Anyone whose skincare routine contains retinol, AHAs or BHAs, and other active ingredients understand the true power of a barrier cream. Think of a barrier cream as a bandaid that protects your skin and helps prevent any further damage. Typically, these types of products are thicker in texture and contain nourishing ingredients like aloe, shea butter, or hyaluronic acids.

If your main skincare woes are hyperpigmentation and fine lines or wrinkles, chances are you’ve seen what a damaged barrier looks like. “The key to healthy glowing skin is a strong skin barrier. Once it’s damaged it will appear dull, dry, and rough and lead to inflammation like redness, itching, acne breakouts, and discoloration,” Dr. Azadeh Shirazi, a California-based, board-certified dermatologist, tells Businsiders.com.

Without proper skin protection, you’ll continue to encounter more skincare troubles and may even damage your skin more. If you buy another new skincare product this week, let it be a barrier cream. Scroll down for 10 of the best to choose from.