Dermatologists Have Tested Tons Of Moisturizers—These Are The Best Options For Dry Skin (2024)

As an editor that writes about beauty, I've tested my fair share of moisturizers, and this one is the only one that has secured a permanent spot on my shelf. It's legit the only one I use, and it has changed the game for my dry, sensitive, acne-prone skin.

First of all, the texture is a dream—it has a delightful whipped consistency that melts into the skin upon contact. But, the ingredients are really what make it stand out. Inside, you'll find colloidal oatmeal, which improves skin renewal, shea butter, rich in minerals and fatty acids, and allantoin, which calms and smooths irritated skin.

And I'm not the only one that loves this cream—derms are obsessed with it too. "I always recommend this product first to people with very sensitive skin," says Dr. Sperling. With help from its ingredients, she says it will visibly soften and nurture skin with ceramides to help support the skin's protective barrier. "It's lightweight and quick-absorbing, leaving skin feeling smooth and hydrated." She also notes that this product is suitable for all skin types, even dry skin that is prone to redness and eczema.

We think that this cream felt and performed super similar to our second favorite cream, the CeraVe Moisturizing Cream. However, what put this product in particular at the top of our list is the colloidal oatmeal in the formula, which goes one step above and beyond to really target sensitivity.

One note we do have: It's not as deeply moisturizing as other options on this list because it's not super thick. In our opinion, it's the perfect day cream, but if you have super dry skin, use a thicker product in the evening before bed.

Read More: Best Moisturizers For Acne-Prone Skin

CeraVe's Moisturizing Cream is another constant in Dr. Sperling's office. "I recommend this product because of its well-tolerated ingredients: glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides," she says, adding that these ingredients work for most people without irritation. "I love that there is no fragrance in this product and that it is not too heavy or oily." While it's awesome for all skin types, she says it's especially great if you have dry skin in need of some serious moisture. (This is what you should try if you have super dry skin and are looking for that richer cream to use at night!).

Dr. Sperling also adds that the Moisturizing Cream isn't just for the face. "You can also use it on the rest of your body," she notes. And, the fact that it's available in a 19-ounce tub for an affordable price makes it even more appealing for all-over use.

If you don't have super dry skin, we'd recommend straying away from this cream, as it can feel a bit heavy or greasy on those with oilier skin. However, on my skin (I have the driest skin in the game), it soaked right in and offered a gorgeous, hydrated glow.

If you often travel by plane, this cream is perfect for you. Flying can dry out your skin, so you'll want a cream that quickly revives and rejuvenates your complexion as soon as you land. "I travelled to two cities on a recent vacation, and the back-to-back flying made my skin feel super dry," says WH beauty editor Danielle Jackson. "I already reach for this moisturizer daily, but it was sooo helpful when I felt like my skin needed some extra hydration." she says it keeps her feeling nice and moisturized all day long.

The science behind the moisture? Powerful probiotic extracts, peptides, squalane, and skin-loving superfoods that claim to prevent early signs of aging, maintain skin balance, and keep skin hydrated and healthy-looking all day (and night!) long.

Another pro is that it's extremely lightweight and non-greasy, so if you despise the feeling of a thick cream sitting on your face all day, you'll def love this one. DW, just because it's light doesn't mean it's not suitable for dry skin—you'll notice its deep hydration right away.

If you’re planning to use this as a night cream, we suggest opting for something a bit thicker to apply before bed. For daytime use, this cream does a great job at keeping your skin hydrated. However, if you have dry skin, you might need something more heavy-duty for nighttime.

Elizabeth Arden always delivers high-quality skin solutions that you'll want to purchase the second you run out. And this retinol and ceramide cream fits perfectly into its already impressive product lineup.

Formulated with retinol, peptides, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides, this super lightweight cream is kinda the perfect storm for a bouncy, hydrated complexion. Scared to dive into the retinol world? DW, Arden's cream is literally made for first-time retinol users, as it utilizes botanical extracts to nourish and protect the skin. After continued use (give it about four weeks), you may notice that your skin's tone and texture is more refined and your radiance is improved.

Because retinol makes your skin more sensitive to the sun, make sure you wear SPF every day when using this cream. And, don't forget to re-apply it every few hours!

If you have suuuper dry skin and want a bit of an extra boost, Dr. Engelman has the perfect addition: Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Capsules. "They are super compact, easy-to-use, and support the skin barrier for healthier, hydrated, and younger-looking skin," she says.

This water-based and refillable cream is a cult-classic for a reason, hence why it won a Women's Health Skincare Award. According to Jackson, who has combination skin with an oily T-zone, "this very light, gel-cream formula hydrates and makes the skin look so dewy while also utilizing niacinamide to reduce the appearance of pores." She says that she used this moisturizer non-stop until she finally emptied the jar.

Another reason why it's so loved? It literally gets to work the second it touches the skin, so you may notice smaller pores and a more even skin tone within seconds of application. And, because it's made with niacinamide, this cream has the ability to reduce redness, too.

If you wear makeup on the daily, the Magic Water Cream should be the newest addition to your medicine cabinet, as it makes your makeup glide on so much easier. Pair it with the Charlotte Tilbury Flawless Filter for a tiny bit of natural coverage and a whole lotta glow.

This cream is refillable, so you don't have to keep buying new jars, which we like. However, the refill packs are just as expensive as buying a new cream altogether, which we feel is a bit pricey for our liking.

Whether it's a rainy day or a sunny one, SPF is a non-negotiable. So, why not opt for a moisturizer that also offers extra sun protection? This SPF-infused one from Neutrogena is incredible, and the best part is that it's suitable for all skin types and doesn't clog pores or cause unwanted acne.

Another pro? "It has a cool, soothing feeling when applied, and it absorbs into the skin almost instantly, leaving it feeling silky smooth," says dermatologist Stacey Tull, MD. She adds that it also has a super high SPF, which can be harder to find in moisturizers. "When combined with vitamin E, the SPF-moisturizer duo has the bonus of free radical protection, too."

If you're in need of a moisturizer and SPF duo that tackles dry, dehydrated skin, this one is not only inexpensive, but it's easy to find in most drugstores (!!). Our one note? It smells super strongly of sunscreen, which we don't love.

Read more: Best Moisturizers With Sunscreen

If you've been struggling with sensitive skin, your search for the perfect solution ends here. Dr. Rimoin has a clear favorite when it comes to moisturizers designed for sensitive skin, and it's easy to see why.

"Vanicream products are tailor-made for sensitive skin, free from common irritants like fragrances, parabens, and dyes," she says. "Its Moisturizing Cream is not only exceptionally hydrating, but it also absorbs quickly." It's her top choice for individuals with sensitive, reactive skin, and even those dealing with eczema.

Much like the CeraVe Moisturizing Cream and our fave First Aid Beauty option, Dr. Rimoin affirms that this cream works wonders for both the face and body. The added bonus? It's suitable for people of all ages; Dr. Rimoin even trusts it for her baby's skin.

However, Dr. Rimoin does offer a few caveats: "While it's non-comedogenic, those with oily skin might find it a tad heavy. If you're exercising, you also might notice a slight film when you sweat."

Dr. Rimoin says this is one of her favorite all-around picks for dry skin, as it feels rich and creamy but leaves no film behind. "It’s priced well and is formulated for sensitive skin, but can be used on all skin types," she says. In terms of texture, she says that several of her patients have described it as buttery but also lightweight.

Furthermore, this product comes in various options, making it versatile for all skin types. Aside from this lightweight, creamy version, the brand also makes a matte gel alternative and one with SPF. As described by Dr. Thosani, it's an oil-free moisturizer packed with prebiotic thermal water, ceramides, niacinamide, and glycerin, ensuring effective hydration and skin rejuvenation. "It's non-comedogenic, absorbs readily, and offers a lighter texture compared to thicker creams," she says. However, for those with oily skin looking to avoid a shiny T-zone later in the day, she says the matte gel version is the ideal choice.

Dr. Engelman is a fan of both the Epionce Intensive Nourishing Cream and the Renewal Facial Cream, but the Facial Cream stands out because it's a super light formula that can be used during the day. "It does an excellent job of smoothing without feeling heavy," she notes. Plus, because it's so lightweight and non-greasy, it's a solid choice for those with oily skin.

And its results all come down to the unique ingredients: rose canina fruit oil, meadowfoam extract, safflower seed oil, flax seed extract, apple fruit extract, olive oil, lavender extract and *so* much more. The excitement surrounding these skin-boosters is because they are designed to visibly enhance skin texture, promoting a smoother and firmer appearance while reducing the visible signs of aging, according to the brand.

We love that we can feel how hydrated our skin is the second we apply it. After testing, our skin felt so hydrated, smooth, and never greasy. However, this may not be the best option for those with sensitive skin, as it has a lot of active ingredients and has a stronger fragrance.

When it comes to tightening and firming the skin, peptides are the name of the game, and this brand new launch from Beekman 1802—it's specifically formulated with reneseed polypeptide—is just what you need. The reneseed polypeptide optimizes collagen for tighter, firmer skin. Not only is it super hydrating, but we find that it also gives skin the plump youthful, glowy look everyone wants (and deserves!).

And, like all of the Beekman 1802 products, this moisturizer features goat milk, which, according to the brand, is packed with 31 active nutrients that hydrate and strengthen the skin barrier. And, there are also milk protein exosomes in this cream, which penetrate deep into the skin to strengthen and tone.

After testing this cream for three weeks, we found it to have retinol-like effects (ya know, brightening, firming, and exfoliating), but we didn't have any negative side effects that can be associated with retinol like redness or peeling.

One note: It can feel a bit heavy, so keep that in mind if you have oily skin.

I've had this cream for months, and it's one of the best options out there if you want supple, smooth-to-the-touch skin. Its claim to fame is hyaluronic acid, but it's also pumped with antioxidants such as super lotus, which can help boost radiance, and star fruit leaf extract to help plump and smooth the skin.

I find that this moisturizer never leaves my skin looking or feeling greasy, and it sits on top of the skin so nicely, absorbing within seconds and penetrating the skin with moisture. And, that's thanks to polyglutamic acid, which locks in moisture and comforts the skin all day.

However, one of our testers, who recently re-purchased this cream, discovered that it has recently undergone a formula change. She says the texture feels a bit different with the new updates and it feels more difficult to rub into the skin.

In our humble opinion, everyone needs a night cream to lock in moisture and help you look hydrated and fresh come morning. And, this one has been topping our list as of late. More specifically, it claims to fight wrinkles, age spots, and depleted, aging skin while you snooze. And, that's thanks to a blend of bioactive plant-based vitamin-enriched ingredients.

First up on the list: violet leaf and sea buckthorn berry, both of which are rich in antioxidants as well as vitamin A, C, and E. This helps restore skin's bounce and tone the complexion to help it appear more even and glowy. The formula also has water-binding peptides combined with hyaluronic acid to increase moisture retention in the skin. Are you convinced yet?

If you're not, I'll be the first to tell you that I wake up with smooth, plump, facial-worthy skin every morning after I use this cream. Pro tip: Apply it onto your hands at night before bed and they'll look smooth and youthful the next day.

This cream works on all skin types, which is a huge plus. Even our testers with oily skin said there complexion felt balanced, even, and hydrated come morning without a lick of greasiness or heaviness. It does have a strong smell though, so make sure you're aware of that before purchasing.

Want plump, fresh skin in no time? This moisturizer from Solawave has you covered with collagen peptides, hyaluronic acid, and a potent mushroom-derived humectant , which the brand calls Solabiome, that supports both the skin barrier and microbiome. The brand claims this ingredient can provide even more hydration than hyaluronic acid. Clearly, mushrooms are a key player in this cream's formula.

After a few weeks of testing, we found our skin felt brighter and much more hydrated with twice-daily use. Plus, it never felt thick or oily, which is always a big win. Like our favorite First Aid Beauty product, this moisturizer works great during the day, though we’d still recommend something thicker for nighttime.

Meet the experts

• Maya K. Thosani, MD is a dermatologist based in Scottsdale, AZ
• Dendy Engelman, MD is a dermatologist based in New York, NY
• Lauren Rimoin, MD is a dermatologist based in Texas
  
• Sheri Sperling, MD is a dermatologist based in Florham Park, NJ
• Stacey Tull, MD is a dermatologist based in Cottleville, MO

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