Cosmetic Safety
Recommended Facial Moisturizers
Moisturizer acts as a protective barrier for your skin, keeping it hydrated and healthy. 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 you decide which one’s right for you, Healthline tested the options available at pharmacies and supermarkets. Click "next" to read our recommended facial moisturizer review.
For Sensitive Skin
Healthline Recommends: Eucerin Daily Protection SPF 30 Moisturizing Face Lotion
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: Alba Botanica 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. According to 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 and 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 organic tomatoes, red tea, and watermelon, this sweet-smelling formula seeps into skin for a lightweight, dewy finish. This antioxidant-rich formula balances oil-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. It also protects using broad-spectrum SPF 50 to block UV rays.
Where to Buy It: Drugstores, $27.99
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 be enough for a day at the beach, but it’s great for everyday protection.”
Where to Buy It: Drugstores, $17.99
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 sensitive 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 has 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 skincare 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 our guide to choosing a healthy facial moisturizer.
