Facial moisturizers are an essential part of any skincare routine. They help to keep the skin hydrated, nourished, and protected from external environmental factors that can cause dryness, irritation, and premature aging. Choosing the right facial moisturizer can be a daunting task, especially with the numerous options available on the market. Your skin type plays a significant role in determining which moisturizer is best suited for your specific needs. Using the wrong moisturizer can lead to breakouts, excessive oiliness, or dryness, making it important to find a product that suits your skin type. We have curated a selection of 18 top-rated face moisturizers suitable for various skin types and budgets to help you pinpoint the most suitable one for your need. Whether you have dry, oily, combination, or sensitive skin, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s get started and discover the perfect facial moisturizer for your skin!
Best Overall: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Face Moisturizer
The Neutrogena Hydroboost Water Gel moisturizer is a highly praised product for its lightweight and bouncy gel-cream texture, which feels cushiony on the skin. The moisturizer is packed with glycerin and dimethicone, which not only adds moisture to the skin but also seals it in and helps the product go on smoothly. Reviewers have reported exceptional hydrating benefits and noted that it works well under makeup, leaving the skin feeling soft, smooth, and healthy throughout the day. Additionally, the moisturizer is known for not causing breakouts, even among those with acne-prone skin. While some users with sensitive skin have reported minor irritation, the product has received overwhelmingly positive reviews.
Most Popular Moisturizer: Weleda Skin Food Original Ultra-Rich Cream
For those with dry and flaky skin, the Weleda Skin Food Original Ultra-Rich Cream is a skin savior according to customer reviews. The cream is admired for its ability to moisturize and soothe dry and rough skin. Its natural ingredients and thick texture are also appreciated. However, some reviewers caution that it may be too heavy for certain skin types and may take longer to absorb. Despite this, the cream has received positive reviews overall. The formula is dermatologist-tested and suitable for use on both face and body. It contains essential fatty acids, beeswax, lanolin, sweet almond oil, cholesterol, and vitamin E. It can even be used as a substitute for a highlighter in a pinch.
Best Splurge: La Mer Crème de la Mer
La Mer Crème de la Mer is a high-end moisturizer that has garnered a loyal fan base. Reviewers have raved about the cream’s strength to hydrate and plump up the skin, leaving it looking smoother, softer, and more radiant. Some users with dry skin report that the moisturizer has improved their skin’s texture and reduced the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. But, the high price tag of the product has been a concern for some reviewers, as well as its fragrance and thick texture. Despite these factors, many customers still consider the La Mer Crème de la Mer as a luxurious and effective moisturizer for maintaining healthy and youthful-looking skin.
Best Drugstore: CETAPHIL Daily Hydrating Lotion for Face
The Cetaphil Daily Hydrating Lotion is a popular choice among customers due to its lightweight formula and hydrating properties. This product provides long-lasting moisture, leaving the skin feeling soft and smooth. It’s also noted for being non-greasy and easily absorbed into the skin. The lotion is suitable for those with combination skin and has been recommended by dermatologists. However, some customers have reported that it may not provide enough hydration for those with very dry skin, while others have complained about the pump design of the bottle.
Best for Oily Skin: Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hyaluronic Cloud Cream Hydrating Moisturizer
For those with oily skin, it’s important to find a moisturizer that’s lightweight yet still provides enough hydration to balance out your complexion. Peter Thomas Roth’s Water Drench moisturizer is a great option, as it boasts a 30% hyaluronic acid content, along with ceramides that help to repair and smooth out the skin. Unlike many moisturizers that can feel too heavy, this product has a whipped, cloud-like texture that feels more like a smooth gel on the skin. It might hydrate and plump up the skin, leaving it looking more youthful and radiant. The lightweight texture of the cream makes it easy to apply and suitable for all skin types, including those with sensitive skin. Customers have also noted that the moisturizer works well as a makeup base and helps to keep their skin hydrated throughout the day. Some reviewers have mentioned that the cream has a strong fragrance that may not be suitable for those with sensitive noses or skin. Additionally, the high price of the product has been a concern for some customers.
Best for Dry Skin: CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion
Consider the CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion the ultimate drugstore moisturizer. It effectively moisturize and soothe dry and sensitive skin, without leaving a greasy or heavy feeling. The lotion is also fragrance-free, making it a good choice for those with sensitive skin or allergies. Some users have noted that the lotion is fast-absorbing, making it easy to use in the morning before applying makeup or sunscreen. A few customers have mentioned that the lotion may not be suitable for those with extremely dry skin, as it may not provide enough hydration.
Best for Sensitive Skin: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer
La Roche-Posay’s Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer is a top pick for all skin types, thanks to its star ingredient ceramides that hydrate and protect the skin’s barrier. Niacinamide and glycerin work alongside ceramides to soothe and draw moisture from the environment to prevent water loss, leaving the skin hydrated and protected for up to 48 hours. The creamy texture feels light and absorbs quickly, making it a great base for makeup. This moisturizer is fragrance- and paraben-free, making it suitable for sensitive or irritated skin. While it may not provide enough moisture for extremely dry skin, it’s highly recommended for those with sensitive and dry skin.
Best Night Cream: RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Anti-Aging Night Cream
The RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Anti-Aging Facial Night Cream is highly regarded for its ability to reduce wrinkles and fine lines. Many reviewers claim that this product has improved their skin texture, tone, and overall appearance. The cream is non-greasy, absorbs quickly, and does not clog pores, making it an excellent choice for oily or acne-prone skin. Although some reviewers note that it can be too strong for sensitive skin and can cause redness or peeling, most users are pleased with the results they have achieved with this product.
Best for Combination Skin: L’Oreal Paris Skincare Collagen Face Moisturizer
The L’Oreal Paris Skincare Collagen Face Moisturizer is an ideal moisturizer for daily use. This product provides intense hydration to the skin both day and night, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while restoring moisture for a smoother and plumper complexion. It is a lightweight, non-greasy formula that effectively delivers hydration and moisture to all skin types, including sensitive skin. The moisturizer absorbs quickly and leaves no sticky residue, leaving the skin feeling nourished and looking younger.
Best for Wrinkle Prevention: Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream
This anti-aging drugstore face cream is highly rated and has been effective in improving skin texture and reducing fine lines and wrinkles. The fragrance-free cream feels lightweight on the skin and contains hyaluronic acid, amino-peptide complex II, and niacinamide, which targets signs of aging. Users have noted issues with the packaging, but overall, it has been a great drugstore option for those seeking to improve their complexion. Some minor pilling was observed, so it is recommended for night use rather than under makeup during the day. The cream is suitable for combination skin, but those with sensitivities may want to consider the fragrance-free option.
Best Moisturizer with SPF: EltaMD UV Daily SPF 40 Sunscreen Moisturizer Face Lotion
The EltaMD UV Daily Face Sunscreen Moisturizer is a popular product with great reviews. Customers appreciate the light texture, non-greasy formula, and the fact that it doesn’t cause breakouts or irritate sensitive skin. The added hyaluronic acid makes the skin feel hydrated and plump, and the SPF 40 provides ample protection from the sun’s harmful rays.
Best Gel Moisturizer: Clinique Moisture Surge 100-Hour Auto-Replenishing Hydrator
The next generation of Clinique’s Moisture Surge line is designed for very dry to dry combination skin—and it works. The oil-free gel hybrid is ultra-luxurious and helps to restore your skin’s moisture barrier. Infused with a combination of vitamins C and E, this moisturizer offers daily protection against environmental damage, and it’s completely free of parabens and phthalates. Yet, a few buyers have noted that it may not be suitable for oily skin.
Best Affordable Moisturizer: e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Face Cream
This affordable moisturizer is suitable for all skin types and is enriched with powerful ingredients like hyaluronic acid, squalane, vitamins B3 and B5, and peptides to soothe, brighten, and promote collagen. Customers love the e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Face Cream for its lightweight and non-greasy formula that effectively moisturizes and retains moisture. It also works well as a makeup primer.
Best Vegan Moisturizer: Youth To The People Adaptogen Deep Moisture Cream
The Youth To The People Moisturizer is a hit with customers, who say it’s a game-changer for their skin. Ashwagandha, Rhodiola, Reishi, and Holy Basil pair with Pentapeptide to give your skin a boost of vitamins, antioxidants, and some major moisture retention. The lightweight formula doesn’t leave a greasy residue, while still providing deep hydration. Customers also appreciate that it’s vegan and cruelty-free, and they love the natural ingredients. Some say it has even helped improve their acne and overall skin texture.
Best Lightweight Moisturizer: St. Ives Moisturizer Collagen and Elastin Facial Moisturizer
Customers recommend the St. Ives Collagen and Elastin Facial Moisturizer for anyone looking for a budget-friendly option that delivers great results. Many people love the affordable price and effective moisturizing properties of the cream. This face cream is made with 100% natural moisturizers and safflower seed oil. Some reviewers note that the fragrance is pleasant but can be strong for those with sensitive skin.
Best for Itchy Skin: Vanicream Moisturizing Skin Cream
The Vanicream Moisturizing Cream is a popular choice among people with sensitive or irritated skin. The formula is free of dyes, fragrances, and other common irritants. Reviewers rave about how gentle and effective it is, leaving their skin feeling soft and moisturized. Some even report that it has helped clear up skin conditions like eczema and rosacea.
Best for Mature Skin: Burt’s Bees Renewal Firming Face Cream
The Burt’s Bees Renewal Firming Face Cream made to be gentle and is particularly well suited to the needs of mature skin. Users have noticed improvements in their skin’s texture, firmness, and overall appearance. It’s anti-aging formula infused with wrinkle smoothing Bakuchiol and naturally hydrating Vitamin E which work in harmony to reveal the best radiant you. Additionally, the cream’s natural ingredients are a plus for many users.
Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Honest Beauty Hydrogel Cream
The Honest Beauty Oil-Free Moisturizer with Hyaluronic Acid and Synthetic Gel is highly recommended by users with oily and acne-prone skin. They love that it doesn’t leave their skin feeling greasy or cause breakouts. It’s also gentle enough for sensitive skin and helps to keep the skin hydrated all day. Some users also noticed that it improved their skin’s texture and reduced the appearance of fine lines.
Tips for Buying Face Moisturizers
There are several things to keep in mind to narrow down your choices:
Types:
Face moisturizers come in different types such as lotions, creams, and gels, each with a different consistency and level of hydration. Some moisturizers even come with SPF for added sun protection.
Ingredients:
It’s essential to check the ingredients list of face moisturizers before purchasing them. Dermatologists suggest searching for oil-free, non-comedogenic products with ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and peptides that maintain the skin barrier and keep it hydrated.
Skin Concerns:
If you have specific skin concerns, such as oily or sensitive skin, it’s best to find a moisturizer that’s specially designed to address those issues. For instance, oily skin types should avoid excess oils and opt for lighter moisturizers, while sensitive skin types should use fragrance- and acid-free formulas.
