The Best Face Moisturizers of 2023

By Cory Maki Cory Maki has been verified by Muck Rack's editorial team
Published on April 10, 2023

There are a lot of reasons to buy face moisturizer, from improving the hydration and health of your skin to strengthening the barrier between your face and the harsh elements. But with so many different choices, it is not an easy task, which is where this article comes in. Read on to see some of the best face moisturizers you can buy.


If you’re in a hurry, here are our top 3 quick picks for the Best Face Moisturizer:


Criteria for Choosing the Best Face Moisturizer

There are various aspects to face moisturizers that make certain ones stand out from the crowd, including things like texture and the ingredients used. Below are some of the qualities that were used to choose the products included on this list:

  • Hydration: Face moisturizers are meant to hydrate your skin and lock that moisture in to keep your skin healthy and happy. Therefore, only the most effective products were included on this list, such as those that hydrate and provide a barrier between your skin and the elements.
  • Ingredients: There are plenty of ingredients capable of making a fantastic moisturizer, and often, they vary based on skin type. However, no matter what ingredients are used, they should be capable of hydrating and protecting your skin without causing any unwanted results.
  • Texture: Texture is tricky because it also varies depending on what type of skin it is being used on. Normal skin can get away with a lighter moisturizer. However, if you have dry skin, you might find a thicker moisturizer works better. The texture you want might even change with the season.

The goal of any good moisturizer is to leave your skin hydrated and comfortable, free of any irritation or dryness. And while that might be dependent on your skin in many ways, there are definitely products that stand above the rest.


The 8 Best Face Moisturizers

It cannot be stated enough that the best face moisturizer will depend on your skin type and the issues you are dealing with. Fortunately, there are many amazing products out there that cover every type of skin imaginable. To make it easier for you, the list includes a variety of face moisturizers that work for various skin types and tones.

SISLEY Black Rose Skin Infusion Cream

Although this is one of the more expensive options on the list, it is worth the price tag. One of the reasons is how far a little of this luxurious cream goes. You will find yourself getting fantastic results without having to use too much, making it a worthwhile splurge if you want a high-quality product that can revitalize your skin at its darkest moments.

This cream becomes light the moment it hits the skin, with a texture that most brands will have a hard time coming close to. It also has a pleasant scent that is a delightful addition to its obvious effects. Just a touch of this will moisturize your face, turning even the driest skin plump and radiant. It is particularly good for sensitive skin, too.

PROS
  • A little of this product goes a long way
  • It has a pleasant floral scent
  • The cream has a luxurious texture that goes on light
  • It turns even the driest skin bouncy and bright
  • It works wonders when used on sensitive skin

CONS
  • It comes at a high price
  • The scent can be a detracting factor in some situations

First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream

On an entirely different note is First Aid Beauty’s Ultra Repair Cream. This moisturizer has a key goal: to provide hydration to the skin while relieving symptoms of things like eczema. It is a particularly useful moisturizer for the harsh winter months, and it can be a game-changing product when you need to get rid of persistent itching or irritation.

Additionally, it works well solely as a moisturizer without factoring in the relief aspect. It is free from alcohol, artificial colorants, fragrances, and other harmful substances. Moreover, it is rich and has a light texture that makes it pleasant to apply. You can use this moisturizer with all skin types, and it is created to work well on sensitive skin.

PROS
  • It provides superior hydration to dry skin
  • It helps relieve irritation and itching
  • The texture is light and rich
  • The ingredients do not include things like alcohol
  • It works on all skin types and with sensitive skin

CONS
  • It has a very light scent that might be strange at first

Olay Regenerist MicroSculpting Cream Face Moisturizer

When it comes to an all-around winner, you just cannot beat this face moisturizer from Olay. Their Regenerist MicroSculpting Cream is something you can use around the year and every day to achieve glamorous hydrated skin. Moreover, the powerful formula can fit into any of your skincare routines without trouble.

Another thing to take note of is that this face moisturizer was formulated for use against fine lines, wrinkles, and aging. And it shows results. The best part is that you can give it a try without a big risk because it has a low cost despite the stellar performance. The one featured here even comes with a trial of their fragrance-free whip.

PROS
  • It is one of the best choices out there for all-around use
  • It gives hydrated skin that looks and feels great
  • The formula works against fine lines and wrinkles
  • The price for the performance is outstanding
  • It is absorbed quickly and is not oily

CONS
  • The all-around nature means that it does not really specialize at anything

Tatcha The Water Cream

Tatcha makes numerous amazing products that work well for all types of skin. However, the face moisturizer featured here has a singular focus on oily skin. It is a lifesaver if you have to deal with constant acne or if you have combination skin, with every single ingredient working to ensure your face is left hydrated and oil-free.

When you use this face moisturizer, you will notice it goes on easily. It also does not leave a greasy feeling, which is a plus. Also, while it is mainly used to deal with oily skin and acne, it is great for those with large pores. The only thing to note is that it does come with a bit of a price tag, though it is definitely worth it if you struggle with oily skin.

PROS
  • It is an ideal choice for those with oily skin or acne
  • The face cream is great for combination skin and large pores
  • It does not contain any oil and goes on without leaving a greasy feel

CONS
  • The price is quite high compared to similar products

Dr. Barbara Sturm Darker Skin Tones Face Cream

Here is another face moisturizing cream that has an intimidating price but is well worth the additional cost. In fact, if you have a darker skin tone, this might be the best product you could ever use to moisturize your skin. The effects are terrific, with the ingredients packed inside this product refining pores and doing some serious moisturizing.

There is also an active ingredient called Lumicol that increases radiance and evens the skin tone. And that only scratches the surface of what the natural ingredients in this vegan product can do. Therefore, if you want a face moisturizer that does wonders with darker skin tones while improving the overall health of your skin, this is the one for you.

PROS
  • The ingredients act to refine pores and heavily moisturize
  • It works wonders when used on darker skin tones
  • It increases radiance and reduces visible signs of irritation
  • One of the ingredients boosts the function and health of your skin
  • It is vegan, cruelty-free, and gluten-free

CONS
  • There is a hefty price attached to the product

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair UV Face Moisturizer with SPF

If you are looking for a simple, effective moisturizer that also provides some protection from the sun, then turn your attention toward this face moisturizer. The formula includes all kinds of beneficial ingredients, and it is oil-free, which is always a plus. Furthermore, it is perfect for normal and sensitive skin, though it can work for almost anyone.

In addition, it is a lightweight lotion that goes on and absorbs with ease, even giving a cool, soothing sensation. If your main concern is sun protection, then you can rest assured with the built-in SPF 30. It is a great choice if you want a face moisturizer that is easy to add to your routine and comes with multiple benefits.

PROS
  • The ingredients ensure your face is properly moisturized
  • It is great for normal and sensitive skin
  • It will restore your skin barrier without clogging pores
  • The SPF 30 helps protect you from UV rays

CONS
  • It does not do as well with oily or dry skin
  • The consistency is not as light as regular moisturizers

CETAPHIL Daily Hydrating Lotion for Face

There are few face moisturizing products that are as effective and easily accessible as the lotion featured here. It is a product you can get online or find in stores all over the place, making it something you can always have around. Moreover, even though it comes at a great price, it is highly effective, moisturizing dry skin for 24 hours.

You will also notice that it is non-greasy and absorbs into your skin quickly, allowing you to use it and move on that much quicker. Although this face moisturizer does not excel in any particular way, it truly is a great choice. And it works great on the combination and sensitive skin.

PROS
  • It hydrates skin and locks in moisture for 24 hours
  • The formula is lightweight and non-greasy
  • It absorbs into the skin quickly
  • It works great for combination and sensitive skin
  • The price and availability are excellent

CONS
  • Add cIt does not excel anywhere in particularons

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Face Moisturizer

The final face moisturizer on the list is a go-to choice for those who have extra-dry skin that needs extra hydration. This Neutrogena product is a daily moisturizer that provides rapid hydration and restores your skin’s natural barrier. It does this by using hyaluronic acid, which is naturally found in your skin.

This moisturizer is oil-free and fragrance-free, among other things, so you do not have to worry about any unwanted ingredients bringing more harm than good. It also comes at a great price, making it a solid option for anyone who has difficult, dry skin and needs a quick, effective solution.

PROS
  • It is particularly effective on extra-dry skin
  • The ingredients hydrate and lock in moisture
  • There is no oil or fragrance in this product
  • It is well worth the price

CONS
  • It is not good with oily skin

How to Shop for Face Moisturizer

Now that you have seen some of the products out there, it is time to figure out which one will work best for you. Here are some of the things you should consider when you are choosing a face moisturizer:

  • Skin Type: What type of skin you have is the most important thing to consider when choosing a moisturizer. Although there are some moisturizers that work with any skin type, most of them target a specific type, such as oily, normal, dry, and more. Some are even better for sensitive skin than others.
  • Skin Tone: The tone of your skin can be an important factor as well. For instance, if you have a darker skin tone, it can be more difficult to find a suitable product.
  • Texture: While texture often goes hand in hand with what type of skin the product is targeted at, there are various types of face moisturizers that can present themselves differently, including creams, lotions, ointments, and more. Make sure to get one that you like and that suits your needs.

There are plenty of other considerations as well, such as scent and how well it will work with the other products in your routine. Additionally, things like UV protection can play a role in which you choose. You will also want to consider the price and how much use you can get out of the product for what you pay for it.


In Conclusion 

Adding a face moisturizer to your routine is vital for healthy, hydrated skin. Moreover, with all of the options out there, it is quite easy to find a great product that will do everything you want. Just make sure that whatever moisturizer you get will work with your skin type.


Other Products You May Need

We hope you enjoy these products! But keep in mind, Grit Daily might take a small commission on the items recommended here—but that doesn’t mean we don’t believe in them. We only recommend products that we would buy or use ourselves, so don’t be wary of our suggestions. 

By Cory Maki Cory Maki has been verified by Muck Rack's editorial team

Cory Maki is a former Staff Editor and the Business Development Manager at Grit Daily.

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