15 Best Face Moisturizers for Your Skin Type in 2022
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Reviewers say this lightweight face cream moisturizes without feeling greasy.
Made by a French cosmetic line, it’s enriched with vitamins and antioxidants and formulated for dry skin.
Shea butter hydrates and boosts collagen to improve elasticity, while soy proteins firm and tone. Some preliminary research suggests that the isoflavones found in soy may help reduce the appearance of fine lines.
However, it does contain small amounts of essential oils, which some people may find irritating.
It’s made without synthetic preservatives, fragrances, dyes, and mineral oil, earning it a great score on the Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) Skin Deep scale.
The formula scores an admirable 2 on the EWG’s Skin Deep scale.
Gel moisturizers are particularly well suited for oily skin, but this formula can work well for dry and sensitive skin too.
More than 1,000 5-star reviews report a soft, nongreasy finish.
Reviewers love the creamy texture, but some find the scent off-putting.
Last medically reviewed on September 25, 2022
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6266229/Lin T-K, et al. (2018). Anti-inflammatory and skin barrier repair effects of topical application of some plant oils.
mdpi.com/1422-0067/19/1/70Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. Current Version Sep 26, 2022 By Jessica Timmons Edited By Mellanie Perez Medically Reviewed By Reema Patel, MPA, PA-C Copy Edited By Anne Arntson Apr 12, 2022 By Jessica Timmons Edited By Steven Rowe Medically Reviewed By Reema Patel, MPA, PA-C Copy Edited By Sara Giusti VIEW ALL HISTORY Share this articleMedically reviewed by Reema Patel, MPA, PA-C — By Jessica Timmons — Updated on September 25, 2022
The 15 Best Face Moisturizers for Your Skin Type
Medically reviewed by Reema Patel, MPA, PA-C — By Jessica Timmons — Updated on September 25, 2022Share on PinterestWe include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Here’s our process.A quick look at the best face moisturizers
Best budget-friendly face moisturizer: e l f Holy Hydration Face CreamBest face moisturizer for dry skin: Embryolisse Lait-Creme ConcentreBest face moisturizer for sensitive skin: Osmia Purely Simple Face CreamBest natural face moisturizer: Weleda Sensitive Care Facial CreamBest face moisturizer for oily skin: Kate Somerville Oil Free MoisturizerBest hydrating gel moisturizer: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel-CreamBest vegan moisturizer: Youth to the People Superfood Air-Whip Moisture CreamBest lightweight face moisturizer: Hanacure Nano Emulsion Multi-Peptide MoisturizerBest face moisturizer for mature skin: CeraVe Moisturizing Cream,Best pro-aging moisturizer for wrinkles: Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting CreamBest face moisturizer for day and night: Tula Skincare 24-7 Moisture Hydrating Day & Night CreamBest face moisturizer with SPF: Kiehl s Ultra Facial Cream SPF 30Best face moisturizer for acne: Biossance Squalane Probiotic Gel MoisturizerBest CBD face moisturizer: Lord Jones Acid Mantle Repair CBD MoisturizerBest tinted face moisturizer: Bare Minerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Hydrating Gel Cream Experimentation is part of the process when you’re on the hunt for your ultimate holy grail moisturizer. Not only are there countless creams, lotions, and gels for the job, but you also have to consider your skin type, any concerns you may be hoping to address, and the price tag. So, where do you begin? We rounded up 15 of the best face moisturizers for all kinds of skin types and budgets so you can zero in on what will work best for you.What do face moisturizers do
Face moisturizers keep your facial skin hydrated and healthy by creating a protective barrier on your skin. Some moisturizers even help protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Most experts agree you should use a facial moisturizer that fits your skin type every day.How we chose the best face moisturizers
Skin can run the gamut from oily to dry to sensitive. We specifically looked for moisturizers formulated for every skin type and based our recommendations on the quality of the ingredients and the most glowing customer reviews.Pricing guide
$ = under $20$$ = $20–$40$$$ = $41–$60$$$$ = over $60Comparison of the best face moisturizers
Product namePriceSkin typesKey ingredientsSPFe l f Holy Hydration Face Cream$all skin typessqualane, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, peptide complexnoEmbryolisse Lait-Creme Concentre$all skin typessoy proteins, aloe vera, beeswax, shea butternoOsmia Purely Simple Face Cream$$$$sensitive or reactivealoe vera, plant-based oils, vitamin E, glycerinnoWeleda Sensitive Care Facial Cream$$sensitive or reactive skinalmond oil, glycerinnoKate Somerville Oil Free Moisturizer$$$$oily skinred marine algaenoNeutrogena Hydro Boost Gel-Cream$oily or dry skinhyaluronic acid, glycerinnoYouth to the People Superfood Air-Whip Moisture Cream$$$combination or oily skinhyaluronic acid, superfoods blend, vitamins C, E, and KnoHanacure Nano Emulsion Multi-Peptide Moisturizer$$$all skin typespeptides, mushroom extract, squalanenoCeraVe Moisturizing Cream$dry skinglycerin, ceramides, hyaluronic acidnoOlay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream$mature skinhyaluronic acid, amino peptides, niacinamidenoTula Skincare 24-7 Moisture Hydrating Day & Night Cream$$all skin typessqualane, rice nutripeptides, probiotics, glycerinnoKiehl s Ultra Facial Cream SPF 30$$all skin typesSPF, glacial glycoprotein, fountain plant extractyesBiossance Squalane Probiotic Gel Moisturizer$$$oily, combination, or dry skinsqualane, probioticsnoLord Jones Acid Mantle Repair CBD Moisturizer$$$$dry skinfull-spectrum CBD, squalane, ceramidesnoBare Minerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Hydrating Gel Cream$$all skin typeshyaluronic acid, squalane, mineral-based sunscreenyesHealthline s picks for the best face moisturizers
Best budget-friendly face moisturizers
e l f Holy Hydration Face Cream
Price: $Size: 1.76 ounces (oz.)Skin type: all skin typesKey ingredients: squalane, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, peptide complexSPF: no Made for all skin types, this affordable moisturizer is packed with powerhouse ingredients. Hyaluronic acid and squalane hydrate your skin while vitamins B3 (niacinamide) and B5 soothe, even, and brighten. Peptides help promote collagen for a youthful appearance.Reviewers say this lightweight face cream moisturizes without feeling greasy.
Pros
good price pointsuitable for all skin typesfragrance-freeCons
may not be moisturizing enough for very dry skinSHOP NOW AT ULTABest face moisturizer for dry skin
Embryolisse Lait-Creme Concentre
Price: $Size: 1 oz.Skin type: all skin typesKey ingredients: soy proteins, aloe vera, beeswax, shea butterSPF: noReviewers rave about the light, milky texture of this moisturizer but caution that a little can still go a long way.Made by a French cosmetic line, it’s enriched with vitamins and antioxidants and formulated for dry skin.
Shea butter hydrates and boosts collagen to improve elasticity, while soy proteins firm and tone. Some preliminary research suggests that the isoflavones found in soy may help reduce the appearance of fine lines.
Pros
multitasking moisturizergood for all skin typesCons
contains fragrance, which may irritate sensitive skincontains mineral oilSHOP NOW AT AMAZONBest natural face moisturizer
Osmia Purely Simple Face Cream
Price: $$$Size: 1.7 fl oz.Skin type: sensitive or normal Key ingredients: aloe vera, plant-based oils, vitamin E, glycerinSPF: noThis no-nonsense face cream is made with plant-sourced ingredients like organic aloe juice and vegetable-derived glycerin for hydration. With minimal amounts of oil-based ingredients, it gently moisturizes even the most sensitive, allergy-prone skin.However, it does contain small amounts of essential oils, which some people may find irritating.
Pros
gentle and hydratingsome ingredients are certified organicCons
contains small concentrations of essential oils, which could be irritating to some peoplehigh price pointSHOP NOW AT OSMIABest face moisturizer for sensitive skin
Weleda Sensitive Care Facial Cream
Price: $$Size: 1 fl oz.Skin type: sensitive or reactive skinKey ingredients: almond oil, glycerinSPF: noNourishing for sensitive skin, this fragrance-free option is made with sweet almond oil and is dermatologically tested to calm and moisturize.It’s made without synthetic preservatives, fragrances, dyes, and mineral oil, earning it a great score on the Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) Skin Deep scale.
Pros
fragrance-freecalming and moisturizing for sensitive skinCons
contains alcohol, which could be irritating for some peopleSHOP NOW AT AMAZONBest face moisturizers for oily skin
Kate Somerville Oil Free Moisturizer
Price: $$$$Size: 1.7 fl oz.Skin type: oily skinKey ingredients: red marine algaeSPF: noLightweight, fragrance-free, and nongreasy, this moisturizer is specifically designed for oily skin. Ingredients include red marine algae, which a 2018 research review shows may have a number of pro-aging benefits for skin.The formula scores an admirable 2 on the EWG’s Skin Deep scale.
Pros
lightweight and nongreasyfragrance-freeCons
high price pointSHOP NOW AT AMAZONBest hydrating gel moisturizer
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel-Cream
Price: $Size: 1.7 oz.Skin type: oily or dry skinKey ingredients: hyaluronic acid, glycerinSPF: noThis bestseller is a gel formula made with hyaluronic acid and glycerin that can leave skin feeling hydrated, supple, and smooth. Reviewers say the cool blue gel feels like liquid to the touch and absorbs on contact.Gel moisturizers are particularly well suited for oily skin, but this formula can work well for dry and sensitive skin too.
Pros
good price pointhydrating for very dry or oily skinlightweight textureCons
color comes from synthetic dyesdoesn’t contain many active ingredientsSHOP NOW AT AMAZONBest vegan moisturizer
Youth to the People Superfood Air-Whip Moisture Cream
Price: $$$Size: 2 oz.Skin type: combination or oily skinKey ingredients: hyaluronic acid, superfoods blend, vitamins C, E, and KSPF: noKale, spinach, and green tea pair with hyaluronic acid to give your skin a boost of vitamins, antioxidants, and some major moisture retention. This lightweight cream can be used on all skin types, though it’s particularly great for oily and combination skin. It’s also 100 percent vegan and not tested on animals. Online reviewers not only report that it works well with oily skin, but it can also help reduce and prevent some acne breakouts.Pros
vegan formulalightweight and quick absorbingCons
higher price pointSHOP NOW AT AMAZONBest lightweight face moisturizer
Hanacure Nano Emulsion Multi-Peptide Moisturizer
Price: $$$Size: 1.35 fl oz.Skin type: all skin typesKey ingredients: peptides, mushroom extract, squalaneSPF: noThis pH-neutral moisturizer features a high concentration of peptides and mushroom extract to help improve your skin’s tone and texture. It’s been tested and approved by dermatologists and is made without parabens, sulfates, or phthalates. It also contains no colorants, fragrance, or alcohol.More than 1,000 5-star reviews report a soft, nongreasy finish.
Pros
soft, nongreasy texturesafe for sensitive skinCons
high price pointSHOP NOW AT HANACUREBest face moisturizers for mature skin
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream
Price: $Size: 19 oz.Skin type: dry skinKey ingredients: glycerin, ceramides, hyaluronic acidSPF: noThis cream has been accepted by the National Eczema Association and is made with glycerin, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid. It’s made to be gentle and is particularly well suited to the needs of mature skin. It’s free of both fragrance and oil, and reviewers found it soothing and moisturizing on the driest, most sensitive skin. It can also be used as a hand cream too.Pros
low costhypoallergenicmoisturizes face and bodyCons
slow to absorbSHOP NOW AT AMAZONBest pro-aging moisturizer for wrinkles
Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream
Price: $$Size: 1.7 oz.Skin type: mature skinKey ingredients: hyaluronic acid, amino peptides, niacinamideSPF: noThis pro-aging fan favorite is for dry, normal, or combination skin. It’s formulated with hyaluronic acid, amino peptides, and niacinamide. These ingredients can offer a boost of plumping hydration and a softening effect on wrinkles and fine lines. Hundreds of reviewers praise this moisturizer for its effectiveness, especially when comparing it with other products at more than triple the price.Pros
fragrance-freehighly effectiveCons
contains fragrance, which could irritate some peopleSHOP NOW AT AMAZONBest face moisturizer for day and night
Tula Skincare 24-7 Moisture Hydrating Day & Night Cream
Price: $$Size: 0.5 oz.Skin type: all skin typesKey ingredients: squalane, rice nutripeptides, probiotics, glycerinSPF: noThis moisturizer pulls double duty, working as a hydrating cream for both day and night. It’s made without formaldehyde, triclosan, retinol, or gluten, and is suitable for all skin types. Probiotics, watermelon extract, and squalane work to hydrate your skin, while rice nutripeptides nourish and diminish the look of fine lines. One reviewer shared that despite the small size of the product, even a small amount of the cream can go a long way and lasts for a while.Pros
lightweight, whipped texturedesigned as a day and night creamCons
contains fragrance, which may be irritating to some peopleSHOP NOW AT AMAZONBest face moisturizer with SPF
Kiehl s Ultra Facial Cream SPF 30
Price: $$Size: 1.7 oz.Skin type: all skin typesKey ingredients: SPF, glacial glycoprotein, fountain plant extractSPF: yesThis daily moisturizer is formulated with SPF 30 sunscreen, making it ideal for daytime use. Lightweight and nongreasy, it’s designed to deliver 24-hour hydration for all skin types, so you can apply it first thing in the morning for all-day coverage.Reviewers love the creamy texture, but some find the scent off-putting.
Pros
includes SPFcreamy textureCons
includes essential oil, which can be irritating to some peopleSHOP NOW AT ULTABest face moisturizer for acne
Biossance Squalane Probiotic Gel Moisturizer
Price: $$$Size: 1.6 oz.Skin type: oily, combination, or dryKey ingredients: squalane, probioticsSPF: noThis hydrating gel moisturizer has an ultra-lightweight feel, and ingredients like squalane and probiotics help soothe and support the natural skin barrier. Gel moisturizers work particularly well on oily skin, but this Biossance product is a good choice for dry and combination skin types too. One of the biggest praises for this product, according to reviewers, is how well it adapts to different skin types.Pros
fragrance- and cruelty-freeweightless and hydratingCons
higher price pointgel texture may not be moisturizing enough for very dry skinSHOP NOW AT SEPHORABest CBD face moisturizer
Lord Jones Acid Mantle Repair CBD Moisturizer
Price: $$$$Size: 1.7 oz.Skin type: dry skinKey ingredients: full-spectrum CBD, squalane, ceramidesSPF: noThis pH-balanced moisturizer is designed to hydrate and balance dry, irritated skin. The formula includes 250 milligrams of full-spectrum CBD and sustainably sourced squalane to boost moisture in the skin. The moisturizer includes a weighted golden spoon to scoop specific amounts from the jar. Several reviewers praise how hydrated it makes their skin feel.Pros
pH balancedclinically proven to improve moisture barrier functionCons
contains full-spectrum CBD, which may not be for everyonehigh price pointSHOP NOW AT LORD JONESBest tinted face moisturizer
Bare Minerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Hydrating Gel Cream
Price: $$Size: 1.18 oz.Skin type: all skin typesKey ingredients: hyaluronic acid, squalane, mineral-based sunscreenSPF: yesThis vegan moisturizer is a 3-in-1 product that combines a moisturizer, SPF protection, and a tint for a sheer glow. It’s hypoallergenic and noncomedogenic. Plus, it’s available in 20 different shades.Pros
contains SPFtintedCons
dewy finish may not be for everyoneSHOP NOW AT SEPHORAWhat to look for in a face moisturizer
Trial and error might need to be part of your hunt for a good moisturizer, but there are a few ways to better narrow down your options.Skin type
Moisturizers are typically formulated to meet the needs of specific skin types, so thinking about your skin type is a good place to start. Common skin types include:dryoilycombinationsensitiveacne prone If you’re not sure about your skin type, think about how it feels after a shower. If it starts to feel tight, dry, or flaky, you probably have dry skin. If it feels slick or looks shiny, you probably have oily skin. Combination skin looks and feels like a mix between the two. Once you’ve identified your skin type, check out the labels on the products you’re interested in. Most moisturizers will list which skin types benefit the most from using their product. They might also call out other potential skin benefits too. Certain formulations can treat breakouts, calm irritations, even skin tone and texture, and smooth fine lines and wrinkles.Ingredients
Scan the ingredients list. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t require cosmetics to be approved before going to market. However, it does require them to list all of the ingredients so customers can make informed decisions. It’s not always easy to decipher ingredients, so consider looking up any unfamiliar ingredients in the EWG’s Skin Deep database.How to use face moisturizers
Start with clean hands and a nickel-sized amount of moisturizer. Dot the moisturizer on your forehead, cheeks, and chin. Then, rub using upward strokes. Many people find success moisturizing twice a day, in the morning and before bed. However, depending on your skin type, you may need to apply moisturizer more or less frequently to see the desired results.When to visit a dermatologist
If you’re dealing with a specific skin condition that your facial moisturizer isn’t addressing, it’s a good idea to talk with a dermatologist. The same is also true if you’re finding that moisturizers irritate your skin or trigger breakouts. A dermatologist can make recommendations about which moisturizers are designed for your skin type and can discuss any other skin concerns you may have.Frequently asked questions
How often should you moisturize your face
Most experts recommend moisturizing your face in the morning and again at night as part of your daily skin care routine. By moisturizing twice per day and after working out or swimming, you’re ensuring that your skin’s moisture content stays largely consistent.What should you look for in a moisturizer
Moisturizer ingredients will vary depending on your skin type. Dry skin types benefit from heavier, oil-based options. Oily skin types benefit from lighter, water-based moisturizers. Mature skin types tend to do well with oil-based products. Sensitive skin types benefit from soothing ingredients, such as aloe and fragrance-free formulas. Combination skin types often do well with lighter, water-based formulas.Should you moisturize if you have oily skin
Yes. Oily skin needs proper hydration, too, just like any other skin type. Look for lighter formulas with water bases. Gel moisturizers are a good option for oily skin.Can you use face oil instead of moisturizer
A facial oil can work as a supplement to your skin care routine, but it shouldn’t necessarily replace your moisturizer either. For some people, oil-based moisturizers can clog their pores and potentially trigger acne breakouts. Applying facial oil over your moisturizer can be a good way to lock in the hydrating ingredients from your moisturizer, but use with caution if you have acne-prone skin.Takeaway
Everyone’s skin is different, so it can take some time to find a moisturizer that works well for you. There are lots of options on the market, but you may find the most success with a moisturizer that’s designed for your skin type. If you’re not sure where to start, try one of our top picks and see whether it’s a good match for your skin.Last medically reviewed on September 25, 2022
How we vetted this article
SourcesHistoryHealthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.Kim JH, et al. (2018). Beneficial effects of marine algae-derived carbohydrates for skin health.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6266229/Lin T-K, et al. (2018). Anti-inflammatory and skin barrier repair effects of topical application of some plant oils.
mdpi.com/1422-0067/19/1/70Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. Current Version Sep 26, 2022 By Jessica Timmons Edited By Mellanie Perez Medically Reviewed By Reema Patel, MPA, PA-C Copy Edited By Anne Arntson Apr 12, 2022 By Jessica Timmons Edited By Steven Rowe Medically Reviewed By Reema Patel, MPA, PA-C Copy Edited By Sara Giusti VIEW ALL HISTORY Share this articleMedically reviewed by Reema Patel, MPA, PA-C — By Jessica Timmons — Updated on September 25, 2022