Best Overall Moisturizer

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer

Best Overall Moisturizer

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La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer

$25 at Amazon$26 at Ulta$26 at Target

What We Like

• Oil-free and nongreasy

• Formulated to keep skin hydrated for up to 48 hours

• Maintains a hydrated skin barrier

What to Consider

• Can be too heavy for those with oily skin

Highlighted Ingredients: Niacinamide, ceramides, glycerin | Size: 2.5 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

A tried-and-true classic from La Roche-Posay, this drugstore formula feels like a luxury moisturizer and is so versatile it’s also made our list of the top moisturizers for dry, very sensitive, and oily skin. It’s a favorite of Editorial Director Holly Rhue—and several other members of team Byrdie. What makes it so well-loved is the fact that it’s simple; a gentle yet effective, oil-free formula relies on ceramides (aka lipids that support a healthy skin barrier), glycerin (a hydrator), and niacinamide (an ingredient known to address dullness, large pores, and excess oil) to deliver long-lasting moisture without a greasy finish. It generally works for all skin types, but some with very oily skin might want to opt for the matte version, which is just as lovely.

$25 at Amazon$26 at Ulta$26 at Target

Other retailers

$25 at Amazon$26 at Ulta$26 at Target

Highlighted Ingredients: Niacinamide, ceramides, glycerin | Size: 2.5 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

A tried-and-true classic from La Roche-Posay, this drugstore formula feels like a luxury moisturizer and is so versatile it’s also made our list of the top moisturizers for dry, very sensitive, and oily skin. It’s a favorite of Editorial Director Holly Rhue—and several other members of team Byrdie. What makes it so well-loved is the fact that it’s simple; a gentle yet effective, oil-free formula relies on ceramides (aka lipids that support a healthy skin barrier), glycerin (a hydrator), and niacinamide (an ingredient known to address dullness, large pores, and excess oil) to deliver long-lasting moisture without a greasy finish. It generally works for all skin types, but some with very oily skin might want to opt for the matte version, which is just as lovely.

Best Drugstore Moisturizer

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel with Hyaluronic Acid

Best Drugstore Moisturizer

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Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel with Hyaluronic Acid

$20 at Amazon$27 at Ulta$20 at Target

What We Like

• Hyaluronic acid boosts moisture

• Absorbs quickly

• Nongreasy, lightweight texture

What to Consider

• Added fragrance may irritate skin

Highlighted Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid| Size: 1.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

Packed with powerhouse hydrator hyaluronic acid, this signature Neutrogena moisturizer is a favorite among dermatologists, editors, and testers alike. Despite being super lightweight, this oil-free moisturizer is rich, nourishing, and ultra-hydrating. It cools on contact with the skin and absorbs very quickly, making it a smart choice if you battle redness or rosacea. The water-based gel formula even gets high marks on Reddit, where users with oily, acne-prone skin say it’s their go-to moisturizer. Plus, it’s affordable, so you don’t have to skimp on product during application—and even if you apply too much, your skin will never feel greasy.

$20 at Amazon$27 at Ulta$20 at Target

Other retailers

$20 at Amazon$27 at Ulta$20 at Target

Highlighted Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid| Size: 1.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

Packed with powerhouse hydrator hyaluronic acid, this signature Neutrogena moisturizer is a favorite among dermatologists, editors, and testers alike. Despite being super lightweight, this oil-free moisturizer is rich, nourishing, and ultra-hydrating. It cools on contact with the skin and absorbs very quickly, making it a smart choice if you battle redness or rosacea. The water-based gel formula even gets high marks on Reddit, where users with oily, acne-prone skin say it’s their go-to moisturizer. Plus, it’s affordable, so you don’t have to skimp on product during application—and even if you apply too much, your skin will never feel greasy.

Best Brightening Moisturizer

Glow Recipe Cloudberry Bright Moisture Cream

Best Brightening Moisturizer

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Glow Recipe Cloudberry Bright Moisture Cream

$40 at Sephora$40 at Kohls.com$40 at Glowrecipe.com

What We Like

• Contains antioxidants and vitamin C for radiance

• Promotes more even-toned complexion

• Whipped, creamy texture feels comforting on skin

What to Consider

• Can add shine to oily skin after hours of wear

Highlighted Ingredients: Peptides, cloudberry seed oil, CoQ10 | Size: 1.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Boasting a gorgeous, whipped, creamy texture, this moisturizer from Glow Recipe provides deep, long-lasting hydration for skin that feels super soft and looks lit from within. The key ingredient is cloudberry, an antioxidant packed with vitamins C and E to achieve a radiant, even-toned complexion. It also contains CoQ10 (to stimulate collagen production) and peptides to smooth the skin. Associate Content Editor Derek Deng adores it for its luxuriously rich feel, while Senior Editor Dominique Hobdy enjoys its glow-inducing properties. Our only complaint: It can appear shiny on oily skin types after hours of wear. We recommend keeping blotting papers on hand or skipping entirely in favor of something more mattifying.

$40 at Sephora$40 at Kohls.com$40 at Glowrecipe.com

Other retailers

$40 at Sephora$40 at Kohls.com$40 at Glowrecipe.com

Highlighted Ingredients: Peptides, cloudberry seed oil, CoQ10 | Size: 1.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Boasting a gorgeous, whipped, creamy texture, this moisturizer from Glow Recipe provides deep, long-lasting hydration for skin that feels super soft and looks lit from within. The key ingredient is cloudberry, an antioxidant packed with vitamins C and E to achieve a radiant, even-toned complexion. It also contains CoQ10 (to stimulate collagen production) and peptides to smooth the skin. Associate Content Editor Derek Deng adores it for its luxuriously rich feel, while Senior Editor Dominique Hobdy enjoys its glow-inducing properties. Our only complaint: It can appear shiny on oily skin types after hours of wear. We recommend keeping blotting papers on hand or skipping entirely in favor of something more mattifying.

Best Face and Body Moisturizer

Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré

Best Face and Body Moisturizer

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Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré

$32

$29 at Amazon$29 at Dermstore

What We Like

• Can be used as moisturizer all over face and body, a mask, or even a cleansing lotion

• Softening, hydrating

• Great for most skin types

• Silky, whipped consistency

What to Consider

• Can be too waxy and heavy for very oily skin types

Highlighted Ingredients: Shea butter, soy proteins| Size: 2.54 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

The Embryolisse moisturizer—which has been a bestseller since the ‘50s—contains several natural-origin active ingredients, such as shea butter, beeswax, soy proteins, and aloe vera, each of which works in tandem to combat skin concerns like dryness, irritation, and redness. One squeeze of the tube deposits a lovely whipped cream that melts on contact with the skin, which we experienced firsthand. The brand recommends applying a small amount of the product onto clean, damp skin post-cleanse to lock in moisture and get the full effects of the creamy elixir.

$32

$29 at Amazon$29 at Dermstore

Other retailers

$32

$29 at Amazon$29 at Dermstore

Highlighted Ingredients: Shea butter, soy proteins| Size: 2.54 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

The Embryolisse moisturizer—which has been a bestseller since the ‘50s—contains several natural-origin active ingredients, such as shea butter, beeswax, soy proteins, and aloe vera, each of which works in tandem to combat skin concerns like dryness, irritation, and redness. One squeeze of the tube deposits a lovely whipped cream that melts on contact with the skin, which we experienced firsthand. The brand recommends applying a small amount of the product onto clean, damp skin post-cleanse to lock in moisture and get the full effects of the creamy elixir.

Best Moisturizer for Dry Skin

Drunk Elephant Bora Barrier Rich Repair Cream

Best Moisturizer for Dry Skin

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Drunk Elephant Bora Barrier Rich Repair Cream

$74 at SephoraView on Drunkelephant.com$65 at Kohls.com

What We Like

• Rich texture deeply moisturizes dry skin

• Packed with nourishing lipids

• Refillable

What to Consider

• Can be a bit heavy

Highlighted Ingredients: Lipids, zinc, alpha glucan| Size: 1.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Those with dry skin benefit from a rich cream packed with moisturizing heroes, and this pick from Drunk Elephant checks both boxes. Our tester described the consistency as “buttery,” and she’s spot on. It’s creamy and emollient, which makes applying it to parched skin super satisfying. The formula contains a blend of six lipids, zinc to calm redness, and alpha glucan, an ingredient derived from rice, known for its soothing benefits. The formula can feel a bit heavy and mildly greasy on the skin, especially if overapplied, so we recommend this one for people with really dry skin or using it at nighttime if you’re not super dry.

$74 at SephoraView on Drunkelephant.com$65 at Kohls.com

Other retailers

$74 at SephoraView on Drunkelephant.com$65 at Kohls.com

Highlighted Ingredients: Lipids, zinc, alpha glucan| Size: 1.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Those with dry skin benefit from a rich cream packed with moisturizing heroes, and this pick from Drunk Elephant checks both boxes. Our tester described the consistency as “buttery,” and she’s spot on. It’s creamy and emollient, which makes applying it to parched skin super satisfying. The formula contains a blend of six lipids, zinc to calm redness, and alpha glucan, an ingredient derived from rice, known for its soothing benefits. The formula can feel a bit heavy and mildly greasy on the skin, especially if overapplied, so we recommend this one for people with really dry skin or using it at nighttime if you’re not super dry.

Best Moisturizer for Combination Skin

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream

Best Moisturizer for Combination Skin

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Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream

$39 at Amazon

$39

$72 at Sephora$39 at Ulta

What We Like

• Goes to work on dry patches and flakes

• Sensitive skin-friendly formula

• Thick, deeply hydrating consistency

What to Consider

• Oily skin types might want to save for nighttime use

Highlighted Ingredients: Squalane, ceramides, glacial glycoproteins | Size: 0.95, 1.7, 4.2, 5.07, 8 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

Housed in a simple white container, this moisturizer from Kiehl’s is more than what meets the eye. The rich, deeply hydrating formula glides across the skin like butter and sinks in nicely, imparting a fresh, hydrated glow that offsets a dry, dull complexion. The actual hydration is great, too; the formula, which is laden with squalane, ceramides, and glycoproteins (aka proteins sourced from Antarctic Sea glaciers that maintain the skin’s moisture balance), works wonders on dry patches and flakes. Also nice: The moisturizer also provides a beautiful base for makeup, giving those with very dry skin the slip they need to achieve an airbrushed, crease-free finish.

Byrdie Editor Jordan Julian says that this cream is her go-to. “In the past, my combination skin has made it difficult for me to find a moisturizer that’s hydrating enough to prevent flakiness but also won’t trigger breakouts or leave me feeling greasy,” she explains. “This cream strikes the perfect balance of lightweight and seriously nourishing.”

$39 at Amazon

$39

$72 at Sephora$39 at Ulta

Other retailers

$39 at Amazon

$39

$72 at Sephora$39 at Ulta

Highlighted Ingredients: Squalane, ceramides, glacial glycoproteins | Size: 0.95, 1.7, 4.2, 5.07, 8 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

Housed in a simple white container, this moisturizer from Kiehl’s is more than what meets the eye. The rich, deeply hydrating formula glides across the skin like butter and sinks in nicely, imparting a fresh, hydrated glow that offsets a dry, dull complexion. The actual hydration is great, too; the formula, which is laden with squalane, ceramides, and glycoproteins (aka proteins sourced from Antarctic Sea glaciers that maintain the skin’s moisture balance), works wonders on dry patches and flakes. Also nice: The moisturizer also provides a beautiful base for makeup, giving those with very dry skin the slip they need to achieve an airbrushed, crease-free finish.

Byrdie Editor Jordan Julian says that this cream is her go-to. “In the past, my combination skin has made it difficult for me to find a moisturizer that’s hydrating enough to prevent flakiness but also won’t trigger breakouts or leave me feeling greasy,” she explains. “This cream strikes the perfect balance of lightweight and seriously nourishing.”

Best Moisturizer for Mature Skin

SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore

Best Moisturizer for Mature Skin

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SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore

$155 at Dermstore

$202

$160 at Target$155 at Skinceuticals.com

What We Like

• Intensely hydrating 

• Silky, luscious texture

• Absorbs well

What to Consider

• Can be too heavy for oily or acne-prone skin

Highlighted Ingredients: Rosemary leaf oil,glycerin, ceramides | Size: 1.6 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

Odds are, you’ve heard of SkinCeuticals’ iconic moisturizer. If not, allow us to introduce you. The Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 is a ceramide moisturizer with an optimal lipid ratio—2% pure ceramides, 4% natural cholesterol, and 2% fatty acids—ideal in a moisturizer for mature skin. It restores essential skin lipids lost from natural aging or environmental aggressors (or a combo of the two). The fact that even sensitive skin looks plumper and more radiant. Dr. Garshick says that this is a stellar option. “This moisturizer effectively restores the fatty molecules and encourages the skin to appear more hydrated and smooth,” says Dr. Garshick. “It’s also a nice choice for someone using a retinoid, as it does a great job of keeping the skin moisturized and helping the skin tolerate the ingredient.” 

$155 at Dermstore

$202

$160 at Target$155 at Skinceuticals.com

Other retailers

$155 at Dermstore

$202

$160 at Target$155 at Skinceuticals.com

Highlighted Ingredients: Rosemary leaf oil,glycerin, ceramides | Size: 1.6 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

Odds are, you’ve heard of SkinCeuticals’ iconic moisturizer. If not, allow us to introduce you. The Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 is a ceramide moisturizer with an optimal lipid ratio—2% pure ceramides, 4% natural cholesterol, and 2% fatty acids—ideal in a moisturizer for mature skin. It restores essential skin lipids lost from natural aging or environmental aggressors (or a combo of the two). The fact that even sensitive skin looks plumper and more radiant. Dr. Garshick says that this is a stellar option. “This moisturizer effectively restores the fatty molecules and encourages the skin to appear more hydrated and smooth,” says Dr. Garshick. “It’s also a nice choice for someone using a retinoid, as it does a great job of keeping the skin moisturized and helping the skin tolerate the ingredient.” 

Best Moisturizer With SPF

Oars + Alps Everyday Face Moisturizer

Best Moisturizer With SPF

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Oars + Alps Everyday Face Moisturizer

$22

$12 at Amazon$18 at TargetView on Walmart

What We Like

• Minimal to no white cast

• Fast-absorbing

• Fragrance-free

What to Consider

• Has a sunscreen-like texture and scent

Highlighted Ingredients: Octocrylene, zinc oxide | Size: 2 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

If you want to cut down on steps in your skincare routine, opting for a moisturizer with SPF is one way to do it. Although this pick’s texture is more reminiscent of a true SPF rather than a creamy or gel-like moisturizer, once you rub it into the skin, it feels lightweight, hydrating, and nongreasy. We also love that it’s fast-absorbing, leaves little to no residue or white cast behind, and layers seamlessly with makeup.

The SPF moisturizer contains reef-safe chemicals and physical UVA and UVB blockers (namely zinc oxide), and while it has a subtle sunscreen scent, it’s fragrance-free, and any scent derived from the ingredients dissipates quickly. It also features hyaluronic acid for added hydration, as well as vitamins E and B5 for nourishment and antioxidant protection. After wearing it all day, our tester noted their skin felt balanced and soft to the touch.

$22

$12 at Amazon$18 at TargetView on Walmart

Other retailers

$22

$12 at Amazon$18 at TargetView on Walmart

Highlighted Ingredients: Octocrylene, zinc oxide | Size: 2 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

If you want to cut down on steps in your skincare routine, opting for a moisturizer with SPF is one way to do it. Although this pick’s texture is more reminiscent of a true SPF rather than a creamy or gel-like moisturizer, once you rub it into the skin, it feels lightweight, hydrating, and nongreasy. We also love that it’s fast-absorbing, leaves little to no residue or white cast behind, and layers seamlessly with makeup.

The SPF moisturizer contains reef-safe chemicals and physical UVA and UVB blockers (namely zinc oxide), and while it has a subtle sunscreen scent, it’s fragrance-free, and any scent derived from the ingredients dissipates quickly. It also features hyaluronic acid for added hydration, as well as vitamins E and B5 for nourishment and antioxidant protection. After wearing it all day, our tester noted their skin felt balanced and soft to the touch.

Best Luxury Moisturizer

La Mer The Moisturizing Soft Cream

Best Luxury Moisturizer

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La Mer The Moisturizing Soft Cream

$200 at Amazon$200 at Sephora

$625

$100 at Nordstrom

What We Like

• Contains the brand’s anti-inflammatory Miracle Broth

• Intensely hydrates, soothes, and heals

• Packed with vitamins, oils, and minerals

What to Consider

• Extra-thick formula not ideal for oily or acne-prone skin

Highlighted Ingredients: Miracle Broth (proprietary) | Size: 0.5, 1, 2 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

People often ask, “Does La Mer actually work?” and the answer is yes, it absolutely does. Crème de la Mer is the brand’s hero product, and it’s the product fans of the brand consistently restock time and time again. Formulated over 12 years by an aerospace physicist looking to cure burns he suffered in a lab accident, the final product—a unique concoction created with a special bio-fermentation process that relies on vitamins, oils, and minerals—heals dryness, softens fine lines, and strengthens the skin’s barrier. Our tester, Jenna, is a fan. “It’s definitely an investment—it rings in at $200 an ounce—but it yields transformative results.”

$200 at Amazon$200 at Sephora

$625

$100 at Nordstrom

Other retailers

$200 at Amazon$200 at Sephora

$625

$100 at Nordstrom

Highlighted Ingredients: Miracle Broth (proprietary) | Size: 0.5, 1, 2 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

People often ask, “Does La Mer actually work?” and the answer is yes, it absolutely does. Crème de la Mer is the brand’s hero product, and it’s the product fans of the brand consistently restock time and time again. Formulated over 12 years by an aerospace physicist looking to cure burns he suffered in a lab accident, the final product—a unique concoction created with a special bio-fermentation process that relies on vitamins, oils, and minerals—heals dryness, softens fine lines, and strengthens the skin’s barrier. Our tester, Jenna, is a fan. “It’s definitely an investment—it rings in at $200 an ounce—but it yields transformative results.”

Best Moisturizer for Oily Skin

Tatcha The Water Cream

Best Moisturizer for Oily Skin

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Tatcha The Water Cream

$72 at Amazon$72 at Sephora$93 at Ulta

What We Like

• Provides deep hydration

• Lightweight and cooling

• Clarifies and refines

What to Consider

• May not be hydrating enough for drier skin types

Highlighted Ingredients: Japanese wild rose and leopard lily, proprietary Hasasei-3 | Size: 0.5, 1, 2 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

This Tatcha formula feels like a splash of water on your face, plain and simple. It’s lightweight yet hydrating, so the skin looks dewy but never greasy. According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marisa Garshick, M.D., this moisturizer contains several antioxidants—like the brand’s proprietary Hadasei-3 complex, which helps fight free radical damage, as well as Japanese wild rose extract, which is thought to improve the appearance of pores and skin texture. “The addition of these ingredients, plus oil-controlling Japanese leopard lily, makes this moisturizer a good lightweight option for different skin types,” she explains. We were impressed by how well the gel cream soothed minor skin irritations from the first application to weeks of continued use, thanks to soothing ingredients like green tea and algae. It’s one of beauty writer Tamim Alnuweiri’s favorite moisturizers, who loves the oil-free formula and botanical extracts.  

$72 at Amazon$72 at Sephora$93 at Ulta

Other retailers

$72 at Amazon$72 at Sephora$93 at Ulta

Highlighted Ingredients: Japanese wild rose and leopard lily, proprietary Hasasei-3 | Size: 0.5, 1, 2 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

This Tatcha formula feels like a splash of water on your face, plain and simple. It’s lightweight yet hydrating, so the skin looks dewy but never greasy. According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marisa Garshick, M.D., this moisturizer contains several antioxidants—like the brand’s proprietary Hadasei-3 complex, which helps fight free radical damage, as well as Japanese wild rose extract, which is thought to improve the appearance of pores and skin texture. “The addition of these ingredients, plus oil-controlling Japanese leopard lily, makes this moisturizer a good lightweight option for different skin types,” she explains. We were impressed by how well the gel cream soothed minor skin irritations from the first application to weeks of continued use, thanks to soothing ingredients like green tea and algae. It’s one of beauty writer Tamim Alnuweiri’s favorite moisturizers, who loves the oil-free formula and botanical extracts.  

Best for Acne-Prone Skin

La Roche Posay Toleriane Double Repair Matte Moisturizer

Best for Acne-Prone Skin

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La Roche Posay Toleriane Double Repair Matte Moisturizer

$25 at Amazon$26 at Ulta$25 at Dermstore

What We Like

• Lightweight gel texture

• Dries matte for all-day shine control

• Noncomedogenic and oil-free

What to Consider

• Not hydrating enough for very dry skin

Highlighted Ingredients: Ceramides, niacinamide, perlite | Size: 2.5 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

If you have oily, acne-prone skin, finding a moisturizer can be tricky, but trust me, it’s possible. This moisturizer from La Roche-Posay checks all the boxes: it’s noncomedogenic and oil-free (so it won’t clog your pores or cause breakouts), it has a lightweight gel texture that absorbs fast, and it contains ingredients like ceramides and niacinamide that repair the skin barrier and soothe irritation. According to Martyn, what makes it so unique is its matte finish that controls shine, blurs the look of pores, instantly calms skin, and soothes redness or irritation.

$25 at Amazon$26 at Ulta$25 at Dermstore

Other retailers

$25 at Amazon$26 at Ulta$25 at Dermstore

Highlighted Ingredients: Ceramides, niacinamide, perlite | Size: 2.5 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

If you have oily, acne-prone skin, finding a moisturizer can be tricky, but trust me, it’s possible. This moisturizer from La Roche-Posay checks all the boxes: it’s noncomedogenic and oil-free (so it won’t clog your pores or cause breakouts), it has a lightweight gel texture that absorbs fast, and it contains ingredients like ceramides and niacinamide that repair the skin barrier and soothe irritation. According to Martyn, what makes it so unique is its matte finish that controls shine, blurs the look of pores, instantly calms skin, and soothes redness or irritation.

Best Moisturizer for Layering

Rhode Beauty Barrier Restore Cream

Best Moisturizer for Layering

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Rhode Beauty Barrier Restore Cream

View on Rhodeskin.com

What We Like

• Rich but lightweight consistency layers well with skincare and makeup

• Peptides smooth skin over time

• Comforts, soothes, and softens right away

What to Consider

• Some ingredients may cause breakouts in some people

Highlighted Ingredients: Shea butter, squalane, peptides, niacinamide | Size: 1.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Chances are you’ve heard many people (us included) sing the praises of Hailey Bieber’s skincare brand, Rhode. It deserves all the hype, especially this moisturizer. Intended to be a recovery cream that protects the skin barrier, it’s ideal for those dealing with dry skin or irritation. Editor Alyssa Kaplan says it has a thick, buttery texture that melts into the skin and softens it immediately. “I can apply a light layer at night and wake up with hydrated, protected skin come morning,” she says. It plays well with other skincare (and makeup!), making it a lovely choice for those who like to layer products. Chock-full of ingredients like shea butter, squalane, and peptides, it envelops the skin and imparts a glazed donut finish that Bieber is known for. Note: It may be a bit too heavy for those with acne-prone skin, so it’s best to patch-test before applying it to your entire face.

View on Rhodeskin.com

View on Rhodeskin.com

Highlighted Ingredients: Shea butter, squalane, peptides, niacinamide | Size: 1.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Chances are you’ve heard many people (us included) sing the praises of Hailey Bieber’s skincare brand, Rhode. It deserves all the hype, especially this moisturizer. Intended to be a recovery cream that protects the skin barrier, it’s ideal for those dealing with dry skin or irritation. Editor Alyssa Kaplan says it has a thick, buttery texture that melts into the skin and softens it immediately. “I can apply a light layer at night and wake up with hydrated, protected skin come morning,” she says. It plays well with other skincare (and makeup!), making it a lovely choice for those who like to layer products. Chock-full of ingredients like shea butter, squalane, and peptides, it envelops the skin and imparts a glazed donut finish that Bieber is known for. Note: It may be a bit too heavy for those with acne-prone skin, so it’s best to patch-test before applying it to your entire face.

Best Moisturizer With Retinol

InnBeauty Project Extreme Cream

Best Moisturizer With Retinol

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InnBeauty Project Extreme Cream

$50 at SephoraView on Innbeautyproject.com

What We Like

• Contains retinol and peptides to plump and smooth skin

• Helps visibly firm skin

• Lightweight consistency

What to Consider

• Could be more moisturizing

Highlighted Ingredients: Retinol, peptides, ceramides | Size: 0.5, 1.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

If you’re looking for a moisturizer that visibly addresses signs of aging, like fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin, this is the moisturizer for you. Formulated with a powerful concoction of retinol, peptides, and ceramides, the brand claims it works to firm and contour the skin, and Kaplan agrees. She noticed firmer-feeling skin after just a few uses.

Our tester loved the lightweight texture, noting it absorbed well and never looked or felt greasy. She also appreciated that it’s fragrance-free and shared that it made her complexion look brighter after several weeks of use. We highly recommend it for people looking for a firming and anti-aging formula, but it’s worth noting that it isn’t the most moisturizing pick on this list.

$50 at SephoraView on Innbeautyproject.com

Other retailers

$50 at SephoraView on Innbeautyproject.com

Highlighted Ingredients: Retinol, peptides, ceramides | Size: 0.5, 1.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

If you’re looking for a moisturizer that visibly addresses signs of aging, like fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin, this is the moisturizer for you. Formulated with a powerful concoction of retinol, peptides, and ceramides, the brand claims it works to firm and contour the skin, and Kaplan agrees. She noticed firmer-feeling skin after just a few uses.

Our tester loved the lightweight texture, noting it absorbed well and never looked or felt greasy. She also appreciated that it’s fragrance-free and shared that it made her complexion look brighter after several weeks of use. We highly recommend it for people looking for a firming and anti-aging formula, but it’s worth noting that it isn’t the most moisturizing pick on this list.

Best Moisturizer for Skin Barrier Support

Skinfix Skinfix Barrier+ Triple Lipid-Peptide Cream

Best Moisturizer for Skin Barrier Support

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Skinfix Skinfix Barrier+ Triple Lipid-Peptide Cream

$54

$44 at Amazon$54 at Sephora

$46

$20 at Kohls.com

What We Like

• Contains peptides, lipids, and glycerin for skin barrier support

• Lightweight but deeply nourishing

• Refillable

What to Consider

• Packaging can be a bit finicky

Highlighted Ingredients: Lipids, peptides, glycerin| Size: 0.5, 1.7, 3.3 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Maintaining the health of your skin barrier is essential to keep your complexion looking and feeling its best. If your skin isn’t hydrated, your skin barrier won’t function properly, meaning it can’t keep the good stuff in and the bad stuff out. We love this barrier-supporting cream from Skinfix because it contains nourishing powerhouse ingredients, like lipids, ceramides, and glycerin, in a cushiony formula that feels light and comforting on the skin.

Byrdie editors and our tester agree that this cream does a fantastic job of deeply moisturizing skin without feeling greasy or clogging pores. Our tester noted that he saw an immediate improvement in the hydration of his skin as well as firmer-looking skin after using it consistently. It also layers with other skincare products beautifully and sits under makeup seamlessly. If you’re dealing with a damaged skin barrier, we highly recommend adding this moisturizer to your routine.

$54

$44 at Amazon$54 at Sephora

$46

$20 at Kohls.com

Other retailers

$54

$44 at Amazon$54 at Sephora

$46

$20 at Kohls.com

Highlighted Ingredients: Lipids, peptides, glycerin| Size: 0.5, 1.7, 3.3 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Maintaining the health of your skin barrier is essential to keep your complexion looking and feeling its best. If your skin isn’t hydrated, your skin barrier won’t function properly, meaning it can’t keep the good stuff in and the bad stuff out. We love this barrier-supporting cream from Skinfix because it contains nourishing powerhouse ingredients, like lipids, ceramides, and glycerin, in a cushiony formula that feels light and comforting on the skin.

Byrdie editors and our tester agree that this cream does a fantastic job of deeply moisturizing skin without feeling greasy or clogging pores. Our tester noted that he saw an immediate improvement in the hydration of his skin as well as firmer-looking skin after using it consistently. It also layers with other skincare products beautifully and sits under makeup seamlessly. If you’re dealing with a damaged skin barrier, we highly recommend adding this moisturizer to your routine.

Best Reliable

CeraVe Moisturizing Cream

Best Reliable

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CeraVe Moisturizing Cream

$21 at Ulta$18 at Target$20 at Walgreens

What We Like

• Works well for face and body

• Comes in very large sizes at an affordable price 

• Accepted by the National Eczema Association

What to Consider

• Some found the texture to be too thick 

Highlighted Ingredients: Ceramides, hyaluronic acid | Size: 8, 16 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

Chances are you’re familiar with this ultra-popular and dermatologist-recommended moisturizer from CeraVe. Its popularity is justified—it’s a fantastic cream that has a relatively simple ingredient list with a rich texture that deeply moisturizes dry skin. The formula includes hyaluronic acid and ceramides to boost hydration and support and protect the skin barrier. It also contains petrolatum, an ingredient that helps to create a barrier on the skin that locks in moisture. According to the National Eczema Association, those with eczema should use skin barrier creams that contain ceramides because they work to form a protective layer on the skin. This helps lock in moisture and helps prevent burning, itching, and flakiness due to eczema. Our tester, Jen, was experiencing dry, flaky skin after being on acne medication, and fell in love after her dermatologist recommended it. “After my very first use, I was hooked,” she says.

$21 at Ulta$18 at Target$20 at Walgreens

Other retailers

$21 at Ulta$18 at Target$20 at Walgreens

Highlighted Ingredients: Ceramides, hyaluronic acid | Size: 8, 16 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

Chances are you’re familiar with this ultra-popular and dermatologist-recommended moisturizer from CeraVe. Its popularity is justified—it’s a fantastic cream that has a relatively simple ingredient list with a rich texture that deeply moisturizes dry skin. The formula includes hyaluronic acid and ceramides to boost hydration and support and protect the skin barrier. It also contains petrolatum, an ingredient that helps to create a barrier on the skin that locks in moisture. According to the National Eczema Association, those with eczema should use skin barrier creams that contain ceramides because they work to form a protective layer on the skin. This helps lock in moisture and helps prevent burning, itching, and flakiness due to eczema. Our tester, Jen, was experiencing dry, flaky skin after being on acne medication, and fell in love after her dermatologist recommended it. “After my very first use, I was hooked,” she says.