Nowadays, moisturizers are a non-negotiable addition to any skincare regime. In addition to their proven benefits for maintaining healthy and hydrated skin, some moisturizers may have the capacity to address a range of concerns, from skin dryness, acne, and wrinkles to oiliness and sensitivity.
However, with a multitude of skincare brands and marketing tactics, it is difficult to identify the best moisturizer for the face.
Together with our health research team, we have evaluated the list of 13 best face moisturizers according to our criteria. In this review, we will provide an in-depth analysis of chosen products and their benefits for beautiful and glowing skin.
Let's explore the list of the best face moisturizers for a successful purchase.
Best face moisturizer: shortlist
- CLEARSTEM — best dual-action moisturizer for anti-aging and acne-prone skin
- LunaMD — best hydrating moisturizer designed to combat visible signs of aging
- Instytutum — best lightweight moisturizer for plumping and hydrating the skin
- Aesop — best facial moisturizer with potent and antioxidant rich properties
- Kiehl's — best moisturizing cream for softer and smoother skin
- Drunk Elephant — best peptide-packed moisturizer for skin firmness
- Olay — best lightweight moisturizer with vitamin C and peptides
- Facetheory — best retinol skin moisturizer to combat pigmentation
- Medik8 — best daytime moisturizer to boost skin’s natural luminosity
- SkinCeuticals — best daily moisturizer for long-lasting hydration
- The Body Shop — the best skin moisturizer with vitamin E
- Baebody® — best retinol face moisturizer to reduce the appearance of fine lines
- Clinique — best broad-spectrum SPF face moisturizer
How we compiled the list of best face moisturizers
In the vast skincare market, many products focus on facial care, but finding the right balance of quality and price can be a challenge. We've taken on the task of pinpointing the best facial moisturizer that, in our opinion, offers a great blend of effectiveness and affordability.
| Price | Ingredients | Allergens | Skin type compatibility |
| $22.95–87.00 | Quality key ingredients | Safe, non-irritating formula | Compatible with most skin types |
- Price. We assessed whether the chosen products offer good value for money. Additionally, we selected face creams across various price points to ensure there's an option suitable for every budget.
- Ingredients. We verified that the ingredient lists align with the benefits promised by the brands. This step ensures that the products can deliver on their claims.
- Allergens. Our preference leaned towards products that are free from common allergens. This consideration is crucial for ensuring the moisturizers are gentle and safe for sensitive skin.
- Skin type compatibility. We gave priority to products compatible with a wide range of skin types. This inclusivity ensures that more people can use the selected moisturizers without concern for adverse reactions.
Best face moisturizer 2024: overview
Navigating through the endless options of formulas, brands, and types of face creams online can be overwhelming. But don't worry. We've carefully selected 13 standout face moisturizers designed to cater to different skin types and concerns. Each one is formulated to nourish your skin, aiming to restore its natural beauty and radiance.
1. CLEARSTEM — best dual-action moisturizer for anti-aging and acne-prone skin: featuring stem cell technology
HYDRAGLOW™ by CLEARSTEM is one of the best dual-action stem cell moisturizers designed to restore, regenerate, and hydrate the skin. It is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, and is effective to use both day and night.
According to the brand, HYDRAGLOW may reduce active breakouts, lighten acne scars, regulate oil production, and reduce inflammation while increasing collagen production and skin elasticity.
The moisturizer contains key ingredients like bakuchiol (a natural alternative to retinol), plant stem cells, and olive squalane for rejuvenation and collagen production.
Additionally, the moisturizer aims to improve skin's texture and tone, fine lines, wrinkles, and hydration while being free from all possible pore-cloggers (non-comedogenic) and hormone disruptors.
Priced at $56, CLEARSTEM is one of the best face moisturizers for sensitive skin in the market.
2. LunaMD — best hydrating moisturizer designed to combat visible signs of aging
The Ultra Benefits© Moisturizer by LunaMD offers a practical solution to potentially combat signs of aging. According to the brand, its key ingredient, Lipochroman®, is an effective antioxidant that may help neutralize harmful free radicals known to accelerate skin aging.
This moisturizer also includes peptides aimed at boosting collagen production, which may enhance skin's texture and firmness while potentially reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
Additionally, LunaMD features ingredients such as Chromabright® to lighten dark spots and improve skin tone, alongside jojoba seed oil and botanical oils for hydration and soothing.
Available for $80, with an option to subscribe and save 5%, LunaMD moisturizer is designed to provide a more youthful and radiant look.
3. Instytutum — best lightweight moisturizer for plumping and hydrating the skin
The HYDRAFUSION 4D HA WATER BURST CREAM by Instytutum is a premium moisturizer designed to tackle signs of aging while delivering intense hydration.
This moisturizer features a unique lightweight gel-cream texture that bursts upon application, with a hydrating experience that lasts up to 24 hours. Formulated with a blend of multi-molecular hyaluronic acid, algae, and a unique tri-peptide, it targets various skin layers for deep moisture replenishment, improved elasticity, and firmer skin contours.
Additional ingredients like jojoba ester, squalane, and papaya enzymes may work together to exfoliate, soothe, and minimize the appearance of pores and wrinkles. Suitable for daily use, the brand promises this cream might promote a brighter, smoother, and more refined skin texture. It's recommended for use twice daily on clean skin.
Instytutum moisturizer is priced at $87 and is ideal for nourishment and regeneration.
4. Aesop — best facial moisturizer with potent and antioxidant rich properties
Aesop is a perfect antioxidant facial hydrating moisturizer with parsley seeds. It is a premium skincare solution suited for most skin types, including dry skin.
This rich buttery cream has a unique formulation that combines emollient botanicals with antioxidants like white tea, tocopherol (vitamin E), and rock rose to fortify and replenish the skin.
The brand states the cream may supply a soft and supple skin feel with a matte finish during morning and evening applications. Moreover, the herbaceous, floral, and fresh aroma may enhance the sensory experience.
Aesop recommends warming half a teaspoon of the product in the hands before gently massaging it into freshly cleansed and toned skin.
Priced at $77, Aesop offers Apple Pay for secure transactions, complimentary gift wrapping, and online returns for unopened products within thirty days, ensuring a satisfying purchase experience.
5. Kiehl's — best moisturizing cream for softer and smoother skin
Kiehl's ultra facial cream is top-rated and celebrated for its unique blend of squalane, glacial glycoprotein, and pro-ceramides.
According to the brand, designed to provide 72-hour hydration, this cream enhances the skin's moisture barrier, resulting in a softer, smoother, and visibly healthier complexion.
Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, its lightweight texture is easily absorbed without leaving a greasy residue. This cream not only hydrates but may also repair the skin barrier within an hour of application, as suggested by the brand.
Available in multiple sizes, including a refill option, Kiehl's moisturizer is paraben and fragrance-free, ensuring a gentle yet effective hydration solution.
Additionally, the moisturizer has earned the National Eczema Association's Seal of Acceptance, underscoring its suitability for sensitive skin conditions.
Priced at $67, you can enjoy Kiehl's high-quality moisturizer with the convenience of Afterpay. Spread your purchase over 4 interest-free payments for an affordable shopping experience.
6. Drunk Elephant — best peptide-packed moisturizer for skin firmness
Drunk Elephant's Protini Polypeptide cream is a revolutionary skincare product designed to address signs of aging, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and sun damage. Its core active ingredients include vitamin C, supported by a blend of peptides, growth factors, and amino acids.
It's suitable for morning and night application on clean and dry skin. According to the brand, the moisturizer is clinically proven to enhance hydration, skin's firmness, texture, and tone. Protini™ cream has shown improvements in a study of 31 participants over 8 weeks: 96% saw better tone, radiance, and luminosity; 93% noticed enhanced texture; and 90% experienced increased hydration.
This Drunk Elephant moisturizer is free from essential oils, silicones, and fragrances. Its key ingredients include signal peptide complex, Pygmy Water lily stem cell extract, soybean folic acid ferment extract, and acetyl glutamine.
Priced at $68, Drunk Elephant's Protini Polypeptide cream is an excellent option for those looking for a potent blend for radiant skin.
7. Olay — best lightweight moisturizer with vitamin C and peptides for anti-aging benefits
Olay's Vitamin C + Peptide 24 face moisturizer is one of the best lightweight moisturizers that offers long-lasting hydration and anti-aging benefits. This cream is suitable for normal, oily, dry, and combination of skin types. It may also address concerns such as hyperpigmentation, dullness, uneven skin tone, visible pores, and acne.
Moreover, Olay moisturizer is suitable for both morning and evening skincare routines. The cream also has a lightweight consistency, is dermatologist-tested, and has a dye-free formula.
Key ingredients include vitamin C, known for its antioxidant properties and ability to brighten skin; amino peptide, which smooths and firms; niacinamide for moisture retention and skin cell turnover; and pro-vitamin B5 for enhanced skin texture and appearance.
Priced at $29.99, Olay may offer best results if you cleanse your skin before application, gently massage until absorbed, and follow up with SPF in the morning.
8. Facetheory — best retinol skin moisturizer to combat pigmentation
Facetheory moisturizer combines the potent action of retinol ester, vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid to encourage skin-cell renewal, combat hyperpigmentation, and maintain the skin's moisture balance.
Its formula is enriched with natural ingredients such as shea butter and argan oil for deep hydration and nourishment. According to the brand, it is suitable for a wide range of skin types and is gentle for use around the delicate eye area.
Most importantly, this moisturizer is free from parabens, silicones, and mineral oils, vegan and cruelty-free, emphasizing the brand's commitment to skin health and ethical standards.
The brand also recommends sun protection during the day because some ingredients increase sun sensitivity.
Priced at $27, Facetheory moisturizer contains high-quality actives, which means only a small amount is needed, making this moisturizer a practical and economical option.
9. Medik8 — best daytime moisturizer to boost skin’s natural luminosity
C-Tetra day cream by Medik8 is a nourishing cream designed to target fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone, potentially promoting a more youthful and radiant appearance.
Ideal for daily use, this lightweight cream absorbs quickly and may provide effective hydration without a greasy feel. Moreover, vitamin C ensures long-lasting effectiveness, making the moisturizer an excellent choice for maintaining the skin's glow.
The Medik8 cream's formula also contains vitamin E, which may enhance its antioxidant protection, and hyaluronic acid for deep hydration, potentially leaving skin supple and moisturized.
Free from artificial fragrances, synthetic colors, parabens, and alcohol and certified by the Vegan Society, Medik8 is suitable for all skin types.
Priced at $55, Medik8 is a great option for those seeking to enhance their daily skin routine.
10. SkinCeuticals — best daily moisturizer for long-lasting hydration
SkinCeuticals moisturizer is specifically designed for normal to oily skin types for long-lasting hydration. Additionally, the face moisturizer is lightweight and offers long-lasting hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
The formula is enriched with vitamin E, three nutrient-rich algae extracts, and a blend of seven botanical extracts that may restore and maintain skin moisture, help minimize the appearance of pores, and protect the skin against environmental damage.
According to the brand, the product is suited for use in dry climates where heavy moisturizers can feel too intense.
Priced at $76, SkinCeuticals is one of the best moisturizers for normal skin, ideal for those seeking a smooth, non-greasy finish.
11. The Body Shop — the best skin moisturizer with vitamin E
Vitamin E moisture day cream by The Body Shop is a lightweight, easily absorbed cream suitable for all skin types. Dermatologically tested and designed to boost skin hydration by 38%, according to the brand, this cream is a great skincare solution to deliver happy and healthy-looking skin.
The cream is vegan and made with 95% natural origin ingredients with the key benefits of 48-hour hydration, improved skin softness and smoothness, and a healthier appearance.
The cream is also formulated with natural-origin hyaluronic acid and vitamin E, enriched with raspberry seed oil.
Moreover, the environmentally friendly packaging features a recyclable glass jar made from 40% recycled glass and an aluminum lid.
Retailing for $25, The Body Shop moisturizer may offer intensive hydration and is an environmentally responsible option.
12. Baebody® — best retinol face moisturizer to reduce the appearance of fine lines
Retinol moisturizer by Baebody® offers the rejuvenating power of retinol, making it ideal for visible signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles. The dermatologist-tested formula is designed to promote a firmer, more youthful complexion.
Produced in the U.S., this hypoallergenic and non-sensitizing moisturizer incorporates nourishing ingredients like shea butter, vitamin E, jojoba oil, green tea, and vitamin B5. These components work together to soften, hydrate, and enhance skin health, making them perfect for morning and nighttime skincare routines. When using this moisturizer in the morning, it should ideally be paired with SPF.
Baebody® gentle composition is also suitable for daily use while minimizing the risk of irritation, as confirmed by a 24-hour patch test on 59 subjects, according to the brand.
Priced at $22.95, Baebody® is an excellent addition to morning and nighttime skincare routines. Moreover, you can subscribe and save 15% on every order.
13. CLINIQUE — best broad-spectrum SPF face moisturizer
The broad spectrum SPF 28 Sheer Hydrator by CLINIQUE is a multifaceted, cloud-like cream designed to deliver intensive hydration and adequate sun protection for all skin types.
CLINIQUE moisturizer's formula is enriched with aloe bioferment, hyaluronic acid complex, and provitamin D for enhanced hydration that penetrates the skin's surface.
This non-greasy, oil-free moisturizer also provides SPF 28, filtering up to 96% of UV rays to prevent sun-induced damage without leaving a white cast, residue, or stickiness.
Additionally, CLINIQUE is suitable for sensitive skin and is formulated to be non-acnegenic, non-comedogenic, and fragrance-free.
Priced at $48, CLINIQUE's unique composition hydrates, protects, and serves as a perfect canvas for makeup application, leaving skin glowing and fortified against daily environmental stressors.
Comparison of the best face moisturizers
| Brand | Price | Best for | Suitable for | Dosage | Star ingredients |
| CLEARSTEM | $56.00 | Deep hydration and softening | All skin types | 60 ml / 2.0 oz | Bakuchiol, plant stem cells, and olive squalane |
| LunaMD | $80.00 | Firming, brightening the skin, and targeting dark spots | All skin types | 50 ml / 1.7 oz | Lipochroman® and peptides |
| Instytutum | $87.00 | Deep hydration and potential cell metabolism stimulation | Most skin types (although, due to perfume may not be suitable for sensitive skin) | 50 ml / 1.69 oz | Hyaluronic acid, algae, squalane, provitamin B5, apricot oil, vitamin E, tri-peptide |
| Aesop | $77.00 | For soothing and replenishing | Most skin types, particularly dry skin | 60 ml / 2.0 oz | White tea, vitamin E, rock rose |
| Kiehl's | $67.00 | Strengthening your skin's moisture barrier | All skin types, including sensitive skin | 125 ml / 4.2 oz | Squalane, glacial glycoprotein, pro-ceramides |
| Drunk Elephant | $68.00 | Hydration, soothing and strengthening the skin | All skin types | 50 ml / 1.69 oz | Peptides, amino acids, acetyl glutamine, pygmy waterlily stem cell extract, soybean folic acid ferment extract |
| Olay | $29.99 | Hydration and brightening the skin | Normal, oily, dry combination | 50 ml / 1.7 oz | Amino peptide, niacinamide, vitamin C |
| Facetheory | $27.00 | Moisturizing, encouraging skin-cell renewal, and combating hyperpigmentation | Most skin types | 50 ml /1.7 oz | Aloe vera, vitamin E, vitamin C, argan oil, ferulic acid, retinol, hyaluronic acid, shea butter |
| Medik8 | $55.00 | Moisturize and boost skin’s natural luminosity | All skin types | 50 ml / 1.7 oz | Hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, stabilized vitamin C |
| SkinCeuticals | $76.00 | Long-lasting hydration, minimizing the appearance of pores | Normal and oily skin | 60 ml / 2.0 oz | Algae extracts, burnet, cinnamon, ginger, horsetail, thyme, licorice, and nettle extracts |
| The Body Shop | $25.00 | Boosting skins hydration | All skin types | 50 ml / 1.69 oz | Hyaluronic acid, raspberry seed oil |
| Baebody® | $22.95 | Improving the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles | All skin types | 50 ml / 1.7 oz | Retinol, shea butter, vitamin E, jojoba oil, green tea extract, vitamin B5 |
| CLINIQUE | $48.00 | Hydration and delivering sheer sun protection | All skin types | 50 ml / 1.7 oz | Aloe bioferment, hyaluronic acid, provitamin D |
What is the best face moisturizer to use?
If you wonder what the best face moisturizer for your face is, here are several factors that determine a good moisturizer:
- A good face cream will effortlessly spread across your skin and have a silky texture. Some ingredients that may give off this effect are hyaluronic acid, glycerin, shea butter, jojoba oil, petroleum derivatives, or dimethicone, which is present in certain oil-free moisturizers.
- It should have a lightweight texture that blends seamlessly into the skin without leaving a noticeable layer.
- It may contain a natural moisturizing factor (NMF), molecules like beta-glucans that help the moisturizer penetrate deeply into the skin, providing hydration, stimulating collagen production, and enhancing the skin's natural defense mechanisms against environmental stressors. On the label, it may appear as "Oat Beta-Glucan" (from oats) or "Yeast Beta-Glucan" (from yeast).
- An ideal moisturizer should quickly penetrate the skin without leaving any oily residue. It must be light yet effectively hydrating the skin, making it feel soft, plump, and supple while also alleviating any sensations of tightness or dryness. Depending on your skin type, for oily skin, opt for a lightweight, oil-free, non-comedogenic lotion suitable for acne-prone skin. Choose a standard lotion for normal skin and a richer, thicker cream for dry skin.
- It's generally recommended that good moisturizers should be fragrance-free. This is because unscented moisturizers are less likely to cause skin irritation or allergic reactions, making them a safer choice for sensitive skin types. The 2008 study has shown that out of 276 moisturizers studied, 187 (68%) were found to contain fragrance, making it the most prevalent allergen in these products.
- It might include a sun protection factor (SPF) to shield your skin from the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays. Seek out natural components such as zinc oxide, which is a physical barrier to blocking both UVA and UVB radiation, offering broad-spectrum coverage without the harsh chemicals found in some sunscreens.
How to pick the best face moisturizer?
There are a couple of things to consider before purchasing the best everyday facial moisturizer. Read about our top 6 best tips to purchase the right product.
1. Identify your skin type
It is essential for you to know and understand your skin type. This way, you have the best shot at purchasing a suitable product that will reduce the likelihood of allergic reactions or skin irritation.
The best way to establish your skin type is to pay close attention to your skin’s response. Check if your skin appears shiny throughout; then, you will know you likely have oily skin. If it feels tight and is flaky or scaly, you might have a dry skin type. If your skin is often reactive and you notice symptoms like itchiness, dryness, or reddening, you are most likely to have a sensitive skin type.
2. Avoid social media trends
Jumping on the bandwagon and buying skincare products that are blowing up on social media — might be a bad idea. Some skincare trends often push people to buy products they don't need.
For example, viral TikTok videos suggesting healthy and flawless skin routines often prioritize product promotion over actual effectiveness. While the product might seem very appealing, don't give in to buying temptation before doing thorough research.
3. Consider your age
What works for one age group may not work for the other. Thus, selecting products appropriate for your specific age group is more likely to bring positive results and truly benefit your skin.
It's important to note that certain creams, designed with powerful ingredients to target issues like wrinkles, may harm the skin's protective barrier if misused, particularly on younger skin.
4. Let the ingredient label be your guide
This will always be the best way to figure out whether the product is suitable for you. Product labels list ingredients by concentration, with the first five indicating the formula's base, often including ingredients like glycerin for moisture.
Ingredients listed towards the end have a lesser impact on the formula. Avoid products with harmful elements, like alcohol or fragrance, if they are among the top three ingredients.
Though some ingredients may have complex names, they can be highly beneficial. For instance, acetyl hexapeptide-8 enhances collagen production, while tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate is known for its antioxidant properties. A quick Google search of these complex names can easily reveal each ingredient's purpose and benefits.
5. Research the brand
Check out the brand and make sure it is transparent and forthcoming with the ingredient list, certifications, and reviews. Research them online to see what others think and whether they recommend the products.
If reviews are scarce but you're still interested in the product, consider buying it for a patch test to see your skin's reaction.
Doing a bit of research and possibly consulting a cosmetologist or dermatologist can save you from the trial and error of ineffective or harmful products. It's about finding what truly benefits your skin's unique needs.
Unlike magazines and the internet, a professional can give you personalized advice specific to your skin, which in the long run will turn out to be more effective and perhaps cheaper, as they will guide you to the right product straight away.
Best face moisturizer: conclusion
In summary, finding the ideal face moisturizer requires knowing your skin type and its needs. Choose a moisturizer that applies easily, feels lightweight but deeply nourishes, and steers clear of common irritants such as fragrances. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and beta-glucans are key for hydration and supporting the skin barrier.
For tailored advice, especially for specific skin concerns, consulting a cosmetologist or dermatologist is recommended. This way, you can make personalized skin care decisions that genuinely benefit your skin's health and beauty, avoiding unnecessary complications.
Discover other skin products for your face
To maintain radiant and youthful looking skin, discover the best collagen creams.
To hydrate, and refresh your face consider the best facial steamers.
Check out the best CBD face creams to potentially aid skin conditions.
Discover the best red light therapy for the face to help improve circulation.
To combat aging read about the best collagen serum for the face.
FAQ
What is the best face moisturizer?
It depends. The best face moisturizer can be selected based on your skin type and preferences. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid for hydration, ceramides for barrier repair, and niacinamide to potentially reduce inflammation in acne-prone skin. Always consider formulations that are proven to be hypoallergenic and non-irritating.
What is the best moisturizer for sensitive skin?
The best moisturizer for sensitive skin should be fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and contain soothing ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, or oatmeal. Look for products labeled as non-comedogenic to avoid clogging pores and causing irritation, ensuring gentle and effective hydration.
What is a good face moisturizer for dry skin?
A good face moisturizer for dry skin is rich in hydrating ingredients such as lactic acid or shea butter to nourish the skin. Look for thicker, cream-based formulas that lock in moisture, soothe dryness, and repair the skin barrier for long-lasting hydration.
What face moisturizer is good for oily skin?
For oily skin, choose moisturizers with glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or niacinamide, which will help reduce excess oil production. Opt for a lightweight, oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer that won't clog pores.
8 resources
- Cosmetics. A Review of Moisturizers; History, Preparation, Characterization and Applications.
- Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology. The clinical benefit of moisturizers.
- Advances in Dermatology and Allergology. Retinoids: active molecules influencing skin structure formation in cosmetic and dermatological treatments.
- Clinical interventions in aging. Retinoids in the treatment of skin aging: an overview of clinical efficacy and safety.
- International Journal of Cosmetic Science. Anti‐Wrinkle Therapy: Significant New Findings in the Non‐Invasive Cosmetic Treatment of Skin Wrinkles with Beta‐Glucan.
- ResearchGate A Review of the range of effects of niacinamide in human skin.
- The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology. Moisturizer Allergy.
- Nanotechnology Science and Applications. Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide nanoparticles in sunscreens: focus on their safety and effectiveness.
Your email will not be published. All fields are required.