime use, apply it at bedtime.

• Oily skin. Oily skin is shiny, greasy and prone to acne and breakouts. Such skin still needs moisture, especially after using skin care products that remove oils and dry the skin. A light moisturizer can also help protect your skin after washing.

  Lotions generally contain a higher percentage of water than creams do, are easier to apply and are less likely to aggravate acne-prone skin. Choose a lightweight, water-based product that's labeled oil-free or noncomedogenic, which means it won't clog pores. If you are acne-prone, avoid using products on your face that contain petroleum jelly, cocoa butter or coconut oil. If your skin is very oily, try using a sunscreen instead of a moisturizer.

• Combination skin. Combination skin has areas that are dry and oily. For example, the forehead, nose or chin might be oily, but the cheeks are dry. Try a medium-weight lotion with broad-spectrum sunscreen. Or use a light moisturizer on your face and a heavier one for your arms and legs.
• Sensitive skin. Sensitive skin is susceptible to irritation, redness, itching or rashes. Look for a moisturizer that contains soothing ingredients, such as chamomile or aloe. Choose mild products labeled as hypoallergenic, fragrance-free and for sensitive skin. Note that products labeled unscented may still irritate your skin, as they may contain masking fragrances. Also avoid products containing acids, which can irritate sensitive skin.

• Mature skin. As you age, your skin tends to become thinner, drier, less elastic and less able to protect itself from damage. To keep your skin soft and well hydrated, choose an oil-based moisturizer that contains petroleum jelly, which helps hold in moisture. Moisturizing can make fine lines and wrinkles less visible.

  To prevent flaky, scaly skin, you might choose products that also include antioxidants or alpha hydroxy acid. Moisturizers often form the basis for wrinkle creams, with added retinoids, antioxidants, peptides or other ingredients.