How to choose the right moisturiser for your skin type
Finding the right moisturiser is a little bit like dating. You often need to try a few options before you find the one that truly works for your skin. Once you do, the difference in comfort, hydration and skin health is worth it.
Using a moisturiser is essential for healthy skin, but not all moisturisers deliver the same results across different skin types. At Cactus, we believe in choosing a moisturiser that is specifically suited to what your skin actually needs.
How to identify your skin type
Understanding your skin type is the foundation of an effective skincare routine. Skin types can change over time due to climate, hormones, stress or lifestyle, so reassessing occasionally is important.
Below is a simple guide to help you identify your skin type and choose the most suitable Cactus moisturiser.
Oily skin
How it feels
• Greasy or shiny throughout the day
• Enlarged pores
• Prone to breakouts
• Makeup struggles to stay in place
Oily skin often benefits from lightweight hydration that balances oil production without clogging pores.
Cactus recommended moisturiser
• Light Balancing Crème
Combination skin
How it feels
• Oily through the T zone
• Dry or normal on cheeks and jawline
Combination skin needs hydration that supports balance without tipping skin too dry or too oily.
Cactus recommended moisturisers
• Light Balancing Crème
• Nature's Antioxidant Crème if skin leans drier
Normal skin
How it feels
• Generally balanced
• Rarely oily or dry
• Minimal sensitivity
Normal skin benefits from maintenance hydration that supports long term skin health.
Cactus recommended moisturiser
• Nature's Antioxidant Crème
Dry skin
How it feels
• Tight or stretched
• Occasional flaking
• Pores less visible
Dry skin requires deeper hydration to restore comfort and elasticity.
Cactus recommended moisturiser
• Intense Hydrating Crème
Very dry skin
How it feels
• Persistent tightness
• Flaking or scaliness
• Skin still feels dry after moisturising
Very dry skin benefits from a moisture intensive routine that supports barrier repair and lipid replenishment.
Cactus recommended products
• Intense Hydrating Crème
• Daily rejuve facial oil
Sensitive skin
Sensitive skin can exist across all skin types and should always guide product choice.
Best practices for sensitive skin
• Patch test all new products
• Avoid stripping cleansers and harsh actives
• Focus on barrier support and hydration
Ingredients to avoid if skin is sensitive
• Synthetic fragrance
• Chemical sunscreens - opt for zinc based
• Harsh physical or chemical exfoliants
• Sulfates such as SLS and ALS
• Drying cosmetic alcohols
• Strong retinoids not designed for sensitive skin
All Cactus products are formulated with sensitive skin in mind, but patch testing is always recommended.
