Incorporate a moisturizer into your skincare regimen to keep your skin hydrated and protected from environmental and airborne irritants. Moisturizers are beneficial to all skin types, though formulations vary depending on individual traits of skin, and where or when the product is being used. Choose a skin moisturizer containing ingredients that will preserve the desirable qualities of your skin and prevent undesirable attributes from appearing.

STEP1. Identify the part of your body on which you will be applying moisturizer, and decide when it will be applied.

• Use a thicker moisturizer on the body and a lighter one on the face. Moisturizer formulas should be lighter in the summer and heavier during dry winter months. When moisturizer is applied at night it is usually thicker than moisturizers meant for daytime use and does not require SPF.

STEP2. Observe characteristics of your skin to determine your skin type, and narrow your search down to moisturizers formulated for your skin.

• Dry skin flakes and itches. It requires a thick petroleum-based ointment or oil-based cream to lock in moisture and keep skin soft.

• Oily skin is shiny with visible breakouts and enlarged pores. It requires a lightweight water-based lotion that may contain alpha-hydroxy acids to combat clogged pores.

• Sensitive skin is often red and prone to bumps and rashes. It requires a fragrance-free formula with minimalist, soothing ingredients.

• Mature skin is dry and may have fine lines or wrinkles. It requires a thick, emollient product with antioxidants that can help prevent new lines or wrinkles.

STEP3. Read ingredient lists on products you are considering to look for beneficial ingredients and avoid harmful or unnecessary ingredients.

• Beneficial ingredients include: SPF, antioxidants and soothing ingredients. Many skin care experts and dermatologists recommend SPF 30 moisturizers to prevent excessive aging and skin cancer. Use SPF 50 or higher sunscreen when outdoors in direct sunlight. Antioxidants neutralize the free radicals that make skin look dull. Soothing ingredients, like aloe or oatmeal, refresh the skin and prevent irritation caused by sun exposure or allergens.

• Ingredients to avoid include dyes and perfumes, all of which can irritate or dry out all skin types. You should also avoid ingredients that are not compatible with your skin type, such as thick shea butter on oily facial skin or alcohols and acids on sensitive skin.