Question of the month October 2011: How do I know if a moisturizer is effective?

Dear Paula,

I have a very basic question about moisturizers. A couple of hours after you apply a moisturizer to your body or face, should you be able to feel a layer of something there for it to be effective? Dove's body moisturizer just soaks in, while Olay's body moisturizer leaves a discernible layer on your skin. So, which one is more effective?

Terri, via email search 

Dear Terri,

That is a great question and not all that simple. Fortunately, the answer is quite simple: It's all about personal preference. The finish or feel of a moisturizer, for the most part, is about how it makes your skin feel. Even those who have dry skin may prefer a matte-finish moisturizer, while someone with normal skin may like to "feel" a protective barrier on their skin. Well-formulated moisturizers that contain the right ingredients do not depend on the base for their effectiveness. However, some skin types (e.g., extremely dry skin) can't get by with just healthy ingredients; they also need emollients sitting on top of their skin to soothe and provide protection for an impaired surface barrier. Think about it in terms of eating grapes versus drinking grape juice or red wine. Either way your body is getting antioxidants, the form they take is merely a personal preference.