12 Best Face Moisturizers For Dry, Sensitive Skin In 2024

Your skin care routine is incomplete without hydrating formulations.

Reviewed by Shawnda Dorantes, MSN, APRN, FNP-C
Written by Krati Darak, MBA, Certified Skin Care Coach
Edited by Medha Deb, Integrated MA
Fact-checked by Shiboli Chakraborti, MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach  • 

Moisturizing is an essential part of the skincare routine for those of us with dry and sensitive skin, especially during the cold winter. Applying the best face moisturizer for dry, sensitive skin gives it an extra serving of hydration and moisture that keeps it healthy, glowing, and protected from the harshness of the environment. Some moisturizers tested for dry skin also cater to other skin-related issues like acne, patchy skin, redness, reduction, etc. However, with so many creams available on the market, finding the right face moisturizer can be tricky. So, we have researched and curated this list of the 12 best face moisturizers for dry, sensitive skin. Scroll down and check them out!

Top Picks
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Best Moisturizing:L'Oreal Paris Skincare Hydra-Renewal Face Moisturizer With Pro-Vitamin B5
Price On Amazon
Best Anti-Aging:Fresh Lotus Youth Preserve Face Cream
Price On Amazon
Best Soothing:Bioderma Hydrabio Cream
Price On Amazon
Best Dermatologically-Tested:Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream
Price On Amazon
Best Value For Money:CeraVe Moisturizing Cream
Price On Amazon
Best Cruelty-Free:Malin + Goetz Vitamin E Face Moisturizer
Price On Amazon
Best Lightweight:DHC Rich Moisture Facial Moisturizer
Price On Amazon
Best Hypoallergenic:Physiogel Hypoallergenic Daily Moisture Therapy Facial Cream
Price On Amazon
Best pH-balanced:Curél Intensive Moisture Care
Price On Amazon
Best Unisex:Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream
Price On Amazon

12 Best Face Moisturizers For Dry and Sensitive Skin With Ultimate Guide

1. Best Moisturizing:L’Oreal Paris Skincare Hydra-Renewal Face Moisturizer With Pro-Vitamin B5

4.4
L'Oreal Paris Skincare Hydra-Renewal Face Moisturizer Image: L’oréal Paris

The all-day hydration formula from L’Oreal Paris is scientifically formulated with Pro-Vitamin B5. It offers intense hydration to the dehydrated skin and leaves the skin softer, and healthier, giving radiant complexion. The Hydra-Renewal facial moisturizer can be used day and night, even under makeup. It is a dermatologist-recommended moisturizer for dry and sensitive skin that offers clinically proven results. This tested deeply moisturizing product does not contain comedogenic ingredients that clog the pores. Backed by positive reviews, it also helps in refining pores and wrinkles.

Product Dimensions: 2.8 x 2.8 x 3.1 inches | Weight: 6.4 Ounces

Key Ingredients: Glycerin, Shea butter,

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Affordable
  • Paraben-free
  • Long-lasting moisturizer
  • Dermatologist-tested

Cons

  • Watery consistency
  • Strong fragrance

protip_icon Remember
While choosing a moisturizer for sensitive skin, look for two keywords, non-comedogenic (oil-free and does not clog pores) and hypoallergenic (allergen-free).

2. Best Anti-Aging:Fresh Lotus Youth Preserve Face Cream

4.3

Fresh Lotus Youth Preserve Face Cream is an anti-aging universal daily moisturizer that can hydrate your skin for up to 24 hours. With its patented Super 7 Complex, which includes lotus root extract and vitamin E, this product is tested and developed to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, keep the skin supple and radiant, and combat the onset of premature aging. In addition to that, it is enriched with maca root extract, which is known to improve brightness and cell turnover. Patch testing is essential before adding the product to your daily skincare routine.

Product Dimensions: 5.6 x 5 x 2 inches | Weight: 1.6 Ounces

Key Ingredients: Lotus root extract, vitamin E, and maca root extract

Pros

  • Paraben-free
  • Lightweight
  • Chemical-free

Cons

  • Feels greasy
  • Expensive

protip_icon StyleCraze Trivia
EltaMD entered the US market in 1988 with a traditional Swiss healing ointment used for wound care and healing burns.

3. Best Soothing:Bioderma Hydrabio Cream

4.4
Bioderma - Hydrabio Cream - Daily Hydrating Cream Image: Bioderma

The Bioderma Hydrabio cream has a rich, creamy texture that penetrates smoothly into the skin and nourishes the skin from the inside. It effectively moisturizes highly dehydrated skin and protects your skin from aging. It restores skin radiance and acts as a makeup base as well. Including this doctor-recommended moisturizer in the night routine for dry and sensitive skin will help instore the skin’s healthy form. It is recommended to perform a patch test on your skin before adding this product to your daily skincare routine.

Product Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 2.44 x 2.44 x 2.32 inches | Weight : 1.44 Ounces

Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid, Vitamin E

Pros

  • Pleasant natural scent
  • Lightweight
  • Offers good skin nourishment
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Paraben-free
  • Dermatologist-recommended

Cons

  • Thick consistency

protip_icon ProTip
For the best results, use a moisturizer on clean, gently exfoliated skin as it ensures maximum penetration of the product. Do not use gritty scrubs, a damp washcloth will be enough to clean and exfoliate sensitive skin before applying moisturizer.

L'Oreal Paris Skincare Hydra-Renewal Face Moisturizer With Pro-Vitamin B5
Best Moisturizing
Fresh Lotus Youth Preserve Face Cream
Best Anti-Aging
Bioderma Hydrabio Cream
Best Soothing
Dimensions 2.8 x 2.8 x 3.1 inches 5.6 x 5 x 2 inches-
Weight 6.4 Ounces 1.6 Ounces 1.44 Ounces
Dimensions ‏-- ‎ 2.44 x 2.44 x 2.32 inches
Rating
Reviews--646
Price$6.42$57.99$27.99

4. Best Dermatologically-Tested:Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream

4.5
Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream Image: Olay

Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream contains a one-of-a-kind amino-peptide complex that has been upgraded with the inclusion of Olivem and a combination of innovative anti-aging technology and SPF protection with a surprisingly lightweight texture. Niacinamide, vitamin B3, and hyaluronic acid are the active ingredients in this product endorsed by medical professionals, and they work together to improve the appearance of wrinkles, speed up the turnover of skin cells, and eliminate dead skin. Overall, it is a top-notch expert-recommended moisturizer that has garnered rave reviews for thoroughly hydrating the skin to noticeably firm it for a lifted appearance.

Product Dimensions: 5.44 x 2.5 x 3.81 inches | Weight: 1.7 Ounces

Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, Vitamin B3, and Hyaluronic acid

Pros

  • Paraben-free
  • Anti-aging
  • Dermatologically-approved
  • Fragrance-free
  • Phthalates-free
  • Synthetic dye-free
  • Chemical-free

Cons

  • None

protip_icon StyleCraze Says
Use a moisturizer with SPF or apply sunscreen after the moisturizer, to help block out harsh UV rays and keep your skin free of tan, sunburn, pigmentation, and dullness.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

More than 10,715 customers have given the product positive reviews on Amazon.

5. Best Value For Money:CeraVe Moisturizing Cream

4.7

CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is an oil-free moisturizer that combines hyaluronic acid and MVE controlled-release technology, which hydrate the skin while replenishing ceramides and hence providing moisture that is retained for a longer period of time in the skin. It is tested to be sensitive skin-friendly and may be used anywhere on the body, including the hands and face. In addition to providing treatment for acne-prone and irritated skin, it can keep the face optimally hydrated for up to 24 hours, offering irritation relief and soothing benefits. The dermatologically tested moisturizer has received ample positive reviews for its ability to reduce the visible signs of aging.

Product Dimensions: 3.58 x 3.58 x 8 inches | Weight: 1.19 Pounds

Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid and ceramides

Pros

  • Quick absorbing formula
  • Non-greasy
  • Fragrance-free
  • Fragrance-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Non-comedogenic

Cons

  • Mild on dry skin

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The product has more than 100,383 reviews and is a top choice all around the world.

6. Best Cruelty-Free:Malin + Goetz Vitamin E Face Moisturizer

4.5

The Malin + Goetz Vitamin E is a lightweight, quick-absorbing face moisturizer. The vitamin E and chamomile sink into your skin to nourish and balance your skin pH levels. As a result, it effectively helps fade aging spots and reverses the possible signs of aging. This 3-in-1 multi-use moisturizing formula is proven to deliver visible results and remains suitable for all skin types. This honest review on Youtube will help you understand this product even better. Remember to perform a patch test before starting to use the product on your skin.

Product Dimensions: 5.06 x 2.4 x 2.4 inches | Weight: 4 Ounces

Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, Salicylic acid

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Value for money
  • Unisex
  • Cruelty-free

Cons

  • Slightly sticky

7. Best Lightweight:DHC Rich Moisture Facial Moisturizer

4.6

The Rich Moisture from DHC is a Japanese lightweight formula that provides long-lasting moisturization and is a perfect facial moisturizer for dry, sensitive skin. It contains potent ingredients that reduce radical damage and prevent the signs of aging from appearing on your skin. This tested formula is well-known for replenishing moisture and hydrating skin completely. It gently helps revitalize your skin and enhances your youthful appearance as highlighted in many positive reviews on e-commerce websites.

Product Dimensions: 6 x 2.25 x 1.7 inches | Weight: 7.2 Ounces

Key Ingredients: Butylene glycol, Squalane, Organic Olive Oil, Sodium Hyaluronate

Pros

  • Organic
  • Lightweight
  • Moisture-locking
  • Fragrance-free
  • No added colors

Cons

  • Thin consistency

8. Best Hypoallergenic:Physiogel Hypoallergenic Daily Moisture Therapy Facial Cream

4.4

The Physiogel Hypoallergenic Daily Moisture Therapy Facial Cream is a rich triple-action formula that helps hydrate dry and sensitive skin. It promotes long-lasting moisture and prevents dryness. Its clinically-proven formula locks in moisture for 72 hours. This face moisturizer gently repairs the skin and strengthens the skin’s moisture barrier. As the name suggests, it has a hypoallergenic formula that makes it perfect for sensitive skin. To find out more about this dermatologist-recommended product, check out this video that details a reviewer’s experience.

Product Dimensions: 1.54 x 4.81 x 2.45 inches | Weight: 2.5 Ounces.

Key Ingredients: Shea butter, Ceramide, Glycerin, Squalane, Coconut oil

Pros

  • Hypoallergenic
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Fragrance-free
  • No-colorants
  • Dermatologically-tested
  • Gynecologically tested

Cons

None

9. Best pH-balanced:Curél Intensive Moisture Care

The award-winning skin barrier support face cream from Curél has garnered rave reviews, thanks to its infusion with ceramides that help retain skin moisture and enhance the tester’s experience. Many reviewers have praised its light texture that gets readily absorbed into the deeper layers of the skin. It intensely moisturizes your skin to give you a healthy glow. This dermatologist-tested night cream reduces the visible signs of aging. The ceramide in the formula strengthens the skin’s barrier that prevents further skin damage. Always perform a patch test to avoid any adverse reactions before adding any new product to your routine. Check out this video review to understand the clinically verified product from a user’s point of view.

Product Dimensions: 2.56 x 2.2 x 1.89 inches | Weight: 1.4 Ounces.

Key Ingredients: Glycerin, Ceramides, Butylene glycol

Pros

  • Fragrance-free
  • Colorant-free
  • pH-balanced
  • Value for money
  • Dermatologist-recommended

Cons

  • Isn’t alcohol-free, and paraben-free

10. Best Unisex:Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream

4.4
Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream Image: Drunk Elephant

Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream is designed to provide rapid improvement in the tone, texture, and firmness of the skin. It contains nine signal peptides that make up the signal peptide complex formed from amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins in the skin. These proteins bind moisture to the skin, which results in plumper and firmer skin. This lightweight moisturizer has been dermatologically-tested and is suitable for use on all skin types.

Product Dimensions: 3.94 x 3.15 x 2.36 inches | Weight: 1.69 Ounces

Key Ingredients: Amino acids and Pygmy water lily

Pros

  • Cruelty-free
  • Lightweight
  • Chemical-free
  • Fragrance-free
  • No added colors
  • Dermatologist-recommended

Cons

  • Expensive

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The extensive 2,474 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are vouching for this product.

11. Best Vegan:Tree to Tub Deep Hydration Face Cream

4.4
Tree to Tub Deep Hydration Face Cream Image: Tree To Tub

Tree to Tub Deep Hydration Face Cream is an anti-inflammatory, reparative face cream. It’s the best option for those tested with sensitive skin. When applied to the skin, organic ingredients including vitamin C, aloe vera, ginseng, and shea butter immediately begin repairing sun damage, scars, and acne marks. Although most face moisturizers just sit on top of the skin, this professional-grade organic face moisturizer penetrates the skin’s outermost layer to nourish the skin with hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5 for long-lasting benefits. This clinically-tested intensive repair cream is hypoallergenic, so it won’t irritate your skin, clog your pores or leave any residue.

Product Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 2.28 x 2.28 x 2.05 inches | Weight : 1.7 Ounces

Key Ingredients: Shea butter, Ginseng, and Tea tree oil

Pros

  • Long-lasting hydration
  • Natural and organic
  • Non-irritating and gentle on the skin
  • pH-balanced
  • Natural fragrance
  • Paraben-free
  • DEA/MEA free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Vegan
  • Cruelty-free

Cons

  • None

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

With over 1,080 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.

12. Best Non-Greasy:Enovvia Vitamin E Enhanced Moisturizer

The Vitamin E-infused anti-aging moisturizer from Enovvia provides smoother and glowing skin. This natural non-sticky formula quickly penetrates the skin and reduces the appearance of wrinkles. It is an everyday cream that helps rejuvenate the skin’s health and appearance. This clinically backed skincare formula helps restore the skin’s pH levels and improves the skin’s complexion.

Product Dimensions: 2.85 x 2.85 x 2.75 inches | Weight: 4 Ounces

Key Ingredients: Vitamin E, Squalane, Extracts of Aloe vera, Cucumber fruit, Apple fruit, Chamomile flower, and Lavender flower

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Unscented
  • Natural
  • Non-greasy
  • Vegan
  • Clinically-tested

Cons

None

When you have the right face moisturizer in your hand, you can transform your dry skin into the beautiful, healthy skin you desire. The section below discusses how to pick a product with proven efficacy to meet your skin’s expectations.

Things To Consider Before Choosing The Best Face Moisturizer For Dry And Sensitive Skin

Ingredients: Dry skin needs oil-based moisturizers like olive oil, shea butter, coconut oil, etc. Sensitive skin needs moisturizers with soothing ingredients like chamomile that are not harsh on the skin. Avoid products that contain harsh ingredients like parabens, preservatives, and artificial frragances, and opt for clinically examined and confirmed products for the best visible results.

Texture: The texture of a good moisturizer also plays an important role. Dry skin needs a heavier, creamier formula to lock in moisture. Consider not only the texture of the product but also how it feels on the skin after you apply it for testing its suitability.

Longevity And Protection: Since dry skin is prone to moisture loss, you must find a formula with ingredients that lock in the moisture for a long time like hyaluronic acid and strengthen the skin barrier like ceramides. Check the reviews to get an insight into the people’s experiences of using the product in terms of longevity and protection for dry and sensitive skin.

The Bottom Line

Face moisturizers provide you youthful, glowing skin. But if you find it challenging to narrow down the best one for you, the list above will surely help you. For dry and dehydrated skin, try the L’Oreal Paris Skincare Hydra-Renewal Face Moisturizer With Pro-Vitamin B5. The Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream offers anti-aging benefits and promotes skin firmness and elasticity. The Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream is notable for its peptide-rich formula that revitalizes and repairs the skin. We have compared and reviewed several products to curate the list of best moisturizers for dry, sensitive skin. These face moisturizers have a lightweight texture and a non-greasy formula that leaves the skin soft and supple. However, if you have severely sensitive skin, a patch test is recommended to avoid unnecessary skin rashes.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

The author, Krati Darak, is a certified skin care couch. She loves trying out different skin care products. She curated this list of face moisturizers after researching carefully and checking hundreds of product reviews. Her well-researched article brings you the best moisturizing and nourishing products that are gentle and safe for dry sensitive skin. These face moisturizers are made of organic ingredients that have no side-effect.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is glycerin good for sensitive skin?

Yes, glycerin helps hydrate your skin and keeps sensitive or reactive skin moist for a long time.

Can I apply glycerin on my face daily?

Yes, glycerin is generally safe on the skin. However, never leave undiluted glycerin for too long as its thick viscous nature will attract dust and pollution to your face.

What foods should you avoid when treating sensitive skin?

Gluten, dairy, high-glycemic foods, soya, and wine may aggravate rashes, hives, and inflammation. It is best to avoid those food items.

What practices should be avoided for keeping dry skin healthy?

• Avoid over-exfoliating your skin as it can make your skin even drier.
• Avoid products that contain glycolic acid or any other alcohol.
• Don’t wash your face too often, and don’t apply moisturizer to your skin without dampening your skin first.


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