12 Best Face Moisturizers to Buy in 2025 (Includes Every Skin Type)

Are you wondering if you really need a moisturizer? And if people with oily skin type can skip this step in their routine? Or if you can go without hydrating your skin in summer when you are drinking water all day? Well, do not let anyone tell you that moisturizers can be skipped in any case. Whether you are a fan of a basic skincare routine or love investing time in 10-step skincare, moisturizers are an integral part of every skincare regime. But it is also no easy feat to find the right moisturizer for your skin type and other requirements. If you are tired of having your moisturizers collect dust in the corner, we want you to research a standardized hydrating cream before buying the next one. And to help you in your research, here we are with the list of the best face moisturizers to buy in 2023. 12 Best Face Moisturizers to Buy in 2023 For Dry Skin If you have dry skin that gets flaky in winter and itchy in summer, your barrier must have been compromised. So, applying a moisturizer regularly can help you repair it and make the skin supple. Applying a moisturizer regularly can help you repair your skin barrier and make the skin supple, which is essential for overall skin health. 1. CeraVe Moisturizing Cream Dry Skin Pros Quick absorption Dermatologist recommended Cons The jar packing can lead to product contamination The jar packing can lead to product contamination, which may affect the effectiveness and safety of the moisturizer over time. CeraVe is the top brand that offers a wide range of affordable yet potent products. Its CeraVe moisturizing cream contains essential hydrating ingredients including ceramides (1, 3, and 6) and hyaluronic acid with MVE technology. Additionally, its creamy texture allows a smooth application and quick absorption of the product. So, your skin stays hydrated for a full day. The skin barrier is restored and maintained within 1 month. It is paraben-free, fragrance-free, and hypoallergic. Moreover, it is developed with the help of dermatologists and cleared by NEA. It is paraben-free, fragrance-free, and hypoallergenic, making it suitable for sensitive skin types. 2. First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream Moisturizer Pros Immediate yet long-lasting results Immediate results can be particularly appealing for those seeking quick relief, while the long-lasting effects help maintain skin hydration throughout the day. Immediate results can be particularly appealing for those seeking quick relief, while the long-lasting effects help maintain skin hydration throughout the day. Relieves eczema and redness Relieving eczema is crucial for many individuals, as it can significantly improve skin comfort and appearance, while reducing redness enhances overall skin tone. Relieving eczema is crucial for many individuals, as it can significantly improve skin comfort and appearance, while reducing redness enhances overall skin tone. Cons Might irritate sensitive skin While it may irritate sensitive skin, users should perform a patch test to ensure compatibility before full application. While it may irritate sensitive skin, users should perform a patch test to ensure compatibility before full application. First Aid Beauty ultra repair intense moisturizing cream is specially prepared for people with extreme skin dryness and conditions like eczema. It contains colloid oats that soothe itching and shea butter that protects the skin barrier. First Aid Beauty ultra repair intense moisturizing cream is designed to address the needs of those with extreme dryness and dermatitis, making it a go-to for effective skin care. Its fast-absorbing formula with its rich consistency provides instant moisturization without making skin oily. Additionally, this cruelty-free, vegan, soy-free, gluten-free, and alcohol-free cream is also dermatologically tested ensuring that it does not harm your skin in any way. Its fast-absorbing formula ensures that the skin feels hydrated without the heaviness of traditional creams, making it suitable for daily use. 3. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Face Moisturizer Pros Does not clog pores Non-comedogenic formulas are ideal for those with oily or acne-prone skin, as they prevent breakouts while keeping the skin hydrated. Non-comedogenic formulas are ideal for those with oily or acne-prone skin, as they prevent breakouts while keeping the skin hydrated. Earth-friendly packaging Eco-conscious consumers will appreciate products that use earth-friendly packaging, reducing environmental impact. Eco-conscious consumers will appreciate products that use earth-friendly packaging, reducing environmental impact. Cons Does not have SPF While moisturizing, this product does not provide sun protection, so consider using a separate sunscreen for complete care. While moisturizing, this product does not provide sun protection, so consider using a separate sunscreen for complete care. Neutrogena Hydro Boost face moisturizer has a gel-like consistency with a lightweight formula that makes your dry skin feel moisturized but not greasy. Its active ingredient is hyaluronic acid which is well-known for locking in the water in the skin while making it plump and supple. Neutrogena is one of the best drugstore skincare care brands. Its hydro-boost cream is perfect for extra-dry, dry, or normal skin types. Moreover, it is free from oils, fragrances, and dyes. So, this dermatologist-recommended cream works well for sensitive skin as well. 4. TATCHA The Dewy Skin Cream Pros Spatula for hygienic dispensation A spatula helps maintain the product's cleanliness by preventing contamination from fingers during application. A spatula helps maintain the product's cleanliness by preventing contamination from fingers during application. Contains antioxidants Antioxidants can support overall skin health and potentially improve the appearance of fine lines. Antioxidants are crucial in fighting free radicals, which can help protect the skin from environmental damage. Cons Expensive Its premium price reflects the luxury ingredients and formulation designed for optimal hydration. While TATCHA The Dewy Skin Cream is recognized for its quality, its price point may not fit every budget. TATCHA is a famous Japanese brand with products loved by everyone. Its Dewy Skin Cream contains botanical extracts, Japanese purple rice, Okinawa algae blend, and hyaluronic acid. These ingredients balance the moisture level of the skin, boost the skin’s natural hydration, and save the skin from stress and pollution. Consequently, the skin appears fresh, nourished, radiant, and glowy. It also feels soft and plump to the touch. So, within 2 weeks you can fall in love with this luxury moisturizer for its amazing results. For Oily Skin Regardless of people saying oil skin produces enough oils to hydrate itself, you must know how important moisturizers are for people with oily skin to balance sebum production. So, here are our top oily skin-friendly hydrating creams. Moisturizers play a vital role in controlling oiliness, preventing breakouts, and maintaining skin health. 1. Vichy Normaderm PhytoAction Acne Control Moisturizer Pros Salicylic acid and vitamin C enriched Vitamin C is an antioxidant that may help brighten the skin and improve its texture. Salicylic acid is known for its ability to penetrate pores, making it effective for acne-prone skin. Treats and prevents acne Cons Not suitable for people sensitive to fragrance Vichy Normaderm PhytoAction moisturizer is a dermatologically tested cream that contains 2% salicylic acid, vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid. So, you can expect it to deal with adult acne, blackheads, textured skin, and open pores, improve skin tone, lighten blemishes, and make the skin smooth in addition to hydrating it. It is a gentle, hypoallergenic, paraben-free, ophthalmologist-tested, and dermatologist-recommended product that hydrates oily skin deeply without making it look greasy. This moisturizer is designed for oily skin types and offers effective hydration without excess oiliness. 2. CETAPHIL DERMACONTROL Oil Absorbing Moisturizer Pros Oil absorption technology Sun protection Sun protection is essential for maintaining healthy skin and preventing premature aging. It provides essential sun protection, making it a beneficial choice for daily use. Cons Can irritate eyes Some users may experience discomfort, as this product can irritate eyes if it comes into contact with them. CETAPHIL DERMACONTROL oil-absorbing moisturizer comes with an innovative micro pearl technology that absorbs excess sebum from the skin surface and hydrates the deep layers of skin thoroughly. So, it gives the skin a matte finish. Moreover, it contains avobenzone that protects the skin from sun damage and oleosome that keep the SPF agents stable. It does not irritate sensitive skin but you should not get it into your eyes. Lastly, it is lightweight and oil-free. 3. La Roche-Posay Toleriane Face Moisturizer Pros Long-lasting hydration This product provides long-lasting hydration, making it ideal for those with dry skin. Oil-free moisturizing formula This moisturizer features an oil-free moisturizing formula, suitable for oily or acne-prone skin. Cons It is not alcohol-free La Roche-Posay tolerant face moisturizer has dual effects. It works to repair broken skin barriers within 1 hour and keeps the skin hydrated for up to 48 hours. As it is an oil-free product, it works well for all skin types, especially oily skin. Its main ingredients are selenium-rich prebiotic thermal water that protects the skin from cellular damage, ceramide-3 which retains water while maintaining a barrier, and niacinamide which restores skin health. Selenium-rich prebiotic thermal water is known for its protective properties, while ceramide-3 and niacinamide work together to enhance hydration and skin health. 4. Differin Oil Absorbing Moisturizer Pros Comes with SPF30 Provides a matte finish Cons It is not fragrance-free This moisturizer contains fragrances that might not be suitable for those with sensitive skin or fragrance sensitivities, so it's worth considering your personal preferences. This moisturizer may not be suitable for those with sensitivities, as it contains added fragrance, which can irritate some skin types. Harsh on eyes Differin oil-absorbing moisturizer also comes with a micro pearl technology to soak excess oils from the skin and make it look smooth and matte. It is non-comedogenic and suitable for sensitive skin as well. The inclusion of micro pearl technology helps to effectively absorb excess oil, making this moisturizer a great option for those seeking a matte finish. Additionally, it provides broad spectrum protection by using little SPF due to its oleosome. So, it is a lightweight non-greasy moisturizer that hydrates oily skin gently. Its broad spectrum protection is a notable feature, helping to shield the skin from UV damage while keeping it hydrated. For Combination Skin Lastly, when you cannot decide if your skin is oily or dry, finding a suitable moisturizer can be a hassle. So, let us move on with our top picks in this category. Choosing a moisturizer for combination skin can be tricky, as it's important to balance hydration without clogging pores or exacerbating dryness. 1. PCA SKIN Clearskin Lightweight Face Moisturizer Pros Enriched with vitamin E This moisturizer's enrichment with vitamin E not only hydrates but also contributes to healthier-looking skin by combating oxidative stress. Vitamin E is known for its antioxidant properties, which can help protect the skin from environmental stressors while providing moisture. Balances natural oil production in the skin Cons Expensive PCA clearskin face moisturizer is a lightweight moisturizer suitable for a combination to oily and acne-prone skin. It contains niacinamide, vitamin A, vitamin E, lemongrass, cucumber fruit extract, and marigold flower oil. These ingredients purify oily skin while calming dry areas, balance skin hydration, and lighten acne marks. Moreover, it is free of fragrance and is trusted by dermatologists and aestheticians. 2. Neutrogena Oil-Free Moisture Cream for Combination Skin Pros Alcohol-free, fragrance-free, oil-free Prevent acne breakouts Cons Comes in a small packaging Neutrogena oil-free moisture cream is specifically designed for combination skin as it works to control the level of oils in the T-zone or cheek area along with moisturizing dry skin zones. It is lightweight and unscented. So, your sensitive skin won’t get irritated. Moreover, it does not clog pores and is recommended by dermatologists as well. So, if you want an affordable drugstore moisturizer for your combination skin, this is the one. 3. Cetaphil Face Moisturizer Pros Offers broad spectrum SPF35 protection Does not irritate sensitive skin Cons Thick consistency Cetaphil Face Moisturizer for combination skin is a 3-in-1 lotion that hydrates the skin, nourishes it, and protects against sun damage. It is free of parabens, comedogenic agents, fragrances, and oils. Thus, it is compatible with all skin types including sensitive ones. Moreover, it is packed with vitamin C and edelweiss flower extracts that work to repair the damaged skin barrier and prevent skin irritation. Lastly, its small bottle makes it travel-friendly. 4. Dermalogica Active Moist Oil-Free Face Moisturizer Pros Smooth application Provides oil-free hydration Cons Too thin consistency Dermalogica’s active lightweight face moisturizer is a vegan, paraben-free, oil-free, fragrance-free, and gluten-free product to hydrate your skin without making it look shiny. Additionally, it improves the texture and natural barrier of the skin. Its major ingredients include plant extracts, cucumber, lemon, burdock, and a prebiotic complex that prevents dehydration, smoothens skin surface, and refines the skin. Moreover, it is also specifically formulated for combination skin. Conclusion Moisturizers are a must-have product if you want to have healthy skin that appears glowing but not greasy. Moreover, they prevent the signs of dehydration like flakes, itching, or redness. Although the significant role of a moisturizer is to hydrate your skin, the ingredients of the moisturizer determine which other benefits it can provide. Moreover, the texture, absorption, and fragrance also play an essential part in making a moisturizer suitable. Regardless of the season or your skin type, regular hydration of the skin is an absolute necessity. So, in this article, we have talked about the best moisturizers of 2023. Lastly, we hope you won’t compromise on the health and the natural barrier of your skin this year. Ulike Welcome to Ulike! We hope our expertise can bring value to you.