Are you questioning the necessity of a moisturizer in your skincare routine? Perhaps you’re curious if those with oily skin can forgo this essential step, or if you can skip hydrating your skin during the summer months simply because you're drinking plenty of water. It's vital to understand that moisturizers should never be overlooked.
Regardless of whether you prefer a simplified skincare regimen or indulge in an extensive 10-step routine, moisturizers are a crucial component of any effective skincare strategy. However, the challenge often lies in finding the perfect moisturizer tailored to your specific skin type and needs.
If you find your moisturizers gathering dust on a shelf, it’s time to conduct thorough research before making your next purchase. To assist you in this quest, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the top face moisturizers available in 2023.
12 Best Face Moisturizers to Buy in 2023
For Dry Skin
If your skin feels flaky during winter and itchy in summer, it’s likely that your skin barrier has been compromised. Regularly applying a moisturizer can help repair and restore your skin’s suppleness.
1. CeraVe Moisturizing Cream for Dry Skin
Pros
Quick absorption
Dermatologist recommended
Cons
Jar packagingcontamination
CeraVe is a leading brand synonymous with affordability and efficacy. Their moisturizing cream is enriched with essential hydrating ingredients, including ceramides (1, 3, and 6) and hyaluronic acid, utilizing MVE technology for optimal hydration. Its rich texture not only facilitates smooth application but also ensures quick absorption.
This means your skin remains hydrated throughout the day, with noticeable improvements to the skin barrier within just one month. The formula is free from parabens, fragrances, and allergens, and it has been developed in collaboration with dermatologists and endorsed by the NEA.
2. First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream Moisturizer
Pros
Immediate, long-lasting results
Soothes eczema and redness
Cons
Potential irritationsensitive skin
First Aid Beauty’s Ultra Repair Intense Moisturizing Cream is specifically formulated for individuals grappling with extreme dryness or conditions like eczema. With key ingredients like colloidal oats to calm irritation and shea butter to protect the skin barrier, this cream absorbs quickly while delivering rich hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
This cruelty-free, vegan, soy-free, gluten-free, and alcohol-free cream has undergone dermatological testing to ensure it is safe and effective for all skin types.
3. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Face Moisturizer
Pros
Non-comedogenic
Eco-friendly packaging
Cons
Does not contain SPF
The Neutrogena Hydro Boost Face Moisturizer features a gel-based formula that hydrates your skin without making it feel oily. Its primary active ingredient, hyaluronic acid, is renowned for its ability to retain moisture, ensuring a plumped and supple appearance.
As one of the leading drugstore skincare brands, Neutrogena’s Hydro Boost cream is suitable for extra-dry, dry, or normal skin types. Additionally, it is free from oils, fragrances, and dyes, making it an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin.
4. TATCHA The Dewy Skin Cream
Pros
Includes a spatula for hygienic dispensing
Rich in antioxidants
Cons
Higher price point
TATCHA is a renowned Japanese brand favored globally. Their Dewy Skin Cream combines botanical extracts, Japanese purple rice, Okinawa algae blend, and hyaluronic acid, working synergistically to maintain moisture levels, enhance skin hydration, and shield against environmental stressors.
As a result, your skin will look vibrant, nourished, and radiant, feeling soft and plump to the touch. Many users find themselves enamored with this luxurious moisturizer after just two weeks of use, thanks to its remarkable results.
For Oily Skin
Despite common misconceptions that oily skin is self-sufficient in hydration, it’s crucial to understand how moisturizers help balance sebum production. Here are our top recommendations for oily skin-friendly hydrating creams.
1. Vichy Normaderm PhytoAction Acne Control Moisturizer
Pros
Enriched with salicylic acid and vitamin C
Targets and prevents acne
Cons
May not be suitable for fragrance-sensitive individuals
The Vichy Normaderm PhytoAction moisturizer is a dermatologically tested product featuring 2% salicylic acid, vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid, which collectively target adult acne, blackheads, uneven texture, and enlarged pores while improving skin tone and diminishing blemishes.
This gentle, hypoallergenic, paraben-free formula hydrates oily skin effectively without creating a greasy finish.
2. CETAPHIL DERMACONTROL Oil Absorbing Moisturizer
Pros
Utilizes oil-absorbing technology
Includes sun protection
Cons
Maythe eyes
The CETAPHIL DERMACONTROL oil-absorbing moisturizer features innovative micro pearl technology that effectively absorbs excess sebum while providing deep hydration to the skin. This results in a matte finish,