Which skin care product type often provides hydration for dry skin?

Moisturizers are specifically designed to provide hydration and help maintain the skin's moisture barrier, making them particularly effective for addressing dry skin. They typically contain ingredients that attract and hold water in the skin, such as humectants (like hyaluronic acid and glycerin) and occlusives (like oils and butters) that prevent moisture loss. The formulation of moisturizers can vary, offering options that can suit different skin types and conditions, but their primary function is to hydrate and protect the skin.

In contrast, serums are usually more concentrated and focus on delivering specific active ingredients such as antioxidants or peptides but may not provide sufficient hydration on their own. Toners are generally used to prepare the skin for subsequent products and can help to balance pH, but they often do not have the hydrating properties that are essential for dry skin. Cleansers are meant to remove dirt, oil, and makeup from the skin, and while some may contain moisturizing agents, their main purpose is to clean rather than hydrate. Thus, moisturizers stand out as the optimal choice for providing hydration to dry skin.