The best skin moisturizers provide a daily dose of hydration to a variety of skin types. Whether dry, oily, or in between, every type of skin can benefit from a high-quality moisturizer. On the most basic level, skin moisturizers offer a temporary barrier against harmful effects of the environment, holding moisture in the outermost layers of skin for protection. While these products are most often used to treat dry skin, they also can mask imperfections, improve skin texture and tone, and protect sensitive skin. Choosing the best skin moisturizers depends on several factors, which include whether skin is normal, oily, dry, sensitive, or mature. The five best skin moisturizers on the market are affordable and effective. These include Olay Complete All Day Moisturizer, Olay Age Defying Classic Night Cream, CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion, Philosophy Renewed Hope in a Jar, and Neutrogena Oil-Free Moisture.
Top Five Best Skin Moisturizers
- Olay Complete All Day Moisturizer
- Olay Age Defying Classic Night Cream
- CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion
- Philosophy Renewed Hope in a Jar
- Neutrogena Oil-Free Moisture
Olay Complete All Day Moisturizer
Olay Complete All Day Moisturizer is a comprehensive and nourishing product for normal skin. With broad-spectrum SPF 15 offers users protection from the sun. Nourishing ingredients include vitamin E, pantheon, and niacinamide, which goes on smoothly without leaving a greasy feel and doesn’t block pores. This moisturizer works well under makeup, and comes in specialized formulas, including oil-free and fragrance-free. Available from a variety of retailers, the Olay Complete All Day Moisturizer costs between $15 and $20.
Highlights:
- For normal skin.
- Broad-spectrum SPF 15.
- Costs between $15 and $20.
Olay Age Defying Classic Night Cream
Olay Age Defying Classic Night Cream is considered the best in its class. Made for overnight use, this moisturizer does an excellent job of balancing skin moisture without a lingering greasy feel. Rich in antioxidant vitamin E, this night cream helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The salicylic acid content helps clear up cases of mild acne for users. Most people like the cooling, mild tingling sensation when applying this night cream, but one drawback is that there is not a fragrance-free option. Affordable at only $10.99, this moisturizer offers a lot of bang for the buck.
Highlights:
- Balances skin moisture.
- For use overnight.
- Costs around $10.
CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion
CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion is one of the best affordable and effective skin moisturizers for sensitive skin. Free from fragrance, this mild moisturizer offers broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection from the sun, protecting delicate skin and reducing the risk of skin cancer. Even though this moisturizer contains sunscreen, it is one of the only products that does not cause irritation or redness in those with sensitive skin. Nourishing ingredients like ceramines, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid boost moisture without leaving a heavy residue behind. Easy to find, this moisturizer retails for around $30 through various outlets.
Highlights:
- Good for sensitive skin.
- Broad-spectrum SPF 30.
- Costs around $30.
Philosophy Renewed Hope in a Jar
Philosophy Renewed Hope in a Jar is ideal for those with skin that’s on the dryer side. Three different types of alpha hydroxy acids gently exfoliate skin, leaving it smooth and vibrant. This creamy product has plenty of antioxidants and hyaluronic acid, providing nourishment without leaving behind an oily sheen. While it retails for around $30, a little bit goes a long way. Plus, many users point out that this product helps sooth acne breakouts.
Highlights:
- Good for dry skin.
- Gently exfoliates skin.
- Costs around $30.
Neutrogena Oil-Free Moisture
Neutrogena Oil-Free Moisture is one of the best skin moisturizers for those with oily skin. This product is not only oil-free, it is hypoallergenic, alcohol-free, and fragrance-free. This light, gentle cream provides balance, and works well for acne-prone skin, moderately dry skin, and sensitive skin. A little bit goes a long way, leaving bright, dewy skin without a greasy look and feel. This product costs around $10, making it an affordable way to nourish and moisturize skin.
Highlights:
- Good for oily skin.
- Hypoallergenic.
- Costs around $10.