The 19 Best Face Moisturizers, Tested and Dermatologist Approved

Best Overall Moisturizer

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer

$24 at Amazon $25 at Ulta $11 at Dermstore

Highlighted ingredients: Niacinamide, ceramides, glycerin | Size: 2.5 fl. oz. | Cruelty-Free: No

A tried-and-true classic, this drugstore formula is a favorite of editorial director Holly Rhue (and several other members of team Byrdie). Perhaps what makes it so well-loved is the fact that it’s simple; the gentle yet effective, oil-free formula relies on ceramides (aka lipids that support a healthy skin barrier), glycerin (a hydrator), and niacinamide (an ingredient known to address dullness, large pores, and excess oil) to deliver long-lasting moisture without a greasy finish. It generally works for all skin types, but some with very oily skin might want to opt for the matte version, which is just as lovely.

Best Budget Moisturizer

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel with Hyaluronic Acid

$28 at Ulta $20 at Target $27 at Riteaid.com

Highlighted Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid | Size: 1.7 fl oz | Cruelty-Free: No

Packed with powerhouse hydrator hyaluronic acid, this moisturizer is a favorite among dermatologists, editors, and testers alike. Despite being super lightweight, this moisturizer is rich and nourishing. It’s cooling on contact with the skin and absorbs very quickly. Commerce writer Caitlyn Martyn swears by this moisturizer for her oily, acne-prone skin. “Ever since my dermatologist recommended this lightweight gel formula to me, I never looked back—and my skin has never looked better,” she explains. “Plus, it’s affordable, so I don’t have to skimp on product during application, and even if I apply too much, my skin is never greasy.” 

Read Full Review: This Dermatologist-Approved Drugstore Staple Harnesses the Hydrating Power of Hyaluronic Acid

Best Splurge Moisturizer

La Mer The Moisturizing Soft Cream

$100 at Sephora $100 at Nordstrom View on Cremedelamer.com

Highlighted Ingredients: Miracle Broth (proprietary) | Size: 0.5, 1.0, 2.0 fl oz | Cruelty-Free: No

People often ask, “Does La Mer actually work?” and the answer is yes, it absolutely does. Creme de la Mer is the brand’s hero product, and it’s the product fans of the brand consistently restock time and time again. Formulated over 12 years by an aerospace physicist looking to cure burns he suffered in a lab accident, the final product—a unique concoction created with a special bio-fermentation process that relies on vitamins, oils, and minerals—heals dryness, softens fine lines, and strengthens the skin’s barrier. Contributor Jenna Igneri is a fan. “It’s definitely an investment—it rings in at $200 an ounce—but it yields transformative results.”

Read Full Review: Dermatologists Say This Iconic Moisturizer Yields Transformative Anti-Aging Results

Best Moisturizer for Mature Skin

SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore

$155 at Dermstore $155 at Skinstore.com $155 at Skinceuticals.com

Highlighted Ingredients: Rosemary leaf oil, glycerin, ceramides | Size: 1.6 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

Odds are, you’ve heard of SkinCeuticals’ iconic moisturizer. If not, allow us to introduce you. The Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 moisturizer features an optimal lipid ratio—2% pure ceramides, 4% natural cholesterol, and 2% fatty acids—which is responsible for making this anti-aging cream one of the best out there. This blend of lipids aims to restore those essential skin lipids lost from natural aging or environmental aggressors (or a combo of the two). After just one use, we were hooked on how silky smooth our skin felt, plus the fact that skin appears more radiant and full is the cherry on top. Board-certified dermatologist Marisa Garshick, MD says that this is a stellar option. “This moisturizer effectively restores the fatty molecules and encourages the skin to appear more hydrated and smooth,” says Dr. Garshick. “It’s also a nice choice for someone using a retinoid, as it does a great job of keeping the skin moisturized and helping the skin tolerate the ingredient.” 

Best Moisturizer for Dry Skin

Dr. Barbara Sturm Face Cream Rich

$240 at Amazon $240 at Sephora $240 at Nordstrom

Ingredients: Vitamin E, avocadin | Size: 1.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Dr. Barbara Sturm knows good skin—after all, the German aesthetics doctor is known for her vampire facials and the fact that she’s the skin therapist to the stars. When she launched her eponymous skincare line back in 2014, it quickly became an editor favorite, and this cream is no different. The formula features a nourishing blend of antioxidants (think: vitamin E and purslane), cell-renewing skullcap extract, and rich oils that ensure long-lasting hydration.

Best Moisturizer for Dull Skin

Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream

$96 at Sephora $300 at Dermstore $96 at Nordstrom

Ingredients: TFC8®, hyaluronic acid, hydrolyzed rice protein | Size: 0.5, 1.0, 1.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Another household name when it comes to moisturizer, Augustinus Bader’s The Rich Cream, is one of our favorites. Professor Augustinus Bader created this unique cream that features Trigger Factor Complex, or TFC8 (aka a combo of natural amino acids, vitamins, and synthesized molecules), which provides our stem cells with everything they need to regenerate. In simpler terms, it allows the skin to heal itself. According to contributor Dylan Marino, the skin feels plump and supple after applying. At first it can be slightly thick, but it absorbs nicely and imparts a radiant glow.

Best Moisturizer for Oily Skin

Tatcha The Water Cream

$72 at Amazon $23 at Sephora $72 at Violet Grey

Highlighted Ingredients: Japanese wild rose and leopard lily, proprietary Hasasei-3 | Size: 0.5, 1.0, 2.0 fl oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

This formula feels like a splash of water on your face, plain and simple. It’s lightweight yet hydrating, so the skin looks dewy but never greasy. According to Dr. Garshick, this moisturizer contains several antioxidants—like the brand’s proprietary Hadasei-3 complex, which helps fight free radical damage, as well as Japanese wild rose extract, which is thought to improve the appearance of pores and skin texture. “The addition of these ingredients plus oil-controlling Japanese leopard lily make this moisturizer a good lightweight option for different skin types,” she explains. We were impressed by how well the gel cream soothed minor skin irritations from the first application to weeks of continued use, thanks to soothing ingredients like green tea and algae. 

Best Moisturizer for Combination Skin

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream with Squalane

$25 at Amazon $25 at Sephora $39 at Ulta

Highlighted ingredients: Squalane, ceramides, glacial glycoproteins | Size: 0.95 fl. oz, 1.7 fl. oz, 4.2 fl. oz, 8.0 fl.oz., or 5.07 fl. oz | Cruelty-Free: No

Housed in a simple white container, this moisturizer from Kiehl’s is more than what meets the eye. The rich, deeply hydrating formula glides across the skin like butter and sinks in nicely, imparting a fresh, hydrated glow that offsets a dry, dull complexion. The actual hydration is great, too; the formula, which is laden with squalane, ceramides, and glycoproteins (aka proteins sourced from Antarctic Sea glaciers that maintain the skin’s moisture balance), work wonders on dry patches and flakes. Also nice: The moisturizer also provides a beautiful base for makeup, giving those with very dry skin the slip they need to achieve an airbrushed, crease-free finish.

News and Deals editor Jordan Julian says that this cream is her go-to. "In the past, my combination skin has made it difficult for me to find a moisturizer that's hydrating enough to prevent flakiness, but also won't trigger breakouts or leave me feeling greasy," she explains. "This cream strikes the perfect balance of lightweight and seriously nourishing."

Read the full review: Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream Erased My Dry Patches

Best Moisturizer for Uneven Skin Texture

Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream

$22 at Sephora $69 at Ulta View on Spacenk.com

Highlighted Ingredients: Proprietary peptide complex, waterlily stem cell extract, folic acid ferment extract | Size: 0.5 fl. oz. and 1.69 fl. oz. | Cruelty-Free: Yes

A longtime Byrdie favorite, Drunk Elephant’s Protini Peptide Cream is not to be slept on. Thanks to a unique combination of plumping proprietary polypeptides, soothing and hydrating waterlily stem cell extract, and vitamin-rich folic acid ferment extract, it works to moisturize (obviously) and smooth the look of the skin while you wear it. Byrdie associate editorial director Shannon Bauer says it’s her desert island product, specifically citing its unique texture and catch-all nature. “It’s heavy enough for winter-ravaged skin but in a gel-cream form; so it’s not overly heavy on my oily skin,” she explains. “It’s free of harsh actives, so it plays well with others.”

It’s also worth noting that the airless pump packaging gets out every last drop, so nothing goes to waste. The only gripe we have with this formula is that it’s thick, so it can sit atop the skin, rather than sink in completely. Those with very dry skin will love this, however, those with already oily skin might not love the feeling in the warmer months.

Best Moisturizer for Sensitive Skin

CeraVe Moisturizing Cream

$18 at Amazon $20 at Ulta $6 at Target

Highlighted Ingredients: Ceramides, hyaluronic acid | Size: 8, 16 fl oz | Cruelty-Free: No

Chances are you’re familiar with this ultra-popular and dermatologist-recommended moisturizer from CeraVe. Its popularity is justified—it’s a fantastic cream that has a relatively simple ingredient list with a rich texture that deeply moisturizes dry skin. The formula includes hyaluronic acid and ceramides to boost hydration and support and protect the skin barrier. It also contains petrolatum, an ingredient that helps to create a barrier on the skin that locks in moisture.  According to the National Eczema Association, those with eczema should use skin barrier creams that contain ceramides because they work to form a protective layer on the skin. This helps lock in moisture and helps prevent burning, itching, and flakiness due to eczema. Byrdie contributor Jen Adkins was experiencing dry, flaky skin after being on acne medication and fell in love after her dermatologist recommended it. "After my very first use, I was hooked," she says.

Read Full Review: CeraVe's Moisturizing Cream Transformed My Dry Skin

Best Moisturizer for Acne-Prone Skin

Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer

$13 at Amazon $19 at Ulta $16 at Target

Highlighted Ingredients: Ceramides, hyaluronic acid | Size: 3 fl oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Formulated without potential irritants like fragrance, dyes, gluten, botanical extracts, and lanolin, Vanicream's moisturizer was created specifically with sensitive skin in mind. The product contains five different types of ceramides as well as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and squalane, so it’s safe to say that it's loaded with soothing and moisturizing ingredients that support a healthy skin barrier. Despite the wide array of moisturizing agents in the formula, we found the texture to be fairly lightweight. It applies smoothly and is absorbed quickly into the skin without creating a sticky or greasy residue, making it a nice option to wear day or night and even layer underneath makeup. Martyn loves this formula when her skin is feeling extra sensitive or when using retinol. "When my skin was first acclimating to tretinoin, a retinol product often prescribed for acne, I leaned on this gentle, acne-safe formula to combat dry skin without causing any additional breakouts," she explains.

Best Moisturizer for Barrier Repair

Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Cream

$20 at Sephora $20 at Kohls.com $23 at Yesstyle.com

Highlighted Ingredients: Ceramides, glycerin, hyaluronic acid | Size: 0.5 fl. oz. or 1.7 fl. oz.| Cruelty-Free: No

If you suspect you have a damaged skin barrier, there’s one thing we’re going to recommend: this face cream from Dr. Jart+. ‘Fast-acting’ and ‘cushiony-soft’ are just two phrases we’d use to describe the formula, which is chock-full of barrier-repairing ingredients like glycerin, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid. It has a sand-colored tint to offset the look of redness and it spreads easily (which is key if you have irritated, inflamed skin that’s painful to touch). Despite the density, the cream leaves behind no residue and leaves the skin soft, hydrated, and even a little bouncy. 

Byrdie's commerce VP Bronwyn Barnes leans on this moisturizer when her skin gets temperamental. " These days, even skincare and makeup products I’ve used for years can irritate my face, causing redness, flaking, and stinging. I use this cream every night to soothe my skin and protect my skin barrier from external irritants," she explains. "The immediate effect is ultra-hydrated skin that feels smooth but not greasy; the long-term results are improved elasticity and bounce."

Read the full review: Reviewed: Dr. Jart+’s Ceramidin Cream Lives Up to the Hype

Best Firming Moisturizer

Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream

$37 at Ulta $25 at Target $25 at Walmart

Highlighted Ingredients: Niacinamide, peptides, hyaluronic acid, triglycerides | Size: 1.7 fl. oz.| Cruelty-Free: No

This is one of the most iconic moisturizers on the market (the brand claims it has sold over 50 million units since it launched in the early 2000s), and it’s for good reason. Containing an ideal ratio of humectants (like hyaluronic acid), emollients (like triglycerides), and occlusives, this formula packs a triple whammy when it comes to hydrating and improving the look of dry, sagging, and tired skin. The addition of skin-smoothing peptides and balancing niacinamide only add to the appeal. It’s important to note, however, that the formula has a very strong almond fragrance, so those who prefer fragrance-free skincare might want to opt for the fragrance-free version.

Best Gel Moisturizer

Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hyaluronic Moisturizer

$38 at Amazon $23 at Sephora View on Ulta

Highlighted Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, hydrolyzed silk, glycerin, Pentavitin | Size: 0.67 fl. oz. or 1.7 fl. oz. | Cruelty-Free: No

Gel formulas are great for those with oily skin, as they tend to be water-based and sink into the skin easily without leaving behind a filmy or greasy residue. So if you ask us, this formula from Peter Thomas Roth is an unsung hero for those with oily skin. It’s formulated with hyaluronic acid, Pentavitin (a proprietary compound that supplies skin with hydration), glycerin (a naturally occurring humectant that binds water to the skin for long-lasting moisture), hydrolyzed silk (an extract made from actual silk that softens the skin), and ceramides that lock in the hydration. Plus, it feels cool on contact with the skin and absorbs in seconds. Byrdie contributor Bryan Levandowski loved how his skin felt from the moment he tried this formula. "Immediately after applying, my skin felt great—hydrated, bouncy, and overall pleasant," he says. "As the day went on, my skin looked and felt balanced and not at all shiny." Just keep in mind that it might not be hydrating enough for those with very dry skin. 

Read the full review: The Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Cream Gave Me Juicy (Not Greasy) Skin

Best Moisturizer with SPF

Oars + Alps Everyday Face Moisturizer

$22 at Amazon $22 at Target View on Oarsandalps.com

Highlighted Ingredients: Octocrylene, zinc oxide | Size: 2 oz. | Cruelty-Free: Yes

When we tested moisturizers with SPF, this formula from Oars + Alps reigned supreme. We’ll admit, it does feel and smell like sunscreen, but once you rub it into the skin, it sinks into the skin and feels weightless, sans grease or white cast. It plays well with other skincare formulas and makeup, so it’s a great product to have on hand for everyday wear. The formula features reef-safe chemical and physical UVA and UVB blockers to keep the skin protected from the sun, plus hyaluronic acid for a boost of hydration and vitamins E and B5 for antioxidant protection. After wearing it all day, we found that it left skin feeling soft, silky, and sunburn-free. 

Best Moisturizer for Under Makeup

Charlotte Tilbury Charlotte's Magic Cream

$30 at Sephora $30 at Nordstrom View on Charlottetilbury.com

Highlighted Ingredients: Peptides, hyaluronic acid, vitamins C and E | Size: 0.5 fl. oz., 1.0 fl. oz., 1.7 fl. oz., and 5 fl. oz. | Cruelty-Free: Yes

With such hype around it, it’s hard not to expect literal magic from Charlotte Tilbury’s Magic Cream. But, we’re here to say that the glowing reviews exist for a reason: The product makes your skin glow, especially underneath makeup. It’s formulated with peptides and hyaluronic acid to hydrate and plump the skin (goodbye, fine lines and dry patches) while vitamins C and E amp up the radiance over time. The consistency is rich and blends beautifully, creating a soft, smooth surface for makeup to glide over. The only caveat is that it can leave a bit of a shine, so those with oily skin (who already have a shine of their own) may not love the finish of this one.

Byrdie's commerce director Jessica Mahgerefteh loves using it under makeup for an extra glowy, hydrated base. "It’s called Magic Cream but there’s no sorcery here—just a really solid moisturizer that does what any good moisturizer should do: hydrate," she says. "My skin feels soft, supple, and plumped with moisture after every use thanks to its inclusion of hyaluronic acid, and the results only get better with continued use. My makeup always looks better when applied on top of this cream."

Read the full review: Charlotte Tilbury’s Magic Cream Is a Supercharged Moisturizer

Best Face and Body Moisturizer

Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré

$29 at Amazon $29 at Dermstore $29 at Walmart

Ingredients: Shea butter, soy proteins | Size: 2.54 fl oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

The formula—which has been a best-seller since the ‘50s—contains several natural-origin active ingredients, like shea butter, beeswax, soy proteins, and aloe vera, each of which works in tandem to combat skin concerns like dryness, irritation, and redness. One squeeze of the tube deposits a lovely whipped cream that melts on contact with the skin, which we experienced firsthand. The brand recommends applying a small amount of the product onto clean, damp skin post-cleanse to lock in moisture and get the full effects of the creamy elixir.

Best Multi-Purpose Moisturizer

Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor Moisturizer

$36 at Sephora View on Fentybeauty.com $34 at Kohls.com

Highlighted Ingredients: Kalahari melon, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, aloe | Size: 1.7 fl oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Formulated with Kalahari melon for a dose of antioxidants, hyaluronic acid and glycerin for hydration, and niacinamide and aloe for dark spot reduction and soothing benefits, this moisturizer with SPF pretty much does it all. It relies on a variety of chemical sunscreen ingredients (like avobenzone and homosalate) to protect the skin and ensure there’s no white cast. We found it to be extremely moisturizing—it smoothed over dry patches quite nicely. We also give it bonus points for being refillable and coming in a fragrance-free option, which is typically easier on sensitive skin types.

Best Moisturizer for Teens

BYOMA Moisturizing Gel Cream

$15 at Amazon $16 at Ulta $10 at Target

Highlighted Ingredients: Ceramides, niacinamide, green tea | Size: 0.67, 1.6 fl oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Now more than ever, teens and tweens are flocking to skincare, but many formulas have active ingredients that are unnecessary for already baby faces. Skip the actives and opt for something that covers the bases while remaining gentle and non-irritating. One such formula is this moisturizer from Byoma, which strikes the perfect balance between a water cream and a rich moisturizer. It’s powered by a blend of ceramides, niacinamide, and green tea which work together to soothe stressed skin, combat redness, and smooth uneven skin texture and tone.