The Moisturisers You’ll Swear By, According To Your Postcode
July 30 | 3 minute read
Words by Christie Sinclair
“Where you live shapes what your skin is exposed to daily,” says Olivia. “Humidity, dryness, wind and sun all play a role. The right moisturiser helps defend against those elements by keeping the good stuff in and the bad stuff out.”
Whether you’re battling dryness or navigating coastal humidity, your climate can seriously impact how your skin feels, and what it needs to thrive. Here’s how to tailor your moisturiser to your environment, according to Olivia.
If you live somewhere hot and/or humid
(hello, Brisbane, Darwin, Sydney or Auckland):
In tropical or sub-tropical climates, your skin is already working overtime to regulate heat and moisture. The last thing it needs is a heavy moisturiser weighing it down.
“In humid heat, less is more,” explains Olivia. “Your moisturiser should feel like a refresh, not a heavy blanket. Think lightweight, breathable hydration that won’t block pores or add to the sweat.”
Look for:
Niacinamide to help balance oil production
Hyaluronic acid to rehydrate without heaviness
Olivia's picks:
If you live somewhere dry
(think inland WA, Central Australia or Central Otago):
In dry air, moisture evaporates from the skin more quickly, so your moisturiser needs to work double time. “Dry air acts like a sponge,” Olivia explains. “You need a moisturiser that locks hydration in and helps repair your barrier. Think rich, cushiony and comforting.
Look for:
Ceramides to strengthen and protect
Hyaluronic acid to draw moisture deep into the skin
Olivia’s picks:
If you live somewhere cooler and temperate
(like Melbourne, Hobart, Wellington or Queenstown):
Cooler climates can wreak havoc on your skin, especially with sudden switches from icy winds to central heating. “Cooler weather can confuse and sensitise your skin,” says Olivia. “A balanced moisturiser helps keeps skin steady, soothed and supported through the flux.”
Look for:
Centella asiatica to soothe and repair
Glycerin to hold onto hydration
Olivia’s picks:
So… should we be changing our moisturiser with the seasons?
According to Olivia, the seasons do matter, but climate always wins. “Seasonal shifts matter, but your local climate is the loudest voice in the room,” she says. “The forecast outside your front door should guide your moisturiser choice, not just the calendar month.”
The one ingredient everyone needs, no matter the weather?
“Antioxidants are a must, wherever you are,” says Olivia. “They shield your skin from daily stress like pollution, UV rays and environmental aggressors, with gentle yet powerful protection.”
Antioxidants act like your skin’s bodyguard, neutralising free radicals that can break down collagen, trigger irritation and accelerate signs of ageing. Whether you’re walking through city smog, sitting in the sun or dealing with dry air and heating, these environmental stressors can chip away at your skin’s defences.
Look out for ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, green tea extract and resveratrol, they’re some of the most effective at keeping skin strong, calm and protected, wherever you are.
Olivia’s picks:
