Your «base cream» is the moisturizer you rely on every single day as the foundation for your skin, before any other step. Choosing it carefully matters far more than buying dozens of extra products, because it is the base the rest of your routine is built on.
Know your skin type first
Wash your face and wait half an hour without applying anything, then observe: if the center of your face looks shiny, your skin is oily or combination; if it feels tight with slight flaking, it is dry; if nothing much changes, it is normal. If it turns red easily or feels itchy with new products, your skin is likely sensitive.
The right cream for each type
- Oily skin: a light, oil-free cream, ideally labeled «non-comedogenic».
- Dry skin: a richer cream with deep-hydration ingredients such as hyaluronic acid or ceramides.
- Combination skin: a balanced formula — you may need two different products for the T-zone and the rest of the face.
- Sensitive skin: fragrance-free, alcohol-free, with as short an ingredient list as possible.
Do not judge too fast
Even the right cream needs time to show results, usually three to four weeks. If you notice redness or irritation right away, stop immediately, and if the problem persists, see a dermatologist rather than trying more random products.