With winter on its way, there’s no better time to have a serious discussion about moisturizer. Like cleanser and sunscreen, moisturizer is an essential component of any skincare routine. It not only prevents dryness and irritation but also plays a crucial role in repairing and maintaining your skin’s barrier.
As a lifelong skincare enthusiast, I’ve tried more than my fair share of moisturizers. Fortunately, my experience has produced a lot more hits than misses. Read on for my list of holy grail hydrators that will keep you moisturized and unbothered.
CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30: There isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t use this moisturizer. It’s been my go-to daytime moisturizer for years, and I wouldn’t set a single foot outside without it. It’s an effective multitasker that protects my skin from sun exposure and also provides continuous hydration throughout the day. Packed with skin-loving ingredients, this deceptively simple lotion also features hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and three essential ceramides to restore and protect the skin’s natural barrier. $20
CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion: Lightweight and oil-free, this product is designed to lock in your skin’s moisture and help restore your skin’s natural barrier while you sleep. Although I haven’t used this specific product in a while, it was a consistent part of my nighttime routine for years and remains a steadfast favorite. This moisturizer is suitable for all skin types, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for an affordable yet high-quality moisturizer. $20
Cetaphil Rich Hydrating Cream: I’m prepared to go out on a limb and claim that, for my money, nothing surpasses this simple, unassuming cream. Nothing. Not even the more expensive, luxury items on this list can beat it. It’s an absolute gem, hiding in plain sight at your local drugstore, and it’s saved my skin more times than I can count. Deeply nourishing yet not too rich, it may be the most perfect moisturizer I’ve ever used. $15
Olay Active Hydrating Original Beauty Fluid: Nourishing and lightweight, with an undeniably iconic fragrance, Olay Original Beauty Fluid is the OG holy grail moisturizer. This time-tested lotion absorbs quickly and makes skin feel ultrasoft. Simple but highly effective, it’s a classic beauty essential that delivers on its promises and comes in a variety of formulations (including fragrance-free), making it suitable for almost all ages and skin types. $12
Dermalogica Intensive Moisture Balance: Similar to Cetaphil Rich Hydrating Cream, Dermalogica’s Intensive Moisture Balance Moisturizer appears simple but delivers powerful results. Infused with hyaluronic acid and lactic acid, it hydrates dry skin, promotes cell turnover, locks in moisture, enhances firmness, and diminishes fine lines. Skin feels clean, healthy, and balanced. $49
Saint Jane Beauty Sacred Sleep Overnight Repair with Retinol: Perfect for normal, dry, and combination skin, this gentle but effective retinol cream supports cell turnover, while soothing redness and irritation. Velvety and luxurious, this cream is well worth its price tag and is suitable for those just beginning to introduce retinol into their routines. $70
Fresh Floral Recovery Calming Mask: This soothing overnight mask is suitable for most skin types and is rich in natural antioxidants. It’s a powerhouse product that effectively combats various skin issues, including dryness, dullness, and uneven texture, while also providing relief from sensitivity. This gentle mask can be used daily and doubles as an excellent nighttime moisturizer, especially during the cold winter months. $72