Moisturisers

A moisturiser does three things in varying proportions: draws water in, softens, and slows the rate at which water escapes. Which one you need depends on why your skin is uncomfortable.

Dry skin wants lipids and occlusives, dehydrated skin wants humectants, and oily skin wants both in a lighter texture. Texture is a formulation choice rather than a measure of strength, so a gel can be every bit as effective as a balm.