{"id":751358,"date":"2025-11-27T12:00:00","date_gmt":"2025-11-27T09:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=751358"},"modified":"2025-11-27T12:00:00","modified_gmt":"2025-11-27T09:00:00","slug":"8-best-moisturizing-face-balms-of-2025-to-soothe-and-protect-the-skin-barrier","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=751358","title":{"rendered":"8 Best Moisturizing Face Balms of 2025 to Soothe and Protect the Skin Barrier"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Beauty<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

The Dermatologist\u2019s Secret to Protect the Skin Barrier This Winter<\/h1>\n<\/div>\n
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By <\/span>Deanna Pai<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/div>\n

November 27, 2025<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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The beauty of a balm, be it for cleansing or moisturizing, is that it\u2019s designed with comfort in mind. And the best moisturizing face balms are a prime example of that, whether your skin is naturally sensitive, suffering from winter dryness, or recovering from an in-office procedure.<\/p>\n

While face moisturizers can offer TLC in their own right, balms have unique advantages. \u201cBalms are more occlusive on the skin than lightweight moisturizers,\u201d says Arash Akhavan, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. \u201cThey seal the surface of the skin and prevent transepidermal water loss\u2014the loss of water through the surface of the skin.\u201d That makes them uniquely beneficial for those with severe dryness or compromised skin, as well as conditions like eczema.<\/p>\n

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Vogue<\/em>\u2019s Favorite Moisturizing Face Balms<\/h2>\n
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Best Overall<\/span><\/p>\n
La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Balm B5+ Soothing Therapeutic Multi-Purpose Cream<\/div>\n

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$19<\/del>$14<\/span>(26% off)<\/span><\/p>\n

AMAZON<\/p>\n

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\"Image<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Best Drugstore<\/span><\/p>\n
Aquaphor Healing Balm Stick<\/div>\n

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$10<\/del>$7<\/span>(30% off)<\/span><\/p>\n

AMAZON<\/p>\n

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Best for Compromised Skin<\/span><\/p>\n
SkinCeuticals Hydra Balm Moisturizer Ointment<\/div>\n

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$25<\/span><\/p>\n

BLUEMERCURY<\/p>\n

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Another perk is that balms are often (but not always) anhydrous, meaning they\u2019re formulated without water. Unlike water-based formulas, which naturally create an environment for bacterial growth, \u201cbalms may also be better tolerated because they have fewer potentially irritating ingredients like preservatives,\u201d says Heather Woolery-Lloyd, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Miami. As a result, they can be better suited for those with sensitive skin. Intrigued? Scroll ahead for the best face balms worth adding to your moisture-boosting arsenal.<\/p>\n

In This Story<\/h2>\n
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  • What\u2019s the Difference Between a Face Moisturizer and a Face Balm?<\/li>\n
  • How to Use Moisturizing Face Balms<\/li>\n
  • How We Tested<\/li>\n
  • Meet the Experts<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
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    Best Overall:<\/strong> La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Balm B5+<\/h2>\n
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    \"Image<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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    La Roche-Posay<\/p>\n

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    Cicaplast Balm B5+ Soothing Therapeutic Multi-Purpose Cream<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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    $19<\/del>$14<\/span>(26% off)<\/span><\/p>\n

    AMAZON<\/p>\n

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    • Why We Love It:<\/strong> This versatile, fragrance-free balm offers comfort, relief, and protection wherever you need it\u2014be it elbows, face, hands, and everywhere in between. But unlike many balms, \u201cthis product is formulated with water as an ingredient, allowing for a smoother and lighter application,\u201d says Dr. Akhavan. \u201cBut it is still a great occlusive-barrier product, with the great skin protectant dimethicone as its main active ingredient.\u201d In addition to dimethicone, the formula\u2019s prebiotics offer anti-inflammatory benefits, he says. And Dr. Woolery-Lloyd, for her part, likes that it also contains panthenol, \u201cwhich is known for its skin-soothing properties,\u201d she says.<\/li>\n
    • Key Ingredients:<\/strong> Shea butter, panthenol, Centella asiatica<\/li>\n
    • Type:<\/strong> Thick cream<\/li>\n
    • Size:<\/strong> 40 ml<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
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      Best Drugstore:<\/strong> Aquaphor Healing Balm Stick<\/h2>\n
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      \"Image<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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      Aquaphor<\/p>\n

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      Healing Balm Stick<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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      $10<\/del>$7<\/span>(30% off)<\/span><\/p>\n

      AMAZON<\/p>\n

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      • Why We Love It:<\/strong> When it comes to balms, it\u2019s hard to beat Aquaphor, which is \u201cjust about every board-certified dermatologist\u2019s go-to skin-barrier balm,\u201d says Dr. Akhavan, who credits panthenol and glycerin for its especially soothing nature. While the original ointment is excellent, Dr. Woolery-Lloyd is a fan of this balm stick, since it layers especially well under makeup. \u201cWhen it\u2019s applied before concealer under the eyes, this product is great at preventing creasing,\u201d she says. \u201cI use it under my eyes or anywhere on my face before applying concealer for a smooth finish.\u201d<\/li>\n
      • Key Ingredients:<\/strong> Petrolatum, panthenol, glycerin, avocado oil, shea butter<\/li>\n
      • Type:<\/strong> Solid stick<\/li>\n
      • Size:<\/strong> 0.65 oz.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
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        Best for Compromised Skin:<\/strong> SkinCeuticals Hydra Balm Moisturizer Ointment<\/h2>\n
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        SkinCeuticals<\/p>\n

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        Hydra Balm Moisturizer Ointment<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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        $25<\/span><\/p>\n

        BLUEMERCURY<\/p>\n

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        • Why We Love It:<\/strong> A little of this ultra-gentle formula goes a long way, thanks to a blend of petrolatum (which creates a barrier on the skin) and soothing aloe and bisabolol. For that reason, \u201cthis occlusive ointment provides an excellent barrier for severely compromised skin,\u201d says Dr. Woolery-Lloyd. In fact, she says, it\u2019s a good option for post-procedure healing (like after laser skin resurfacing or peels); treating very dry, cracked skin; or even to nourish skin following retinol.<\/li>\n
        • Key Ingredients:<\/strong> Petrolatum, aloe, bisabolol<\/li>\n
        • Type:<\/strong> Ointment<\/li>\n
        • Size:<\/strong> 50 ml<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
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          Best Multipurpose:<\/strong> The Outset Botanical Barrier Rescue Balm<\/h2>\n
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          The Outset<\/p>\n

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          Botanical Barrier Rescue Balm<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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          $38<\/span><\/p>\n

          NORDSTROM<\/p>\n

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          • Why We Love It:<\/strong> So thick that it comes with a small metal spatula for scooping, this rich balm relies on a base of jojoba, rosehip, marula, and camellia oils, which deliver nourishing, barrier-supporting fatty acids to skin without clogging pores\u2014plus, the brand\u2019s Hyaluroset Complex, an ingredient derived from the cassia flower that provides plumping benefits comparable to hyaluronic acid. You can use it on your lips and face as well as anywhere on the body\u2014not to mention on hair to smooth flyaways. However, keep in mind that it does contain some essential oils, so if you have a sensitivity, you may want to do a patch test first.<\/li>\n
          • Key Ingredients:<\/strong> Jojoba seed oil, rose hip oil, marula oil, camellia oil, Cassia angustifolia seed polysaccharide<\/li>\n
          • Type:<\/strong> Balm<\/li>\n
          • Size:<\/strong> 1.5 oz.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
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            Best Overnight:<\/strong> Rhode Barrier Butter<\/h2>\n
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            Rhode<\/p>\n

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            Barrier Butter<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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            $36<\/span><\/p>\n

            RHODE<\/p>\n

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            • Why We Love It:<\/strong> Rhode\u2019s Barrier Butter already has an enviable pedigree: It\u2019s led to the rise of butter skin and impressed supermodel Claudia Schiffer\u2014enough that she\u2019s the face of it. Designed for overnight use, the formula (which works for face and body) helps boost hydration, replenish and protect the skin barrier, and even reduce fine lines and dullness. That\u2019s thanks in part to the combination of humectants (hyaluronic acid, in five molecular weights, and polyglutamic acid) and moisture-sealing lipids (murumuru butter and ceramides). Better yet, it\u2019s gentle enough for all to use, having earned a seal of acceptance from the National Eczema Association\u2014meaning it\u2019s been vetted by a panel of experts and analyzed for safety.<\/li>\n
            • Key Ingredients:<\/strong> Hyaluronic acid, polyglutamic acid, murumuru butter, ceramides<\/li>\n
            • Type:<\/strong> Rich butter<\/li>\n
            • Size:<\/strong> 100 ml<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
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              Best for Dry Skin:<\/strong> Oak Essentials Moisture Rich Balm<\/h2>\n
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              Oak Essentials<\/p>\n

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              Moisture Rich Balm<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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              $88<\/span><\/p>\n

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              • Why We Love It:<\/strong> To give skin the laid-back, West Coast\u2013inspired look perfected by fashion and interior designer Jenni Kayne, this dense, translucent face balm relies on a lineup of nutrient-rich oils\u2014among them sea buckthorn, borage seed, and coconut\u2014to thoroughly nourish skin and reduce sensitivity. It leaves skin gleaming but not greasy, and the addition of essential oils\u2014like rose, geranium, and lavender\u2014lends it a soothing scent (although again, a patch test is a good idea for those with very sensitive skin).<\/li>\n
              • Key Ingredients:<\/strong> Sea buckthorn oil, borage seed oil, coconut oil<\/li>\n
              • Type:<\/strong> Balm<\/li>\n
              • Size:<\/strong> 1.4 oz.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
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                Best for Mature Skin:<\/strong> Bonjout Beauty Le Balm Skin Savior Solid Serum<\/h2>\n
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                Bonjout Beauty<\/p>\n

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                Le Balm Skin Savior Solid Serum<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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                $130<\/span><\/p>\n

                CREDO BEAUTY<\/p>\n

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                • Why We Love It:<\/strong> French pharmacies are a treasure trove of efficacious skin-care finds, so it\u2019s little surprise that this thick balm\u2014formulated by a French pharmacist herself\u2014is equal parts luxurious and potent. Featuring antioxidant-rich vitamin E, it harnesses plant-based stem cells, peptides, and other actives to target fine lines, wrinkles, and other antiaging concerns, as well as repair the skin barrier. Its innate nourishing properties make it an eye cream, lip balm, and overnight mask, depending on how and where you apply it.<\/li>\n
                • Key Ingredients:<\/strong> Hibiscus stem cells, prickly pear stem cells, ceramides, peptides, hyaluronic acid<\/li>\n
                • Type:<\/strong> Salve<\/li>\n
                • Size:<\/strong> 1.05 oz.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
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                  Best for Eczema-Prone Skin:<\/strong> Topicals Like Butter Moisturizer<\/h2>\n
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                  Topicals<\/p>\n

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                  Like Butter Moisturizer<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

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                  $34<\/del>$27<\/span>(21% off)<\/span><\/p>\n

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                  • Why We Love It:<\/strong> Formerly a hydrating mask, this reformulated balm is more of a rich daily moisturizer designed to coddle very sensitive, compromised, or otherwise inflamed skin. To do so, it relies on 1% colloidal oatmeal\u2014known for its ability to soothe itchy, eczema-prone skin\u2014as well as madecassoside, an active form of Centella asiatica. It can make quick work of eczema flares, red patches, and seasonal dryness alike. And considering its rich lotion texture, this is a great option for oily skin types too.<\/li>\n
                  • Key Ingredients:<\/strong> Colloidal oatmeal, madecassoside, green tea<\/li>\n
                  • Type:<\/strong> Rich cream<\/li>\n
                  • Size:<\/strong> 50 ml<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
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                    Everything You Need to Know<\/strong><\/h2>\n
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                    What\u2019s the Difference Between a Face Moisturizer and a Face Balm?<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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                    The difference is primarily in the formulation. Traditional moisturizers are usually emulsions, meaning they combine water (and water-based ingredients) with oils. \u201cThey typically hydrate the skin with their water-based components and lightly seal it,\u201d says Dr. Akhavan. Meanwhile, face balms are typically water-free formulas with a thicker consistency. \u201cThey are usually used as occlusive barriers to seal moisture in the skin,\u201d he says.<\/p>\n

                    Because of that, there\u2019s a natural difference in their textures. \u201cBalms can sometimes feel waxy or greasy compared to a cream, but this is the trade-off for superior barrier function,\u201d says Dr. Woolery-Lloyd, noting that this is why face balms are preferable for those with dry or very dry skin\u2014or for mature patients dealing with signs of aging.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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                    How to Use Moisturizing Balms<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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                    It ultimately comes down to your skin type and preferences, but it\u2019s best to use moisturizing face balms at night as the final step in your skin-care routine. Apply a thin layer to \u201ctrap in moisture overnight and aid in restoration of the skin barrier,\u201d says Dr. Akhavan. \u201cIt can also just be spot applied to problem areas.\u201d<\/p>\n

                    Also, consider applying face balms in the morning as a preemptive protective measure \u201cwhen the skin is going to be exposed to extreme elements, such as when skiing or hiking outdoors in dry and windy conditions,\u201d he says.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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                    How We Tested<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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                    When we test and review a product, we take a holistic approach to deliver well-rounded product recommendations. First, we lean on Vogue<\/em>\u2019s vast network of experts\u2014from board-certified dermatologists to celebrity estheticians\u2014to gain professional acumen on the industry\u2019s standout products, ones these specialists would actually use on their clients. We pair their expertise with our editorial best practices to curate the thoughtful edits you read on our site.<\/p>\n

                    As it relates to moisturizing face balms, we selected the best based on the following characteristics: ingredients, texture, packaging, finish, and the skin-care concerns they address. To do this, we paired our own personal tests of each formula with expert guidance and reviewer insights to determine which we would recommend to you.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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                    Meet the Experts<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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                    • Arash Akhavan, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist in New York.<\/li>\n
                    • Heather Woolery-Lloyd, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist in Miami.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n

                      Source URL: http:\/\/vogue.com\/article\/moisturizing-face-balms<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

                      Beauty The Dermatologist\u2019s Secret to Protect the Skin Barrier This Winter By Deanna Pai November 27, 2025 The beauty of a balm, be it for cleansing or moisturizing, is that it\u2019s designed with comfort in mind. And the best moisturizing face balms are a prime example of that, whether your skin is naturally sensitive, suffering […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":751359,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[50],"class_list":["post-751358","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-politics","tag-vogue-com"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/751358","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=751358"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/751358\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/751359"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=751358"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=751358"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=751358"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}