Best Face Moisturizer For Dry Skin

Paulas Choice Intensive Repair Cream

Want to repair dehydrated skin fast and achieve a more youthful, smooth, glowing complexion? If so, you need Paulas Choice Intensive Repair Cream. This innovative formulation works fast to heal and hydrate your damaged skin. The end result is the diminishment of wrinkles and the appearance of firmer-looking skin.

This is possible through a potent antioxidant blend, peptides, and of course, the main ingredient: retinol. While its an ultra-low concentration at just 0.01%, this retinol-based formula is an anti-aging superstar, and we recommend it for anyone who wants more than just a face moisturizer.

Price: $28

Key Ingredients: Retinol, Antioxidant blend, and Hyaluronic acid

Effects: Long-lasting hydration and anti-aging effects that keep your skin looking smooth, hydrated, youthful, and glowing.

Other Highlights: Free shipping from Paulas Choice over $49, and free minis as well. You can unlock further savings with their subscribe and save program too.

Best Natural: Doctor Rogers Restore Face Lotion

• Has lightweight and thicker varieties

While ingredients both natural and chemical can be irritating for many skin types, you may find relief in this gentle formula. It has a minimal ingredient list loaded with hydrating and calming plant-based ingredients. The product has repeatedly earns rave reviews, and we like that it comes in both this lightweight lotion and a thicker cream variant. Conduct a patch test on a small area ahead of application to rule out allergic reactions.

Active Ingredients: Niacinamide, Centella asiatica extract | Skin Type: Balanced, oily, acne-prone | Size: 1.7 fluid ounces | SPF: No | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Yes

Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream $1299

King also highly recommends the Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream for both the face and body. Its non-comedogenic and packed with both hydrating humectants and emollients to lock in moisture.

Key ingredients in the formula include glycerin, glyceryl stearate, sweet almond oil and vitamin E. Glycerin is a humectant and emollient that draws in moisture to hydrate and lock in moisture, King explained. Glyceryl stearate is a conditioning agent that works as an emollient to soften the skin. Sweet almond oil is also an emollient that softens and help to rejuvenate damaged skin. Vitamin E is a very effective antioxidant that helps to protect against UV damage.

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The Best Face Moisturizers For Dry Skin According To Experts

The experts we spoke to agreed that most effective face moisturizers for dry skin will be heavier and contain a combination of emollients , occlusives and humectants . They also noted that the products should be free of ethyl alcohol, exfoliators and other drying or irritating ingredients. With that in mind, these are the facial moisturizers the dermatologists and estheticians we spoke to said were their favorites for dry skin. One expert also recommended trying a moisturizing face mask, which contains similar moisturizing ingredients in a different form.

Alastin Skincare Restorative Skin Complex $195

Dr. Melissa Kanchanapoomi Levin, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Entière Dermatology, told The Post her top choice is the Alastin Restorative Skin Complex.

While this is one of the most expensive products on our list, she describes it as a medical-grade, all-in-one product thats completely different from any other out there.

The brand claims to help maintain skin health for a vibrant, youthful appearance so its a great anti-aging option, as well. It includes a hydrating formulation with key ingredients to help produce new and healthy elastin and collagen in your skin and combat visible signs of aging.

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Glow Recipe Plum Plump Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer

Dryness, dullness and loss of firmness and elasticity can be a thing of the past with Glow Recipes Plum Plump Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer.

This whipped gel cream is packed with polyglutamic acid, hyaluronic acid and plum extract, all of which work together to plump and revitalize dry and tired-looking skin. Its ideal for those with dry skin, as it locks in moisture and helps to balance your skin tone. The moisturizer also features a blend of multi-weight hyaluronic acids that help keep skin looking healthy and hydrated all day long. If youre struggling with dryness, dullness or loss of firmness and elasticity, this moisturizer is the perfect solution.

Do The Ingredients Matter

In a word, yes. The efficacy of a given face moisturizer rests almost entirely on its composition. Humectants feature in the formulas of most leading moisturizers for good reason they are moisture magnets that form hydrogen bonds with water molecules, luring water into the top layer of skin cells in the process. Some humectants are man-made, while others exist in nature.

Synthetic Humectants

Urea and glycerin are the synthetic humectants most common in the moisturizers on our list. Urea is a heavy-duty humectant known for hydrating the top layer of the skin and speeding the removal of dead skin cells. Urea is also a sworn enemy of eczema and psoriasis, aiding in the alleviation and prevention of those conditions. This tough-on-dry-skin platform is undoubtedly why Clinique included urea in their .

Glycerin is an emollient that traps moisture where we want it in our skin. In addition to its moisturizing properties, glycerin is also an effective antidote for rough or itchy skin and combats skin irritation, itching, and flaking.

Natural Humectants

Hyaluronic acid is the signature ingredient in many top-of-the-line face moisturizers, including our Gold Medal winner . This naturally occurring humectant stimulates moisture retention in skin cells, and also acts in an anti-aging capacity through diminishing the appearance of wrinkles and supporting skin elasticity.

Skin Irritants

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Cerave Skin Renewing Night Cream $1899

Both Ramanadham and Sperling recommend this night cream. The CeraVe Renewing Night Cream is formulated with peptides, hyaluronic acid and ceramides to deeply hydrate the skin while helping to renew the skins natural barrier overnight, said Ramanadham.

Its great for all skin types, non-greasy and designed to hydrate, refresh, soften and renew the look of tired, dry skin.

Dr Jart+ Ceramidin Cream

Dr. Jart’s deeply moisturizing cream works to improve an irritated skin barrier, something that can be caused by environmental aggressors like cold weather, wind, and pollution. Faith, our former editorial director, explains why it has become one of her favorites: “It sinks in instantly and is the perfect base for makeup, and my skin doesn’t feel dry and tight anymore because of it. Plus, the ingredients are soothing enough for people with sensitive skin.”

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Whether You’re Looking For A Budget

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Are you sick of having dry skin? Do you spend a fortune on moisturizers that promise to hydrate your skin, but dont seem to work? Youre not alone. Millions of people suffer from dry skin, which can be caused by a number of factors, including genetics, climate and lifestyle choices.

Dry skin is a common problem, and if you suffer from dry skin, you know how important it is to find the right face moisturizer. However, finding the right moisturizer can be tough, since not all face moisturizers are created equal. Some will leave your skin feeling oily and heavy, while others simply wont provide enough hydration.

Dry skin is often genetic, but it can be caused by environmental factors like cold, windy conditions with low humidity or extreme dry heat. Dry skin can also be caused by certain medications, harsh soaps or other face products that strip your skin, or by washing your skin too often. If your dry skin is the result of a temporary situation, you may only need a thick moisturizer formulated for dry skin at certain times of the year you can use a normal moisturizer the rest of the time.

Ole Henriksen Strength Trainer Peptide Boost Moisturizer

| Strength Trainer Peptide Boost Moisturizer.

Ole Henriksen is a high-end skincare brand that originated in Beverly Hills, CA. Their philosophy is to create a spa-quality experience for everyone using their products. This moisturizer called the Strength Trainer Peptide Boost Moisturizer takes a different approach to moisturizing the skin.

Its formulation strengthens the skins moisture barrier, promoting a firm and smooth look after just eight weeks of consistent use. This moisturizer is full of peptides, collagen, and hyaluronic acid. These ingredients work together to moisturize the skin and make it glow.

With the help of this moisturizer, your dry skin will become moisturized and radiant skin, easily matching that beautiful glow of expectant mothers. Your skin will no longer be dull and fragile, but it will look and feel resilient and vibrant. We trust that nobody will be disappointed with what Ole Henriksen offers with this Strength Trainer.

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Best Face Moisturizers Of 2022

Whether you’re dry, oily, combination or acne-prone, these formulas have you covered.

We updated this article in March 2022 to add more information about each featured product, based on extensive testing done by the Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab. Our original top-rated picks, selected by the GH Beauty Lab, remain the same.

Applying a face moisturizer daily is one of the number one keys to healthy, glowing skin no matter what the season, your age, or skin type. Experts say that hydrating is crucial for keeping skin youthful and healthy, even if you dont have dry skin. Moisturizing protects the skin barrier,” explains Dendy Engelman, M.D., a dermatologist in New York City. The healthier your barrier, the better your skins defense against inflammation and damage, which can protect skin from signs of dehydration, irritation, redness, and even hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and wrinkles over time.

Here, read all about the best face moisturizers and creams , as tested by the GH Beauty Lab, backed by the Good Housekeeping Seal or recommended by dermatologists:

La Mer Crme De La Mer Moisturizer

| Creme de la Mer Moisturizing Cream.

La Mer is famous for its Miracle Broth, a rich concentration of vitamins, minerals, and botanicals to treat and prevent inflammation and protect the skin from environmental elements and signs of aging. Crème de la Mer contains this Miracle Broth as well as lime tea. Lime tea is rich in antioxidants that protect the skin from pollutants and irritants.

Because of the rich content of its ingredients, this moisturizer is one of the best for dry skin. It works wonders for dry skin as it delivers the moisture and hydration the skin craves. The Miracle Broth also heals your skin from irritation, breakouts, and dryness. Your skin will receive a new life and a youthful glow. Your skin will look younger, smoother, and firmer in just eight weeks of use. This moisturizing cream is worth trying for those who have exhausted all other options.

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Kora Organics Noni Glow Sleeping Mask $48

Dr. Mariana Vergara, a cosmetic dermatologist, is a big fan of face masks and recommends the Kora Organics Noni Glow Sleeping Mask for those with dry skin.

This mask hydrates, smooths and plumps the skin. It contains silver ear mushroom, coconut milk, caviar lime and Kakadu plum extract, Vergara told The Post. Silver ear helps bind hyaluronic acid to your skin to deeply hydrate. Coconut Milk is a source of omega 3 and 6 fatty acid that balances dryness and improves the skin barrier protection which decreases inflammation in the skin. It also contains antioxidants like vitamin C which protects the skin from oxidative stress.

Resist Intensive Repair Cream

Paula’s Choice Moisturizer for Intense Moisturization and Anti-Aging Benefits

Paulas Choice Resist Intensive Repair Cream

This ultra-rich face cream contains a concentrated blend of ingredients that restore, deeply hydrate, and fight the signs of aging, including a low concentration of retinol.

This face cream contains a low concentration of retinol , a skincare ingredient that is considered the gold-standard for fighting signs of aging, including fine lines and wrinkles. It also helps even skin tone and smooth texture, minimizing hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and acne scars. While the concentration is not super high, it is great for people who want to gently work retinol into their routine, but are worried about irritation from higher concentration treatments.

• Some reviewers note it has a greasy texture

In addition to the retinol, this cream contains hyaluronic acid, which locks in moisture and plumps the skin to reduce the appearance of fine lines. It also contains a blend of antioxidants that fight environmental aggressors to protect the skin.

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When Should You Apply A Moisturizer

To make sure your skin absorbs every drop of moisturizer, Dr. Farhand recommends applying moisturizer within a minute of getting out of the shower or washing your face every day. It also helps to apply it when your skin is still a bit damp to help seal the moisture in. Since moisturizer has such a big job when it comes to your barrier and the health of your skin, apply a moisturizer a.m. and p.m. for best results. Make sure to top your morning routine with a sunscreen.

Pai Skincare Avocado & Jojoba Hydrating Day Cream

When your skin is dry, it looses that coveted luster, and in its place is a sallow, flat-looking complexion. This will fix that. It’s free from drying alcohol and irritating ingredients, and it’s incredibly light and buttery without feeling greasy or heavy on your skin. The formula is enriched with organic avocado and jojoba oils to condition and omega-3 and -6 to leave your skin feeling calm, supple, and soft.

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Our Top Moisturizers For Dry Skin

• 1Best Overall Moisturizer for Dry SkinMoisturizing CreamCeraVe
• Best Moisturizer for Dry Skin for Under MakeupHydra-Essentiel Rich CreamClarins
• Best Day and Night Moisturizer for Dry Skin24-7 Moisture Hydrating Day & Night CreamTULA
• Best Anti-Aging Moisturizer for Dry SkinBarrier+ Triple Lipid-Peptide Face CreamSkinfix
• Best Luxury Moisturizer for Dry SkinRepairative MoisturizerTata Harper
• Best Moisturizer for Dry Skin for EczemaMoisturizing CreamVanicream
• Best Botanical Moisturizer for Dry SkinBlack Rose Skin Infusion CreamSisley
• Best Firming Moisturizer for Dry SkinProtini Polypeptide MoisturizerDrunk Elephant
• Best Moisturizer for Extra-Dry SkinUltra Repair Cream Intense HydrationFirst Aid Beauty
• Best Daytime Moisturizer for Dry SkinAM Therapy Facial MoisturizerEltaMD

• Not Ideal for Daytime Use

If it seems weird to use an exfoliating ingredient like lactic acid to moisturize, its not. This alpha hydroxy acid helps exfoliate skin, but its also moisturizing since it enhances the barrier function of the skin, Dr. Feely says. This rich moisturizer packs the ingredient alongside soothing aloe and nourishing vitamin E for a formula that pays off in the long-run.

Know your skin type: If your skin is really dry and sensitive , a richer cream or lotion will probably give you the results youre looking for. People with oily or acne-prone skin will benefit from lighter gel formulas instead.

Cerave Daily Moisturizing Lotion $997

While there are plenty of high-end products you can buy to help give your dry skin moisture, you dont always have to spend a ton of cash to get the job done. Ramanadhams drugstore recommendation is the CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion.

You cant go wrong with CeraVe products and this lotion will not disappoint, said Ramanadham. It contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Its lightweight, non-greasy, fragrance-free and non-comedogenic.

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Do I Need Both A Serum And A Moisturizer

Regardless of skin type, everyone should be using a moisturizer everyday, because it keeps the skin healthy and adequately hydrated so that it looks and feels its best. Serums arent an absolute necessity if youre looking to establish a simple skincare routine, but they can be helpful if you want to address specific skin concerns, since they give your skin a concentrated boost of effective skincare ingredients. If you choose to add a serum to your routine, apply it first, after cleansing. Follow up with a moisturizer, and then sunscreen during the day.

Kiehls Age Defender Cream Moisturizer

You might have noticed that Kiehls almost always appears on lists of the best skin-care products. That is because Kiehls has been a leader in the skin-care world since 1851.

This powerful dual-action cream is clinically demonstrated to lift and firm skin while minimizing the appearance of lines and wrinkles. Soy protein, caffeine and linseed extract work together to improve elasticity and firmness while strengthening skin for a more youthful appearance. This product is specifically formulated for mens thicker, coarser skin, and youll love how soft and smooth your skin feels after using this great product.

For best results, Kiehls recommends using their Age Defender Cream after cleansing the skin. Apply a small amount to the face and neck. This cream is gentle enough that it can be used in the morning or at night.

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The 10 Best Face Moisturizers For Dry Skin 2022

Face moisturizer is the foundation of any effective skincare routine. That said, picking out the right moisturizer might feel like an impossible task, given the seemingly endless array of face moisturizer brands and products stocked by the average American retailer.

Weve simplified the process by compiling a list of our favorite face moisturizers for dry skin. Whether your goal is to age better than Paul Rudd, add an enviable sheen to your skin, or simply to keep your skin healthy and hydrated through the dog days of summer, this article will inform your face moisturizer purchasing decisions.

Asterwood Naturals Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum

If youre looking for a long-term solution to dry skin, Asterwood Naturals Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum can give you the perfect answer. Not only does it penetrate deeper skin levels than most moisturizers – leaving you with hydrated, plumper skin – but with consistent use, it fills the gaps between your skin cells. This means that, over time, your skin will be better able to lock in and seal moisture! This serum is also vegan, cruelty-free, and is safe for all skin types, since it steers clear of parabens, fragrances, oils, sulfates, and even gluten.