Best Moisturizers for Dry Skin in 2025

Last updated: December 13, 2025

Dry skin is more than just uncomfortable—it can lead to premature aging, irritation, and a dull complexion. The right moisturizer creates a protective barrier while infusing your skin with hydrating ingredients. We've tested moisturizers across all price points to find the best options for truly parched skin. Whether you're dealing with seasonal dryness, age-related dehydration, or chronic dry skin conditions, there's a moisturizer here that will transform your skin's hydration levels and restore your natural barrier function.

Table of Contents

• How We Test Moisturizers
• Quick Comparison Table
• Moisturizers vs Serums: What's the Difference?
• What to Look For in Moisturizers
• Detailed Product Reviews
  • CeraVe Moisturizing Cream - Best Overall
  • Vanicream Moisturizing Skin Cream - Best for Sensitive Skin
  • La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair UV SPF Moisturizer - Best with SPF
  • First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream - Best for Very Dry Skin
• Detailed Comparison Table
• Care Tips for Moisturizers
• Common Mistakes When Buying Moisturizers
• FAQ
• Final Verdict

How We Test Moisturizers

We evaluate moisturizers based on comprehensive testing across multiple criteria to ensure our recommendations are reliable and accurate. Our testing process includes:

• Hydration testing - We assess immediate and long-term hydration, evaluate how well moisturizers lock in moisture, and test barrier repair capabilities
• Ingredient analysis - We examine key ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and other hydrating components for effectiveness
• Texture and absorption - We evaluate how well moisturizers absorb, assess texture (lightweight vs rich), and test compatibility with makeup
• Skin compatibility - We test on different skin types, assess irritation potential, and evaluate suitability for sensitive skin
• Value assessment - We compare price to size, quality, and overall value proposition
• Long-term effects - We assess barrier repair, long-term hydration, and cumulative benefits with regular use
• Special features - We evaluate SPF protection, fragrance-free options, and other special features

We compare against established benchmarks in the moisturizer category and test with various skin types to ensure compatibility and performance consistency.

Quick Comparison Table

Moisturizers vs Serums: What's the Difference?

Understanding the key differences between moisturizers and serums helps you make an informed decision. Moisturizers provide barrier protection, lock in moisture, and create an occlusive layer that prevents water loss. Serums deliver active ingredients with lighter textures but don't provide the same barrier protection.

Moisturizers feature occlusive ingredients that seal in moisture, barrier-repairing components like ceramides, and richer textures that provide protection. Serums offer higher concentrations of active ingredients, lighter textures, and targeted treatments. The investment in a quality moisturizer provides essential barrier protection and hydration that serums cannot offer. For dry skin, moisturizers are essential for maintaining hydration and protecting the skin barrier.

What to Look For in Moisturizers

Here's what to consider when choosing a moisturizer for dry skin:

Rule of thumb: Look for ceramides and hyaluronic acid for barrier repair and hydration. Choose fragrance-free if you have sensitive skin. Rich creams work best for very dry skin, while lighter formulas are better for daytime or combination skin. SPF is essential for daytime use to protect already-compromised skin.

Detailed Product Reviews

1. CeraVe Moisturizing Cream - Best Overall

This dermatologist-favorite delivers intense hydration with three essential ceramides and hyaluronic acid in a non-greasy formula. The gentle, non-irritating formula is fragrance-free and works for both face and body, making it an incredible value. It's the go-to moisturizer for dermatologists because it effectively restores the skin barrier while providing long-lasting hydration without feeling heavy or greasy.

Pros:

• Three essential ceramides - Restore and maintain the skin's natural barrier function
• Hyaluronic acid - Draws moisture into the skin for deep, lasting hydration
• Fragrance-free formula - Gentle and non-irritating, perfect for sensitive skin
• Excellent value - Large 16-ounce size provides great cost per ounce
• Non-comedogenic - Won't clog pores, suitable for face and body
• Dermatologist-developed - Formulated with skincare professionals

Cons:

• Thick texture may not suit oily areas - Rich cream formula is best for dry to very dry skin
• Basic packaging - Simple tub design without pump dispenser
• May feel heavy for some - Those with combination skin might find it too rich

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2. Vanicream Moisturizing Skin Cream - Best for Sensitive Skin

If your dry skin is also reactive, Vanicream's ultra-gentle formula is free of common irritants while still providing rich moisture. This is the #1 dermatologist-recommended brand for sensitive skin, and it's earned the Seal of Acceptance from the National Eczema Association. The non-comedogenic formula won't clog pores, and it's free of dyes, fragrance, lanolin, parabens, and formaldehyde releasers—making it safe for even the most sensitive skin types.

Pros:

• Free of common irritants - No dyes, fragrance, lanolin, parabens, or formaldehyde releasers
• #1 dermatologist-recommended - Most recommended brand for sensitive skin
• National Eczema Association approved - Safe for eczema-prone skin
• Non-comedogenic - Won't clog pores, suitable for acne-prone dry skin
• Pump dispenser - Hygienic and easy to use, prevents contamination
• Thick, protective formula - Provides rich moisture without irritation

Cons:

• Very basic formula - No active ingredients like ceramides or niacinamide
• Plain appearance - Simple, no-frills packaging and texture
• May not be enough for very dry skin - Some may need additional hydration

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3. La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair UV SPF Moisturizer - Best with SPF

Need hydration with built-in sun protection? This fast-absorbing moisturizer provides SPF 30 protection while delivering all-day hydration with niacinamide and glycerin. The oil-free formula layers beautifully under makeup and won't clog pores, making it perfect for daytime use. It helps restore the skin's barrier after just 1 hour of use, providing both immediate and long-term benefits for dry skin.

Pros:

• SPF 30 protection - Built-in sun protection prevents further skin damage
• Niacinamide and glycerin - Strengthens skin barrier and provides hydration
• Oil-free formula - Won't clog pores, perfect for combination dry skin
• Fast-absorbing - Lightweight texture that layers well under makeup
• Barrier repair - Clinically proven to restore skin barrier in 1 hour
• Non-comedogenic - Safe for acne-prone dry skin

Cons:

• Smaller size - 3.38 ounces is smaller than other options
• Premium price - More expensive per ounce than drugstore options
• Less intensive than creams - May not be enough for very dry skin at night

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4. First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream - Best for Very Dry Skin

When regular moisturizers just don't cut it, this intensive formula with colloidal oatmeal and shea butter rescues the driest skin. Clinically proven to strengthen the skin barrier in just 7 days, this whipped cream formula provides intense hydration while soothing irritation. It's allergy-tested and works for both face and body, making it perfect for those with very dry skin, eczema, or chronic dryness.

Pros:

• Colloidal oatmeal - Soothes irritation and provides intense hydration
• Clinically proven - Strengthens skin barrier in 7 days with visible improvement
• Shea butter - Rich emollient that locks in moisture
• Allergy-tested - Safe for sensitive and reactive skin
• Works for face and body - Versatile formula for all-over hydration
• Multiple sizes available - From 2 ounces to 14 ounces for different needs

Cons:

• Pricier than drugstore options - More expensive than basic moisturizers
• Eucalyptus scent - Some may find the natural scent too strong
• Rich texture - May be too heavy for those with combination skin

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Understanding Dry Skin

Before diving into products, let's understand what causes dry skin:

Environmental factors like cold weather and low humidity can strip moisture from your skin. Hot showers remove natural oils, while harsh products can damage the skin barrier. Age-related dryness requires richer formulas with barrier-repairing ingredients. Skin conditions like eczema need gentle, fragrance-free products.

Key Ingredients to Look For

The right ingredients make all the difference for dry skin:

Ceramides are essential for barrier repair—they make up 50% of your skin's natural barrier. Hyaluronic acid can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water, making it incredibly effective for hydration. Glycerin is a humectant that pulls moisture from the air into your skin. Shea butter and squalane are emollients that lock in moisture and create a protective barrier.

Day vs. Night Moisturizing

Different times of day require different approaches:

Daytime moisturizers should be lighter, absorb quickly, and ideally include SPF protection. They need to layer well under makeup and protect your skin from environmental damage. Nighttime moisturizers can be richer and more occlusive since you don't need to worry about makeup or sun protection. Your skin does most of its repair work at night, so this is when intensive formulas work best.

How to Maximize Moisturizer Effectiveness

Proper application and technique make a huge difference:

1. Apply to Damp Skin - Pat dry, don't rub, then apply immediately while skin is still slightly damp to lock in moisture
2. Layer Products Correctly - Thin to thick, water-based before oil-based, to ensure proper absorption
3. Use a Humidifier - Adds moisture to the air in your home, especially important in dry climates or winter months
4. Lukewarm Water - Hot water strips natural oils, so use lukewarm water for washing
5. Gentle Cleansers - Cream or oil-based cleansers are better than foaming ones for dry skin
6. Exfoliate Gently - Remove dead skin cells so moisturizer can penetrate deeper, but don't overdo it

Pro tip: Apply moisturizer within 60 seconds of washing your face to lock in the water from cleansing. This simple timing trick can significantly improve hydration.

Building a Dry Skin Routine

A complete routine addresses all aspects of dry skin care:

Morning Routine:

1. Gentle cream cleanser - Removes overnight products without stripping
2. Hydrating toner (optional) - Adds an extra layer of hydration
3. Vitamin C serum - Protects from environmental damage
4. Moisturizer - Choose a lighter formula with SPF
5. Sunscreen SPF 30+ - Essential protection for compromised skin

Evening Routine:

1. Oil cleanser - Removes sunscreen and makeup gently
2. Gentle cream cleanser - Second cleanse without over-drying
3. Hydrating toner - Prepares skin for treatment products
4. Treatment serum - Retinol, peptides, or other actives (start slow)
5. Rich night cream - Intensive hydration and barrier repair
6. Facial oil (optional) - Extra occlusive layer for very dry areas

Pro tip: Start with a simple routine and add products gradually. Too many products at once can overwhelm or irritate dry skin.

Ingredients to Avoid

If you have dry skin, steer clear of these ingredients:

Denatured alcohol is extremely drying and can damage your skin barrier. Sulfates in cleansers can strip your skin of natural oils. Fragrances and essential oils can irritate already-compromised dry skin. Retinoids are great for anti-aging but must be introduced slowly to avoid excessive dryness and peeling.

Care Tips for Moisturizers

1. Store in a cool, dry place - Keep away from direct sunlight and heat to preserve active ingredients
2. Use clean hands or applicator - Prevent bacteria from contaminating the product
3. Check expiration dates - Expired products may lose effectiveness or cause irritation
4. Don't mix with other products - Apply moisturizer as directed, don't mix with other creams
5. Patch test new products - Test on a small area first, especially if you have sensitive skin
6. Apply to damp skin - Apply within 60 seconds of washing to lock in moisture from cleansing

Pro tip: Apply moisturizer to damp skin within 60 seconds of washing your face. This simple timing trick can significantly improve hydration by locking in the water from cleansing.

Common Mistakes When Buying Moisturizers

Avoid these common pitfalls when shopping for moisturizers to ensure you get the best experience:

1. Not matching to skin type - Choosing moisturizers that don't match your skin type, especially important for combination or sensitive skin
2. Ignoring key ingredients - Not checking for ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or other barrier-repairing ingredients
3. Skipping SPF for daytime - Not considering built-in SPF protection for daytime use, essential for protecting compromised skin
4. Not considering texture - Choosing rich creams for daytime or lightweight lotions for very dry skin
5. Overlooking fragrance-free options - Not considering fragrance-free formulas if you have sensitive or eczema-prone skin
6. Ignoring value - Not calculating cost per ounce, especially important for large sizes or frequent use

Matching Moisturizers to Your Needs

Different needs require different moisturizer features:

Detailed Comparison Table

FAQ

Q: How often should I moisturize dry skin?

A: Moisturize twice daily—morning and evening. Apply to damp skin after cleansing to lock in moisture. For very dry skin, you may need to reapply during the day.

Q: Should I use different moisturizers for day and night?

A: Yes, ideally. Daytime moisturizers should be lighter with SPF protection, while nighttime moisturizers can be richer and more occlusive for intensive hydration and barrier repair.

Q: What ingredients are most important for dry skin?

A: Look for ceramides to repair the skin barrier, hyaluronic acid for hydration, and occlusive ingredients like shea butter or squalane to lock in moisture. Avoid alcohol and harsh surfactants.

Q: Can I use moisturizer if I have acne-prone dry skin?

A: Yes, choose non-comedogenic formulas that won't clog pores. Look for oil-free or lightweight options that provide hydration without causing breakouts.

Q: How do I know if my moisturizer is working?

A: Your skin should feel hydrated, not tight or flaky. You should see improvement in dryness, flakiness, and overall skin texture within 1-2 weeks of consistent use.

Q: Should I apply moisturizer to wet or dry skin?

A: Apply to damp skin (pat dry, don't rub) within 60 seconds of washing. This locks in the water from cleansing and significantly improves hydration.

Final Verdict

• Best Overall: CeraVe Moisturizing Cream - Perfect balance of effective ingredients, value, and results for most people with dry skin. The three essential ceramides and hyaluronic acid restore the skin barrier while providing long-lasting hydration.

• Best for Sensitive Skin: Vanicream Moisturizing Skin Cream - #1 dermatologist-recommended, free of all common irritants, perfect for reactive skin. The National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance makes it ideal for eczema-prone skin.

• Best with SPF: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair UV SPF - Built-in sun protection with barrier repair, ideal for daytime use. The SPF 30 protection prevents further skin damage while providing hydration.

• Best for Very Dry Skin: First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream - Intensive formula with colloidal oatmeal that strengthens barrier in 7 days. Clinically proven to strengthen the skin barrier with visible improvement.

For most people, we recommend starting with CeraVe Moisturizing Cream for its excellent value and proven effectiveness. However, if you have sensitive or eczema-prone skin, Vanicream is the safest choice. For daytime use, La Roche-Posay with SPF provides essential sun protection, while First Aid Beauty is the best option for severely dry or compromised skin.

Consistency is key with dry skin. Find your moisturizer, use it twice daily, and your skin will transform. Remember to apply to damp skin, use gentle cleansers, and protect your skin from environmental damage with SPF during the day.

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Completing your skincare routine? Check out our guides on vitamin C serums and hydrocolloid patches for acne.