Is "Multimoisturizing" the New Skin-Care Trend? Here's What an Expert Says

You're probably well-versed in multimasking — the process of applying different face masks on different areas of your face to better enjoy their benefits. It's common for those with oily or combination skin types who could use hydrating or calming properties on areas like their cheeks and detoxifying or exfoliating properties on their T-zone. But really, anyone can get in on the action, and it's just a great way to target different skin concerns at once. This begs the question: are there other products that you should cater to certain areas of your face, especially if you have a combination skin type?

Zoey Deutch shared her own routine for acne-prone skin, and she uses two different moisturizers on her face: one, a hydrating formula for the top half, and the second, an acne-specific formula on her jawline. This, plus a combination of other steps, helps keep her hormonal acne in check and breakouts away.

To find out if there's a real benefit to multimoisturizing, or using different moisturizers on different areas of your face, we tapped board-certified dermatologist Ted Lain, MD, of Sanova Dermatology. Keep reading to find out what he says.

"Given that different areas of the face have different properties, such as oil production, skin thickness, and propensity towards acne or other skin conditions, it makes sense to use masks for the various areas," Dr. Lain said. "[Multimoisturizing] is less appropriate than multimasking, in my opinion."

The reason he doesn't recommend it is because he doesn't find it necessary — it's not that there's anything wrong with it. "We know that people with acne have an issue with the barrier function of their skin — they need moisturizers to help protect their skin from the environment just like someone with dry and sensitive skin would," Dr. Lain said. "Therefore, using a gentle, non-comedogenic moisturizer over the entire face is completely appropriate for someone with acne."

In other words, if you feel your moisturize is triggering your acne, it may just mean you need to find a formula that better suits your skin. Those with acne-prone skin especially should look for a moisturizer that's non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores. Another potential red flag to avoid if you're prone to breakouts is fragrances.

If you do want to give multimoisturizing a try, Dr. Lain recommends using a product formulated with salicylic acid or an alpha hydroxy acid for your acne-prone areas and a calming formula for the rest of your face. But, again, he doesn't think you need to. "I think moisturizers should be used for their barrier repair and hydrating properties," Dr. Lain said. Save your money and find one good, basic moisturizer that works for your skin.