{"id":1232228,"date":"2025-12-23T22:18:57","date_gmt":"2025-12-23T19:18:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1232228"},"modified":"2025-12-23T22:18:57","modified_gmt":"2025-12-23T19:18:57","slug":"the-9-best-face-moisturizers-to-soothe-sensitive-skin-according-to-testers-dermatologists","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1232228","title":{"rendered":"The 9 Best Face Moisturizers to Soothe Sensitive Skin, According to Testers & Dermatologists"},"content":{"rendered":"
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We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.\n<\/p>\n

The 9 Best Face Moisturizers to Soothe Sensitive Skin, According to Testers & Dermatologists<\/h1>\n

Hydrate the skin without irritation.<\/p>\n

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By<\/span><\/p>\n
Daley Quinn<\/p>\n
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\"Headshot\"Headshot<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\nDaley Quinn\n<\/div>\n
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Daley Quinn is a beauty, lifestyle, and wellness writer and content strategist. She has penned stories for Allure, Fashionista, Well + Good, Women\u2019s Health, The Cut, WWD, and more.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\nByrdie’s Editorial Guidelines\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
and<\/span><\/p>\n
Melanie Rud<\/p>\n
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\"person\"person<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\nMelanie Rud\n<\/div>\n
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    \nMelanie Rud is a beauty writer with over 15 years of editorial experience, known for her expertise in skincare and product research. At Byrdie, she covers a range of beauty and lifestyle topics\u2014especially gift guides\u2014and personally tests the products she features.\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    \nByrdie’s Editorial Guidelines\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    Published on June 20, 2025 10:51AM<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    Leave a Comment<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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    In This Article<\/h2>\n
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    View All<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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    In This Article<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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      Top Picks<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n
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      Reviews<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n
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      What to Look For<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n
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      Frequently Asked Questions<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n
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      Meet Our Experts<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n
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      Why Trust Byrdie<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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      \"Person\"Person<\/div>\n<\/div>
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      Byrdie<\/p>\n

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      TL;DR<\/p>\n

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      Our top choice, along with many dermatologists, is the CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion. This pick touts the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance, so you can feel confident knowing the formula is extra gentle and effective. For those who prefer richer hydration, the SkinCeuticals’ Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 is a great choice. It also delivers anti-aging benefits.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

      Creating an effective skincare routine is challenging enough, but for those with sensitive skin, the already tough task is even more daunting. It requires being extra careful with the products you choose, as a misstep can lead to sensitivity, irritation, redness, and more. Despite the potential hassle, a good moisturizer is an absolute must for all skin types, even more so for the sensitive set. The right moisturizer can go a long way in helping to create a strong skin barrier\u2014the secret to warding off both dryness and sensitivity. The key is to seek out simple formulas: the more basic, the better, advises Dr. Lucy Chen, M.D., FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist at Riverchase Dermatology in Miami.\n<\/p>\n

      We conducted hours of research and tested some of the best moisturizers for sensitive skin, evaluating each formula on active ingredients and what ingredients it does not contain, like fragrance, dyes, or potential irritants. We also looked for formulas that contain SPF or sun protection and how well they deliver hydrating results without irritating skin or causing breakouts. To help narrow our selection, we consulted two board-certified dermatologists for product recommendations and advice on what ingredients to look for. After considering dozens of options, we landed on these top-rated picks.\n<\/p>\n

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      Top Picks<\/h2>\n
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      Best Overall:<\/div>\n
      SALE<\/div>\n

      CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion at Amazon<\/span>$18<\/s>$15<\/span><\/div>\n

      Jump to Review<\/span><\/div>\n

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      Best Budget:<\/div>\n

      Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer at Amazon<\/span>$14<\/span><\/div>\n

      Jump to Review<\/span><\/div>\n

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      Best Gel:<\/div>\n

      Aveeno Calm + Restore Oat Gel Moisturizer at Ulta<\/span>$27<\/span><\/div>\n

      Jump to Review<\/span><\/div>\n

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      Best Heavy-Duty Cream:<\/div>\n
      SALE<\/div>\n

      First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream at Amazon<\/span>$42<\/s>$34<\/span><\/div>\n

      Jump to Review<\/span><\/div>\n

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      Best With SPF:<\/div>\n

      La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer UV at Amazon<\/span>$25<\/span><\/div>\n

      Jump to Review<\/span><\/div>\n

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      Best Soothing:<\/div>\n

      BeautyStat Cosmetics Universal Moisture Boost Cream at Ulta<\/span><\/div>\n

      Jump to Review<\/span><\/div>\n

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      Best for Eczema :<\/div>\n

      La Roche-Posay Lipikar Ap+M Triple Repair Body Moisturizer at Amazon<\/span>$19<\/span><\/div>\n

      Jump to Review<\/span><\/div>\n

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      Best Anti-Aging:<\/div>\n

      SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore at Dermstore<\/span><\/div>\n

      Jump to Review<\/span><\/div>\n

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      Best Water Cream:<\/div>\n

      belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb at Amazon<\/span>$24<\/span><\/div>\n

      Jump to Review<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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      \nBest Overall
      \n<\/span><\/h2>\n

      CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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      \"CeraVe\"CeraVe<\/div>
      Credit: Ulta<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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      $18<\/span><\/div>\n

      $15 at Amazon<\/span><\/span>$18 at Ulta<\/span><\/span>View on Walmart<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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      What We Like<\/span><\/div>\n
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        Lightweight<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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        Approved by the National Eczema Association<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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        Suitable for the face and body<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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        Comes in a pump bottle<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n

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        What to Consider<\/span><\/div>\n
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          Need to reapply often<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

          Key Ingredients:<\/strong> Hyaluronic acid, three essential ceramides | Skin Type:<\/strong> Balanced, dry | Size:<\/strong> 8, 12, 16 oz | SPF:<\/strong> No | Cruelty-Free:<\/strong> No\n<\/p>\n

          A true classic, there\u2019s a good reason why people sing the praises of this cream over and over. This fragrance-free lotion touts three types of ceramides coupled with hydrating hyaluronic acid in a formula gentle enough to be accepted by the National Eczema Association. We love that it\u2019s oil-free, yet really moisturizing and hydrating. Another added bonus is that it\u2019s widely available at most drugstores nationwide. Dermatologists have recommended this pick for years for its gentle, no-fuss formula that\u2019s easy on sensitive skin. It\u2019s safe to use on your face and body, any time of the year.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n

          It’s worth noting that the texture is quite lightweight, so it may not provide long-lasting hydration throughout the day. Don\u2019t be surprised if you find yourself reapplying this lotion a few times a day.\u00a0<\/p>\n

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          \"Person\"Person<\/div>\n<\/div>
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          Byrdie<\/p>\n

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          Cassie, tester with eczema:<\/strong> “My skin is often red and flaky, but the Cerave really helped prevent that. It left my skin looking way more glowy and less red than usual.”<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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          \nBest Budget
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          Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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          \"Vanicream\"Vanicream<\/div>
          Credit: Amazon<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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          $14<\/span><\/div>\n

          $14 at Amazon<\/span><\/span>View on Ulta<\/span><\/span>$14 at Target<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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          What We Like<\/span><\/div>\n
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            Affordable and accessible<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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            Lightweight<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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            Fragrance and paraben-free<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n

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            What to Consider<\/span><\/div>\n
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              Not rich enough for super dry skin types<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

              Key Ingredients:<\/strong> Ceramides, hyaluronic acid, squalane | Skin Type:<\/strong> All | Size:<\/strong> 3 oz | SPF:<\/strong> No | Cruelty-Free:<\/strong> No\n<\/p>\n

              Vanicream is top-notch when it comes to creating products for sensitive skin. This moisturizer is a drugstore favorite that was specifically formulated for sensitive skin (but works for all skin types). It has a thicker texture that adds moisture and calms irritated complexions without feeling heavy\u2014it can even be worn under SPF and makeup. Full of hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, squalane, and ceramides, it’ll make your skin feel soft and nourished.\n<\/p>\n

              The beauty of Vanicream skincare is that you don\u2019t have to worry about any of their products irritating your face or body. The brand offers products that are bare-bones and free from ingredients that could cause sensitivity. Plus, all of their products are fragrance-free, so you don\u2019t have to worry about that irritation, either. We love that it comes in a squeeze bottle for easy and hygienic application, and appreciate that it can be found at most drugstores, too.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n

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              \"Before\"Before<\/div>\n<\/div>
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              Byrdie<\/p>\n

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              Chelsea, tester with rosacea:<\/strong>\u00a0\u201cI felt its moisturizing and hydrating abilities nourish the\u00a0skin barrier\u00a0day after day. I also noticed a quick difference in my\u00a0rosacea\u00a0thanks to this moisturizer.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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              \nBest Gel
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              Aveeno Calm + Restore Oat Gel Moisturizer<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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              \"Aveeno\"Aveeno<\/div>
              Credit: Amazon<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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              $27 at Ulta<\/span><\/span>$20 at Target<\/span><\/span>$20 at Walmart<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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              What We Like<\/span><\/div>\n
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                Lightweight gel consistency<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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                Absorbs fast<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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                Provides long-lasting hydration<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n

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                What to Consider<\/span><\/div>\n
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                  Not ideal for those who like a radiant finish<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

                  Key Ingredients:<\/strong> Prebiotic oat, feverfew | Skin Type:<\/strong> Sensitive | Size:<\/strong> 1.7 oz | SPF:<\/strong> No | Cruelty-Free:<\/strong> No\n<\/p>\n

                  We recommend this gel pick for those who prefer lighter hydration. Despite its fast-absorbing texture, it still delivers plenty of moisture and continues to moisturize for up to 24 hours. It\u2019s free from parabens, fragrances, alcohol, and dyes. Also noteworthy is the addition of prebiotic oats, which are known to improve skin barrier function and calm dry or itchy skin. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Ife J. Rodney, M.D., FAAD, also likes this option, lauding it for the addition of feverfew, which can help reduce redness.\n<\/p>\n

                  This moisturizer works wonders in calming inflamed skin\u2014a necessity when you\u2019re dealing with a sensitive complexion. The formula dries down to an almost matte finish, leaving your skin looking neither greasy nor shiny. If you prefer a moisturizer that leaves a subtle sheen on the skin, you should opt for something else.\u00a0\u00a0\n<\/p>\n

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                  Byrdie<\/p>\n

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                  Ashley, tester with sensitive skin: <\/strong>\u201cThis gel moisturizer does exactly what it says it will\u2014it calms, moistens, and leaves my sensitive skin feeling refreshed and hydrated.”<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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                  \nBest Heavy-Duty Cream
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                  First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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                  \"First\"First<\/div>
                  Credit: Sephora<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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                  $42<\/span><\/div>\n

                  $34 at Amazon<\/span><\/span>$42 at Sephora<\/span><\/span>$48 at Ulta<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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                  What We Like<\/span><\/div>\n
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                    Has a thick, rich consistency<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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                    Reduces itchiness and irritation<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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                    Soothes redness<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n

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                    What to Consider<\/span><\/div>\n
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                      Can pill easily<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

                      Key Ingredients:<\/strong> Colloidal oatmeal, shea butter, allantoin, FAB antioxidant booster | Skin Type:<\/strong> Balanced, dry | Size:<\/strong> 2, 6, 8, 14 oz | SPF:<\/strong> No | Cruelty-Free:<\/strong> Yes\n<\/p>\n

                      If your skin needs seriously intense moisture, this rich, ultra-thick cream is calling your name. Shea butter is the moisturizing hero, while allantoin and colloidal oats relieve both itch and irritation. (FYI, the latter is even FDA-designated as a skin protectant.) To that point, it earned rave reviews not only for how well it moisturizes but also for relieving issues like eczema and psoriasis.\n<\/p>\n

                      The Ultra Repair Cream is another one of Dr. Rodney’s favorites. \u201cIt also contains both feverfew and licorice extracts, which are great at soothing irritated skin,\u201d she notes. On top of all of that, it can be used from head to toe on pretty much everyone, including babies. Some people notice a bit of pilling under makeup or sunscreen with this pick, so it might be better suited for days when you want your skin to breathe without foundation or concealer.\u00a0<\/p>\n

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                      Adi Giesey, beauty editor with dry\/sensitive skin (not shown): <\/strong>“I\u2019ve gone through countless jars of the Ultra Repair Cream because of how much my eczema-prone skin loves the formula\u2014it soothes my irritated skin and helps calm stubborn redness. The formula is extremely hydrating yet still maintains a lightweight texture, making it my go-to prep before applying any complexion products. Keeping this cream in my daily routine has become a no-brainer.”\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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                      \nBest With SPF
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                      La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer UV<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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                      \"La\"La<\/div>
                      Credit: Walgreens<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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                      $25 at Amazon<\/span><\/span>$27 at Ulta<\/span><\/span>$26 at Dermstore<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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                      What We Like<\/span><\/div>\n
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                        Protects the skin with SPF 30<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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                        Lightweight and oil-free<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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                        Non-comedogenic<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n

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                        What to Consider<\/span><\/div>\n
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                          Chemical sunscreen ingredients can be irritating for some people with sensitive skin<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

                          Key Ingredients: <\/strong>Avobenzone, oxybenzone | Skin Type: <\/strong>All | Size: <\/strong>2.5 oz | SPF: <\/strong>Yes, 30 | Cruelty-Free: <\/strong>No\n<\/p>\n

                          When it comes to streamlining and speeding up your A.M. routine, opting for a moisturizer with built-in SPF is the way to go. Unlike many formulas that cap it at SPF 15 (technically not enough for daily use, according to the American Academy of Dermatology), this one contains SPF 30. Plus, \u201cCeramides, niacinamide, and glycerin help with hydration and skin repair, and the brand\u2019s proprietary thermal water has antioxidant properties,\u201d says Dr. Rodney.\n<\/p>\n

                          This moisturizer has a lightweight texture, and we love that it\u2019s non-comedogenic\u2014meaning it won\u2019t cause any breakouts. It looks great under makeup, and we appreciate that this pick doesn\u2019t smell super strongly of sunscreen, either. Some folks might be sensitive to chemical sunscreen (rather than physical sunscreen), so that\u2019s something to watch out for.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n

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                          \"Person\"Person<\/div>\n<\/div>
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                          Byrdie<\/p>\n

                          <\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

                          Madison, tester with combination skin:\u00a0<\/strong>\u201cThis product held up really well, absolutely no sign of white cast or streaking. My face feels soft and hydrated even in the cold weather.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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                          \nBest Soothing
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                          BeautyStat Cosmetics Universal Moisture Boost Cream<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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                          \"Ulta\"Ulta<\/div>
                          Credit: Ulta<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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                          View on Ulta<\/span><\/span>$50 at Nordstrom<\/span><\/span>View on Neiman Marcus<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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                          What We Like<\/span><\/div>\n
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                            Reduces irritation and calms angry skin<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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                            Lightweight<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

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                            Fights environmental agressors<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n

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                            What to Consider<\/span><\/div>\n
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                              Can pill under makeup<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

                              Key Ingredients:<\/strong> Hyaluronic acid, ceramides, pomegranate sterols, Ganoderma, bifida extract | Skin Type:<\/strong> All | Size:<\/strong> 1, 1.7 oz | SPF:<\/strong> No | Cruelty-Free:<\/strong> Yes\n<\/p>\n

                              Fragrance-free and dermatologist-tested, this formula touts two unique soothers. One is a ferment derived from a rare mushroom; the other is a probiotic that also helps fight environmental aggressors. Combined with ceramides and pomegranate sterols that work to restore the skin barrier, this is ideal for calming irritation and has a lovely, cloud-like texture, to boot.\n<\/p>\n

                              We like that this moisturizer hydrates skin for up to 24 hours. The gel-cream formula feels really light on the skin while thoroughly moisturizing your face without irritation. But beware that the formula isn\u2019t ideal for under makeup, as it can pill a little bit.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n

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