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The 11 Best Moisturizers for Dry Skin, Tested and Reviewed

The best moisturizers, including picks from Neutrogena, Tatcha, and La Mer, will hydrate even the driest skin.

Moisturizers for dry skin we recommend on a blue background

Verywell Health / Amelia Manley

To find the right facial moisturizer for you, consider ingredients that suit your skin type, your climate, and your budget. In general, dry skin can result from anything from cold, dry climates to underlying health conditions such as diabetes and dehydration. Regardless of the cause of your dry skin, when looking for a good moisturizer, it’s important to choose products with emollients (which soften the skin), occlusives (which protect skin), and humectants (which draw in moisture), says Joshua Zeichner, MD, associate professor of dermatology and the director of cosmetic & clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City

To find the best moisturizers for dry skin, we first vetted top options to ensure they had quality ingredients. We then tested 38 moisturizers in the Verywell Health Lab, and then continued to apply them for four weeks at home to see how they functioned over time.

Ingredients and Types

Ingredients you should look for in a moisturizer for dry skin include:

  • Emollients: chemicals that act as lubricants to help reverse dryness, improve fine lines and wrinkles, and improve reactions to irritants such as ceramides, coconut oil, and shea butter.
  • Occlusives: ingredients that create a protective layer on your skin to create a barrier to prevent moisture loss and examples include beeswax, squalene, and shea butter.
  • Humectants: ingredients that draw water to the skin such as hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, and alpha hydroxy acid.

Dr. Zeichner warns against fragranced products if you have sensitive skin and products with exfoliating acids (such as salicylic, glycolic, or lactic acid) as they can irritate the skin further.

When choosing a moisturizer type, you’ll usually be faced between two options: oil-based and water-based moisturizers. Water-based moisturizers will often be lighter, and absorb quicker, while oil-based options may feel more hydrating and create a glowy appearance.

Moisturizers and Skin Conditions


Those who suffer from skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis can benefit significantly from moisturizing their skin. Thicker oils and creams are best as skin conditions can cause excessive dryness. Look for products with occlusive emollients such as ceramides, mineral oils, and beeswax, and ensure the product doesn’t contain fragrance or dyes as this can increase your chances of irritation. 

Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré

Embryolisse

Our Ratings
  • Feel/Consistency
    4/5
  • Absorption
    5/5
  • Dryness
    5/5
  • Appearance
    5/5
  • Value
    5/5
Pros
  • Light scent

  • Sensitive-skin friendly

  • No transfer

Cons
  • Doesn’t contain SPF

Key Specs

Active Ingredients: Shea butter, fatty acids, soy proteins | Type: Cream | Size: 1.01 fluid ounces, 2.54 fluid ounces

Why We Recommend It

Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré is our best overall pick because it’s non-irritating, glides on the skin with a milky texture, absorbs well into the skin, and leaves a finish that isn’t too dewy or matte. The shea butter in this moisturizer nourishes and softens the skin while the beeswax seals in that moisture. When we tested, we noticed there was no transfer after application onto pillowcases or clothing. 

After four weeks of consistent use, the moisture level of our skin (as measured by a moisture reader in our lab) was noticeably better. What’s more, the editor who tried this moisturizer has sensitive skin, but she found that this product didn’t irritate her skin at all. To top it off, this moisturizer contains soy proteins, which have been shown to improve signs of aging. 

Keep in Mind

This product doesn’t contain sunscreen, which meant we had to add an extra step to our skincare routine when testing this product. Luckily, it layers well with sunscreen.

BYOMA Moisturizing Gel Cream

Target

Our Ratings
  • Feel
    4.8/5
  • Absorption
    4.7/5
  • Wear
    5/5
  • Hydration
    5/5
  • Appearance
    5/5
Pros
  • Dermatologist tested

  • Alcohol and fragrance-free

  • Layerable

Cons
  • Takes a while to absorb

Key Specs

Active Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, vitamin C | Type: Gel | Size: 1.68 fluid ounces

Why We Recommend It

We love Byoma Moisturizing Gel Cream because it has the same powerful ingredients that can be found in pricier options but for a fraction of the price. Notable ingredients include antioxidants, such as niacinamide and green tea, which help preserve the skin’s natural barrier to help retain the moisture you already have. Hyaluronic acid keeps skin hydrated and flexible, which helped our editor see and feel a noticeable difference in her skin’s elasticity and moisture levels.

It’s also free of common irritants like parabens, alcohol, and fragrances, making it a solid option for those with sensitive skin. In testing, we found it to be lightweight, with a silky texture. The oil-free formula doesn’t leave your face feeling greasy, and we found it to be a great base for makeup or sunscreen

Keep in Mind

In our tests, we found this one took a little longer to absorb than others, particularly when we were hot or sweaty.

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Water Gel

Neutrogena

Our Ratings
  • Feel/Consistency
    3/5
  • Absorption
    4/5
  • Dryness
    4/5
  • Appearance
    4/5
  • Value
    4/5
Pros
  • Cooling

  • Won’t block pores

  • Sustainably packaged

Cons
  • May need two layers in certain environments

  • Easy to use quickly

Key Specs

Active Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, glycerin | Type: Gel | Size: 1.7 ounces

Why We Recommend It

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Gel-Cream is our favorite drugstore moisturizer for dry skin because it’s easy to find on shelves, has a cooling effects, and includes great active ingredients.

In testing, this oil-free moisturizer it didn’t transfer onto any surfaces, it didn’t clog our pores, and it helped with oil control when layering on suncreen or make-up. The formula has a well-balanced consistency that offers the richness of a cream with the cooling benefits of a gel. It also contains hyaluronic acid, which is good for hydrating the skin.

Keep in Mind

This isn’t a thick formula, so you may have to reapply as needed if you feel your skin drying out throughout the day.

Paula's Choice Omega+ Complex Lightweight Face Moisturizer

Sephora

Our Ratings
  • Feel/Consistency
    4/5
  • Absorption
    5/5
  • Dryness
    5/5
  • Appearance
    5/5
  • Value
    4/5
Pros
  • Absorbs quickly

  • Ideal for colder climates

  • No scent

Cons
  • Easy to use up quickly

Key Specs

Active Ingredients: Omega fatty acids 3, 6, and 9, ceramides, amino acids, shea butter, borage seed oil | Type: lotion | Size: 1.7 ounces 

Why We Recommend It

Paula’s Choice Omega+ Complex Moisturizer is a thick moisturizer that nourishes skin overnight. For those with persistently dry skin, having products with omega fatty acids can help both moisturize skin and seal in that moisture. The ceramides and shea butter (two other components that assist with moisture retention and fortifying the skin’s natural barrier) helped our skin feel soft and supple to the touch every morning during testing.

This product has a medium-thick consistency that absorbs quickly, which reduced any product transfer. While there’s no added fragrance, we found that there is a slight oatmeal scent, which felt very soothing as we went to bed. 

Keep in Mind

One thing we didn’t love about this product during testing is that it’s hard to see how much you’re using due to the opaque bottle, which mades it hard to pace moisturizer use.

Best for Acne-Prone

Tatcha The Water Cream

Tatcha The Water Cream

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Feel/Consistency
    5/5
  • Absorption
    5/5
  • Oiliness
    5/5
  • Appearance
    5/5
  • Value
    4.5/5
Pros
  • Reduces breakouts

  • Doesn’t clog pores

  • Pleasant rose scent

Cons
  • Non-sustainable

Key Specs

Active Ingredients: Japanese wild rose, Japanese leopard lily, hadasei-3 complex | Type: Cream | Size: 0.34 ounces, 1.7 ounces

Why We Recommend It

Board-certified dermatologist Rebecca Tung, MD, notes that while oil on our faces is completely normal and, in fact, protects our skin, it can lead to clogged pores and acne. We loved the Tatcha’s Water Cream for those who experience acne-prone skin because it didn’t clog our pores, kept our T-zone from becoming oily, and even reduced our breakouts after four weeks of at-home testing.

This rose-scented moisturizer is lightweight and absorbs quickly into the skin. After applying this moisturizer in the mornings throughout testing, there was a noticeable difference in our skin. We looked and felt significantly more radiant than before.  

Keep in Mind

The price point would make this a splurge product for some. The packaging also isn’t environmentally friendly.

One closed and one open jar of Tatcha The Water Cream displayed on a counter
Tatcha The Water Cream’s formula has a lightweight consistency when applied to the skin and has a pleasant rose scent, in part due to its active ingredients.

Verywell Health / Jhett Thompson

Best for Sensitive Skin

SK-II Skinpower Cream

SK II Skinpower Cream

SK II

Our Ratings
  • Feel
    5/5
  • Absorption
    4.9/5
  • Wear
    5/5
  • Hydration
    5/5
  • Appearance
    5/5
Pros
  • Offers anti-aging ingredients

  • Won’t cause irritation in most

Cons
  • Pricey

Key Specs

Active Ingredients: Glycerin, pitera, calla lily extract, dokudami extract, peony extract, and niacinimide | Type: Cream | Size: 2.7 ounces

Why We Recommend It

Sensitive skin can easily become inflamed or irritated due to ingredients in products, stress, or environmental factors, but SK II Skinpower Cream is effective at calming it. The SK II Skinpower Cream is a non-greasy product that will keep your face moisturized and your pores clear.

This is a very rich product with a creamy consistency that spread like butter onto our skin during testing. It was fully absorbed within 10 minutes, which may be slightly longer than some are willing to wait. But, after the four-week testing period, our sensitive skin looked plumper and felt softer without any irritation.  

Keep in Mind

This product is on the pricier side, but if you can swing it we think it’s worth the investment.

Pros
  • Evens out skin texture

  • Soothing

  • Natural, earthy scent

Cons
  • Leaves a slight residue after application

Key Specs

Active Ingredient: Hyaluronic acid | Type: Cream | Size: 1.5 ounces

Why We Recommend It

Caudalie Premier Cur Skin Barrier Rich Moisturizer boasts hyaluronic acid, which is great for holding in moisture and regenerating the skin. We saw the results of this active ingredient almost immediately during testing as the moisturizer sunk in, leaving our skin not only feeling moisturized but also looking refreshed, brighter, and plumper.  

This moisturizer for extra-dry skin felt velvety and buttery when applied in the lab. And during at-home testing, our editor found that there was no transfer onto pillows or sheets. More importantly, her skin felt nourished the following morning.

Keep in Mind

While the cream absorbs quickly, we did notice a slight residue after the product was absorbed.

La Mer The Moisturizing Soft Cream

Sephora

Our Ratings
  • Feel
    4.4/5
  • Absorption
    4.7/5
  • Wear
    4.3/5
  • Hydration
    4.8/5
  • Appearance
    5/5
Pros
  • Paraben-, phthalate-, and sulfate-free

  • Pleasant scent

Cons
  • Dries down unevenly

Key Specs

Active Ingredients: Lime tea and moisturizing spheres | Type: Cream | Size: 1 ounce 

Why We Recommend It

Mature skin has different needs due to how the skin changes with age. You may notice fine lines developing along with dryer skin. The La Mer Moisturizing Soft Cream is our pick for the best anti-aging moisturizer for dry skin because of its nutrient-rich antioxidants (like lime tea concentrate), which strengthen the skin and resist the impact of oxidative stress.

During testing, we noticed a little bit goes a long way. We loved that we could conserve the moisturizer without jeopardizing the overall moisture level of our skin. And the formula felt lightweight on our skin, but creamy to the touch. 

Keep in Mind

We noticed different parts of the face absorbed the moisturizer at different rates. Also, the more product we used, the longer it would take to dry down, and it appeared very white before eventually becoming translucent.

Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream

Nordstrom

Our Ratings
  • Feel
    4.9/5
  • Absorption
    4.5/5
  • Wear
    5/5
  • Hydration
    4.8/5
  • Appearance
    5/5
Pros
  • No fragrance

  • Anti-aging

  • Improves skin texture

Cons
  • Easy to use up quickly

Key Specs

Active Ingredients: Hydrolyzed rice protein, TFC8 | Type: Cream | Size: 1 ounce

Why We Recommend It

The Augustinus Bader Rich Cream has a patented complex (TCF-8) developed by Dr. Bader that boosts active cell renewal and tissue repair. This moisturizer has proven through different clinical studies that it helps healthier skin form and grow, which aids in reducing fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and scar tissue (along with moisturizing dry skin). 

After four weeks of testing, we noticed improved skin texture around the cheeks and nose. The consistency is thicker than other moisturizers for dry skin, but it feels incredibly lightweight and absorbs into the skin quickly. Our skin felt and looked visibly refreshed after use without transferring onto other surfaces. While this product is great for anyone looking for healthier skin, we especially recommend this product for mature skin types.

Keep in Mind

We didn’t love how opaque the bottle was. We couldn’t tell how much product was left in the bottle as we used it, and (given the price point) that's very important.

CosRx AC Collection Lightweight Soothing Moisturizer

Dermstore

Our Ratings
  • Feel
    4.7/5
  • Absorption
    4.5/5
  • Wear
    4.9/5
  • Hydration
    3/5
  • Appearance
    4.3/5
Pros
  • Great in humidity

  • Sensitive-skin friendly

  • Layers well under makeup

Cons
  • Isn't ideal for extra-dry skin

Key Specs:

Active Ingredients:  Propolis extract, aloe vera water, green tea water | Type: Gel cream hybrid | Size: 2.70 ounces

Why We Recommend It

Cosrx AC Collection Lightweight Soothing Moisturizer is a great option for dry skin in humid climates. During testing, the gel-cream hybrid formula had a thin, smooth consistency that absorbed quickly into our skin. The product lived up to its name, as it was pleasantly lightweight and performed well throughout testing in humid climates. We loved how it layered beautifully under makeup, leaving a natural, long-lasting finish. It also didn’t negatively impact any other products we were wearing (like sunscreen). This pick paired well with our editor’s sensitive, acne-prone skin as it moisturized without causing any new breakouts or irritation.

The three active ingredients work to soothe and protect. The aloe vera water safeguards from free radical environmental damage and the sun’s UV rays. Green tea water lends its healing properties, and the propolis extract adds anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal protection. To top it off, these ingredients have antioxidants to promote healthy skin inside and out.

Keep in Mind

The moisturizer wasn’t as hydrating as other options, so this may not be for people with extra-dry skin. We also loved how lightweight it was, but it may not perform as well in colder or non-humid climates. Lastly, we were neutral about this moisturizer’s cooling effect. Somedays, we liked it, and other days we didn’t.

A dot of CosRx AC Collection Lightweight Soothing Moisturizer in a person's hand
The CosRX AC Collection Lightweight Soothing Moisturizer has a thin, milky consistency that works well for those with more sensitive skin.

Verywell Health / Riley Shea

Best for Combination Skin

Dr. Jart+ Teatreement Moisturizer

Dr. Jart+ Teatreement Moisturizer

Dr. Jart

Our Ratings
  • Feel
    5/5
  • Absorption
    5/5
  • Wear
    5/5
  • Hydration
    5/5
  • Appearance
    4.5/5
Pros
  • Helps with redness

  • Sensitive-skin friendly

  • Lightweight

Cons
  • Re-application may be necessary in the afternoon

  • Doesn't help hyperpigmentation or scarring

Key Specs

Active Ingredients: Tea tree leaf extract | Type: Gel | Size: 1.69 ounces

Why We Recommend It

Dr. Jart Teatreement Moisturizer is a jack-of-all-trades as it's ideal for those who have multiple skin conditions that need to be tackled all at once. It's ideal for anyone who experiences sensitive, dry, acne-prone, combination skin. It's made primarily with tea tree leaf extract, which may help manage acne because of its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. We found that the ingredient did its job, as it hydrated our sensitive, dry skin without causing or exasperating any breakouts.

This quick-absorbing lightweight gel had a refreshing cooling effect on our face after every use. Moisture locked in after a minute, and once it dried, our skin felt rejuvenated. There were no discernible fragrances or smells, and it consistently performed well indoors and out. One of our editors mentioned that this pick paired perfectly with their powerful acne skincare system. It didn’t cause redness or irritation, which they sometimes experience with other moisturizers. It also left us with a pleasant glow as a finishing touch.

Keep in Mind

Some people have an allergic reaction to tea tree derivatives. It'd be wise to perform a patch test first to ensure this product won't cause irritation or adverse reactions. You may also need to re-apply this product in the afternoon as the hydration wasn't as long-lasting as we would have liked. We also didn’t see any difference in our scarring or hyperpigmentation, so this may not be the best option if that's your priority.

We Also Tested

  • Dermalogica Phyto Nature Oxygen Cream: While this moisturizer by Dermalogica did moisturize our skin, it was heavily scented, extremely thick, and left our faces feeling greasy. 
  • The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + PhytoCeramides: This moisturizer performed well when we first applied it, but it dried down oily and left a ring of grease on our face. 
  • EltaMD AM Therapy Facial Moisturizer: This product almost made our list as we felt that our skin was very moisturized after using it. However, our skin didn’t feel hydrated to the touch, so the results didn’t blow us away. 
  • Proactiv Green Tea Moisturizer: Being such a popular product, we were surprised and disappointed in this pick’s performance. On the plus side, it was refreshing and lightweight, and we liked the gel’s consistency. Beyond that, we found that our skin condition had worsened. We experienced more breakouts and dryer skin. The fragrance was strong and lingered for 45 minutes, too. 
  • Vichy Normaderm PhytoAction Acne Control Salicylic Acid Moisturizer: This moisturizer was lightweight and absorbed quickly. The fragrance was potent at first, but it faded quickly. While we enjoyed the scent, we don’t think everyone will. Ultimately, it performed fine and even helped our acne, but our face still felt dry. We wish it were more hydrating.

How We Tested Moisturizers for Dry Skin

To find the best moisturizers for dry skin, 20 of our editors tested 38 products over 4 weeks both in the lab and at home. We collected insights for each moisturizer from our testers based on several factors, including absorption, hydration, and consistency.

  • Absorption: After applying each product, we took note of how well the product absorbed into our skin and how long it took to soak in. We also analyzed how our skin felt after applying the product and checked for residue or greasiness on our faces. Finally, we used a makeup sponge to see how much product could be absorbed off our of skin and into the sponge. 
  • Hydration: Using a moisture reader, we checked the moisture level of our editors’ skin in the lab at the beginning of our testing period, and then again at the end to measure how well each product worked. We looked at the active ingredients for each option to make sure the moisturizers included science-driven, effective ingredients. We also judged how our skin felt at the end of the testing period. 
  • Consistency: In our lab, we used a spatula and smeared the product across a tray to look at the consistency before we applied it on our face, gauging if it was creamy, viscous, gel-like, thick, thin, heavy, and/or lightweight. We then applied it on our skin, feeling out how the moisturizer shifted in consistency once it was rubbed into the skin. We made note of whether it was cakey, greasy, or oily, and at the end recorded how we liked the physical feel of it on our face.
  • Blotting Paper Test: After applying the product we used an oil-absorbing sheet to pat our forehead, cheek, and chin once to assess how oily our skin was after using the moisturizer. We recorded whether our skin was more, or less, oily than before. 

Our Experts

We use expert input at every step of reporting, testing, and writing this story. Here are some of the dermatologists and experts we consulted along the way.

  • Joshua Zeichner, MD, associate professor of dermatology and the director of cosmetic & clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City
  • Rebecca Tung, MD, board-certified Mohs and dermatologic surgeon, and general dermatologist at Florida Dermatology in Winter Haven, Florida
  • Jolie De Feis, licensed esthetician and consultant based in New York City

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How often should you use a moisturizer on dry skin?

    Dr. Zeichner says that a moisturizer can be used daily, and that morning moisturizers should have sun protection properties. For overnight moisturizers, ensure there’s no transfer onto sheets and that it’s thick enough to hydrate and moisturize your skin overnight so you’re ready to go the next day.

  • What is the difference between moisturizing skin and hydrating skin?

    Moisturizers improve the skin’s natural barrier and aid in the appearance as well. Hydrating the skin is similar to hydrating your body—it increases the amount of water in your skin which can help improve the appearance and overall health of your skin.

  • What is better for skin: water-based or oil-based moisturizers?

    While one formula isn’t better than the other, you’ll want to choose the moisturizer that works best for your individual needs. Water-based options tend to be lighter and absorb quicker. They’re also less likely to clog your pores so these moisturizers are ideal for those who struggle with acne-prone skin. On the other hand, oil-based formulas offer a heavier, richer feel that can provide a dewy glow. They’re best for those who suffer from extra-dry skin and need additional support in managing irritation, flakiness, and dryness. 

Why Trust Verywell Health

Brittany Johnson is the staff commerce writer for Verywell Health. As a performer and personality, she knows the importance of having a good skincare regime. As someone with sensitive skin, she believes in being loyal to her favorite products as she doesn’t have the time for breakouts or irritation. Brittany is consistently updated with the latest and greatest skincare options through research and, of course, TikTok.  Outside of writing for Verywell Health, she’s a children’s author and a TV writer. 

Loren Brutsch, the editor of this article, suffers from sensitive, dry skin that is prone to rashes from certain ingredients and fragrances. She’s personally tried multiple products on this list and highly recommends Tatcha The Water Cream as she didn’t experience any sensitivities when using it and found it layered beautifully under makeup.

10 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
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  7. Liao, R., Parker, T., Bellerose, K., Vollmer, D., & Han, X. (2022). A green tea containing skincare system improves skin health and beauty in adults: An exploratory controlled clinical study. Cosmetics, 9(5), 96. https://doi.org/10.3390/cosmetics9050096

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