Moisturizer 101: What Makes a Good One and How to Pick Yours

Welcome to Skin Insights by YSBB.

One of the most common skincare questions we get at YSBB Skin Clinic is:
“What makes a good moisturizer?”

With so many options on the market — from budget brands to luxury creams — it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
In this guide, we’ll help you understand what to look for in a moisturizer based on ingredients and your skin type.

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First, What Does a Moisturizer Actually Do?

- Creates a protective layer to prevent moisture loss
- Supports the skin barrier with essential lipids
- Draws water into the skin for lasting hydration

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Key Ingredients to Look For

1. Humectants – Draw moisture into the skin
Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid, Propylene Glycol, Panthenol

2. Barrier Restorers – Repair the skin’s natural defense
Ceramides, Cholesterol, Fatty Acids

3. Occlusives – Seal moisture inside the skin
Shea Butter, Mineral Oil, Vaseline, Plant Oils

The best moisturizers contain all three types in balanced ratios.

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Choosing by Skin Type

- Oily Skin: Choose gel-based, lightweight, water-focused products
- Dry Skin: Go for rich creams or balm-type formulas with strong hydration
- Sensitive Skin: Look for fragrance-free, dye-free, and alcohol-free formulas
- Atopic or Eczema-prone Skin: Use barrier-repair creams with high ceramide content

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Dermatologist Advice We Always Share

- Price is less important than ingredients and how well it suits your skin
- Consistency matters: apply generously, regularly, and early — ideally within 3 minutes after washing
- Twice a day is ideal — morning and evening
- Full-body application isn’t necessary unless your skin is very dry — just target areas that feel tight or flaky

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Final Thoughts

The best moisturizer isn’t about brand hype — it’s about whether it fits your skin’s needs and whether you’ll use it often enough.

Medical-grade moisturizers usually contain all three types of essential ingredients.
With the right knowledge and a little trial-and-error, you can find the moisturizer that works best for you.

YSBB Skin Clinic, Seoul, Korea