15 best face moisturisers for every skin type, tried & tested
Finding the best moisturiser can be a tricky task. While there are plenty of good ones out there that actually sink in and do their job (AKA hydrate), there are plenty of not-so-great formulas that sit nicely on the surface but can end up clogging pores, triggering breakouts or irritating sensitive skin. The key is choosing one that genuinely suits your skin type - whether you’re oily, dry, combination or sensitive.
At its core, moisturiser is responsible for keeping our skin, er, moisturised and looking after our delicate skin barrier. “Think of your skin like a brick wall with cement in between the blocks. If you don’t look after it, the cement cracks and the wall leaks, letting moisture out and pollution and other negative things in,” says Dr Christine Hall, general practitioner in medical aesthetics.
And with so many options out there, it can feel like a total minefield. That’s why we’ve broken down the best moisturisers by category - and they go beyond the basics of skin type. Think targeted picks for redness and hyperpigmentation, plus hardworking formulas infused with SPF or vitamin C.
Meet the experts:
| Dr Christine Hall | GMC registered, general practitioner in medical aesthetics. |
| Dr Alexis Granite | Board certified, consultant dermatologist at CeraVe. |
How we test the best moisturisers:
At Glamour, it’s literally in our job description to test beauty products – and no, that doesn’t mean swiping something on once and calling it a day. We spend weeks (sometimes months) trialling formulas, speaking to dermatologists, aestheticians and industry experts, and taking deep dives into ingredient lists to really understand how and why a product works.
When it comes to moisturisers, we’ve tested them across the entire Glamour team on different skin types and tones – from dry and sensitive to oily and acne-prone – to see how each performs. We look at how they feel on the skin, how they layer with other skincare and makeup, and most importantly, whether they actually do what they claim: hydrate, smooth, and give that healthy glow. If it’s made this list, it’s because it genuinely impressed us.
Why you can trust me:
I’ve been a beauty journalist for six years, and I’ve tested more moisturisers than I’d care to admit. As a dry-skin girlie, it’s the one product I genuinely won’t leave the house without - and the last thing I slather on before bed. That said, I’m not loyal to just one formula: I switch it up depending on what my skin needs at that moment, whether that’s extra comfort, a calmer barrier, or a bit more glow.
I also don’t rate moisturisers that only hydrate. I’m always checking the label for added extras - SPF, vitamin C, barrier-supporting ingredients - and I’m picky about texture, finish and how my skin reacts after a few days of use (not just the first application).
Below, you’ll find my tried-and-tested favourites - from the dependable staples to the overachievers I keep coming back to.
Ahead, our full edit of the best moisturisers for all skin types…
- Consistency: Mid-weight cream.
- Skin type: Combination and acne-prone.
- Key ingredients: Ceramides, panthenol, cholesterol, phytosphingosine.
Why we love it: When your skin is feeling sore, stripped or just overwhelmed, this is the kind of cream that instantly makes everything feel better. A cult favourite in Korean pharmacies, it uses a skin-mimicking blend of ceramides, cholesterol and fatty acids to restore your moisture barrier and stop irritation in its tracks. There’s also panthenol for calming, long-lasting hydration and phytosphingosine to keep your skin microbiome happy. It’s not exactly aesthetic for your shelfie, but it’s definitely effective - especially if you’ve gone too hard on the actives or your skin’s having a meltdown. Think of it as a reset button in a tube.
Tester: Sophie Donovan, Glamour's Senior Commerce Writer.
Tester's skin type: combination and acne-prone.
Testing time: 3 months.Pros & ConsPros- Fragrance-free
- Deeply soothing and reparative
Cons- Packaging is not the most aesthetically pleasing
- Consistency: Lightweight cream.
- Skin type: Normal to dry skin.
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, Japanese purple rice, Okinawa algae, ginseng.
Why we love it: This rich, moisturising cream from Tatcha works to plump and hydrate the skin – in fact, it's easily one of the best. Formulated with a blend of hyaluronic acid and anti-inflammatory Okinawa algae, it even contains antioxidant-rich Japanese purple rice to help protect your delicate skin against environmental aggressors like pollution. “My complexion soaks up the Tatcha Dewy Skin Cream like a dream, resulting in the dewiest and glowiest skin that peeks through my makeup,” says Denise Primbet, Glamour's freelance contributor.
Tester: Denise Primbet, Glamour's freelance contributor.
Tester's skin type: dry and sensitive.
Testing time: 6 months.Save when shopping for best moisturisers using these SpaceNK discount codes.
Pros & ConsPros- Dewy finish
- Hydrating
Cons- Expensive
MERIT Beauty Great Skin Priming Moisturizer
Consistency: Lightweight cream.
Skin type: All skin types, including sensitive.
Key ingredients: Great Skin™ Complex (peptides, spermidine, polysaccharides), hyaluronic acid, glycerin, oat extract.Why we love it: This is one of those moisturisers that quietly does everything. It hydrates with glycerin and four types of hyaluronic acid, soothes with oat extract, and helps skin feel firmer thanks to the brand’s Great Skin™ Complex. It absorbs fast, leaves no stickiness, and gives your face that healthy, rested glow - even if you’ve been up late scrolling (guilty). Since using this, my skin feels smoother, looks a bit more lifted, and makeup just sits better. It’s become a non-negotiable step in my morning routine.
Tester: Shani Cohen, Glamour's Beauty Commerce Writer.
Tester's skin type: dry and sensitive.
Testing time: 3 months.Save when shopping for best moisturisers using these Sephora discount codes.
Pros & ConsPros- Hydrates
- Firms and preps skin for makeup
Cons- Might be a bit too dewy for oily skin types
Augustinus Bader The Rich Cream
- Consistency: Thick and nourishing.
- Skin type: Normal to dry, mature skin.
- Key ingredients: TFC8® complex, evening primrose oil, argan oil, hyaluronic acid.
Why we love it: If you’re after that ‘skin but better’ transformation, The Rich Cream is definitely worth the hype (even if it requires taking out a loan to purchase it). It features Professor Bader’s patented TFC8® technology — a complex of amino acids, vitamins and peptides — which helps support cell renewal and improve tone and texture. Evening primrose and argan oils nourish deeply, while hyaluronic acid locks in moisture. It's thick, but sinks in fast, and with regular use, skin looks visibly smoother, plumper and more even.
Tester: Mayola Fernandes, Glamour's Commerce Writer.
Tester's skin type: combination/sensitive.
Testing time: 5 months.Pros & ConsPros- Firms
- Hydrates
- Improves texture
Cons- Expensive
Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream
- Consistency: Lightweight cream.
- Skin type: All skin types, particularly mature skin.
- Key ingredients: Mediterranean algae, ginkgo biloba, glycerin, shea butter, jojoba seed oil.
Why we love it: This Elemis bestseller is a classic in its own right. It has a lightweight, fast-absorbing and deeply hydrating formula that leaves your skin feeling noticeably smoother and plumper within a few weeks of consistent use, plus it now comes infused with SPF30 for better protection. Offering up an impressive 24 hours of hydration, it taps up moisture-boosting marine and plant actives including Padina Pavonica, Chlorella and Ginkgo Biloba. Meanwhile the delicate floral scent was designed to soothe your mood as well as you skin. One of our favourites at the Glamour office and an absolute must-have for your skincare routine.
Tester: Elle Turner, Glamour's Senior Beauty Editor.
Tester's skin type: combination.
Testing time: 4 months.Save when shopping for best moisturisers using these LookFantastic discount codes.
Pros & ConsPros- Lightweight
- Fast-absorbing formula that contains SPF 30
Cons- More expensive than other options
Charlotte Tilbury Charlotte's Magic Cream
- Consistency: Thick cream.
- Skin type: All skin types.
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, vitamins C and E, aloe vera, camellia oil, shea butter.
- Pros: Great to wear under makeup.
- Cons: Those who prefer lighter consistencies may find this too thick, not fragrance-free.
Why we love it: Some may find the Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream a bit heavy for a daily moisturiser (although there's a lighter water cream rendition which we really rate), but for priming pre-makeup, evening out a patchy complexion or instantly feigning you've had eight hours sleep? Nothing beats it. The deeeeep quenching action has deservedly won an addicted fan following. Slather it on every morning before you apply your favourite makeup look – trust us, your skin will thank you for it.
Tester: Georgia Trodd, GLAMOUR's Senior Commerce Writer.
Tester's skin type: oily.
Testing time: 4 weeks.Pros & ConsPros- Great to wear under makeup
- Hydrating
- Glowy finish
Cons- Those who prefer lighter consistencies may find this too thick
- Not fragrance-free
Medik8 Daily Radiance Vitamin C-Tetra Cream
- Consistency: Lightweight cream.
- Skin types: All skin types.
- Key ingredients: 7% vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E.
Why we love it: On the lookout for a brightening moisturiser for dewy skin? It really doesn't get better than Medik8's Daily Radiance Cream, which not only features a stable, effective and low-irritation form of brightening vitamin C, but also hydrating hyaluronic acid, soothing vitamin E, as well as advanced UV filters to shield your skin. This is a perfect multi-hyphenate if you're looking to reduce hyperpigmentation. Personally, we looove how this facial cream feels on our skin and how well it pairs with other Medik8 products.
Tester: Fiona Ward, Glamour's freelance contributor.
Tester's skin type: combination.
Testing time: 2 months.Pros & ConsPros- Contains SPF 30
- Non-greasy feel
- Has brightening properties
Cons- Fragranced
- Expensive
Trinny London See The Light SPF50 Moisturiser
- Consistency: Silky and lightweight.
- Skin type: All skin types.
- Key ingredients: White tea leaf extract, raspberry leaf extract, glycerin, SPF.
Why we love it: Looking to prevent signs of premature skin ageing? Say no more – this broad-spectrum moisturiser protects you against both UVA and UVB rays, helping stop the unwanted formation of sun damage, dryness, fine lines, pigmentation, blemishes, dark circles and dark spots dead in their tracks. Silky in texture and totally weightless, it absorbs instantly, and will sit beneath your make-up completely undetected.
Save when shopping for best moisturisers using these Trinny London discount codes.
Pros & ConsPros- High SPF level
- Absorbs instantly
- Protects against premature ageing.
Cons- Pretty expensive
Glow Hub Barrier Builder Water Cream
- Consistency: Cooling, bouncy water-cream.
- Skin type: All skin types (especially sensitive, dehydrated or barrier-impaired).
- Key ingredients: Sphingolipids, ceramide complex, amino acids, prebiotic inulin.
Why we love it: This is one of those “where have you been all my life?” moisturisers. With its cooling, milky texture, it soothes on contact while delivering a serious dose of hydration that lasts. The clever bit? Sphingolipids actually encourage your skin to make more of its own ceramides (aka your barrier’s building blocks), so it doesn’t just moisturise - it helps your skin help itself. Add in a ceramide complex, amino acids and prebiotic inulin and you’ve got a cream that rebuilds, replenishes and restores skin health daily. Think of it a Intensely hydratess your ultimate barrier-boosting reset button.
Pros & ConsPros- Intensely hydrates
- Strengthens skin barrier
- Leaves skin plump and glowing
Cons- If you love a rich, buttery texture, this feels lighter
Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream
- Consistency: Lightweight cream.
- Skin type: All skin types.
- Key ingredients: Peptides, amino acids, glycerin, soybean folic acid ferment extract.
Why we love it: This peptide-powered face cream from Drunk Elephant is perfect for firming your skin while also smoothing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It also contains amino acids and soybean folic acid and is ideal for everyday use. “This lightweight moisturiser has an incredibly refreshing gel-like texture that's perfect for everyday wear and keeps my sensitive skin nice and soothed throughout the whole day.” – Denise Primbet, Glamour's freelance contributor.
Tester: Denise Primbet, Glamour's freelance contributor.
Tester's skin type: dry and sensitive.
Testing time: 4 months.Enjoy extra saving when shopping for the best moisturisers using these LookFantastic discount codes.
Pros & ConsPros- Lightweight feel
- Lasting hydration
Cons- Expensive
rhode Barrier Butter Intensive Moisture Balm
- Consistency: Thick cream.
- Skin type: All skin types.
- Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid complex, ceramide NP, and Murumuru butter.
“I don’t know about you, but cold weather absolutely wrecks my skin - so a moisturiser that hydrates and looks after my skin barrier is non-negotiable. That’s exactly what Rhode Barrier Butter Balm does (the clue’s in the name), and since working it into my routine I’ve noticed fewer dry patches and my makeup sits so much better.
Texture-wise, it’s thick - somewhere between Sudocrem and Vaseline - so you only need a tiny amount, and it can take a minute to properly melt in. But that’s also why it’s such a good S.O.S staple - the kind you keep on your shelf for when your skin’s playing up. I’ll even use it beyond my face, smoothing it over elbows, hands and knees when everything’s feeling dry and in need of a hydration boost. ” - Shani Cohen, Glamour’s beauty commerce writer.
Tester: Shani Cohen, Glamour’s beauty commerce writer.
Tester's skin type: Dry and sensitive
Testing time: 3 months.CeraVe AM Facial Moisturising Lotion SPF50
- Consistency: Lightweight cream.
- Skin type: Normal to dry skin.
- Key ingredients: Ceramides, vitamin E, niacinamide.
Why we love it: Developed by dermatologists with sensitive skin in mind, this day cream will address all of your skin needs. The affordable face moisturiser contains three essential ceramides that help restore your natural skin barrier. Beyond that, the stripped-back formula keeps things simple to avoid irritating sensitive skin. It has over 70% of 5 star ratings on Amazon for a reason.
Tester: Shaunelle Harrydass-Clark, Glamour's Intern.
Tester's skin type: sensitive.
Testing time: 4 weeks.Save when shopping for best moisturisers using these Sephora discount codes.
Pros & ConsPros- Features SPF protection
- Affordable
Cons- Takes a while to absorb
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo+M Anti-Breakout Corrective Gel Moisturiser
- Consistency: Lightweight gel-cream.
- Skin type: Acne-prone and oily skin types.
- Key ingredients: Salicylic acid, niacinamide, zinc PCA, glycerin.
- Pros: Non-comedogenic, delivers 24-hour hydration, can also be used on the chest and back.
- Cons: Some reviews mention that you have to use it for a while to see a difference.
Why we love it: Bid a cheery farewell to pesky breakouts and post-acne pigmentation with this soothing gel-cream formula, brimming with kind-to-skin ingredients. Salicylic acid gently exfoliates to unblock congested pores and boost skin cell turnover, while zinc PCA works to control excess oil levels. But it's certainly not stripping, thanks to the addition of glycerin, which keeps your complexion hydrated for up to 24 hours.
Save when shopping for best moisturisers using these Amazon discount codes.
Pros & ConsPros- Non-comedogenic
- Delivers 24-hour hydration
- Can also be used on the chest and back
Cons- Some reviews mention that you have to use it for a while to see a difference.
- Consistency: Rich cream.
- Skin type: Dry and very dry skin.
- Key ingredients: Sunflower seed oil, sweet almond oil, beeswax, glycerin.
Why we love it: If you're prone to seasonal damage, whether it's caused by the heat or the cold, this face cream can help keep your skin from getting too cracked and chapped. Powered by extracts of calendula, chamomile and viola tricolour, as well as a base of oils and beeswax, this affordable product also doubles as a body cream and can be used on areas that are especially prone to dryness, including your hands, feet and elbows.
Pros & ConsPros- Rich, nourishing formula
- Affordable
Cons- Might feel greasy on oily skin
- Thick consistency
Medik8 Intelligent Retinol Smoothing Night Cream
- Consistency: Rich and nourishing.
- Skin type: All skin types.
- Key ingredients: 0.2% retinol, vitamin E, dragon fruit extract.
Why we love it: Given that a moisturiser's job is to nourish skin and boost skin barriers, it can feel counterintuitive to include retinol when the potent ingredient is associated with weakening skin barriers. This formula however delicately balances an slow-release encapsulated 0.2% retinol to smooth and brighten skin, alongside nourishing and barrier-restoring antioxidants, including vitamin E.
Pros & ConsPros- Contains retinol to smooth and brighten skin
- Barrier-restoring antioxidants
Cons- Expensive
- Can feel too heavy for some
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More moisturisers I'm currently testing:
Where in my skincare routine should I apply moisturiser?
“The most important thing is that your SPF will always come last. Following this rule, in general you should apply your skincare in order of consistency – starting with the thinnest and working up to the thickest which will usually be your moisturiser,” suggests Dr Christine.
Dr Christine advises to follow the rough order of toner first, then facial essences/serums, followed by a moisturiser and a dedicated sunscreen for face. “The only exception to that rule is if you use a facial oil in which case that comes after the moisturiser to occlude or seal everything underneath it in.”
After you’ve massaged in your moisturiser, don’t forget to gently dab on some eye cream (a caffeine eye cream, if you fancy), and use one of the best silk pillowcases while you sleep to complete your truly comprehensive skincare regime. Just remember: everyone's skin concerns will differ slightly, so it's worth working out what your skin loves to sip on, taking into account seasonal or hormonal changes.
Which moisturisers are best for each skin type?
If you're looking for the best moisturiser for oily skin or acne-prone skin, Dr Christine shares that it's better to look for a lighter, water-based, oil-free moisturiser. “Moisturising ingredients and humectants such as hyaluronic acid, squalane, ceramides and glycerin are all well suited to oily skin,” adds Dr Alexis Granite. “Other actives to consider include retinol, salicylic acid and niacinamide, all of which are especially good if you are prone to breakouts in addition to oily skin,” she continues.
Dr Alexis also advises to avoid occlusives that will block your pores, “including petrolatum, lanolin, mineral oil and paraffin.”
How about the best moisturiser for mature skin and the best moisturiser for dry skin?
“As we age, we produce less oil and our skin becomes drier. Look for richer cream moisturisers that contain ceramides and lipids to really nourish the skin barrier, and prevent further moisture loss,” shares Dr Christine. According to Dr Alexis, you may also benefit from layering a hyaluronic acid serum underneath “to help combat dryness.”
And if you want the best moisturiser for sensitive skin, Dr Christine advises to “look for fragrance and paraben-free, hypoallergenic formulations to avoid any unnecessary irritation.” You might also want to consider formulas with ceramides, emollients and aloe vera to help repair your skin's moisture barrier.
How often should I moisturise?
According to Dr Christine, “for those with very oily skin, moisturising with a light product once daily may be enough. Others might require a richer heavier cream that they might need to reapply throughout the day.” The truth is, dermatologists agree that constant hydration can benefit every skin type (yep, even oily and acne-prone). “Skin oil (sebum) and skin hydration are two separate things and just because the skin is oily does not mean it is well hydrated,” shares Dr Alexis.
For a day moisturiser, you should try and get some antioxidants (vitamins A, B3, C or E), so it's always a good idea to look out for potent plant extracts such as resveratrol, as well as some level of SPF (you still need to apply an actual sunscreen, though – something with at least SPF 30 should suffice). At night, should should use your night cream to incorporate a collagen-boosting retinoid, which is renowned for its rejuvenating, youth-boosting benefits.
Looking to upgrade your skincare routine? Read up on our guides on best cleansers, best face serums and more.
