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Meaning & use

moisturizer

noun·Everyday

Last updated

UK/ˈmɔɪstʃəraɪzə/
US/ˈmɔɪstʃəraɪzər/

Meaning

  1. nouncountable or uncountable

    A cream or lotion that you put on your skin to make it softer and less dry.

    Grammar: Can be countable (a moisturizer, several moisturizers) or uncountable when talking about the substance (a bottle of moisturizer).

    Patterns

    • apply moisturizer
    • use a moisturizer
    • a bottle of moisturizer

    She uses a rich moisturizer every night before going to bed.

    This moisturizer is specially made for dry skin.

    Don't forget to pack your sunscreen and moisturizer for the trip.

Word forms

pluralmoisturizers

Common combinations

apply moisturizer
Apply moisturizer to your face and neck every morning.
a good moisturizer
A good moisturizer can make a big difference in winter.
facial moisturizer
She bought a new facial moisturizer with SPF.
light moisturizer
For oily skin, a light moisturizer works better.

Synonyms and how they differ

cream
A general word for a thick skin product; a moisturizer is specifically for adding moisture.
lotion
A thinner, more liquid product; moisturizer can be a cream or a lotion.
emollient
A formal or medical term for a moisturizing substance, often used for very dry or irritated skin.

Word family

moisturize verb
To put moisturizer on your skin.
moisturizing adjective
Having the effect of adding moisture to the skin.
moisture noun
Small amounts of water in the air or on a surface.

Commonly confused: moisturizer or moisturize?

moisturizer vs moisturize

'Moisturizer' is the product (noun); 'moisturize' is the action (verb). You moisturize with a moisturizer.

Practice

Choose the correct word: 'This ___ is perfect for very dry skin.'

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