Recommended Facial Moisturizers

Moisturizer acts as a protective barrier for your skin, keeping it hydrated and healthy. While there tends to be confusion about the need for moisturizer, most experts recommend using it on a daily basis. In addition to good diet and stress management, the Mayo Clinic advises using “a moisturizer that fits your skin type and makes your skin look and feel soft.”   

To help out, Healthline tested the options available at pharmacies and supermarkets. Click "next" to read our recommended facial moisturizer review.

For Sensitive Skin

Healthline Recommends: EucerinEveryday Protection Face Lotion SPF 30 for Sensitive Skin

Why We Like It: Male and female testers hailed this silky smooth, fragrance-free lotion that also contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide for sunscreen protection. Light enough for sensitive skin, strong enough to block the sun’s rays, the creamy texture blends well for long-lasting coverage.

Where to Buy It: Drugstores. $9.99

Runner Up: Best Lightweight Moisturizer

Healthline Recommends: AlbaBotanica Aloe & Green Tea Oil-Free Moisturizer

Why We Like It: This lightweight, oil-free formula containing the certified organic ingredients aloe vera, green tea, and humectants (which attract moisture), is gentle enough for skin types that can’t handle thicker moisturizers. Said one tester, “it’s not glunky or sticky, and once you rub it in, you can’t tell it’s there.” 

Where to Buy It: Drugstores. Select Markets. $17.95

For Dry Skin

Healthline Recommends: Neutrogena Intensified Day Moisture SPF 15

Why We Like It: Ultra dry skin will soak up this moisturizer that doubly hydrates and offers sun protection using titanium dioxide. Said one tester of this nourishing and “definitely intense” formula, “Several hours into the day my face was still smooth.” 

Where to Buy It: Drugstores. $11.99

For Combination/Oily Skin

Healthline Recommends: Yes to Tomatoes Daily Balancing Moisturizer

Why We Like It: Packed with (key ingredients) organic tomatoes, red tea, and watermelon,this sweet-smelling formula seeps into skin for a lightweight, dewy finish. The antioxidant-rich formula balances oily-prone skin, revealing a radiant glow.

Where to Buy It: Drugstores. $14.99

For Mature Skin

Healthline Recommends: Olay Regenerist UV Defense Regenerating Lotion with SPF 50

Why We Like It: Potent and powerful, this thick yet silky cream also offers intense sunscreen protection. The formula hydrates, using a blend of anti-inflammatory and anti-aging ingredients to soothe and tone skin, and protects, using broadspectrum SPF 50 to block UV rays.

Where to Buy It: Drugstores. $29.99

For Women

Healthline Recommends: Burt’s Bees Radiance Day Lotion SPF 15

Why We Like It: Created with royal jelly to renew and rejuvenate, this thin formula was praised for going on “smooth and silky.” The lightweight lotion provides a great base before applying foundation, plus titanium dioxide and zinc oxide provide UVA/UVB protection. Said one tester, “The SPF coverage may not beenough for a day at the beach, but it’s great for everyday protection.”

Where to Buy It: Drugstores. $18.00

For Men

Healthline Recommends: Neutrogena Men Sensitive Skin Oil-Free Moisture SPF 30

Why We Like It: Great for days at the beach. Though not waterproof, this lightweight moisturizer with SPF locks in moisture and blocks UV rays to keep you looking young. Said one tester, “It feels lightweight, and doesn’t irritate even the most sensitive of skin.”

Where to Buy It: Drugstores. $5.99

For Everyone

Healthline Recommends: Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer with SPF 15

Why We Like It: A great all-around daily moisturizer, this two-in-one formula did have a slight sunscreen smell; but the lightweight formula was gentle and refreshing. For longer days in the sun, you might want to reapply for ultimate coverage.

Where to Buy It: Drugstores. $13.99

Get More Information

A good skin-care regimen includes daily moisturizing and sun protection to fight free radicals and UV rays from the sun. It’s important to know your skin type to make sure you’re using the best formula for your face. To learn more, read the full product review.