Hydrated skin is healthy skin — but not all moisturizers are created equal. Whether you have dry, oily, or sensitive skin, choosing the right moisturizer can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ve curated the best luxury and dermatologist-recommended moisturizers by skin type to help you lock in hydration, support your skin barrier, and improve your glow.
Contents
Best Moisturizers for Normal Skin
Top Luxury Moisturizers for Normal Skin:
- Tatcha The Water Cream – Lightweight hydration with Japanese botanicals
- Estée Lauder DayWear Multi-Protection Moisturizer – Antioxidant-rich and smooth
- Biossance Squalane + Omega Repair Cream – Deeply nourishing without heaviness
- First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream – Versatile, barrier-supporting, fragrance-free
Estée Lauder DayWear Multi-Protection Anti-Oxidant Moisture Crème SPF 15
A refreshing, antioxidant-rich day cream that defends against early signs of aging. Infused with supercharged antioxidants like vitamins C and E, green tea, and broad-spectrum SPF 15, this moisturizer hydrates for 24 hours while neutralizing environmental damage.
- Fights dullness and early fine lines
- Provides all-day hydration and sun protection
- Lightweight, silky texture for daily wear
- Suitable for normal to combination skin
A great starter anti-aging cream that keeps skin smooth, fresh, and protected.
Biossance Squalane + Omega Repair Cream
Rich, whipped moisturizer that restores hydration, strengthens the skin barrier, and delivers a radiant finish
This ultra-nourishing cream delivers deep hydration while visibly improving texture, plumpness, and barrier health. Ideal for dry, sensitive, or stressed skin in need of intense moisture and repair.
Key Ingredients & Skin Benefits:
- Plant-Derived Squalane – Mimics natural skin oils to restore moisture without clogging pores
- Omega Fatty Acids (3, 6, and 9) – Fortify the skin barrier and lock in hydration
- Ceramides – Help rebuild skin’s protective layer and improve long-term moisture retention
- Hyaluronic Acid – Plumps and hydrates for a supple, smooth finish
- Acai Berry Sterols & Vitamin E – Provide antioxidant protection and skin-softening benefits
This cream has a whipped, cushiony texture that absorbs quickly, leaving skin deeply moisturized, calm, and radiant—perfect for both day and night routines.
First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream
A rich, fast-absorbing moisturizer clinically proven to provide immediate relief and long-term hydration for dry, distressed, or eczema-prone skin. Powered by colloidal oatmeal, shea butter, and ceramides, this cream helps calm itching, repair the skin barrier, and lock in moisture—without feeling greasy.
- Instantly relieves dryness, flakiness, and irritation
- Soothes with colloidal oatmeal and allantoin
- Safe for sensitive skin, eczema, and even babies
- Fragrance-free, allergy-tested, and dermatologist-recommended
A go-to cream for dry, reactive skin in need of serious comfort.
Best Moisturizers for Dry Skin
Top Luxury Moisturizers for Dry Skin:
- La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm AP+M – Deeply hydrating for very dry skin
- Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream – Iconic anti-aging and moisture-boosting formula
- Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream – Long-lasting hydration with glacial glycoprotein
- CeraVe Moisturizing Cream – Dermatologist-approved with ceramides and hyaluronic acid
La Roche‑Posay Lipikar Balm AP+M
Ultra-nourishing body balm for dry, eczema-prone, and sensitive skin
This rich, yet fast-absorbing balm delivers immediate relief from dryness, itching, and tightness. Ideal for extra-dry, inflamed, or eczema-prone skin, it helps restore the skin barrier and nourish for up to 48 hours.
Key Ingredients & Skin Benefits:
- 3% Niacinamide – Soothes irritation, strengthens the skin barrier, and calms redness
- Shea Butter & Glycerin – Provide long-lasting hydration and softening for parched skin
- La Roche‑Posay Prebiotic Thermal Water – Balances skin’s microbiome, soothes, and protects
- Microresyl™ + Shea Butter Rhamnose – Deliver targeted relief for itch and roughness
Non-greasy and fast-absorbing, this balm leaves skin smooth, replenished, and comfortable immediately after use—perfect for daily use on body, face, and for eczema flare-ups.
Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream
A deeply nourishing, award-winning moisturizer powered by the brand’s patented TFC8® technology, designed to renew, hydrate, and restore even the driest or most mature skin types. This ultra-rich formula supports skin repair, reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and delivers long-lasting moisture for a plump, radiant complexion.
- Intensely hydrates and repairs with TFC8®
- Reduces signs of aging and improves skin texture
- Ideal for dry, mature, or winter-stressed skin
- Luxurious, velvety texture that absorbs beautifully
Beloved by celebrities and skincare experts for its science-backed transformation and radiant results.
Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream
24-hour hydration hero with a lightweight, barrier-supporting formula
This best-selling moisturizer delivers lasting hydration while feeling light on the skin. Formulated with squalane, glacial glycoprotein, and pro-ceramides, it strengthens the moisture barrier, smooths texture, and keeps skin soft, balanced, and protected—even in harsh climates.
Key Ingredients & Skin Benefits:
- Squalane – Replenishes and supports the skin’s natural moisture barrier
- Glacial Glycoprotein – Helps retain hydration and protect skin from environmental stress
- Pro-Ceramides – Strengthen the barrier and enhance long-term moisture retention
- Glycerin & Dimethicone – Smooth and soften while preventing moisture loss
Lightweight yet nourishing, this cream absorbs easily and provides all-day hydration without greasiness. Suitable for all skin types.
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream
A dermatologist-developed daily moisturizer that delivers long-lasting hydration and supports the skin’s natural barrier. Packed with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and MVE Technology, this rich, non-greasy cream is perfect for dry to very dry skin — including sensitive and eczema-prone.
- Provides 24-hour hydration
- Restores and strengthens the skin barrier
- Fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and accepted by the National Eczema Association
- Suitable for face and body
A trusted, no-fuss staple for healthy, hydrated skin.
Best Moisturizers for Combination Skin
Top Luxury Moisturizers for Combination Skin:
- Glow Recipe Pink Juice Moisturizer – Lightweight gel that hydrates without oiliness
- Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel – Oil-free and refreshing
- Belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb – Hydration that feels weightless on the skin
- Naturium Plant Ceramide Rich Moisture Cream – Balances oil and dry patches
Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Pink Juice Moisturizer
A lightweight, oil-free gel moisturizer packed with watermelon extract, hyaluronic acid, and botanical antioxidants to hydrate, soothe, and visibly boost radiance. Designed to deliver a dewy glow without heaviness, it’s ideal for oily to combination skin or as a hydrating serum under richer creams.
- Hydrates and plumps with hyaluronic acid
- Brightens and soothes with watermelon and peony extract
- Fast-absorbing, non-comedogenic gel texture
- Can be used as a moisturizer or serum
Perfect for achieving that signature Glow Recipe “glass skin” look.
Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel
Oil-free hydration for combination and oily skin types
This lightweight, water-gel moisturizer provides deep, 24-hour hydration while leaving skin fresh, matte, and shine-free. Ideal for those who want hydration without heaviness or residue.
Key Ingredients & Skin Benefits:
- Hyaluronic Acid & Glycerin – Attract and retain moisture to plump and smooth skin
- Caffeine – Energizes and helps tighten pores
- Note: No Oil, Fragrance, or Parabens – Clean formula that’s gentle and non-comedogenic
Fast-absorbing and breathable, it balances moisture levels and keeps skin comfortable throughout the day or night.
Belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb
Lightweight, ultra‑hydrating gel‑cream that refreshes and smooths skin
This cult-favorite moisturizer delivers a burst of water-based hydration with a refreshing, cooling feel. Perfect for normal, oily, or combination skin types, it instantly plumps and soothes while minimizing the appearance of pores and uneven texture.
Key Ingredients & Skin Benefits:
- Lady’s Mantle & Calendula Extracts – Antioxidant-rich botanicals that calm and protect the skin
- Hyaluronic Acid & Ceramides – Hydrate deeply and strengthen the moisture barrier
- Niacinamide – Helps reduce redness and refine pores
- Water-Gel Texture – Absorbs quickly with a weightless finish, ideal under makeup or SPF
Fast-absorbing and oil-free, this moisturizer leaves your skin feeling smooth, hydrated, and dewy without any stickiness.
Naturium Plant Ceramide Rich Moisture Cream
Deeply nourishing cream that restores and strengthens dry, thirsty skin
This rich, fast-absorbing moisturizer delivers intense hydration and barrier repair using plant-derived ceramides and nourishing actives. Ideal for dry, dehydrated, or sensitive skin seeking long-lasting comfort and resilience.
Key Ingredients & Skin Benefits:
- Plant-Derived Ceramide Complex – Replenishes and fortifies the skin’s natural lipid barrier
- Squalane – Provides weightless, lasting moisture without clogging pores
- Hyaluronic Acid – Attracts and retains water for a plump, smooth appearance
- Shea Butter & Sunflower Seed Oil – Nourish deeply and soothe dry or irritated skin
- Niacinamide – Calms redness and supports barrier recovery
There’s no greasy residue—just soft, supple skin that feels nourished and protected throughout the day.
✨ Best Moisturizers for Oily Skin
Top Luxury Moisturizers for Oily Skin:
- Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel-Cream (Fragrance-Free) – Lightweight hydration with hyaluronic acid
- La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat Moisturizer – Controls shine and refines pores
- Embryolisse Hydra-Mat Emulsion – Hydrates while maintaining a matte finish
- Youth to the People Superfood Air-Whip Moisture Cream – Oil-free, antioxidant-packed gel
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel
A bestselling gel moisturizer that delivers intense hydration with a featherlight feel. Infused with hyaluronic acid, this oil-free formula instantly quenches thirsty skin and locks in moisture for up to 48 hours — perfect for normal to oily or dehydrated skin types.
- Hydrates deeply without clogging pores
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing, and non-greasy
- Oil-free, dye-free, and non-comedogenic
- Works beautifully under makeup or alone
Affordable, dermatologist-recommended hydration that feels like luxury.
La Roche‑Posay Effaclar Mat Oil‑Free Moisturizer
Daily mattifying moisturizer for oily and acne-prone skin
Lightweight and oil-free, this moisturizer hydrates while controlling shine and refining pores. Ideal for combination or oily skin types needing moisture without greasiness.
Key Ingredients & Skin Benefits:
- Sebulyse™ (Sebum-Regulating Lipo-Hydroxy Acid) – Absorbs excess oil and minimizes pore appearance
- Glycerin – Provides hydration without clogging or heavy residue
- Zinc PCA – Helps balance sebum production and provides antibacterial support
- PEG‑8/PEG‑60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil – Enhances texture and improves spreadability
- Prebiotic Thermal Spring Water – Soothes inflammation and supports a healthy skin microbiome
Non-comedogenic and fast-absorbing—leaves skin matte, smooth, and comfortable, making it perfect under makeup or alone.
Youth to the People Superfood Air‑Whip Moisture Cream
Lightweight gel‑cream that delivers instant and long-lasting hydration with a green glow
This airy, antioxidant-rich moisturizer deeply hydrates while smoothing and balancing the skin. Perfect for normal, combination, and oily skin types, it refreshes and plumps without feeling heavy or greasy.
Key Ingredients & Skin Benefits:
- Kale, Spinach, Green Tea, and Alfalfa – Superfood antioxidants that detoxify, brighten, and protect skin
- Hyaluronic Acid – Provides multi-depth hydration and softens fine lines
- Vitamins C & E – Support skin tone and antioxidant defense
- Niacinamide + Ceramides – Help refine pores and strengthen the skin barrier
Fast-absorbing and non-comedogenic, it layers well under sunscreen or makeup while giving skin a dewy, healthy finish.
Embryolisse Hydra‑Mat Emulsion
Oil-free, shine-controlling moisturizer for balanced matte skin
This light, silky emulsion delivers hydration while minimizing shine and refining texture. Perfect for combination to oily skin types, it keeps the complexion fresh, matte, and smooth without over-drying.
Key Ingredients & Skin Benefits:
- Hyaluronic Acid & Glycerin – Provide deep hydration and plump fine lines without heaviness
- Silica & Mattifying Powders – Absorb excess oil and reduce visible shine
- Extracts of Cucumber & Chamomile – Soothe and calm irritation for a comfortable, balanced finish
- Non-Comedogenic Lightweight Formula – Hydrates without clogging pores or leaving residue
Fast-absorbing and breathable, this emulsion leaves skin feeling fresh and matte all day—ideal under makeup or SPF.
Best Moisturizers for Sensitive Skin
Top Luxury Moisturizers for Sensitive Skin:
- Avene Tolerance Control Soothing Skin Recovery Balm – Calms and protects reactive skin
- Bioderma Atoderm Intensive Baume – Rich, soothing hydration for irritated skin
- Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Cream – Strengthens and soothes with 5 essential ceramides
- Paula’s Choice Omega+ Complex Moisturizer – Lightweight but barrier-repairing
Avène Tolerance Control Soothing Skin Recovery Balm
Ultra-gentle balm designed to soothe, hydrate, and restore stressed skin
This comforting balm calms irritation, redness, and tightness while delivering lasting moisture. Perfect for ultra-sensitive, eczema-prone, or reactive skin, it supports barrier recovery and restores comfort in even the most distressed conditions.
Key Ingredients & Skin Benefits:
- Avène Thermal Spring Water – Naturally soothing with anti-irritation properties
- Lipocerin® & Skin-Identical Lipids – Help rebuild the skin’s protective barrier and lock in hydration
- Squalane & Glycerin – Deeply moisturize and soften without clogging pores
- Mannitol & Xylitol – Provide added hydration and calm
- Minimalist, Allergy-Tested Formula – Free of fragrance, preservatives, and alcohol to reduce irritation
Soft and rich in texture, yet absorbs cleanly—leaving skin visibly calmer, more radiant, and better defended against environmental stress.
Bioderma Atoderm Intensive Baume
Therapeutic balm for severely dry, irritated, and eczema-prone skin
This rich, reparative balm provides immediate comfort and long-lasting relief for skin suffering from extreme dryness, flare-ups, or damage from environmental stressors. Ideal for face and body, it soothes, heals, and strengthens the skin barrier.
Key Ingredients & Skin Benefits:
- Mannitol, Xylitol & Glycerin – Deeply moisturize and restore barrier hydration
- Shea Butter & Botanical Lipids – Nourish, soften, and reduce tightness
- Patent BIODERMA Complex (D.A.F.) – Calms inflammation and helps prevent itching
- Minimalist, Fragrance-Free Formula – Designed for high tolerance and sensitive or reactive skin
Thick yet fast-absorbing, this balm leaves skin smooth, soothed, and fortified—perfect for daily use on hands, body, or flare-prone areas.
Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Cream
Rich, barrier-restoring cream that delivers intense hydration and soothes dry, sensitive skin
This luxurious, lipid-replenishing cream is formulated with a powerful complex of ceramides and phyto-ceramides to deeply hydrate, strengthen the skin barrier, and soothe irritation. Ideal for dry, dehydrated, or reactive skin types.
Key Ingredients & Skin Benefits:
- 5-Ceramide Complex (Ceramide NP, AP, EOP, NG, EOD) – Restore the skin’s protective barrier and lock in moisture
- Phyto-Ceramide PCA & Cholesterol – Enhance hydration retention and help rebuild barrier function
- Colloidal Oatmeal & Panthenol (Vitamin B5) – Calm redness, reduce inflammation, and relieve dryness
- Sunflower and Evening Primrose Oils – Nourish, soften, and reinforce skin comfort
Thick but fast-absorbing, with a creamy texture that melts into skin—leaving it supple, hydrated, and resilient. Great for nightly use or anytime skin needs a comforting moisture boost.
Paula’s Choice Omega+ Complex Moisturizer
Whipped, ultra-nourishing moisturizer for dry, dull, or sensitive skin
This rich yet fast-absorbing cream delivers deep hydration and strengthens the skin barrier with a potent blend of omega fatty acids, ceramides, and antioxidants. Ideal for skin that feels dry, depleted, or easily irritated.
Key Ingredients & Skin Benefits:
- Omega‑3, 6 & 9 Fatty Acids – Help calm visible redness, support lipid repair, and restore suppleness
- Ceramide Complex – Reinforces the skin barrier and improves long-term moisture retention
- Shea Butter & Botanical Oils – Nourish and soften without clogging pores
- Hyaluronic Acid & Amino Acids – Hydrate deeply and help smooth texture
- Antioxidants (Guava, Acai, Passion Fruit) – Defend against free radicals and brighten the skin
The whipped texture makes it lightweight enough for daily use, yet rich enough to comfort even the driest skin.
Best Moisturizers for Acne-Prone Skin
Top Luxury Moisturizers for Acne-Prone Skin:
- La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo+ Moisturizer – Hydrates while targeting breakouts
- CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion – Non-comedogenic with niacinamide + ceramides
- Versed Dew Point Moisturizing Gel-Cream – Lightweight hydration without clogging pores
- Murad Clarifying Oil-Free Water Gel – Salicylic acid + hyaluronic acid combo
La Roche‑Posay Effaclar Duo+ Acne Treatment
Dual-action acne treatment for clearer, smoother skin
This dermatologist-favorite formula clears breakouts, reduces inflammation, and helps fade acne marks—all in one gentle yet effective treatment. Ideal for oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin types.
Key Ingredients & Skin Benefits:
- Benzoyl Peroxide (5.5%) – Kills acne-causing bacteria and prevents new breakouts
- Niacinamide – Soothes redness, strengthens skin barrier, and reduces post-acne marks
- Lipo-Hydroxy Acid (LHA) – Gently exfoliates to clear pores and improve skin texture
- Micro-exfoliating LHA Particles – Enhance the resurfacing effect for smoother, refined skin
- Prebiotic Thermal Spring Water – Soothes and balances the skin’s natural microbiome
Fast-absorbing, non-drying, and gentle enough for daily use—helps visibly clear skin and prevent future breakouts.
CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion
Lightweight, non-comedogenic night lotion with barrier-restoring ceramides
This dermatologist-developed night lotion delivers gentle hydration and supports overnight skin repair. Ideal for normal to oily and combination skin types, it’s formulated to replenish the skin barrier without clogging pores or feeling heavy.
Key Ingredients & Skin Benefits:
- Ceramides 1, 3 & 6-II – Reinforce and restore the skin’s natural moisture barrier
- Niacinamide – Calms irritation, reduces redness, and improves skin tone
- Hyaluronic Acid – Draws in and retains moisture for a smooth, plump finish
- Glycerin – Helps maintain essential hydration throughout the night
- MVE Delivery Technology – Provides long-lasting moisture release while you sleep
Fast-absorbing and oil-free, this lotion leaves skin soft, balanced, and refreshed by morning, making it a reliable evening essential.
Versed Dew Point Moisturizing Gel‑Cream
Weightless hydration gel‑cream for soft, plumped, and balanced skin
This fast-absorbing moisturizer delivers lasting hydration and a refreshing boost of moisture, perfect for normal, combination, and dehydrated skin types. Designed to comfort while leaving skin smooth, fresh, and ready for any routine.
Key Ingredients & Skin Benefits:
- Tripleweight Hyaluronic Acid – Hydrates multiple layers of skin to plump fine lines and improve texture
- Squalane & Glycerin – Provide lightweight moisture and reinforce the skin’s barrier
- Squalane & Ceramides – Help restore lipid balance and strengthen skin’s natural defenses
- Niacinamide & Caffeine – Calm redness, tighten pores, and brighten the complexion
- Antioxidant Blend (Banana Fruit Powder, Rooibos, Aloe) – Protect from free radicals and soothe irritation
Fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and vegan-friendly—softens, cools, and refreshes skin with every use. Ideal under makeup, SPF, or alone for a dewy finish.
Murad Clarifying Oil-Free Water Gel
Lightweight, oil-free hydrator designed for clear, balanced skin
This refreshing water-gel moisturizer delivers oil-free hydration while helping reduce breakouts and support a healthy skin barrier. Ideal for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types, it leaves skin feeling smooth, balanced, and visibly clearer.
Key Ingredients & Skin Benefits:
- Salicylic Acid (BHA) – Gently exfoliates and helps keep pores clear of congestion
- Hyaluronic Acid & Glycerin – Provide deep hydration without greasiness
- Korean Red Pine Extract – Supports the skin’s microbiome and helps reduce irritation
- Niacinamide & Witch Hazel – Minimize pores, calm redness, and reduce excess shine
- Ginger Extract – Soothes and revitalizes skin
Fast-absorbing with a cooling finish, this gel keeps skin hydrated and shine-free without clogging pores—making it a great daily moisturizer for acne-prone or reactive skin.