A moisturizer's job is to support a comfortable moisture barrier so that everything else you use is tolerated. This shelf runs from light gels for humid months through to balms for the middle of a Toronto winter, and most clients end up owning two: a lighter one for summer, a heavier one from November onward.

iS Clinical Daily Dynamic Hydrator is the everyday option. Reparative Moisture Emulsion and Medipair Deep Moisture Cream sit at the richer end, and iS Clinical Sheald Recovery Balm is what we send home after stronger work or when skin feels wind-chapped. Green Envee Nourish Replenishing Moisturizer suits anyone who prefers plant-based formulas. Apply to slightly damp skin, and if you use a retinoid, moisturizer goes on after it rather than before.