Fed up with feeling like a snake shedding its skin? Ready to say goodbye to dryness, flakes, and scales - for good? It's time to embrace hydration and tackle your chronically under moisturized skin head-on.
With a few tweaks to your lifestyle and skincare routine, you can feel soft, supple skin again without having to resort to expensive treatments or harsh chemicals.
Dry skin is one of a few skin types and is a condition in which enough oil is not produced which can result in red, cracked and irritated skin.
There are a number of reasons why someone might have this skin type, including dehydration, age, weather conditions, and using harsh soaps or detergents.
Symptoms can include:
- feeling tight or rough after washing
- a burning sensation
- itching, especially after showering or bathing
- redness, inflammation, and cracking
The best way to hydrate skin is to moisturize regularly and avoid harsh chemicals.
We hope you find your next 'bestest' thing from the list below! Each product was independently selected by our editors and opinions in this article are our own compilation.
By the way - while doing our reviewing and filtering thing, we may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page if you decide to purchase something (that's how we stay in business).
Enjoy finding your next 'bestest' thing!
How We Choose The Best For You!
Less than perfect skin getting you down? A good moisturizer is a key part of any skincare routine.
We’ve done the reviewing and filtering to find the best drugstore moisturizers for you – so you can keep your skin looking and feeling its best.
These moisturizers are packed with essential ingredients that will help to nourish and protect your skin. They’re also affordable, so you can keep your skincare routine on budget.
All you have to do is choose from our recommended list of the best moisturizers to start wearing that radiant looking skin today!
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Face Moisturizer

Best for the Driest Skin Type
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Face Moisturizer (Extra Dry Remedy)
Why It Rocks
Introducing the Hydro Boost Face Moisturizer from Neutrogena. This oil-free gel moisturizer is formulated with hyaluronic acid (HA), which helps to absorb quickly like a gel and keep skin hydrated for up to 48 hours! With this proven ability, you can say goodbye to parched skin once and for all.
So why wait? Give your face the boost it needs today with the Hydro Boost Face Moisturizer.
What You Need To Know
Hyaluronic Acid is a key ingredient in this amazing face moisturizer. It is a naturally occurring molecule in our bodies which binds moisture to skin, promoting glowing, hydrated and healthy looking skin.
Don't let a dry, flaking skin barrier come between you and the beauty of being your best self; add Hydro Boost Face Moisturizer from Neutrogena to your daily routine and watch as dryness evaporates!
CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion
Why It Rocks
Want to wake up looking refreshed? Well, here's even more reason to hit the hay at a decent hour - CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion! Make bedtime an even sweeter pleasure with this ultra-lightweight lotion.
It's like slipping into a fluffy cloud of hydration for your face when you drift off to snooze land. And don't worry about waking up greasy-faced -- this night cream is oil-free!
Throw on CeraVe PM and let hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and ceramides work their magic while you sleep so you can look refreshed, smooth, and glowing in the AM.
What You Need To Know
Looking to pamper your skin with something special? CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion should be top of your list! This luxurious lotion isn't just designed to keep skin supple and soft, but it also provides hydration while helping skin strengthen its defensive skin barrier.
With powerful ingredients like ceramides 1, 3 & 6-II; HA and niacinamide, it can even help reduce skin discoloration. Take your skin to a whole new level of refreshed and radiant!
L'Oreal Paris Skincare Collagen Face Moisturizer
Why It Rocks
Welcome to L’Oreal Paris Skincare Collagen Face Moisturizer! This revolutionary moisturizer is perfect for mature skin and ensures your skin stays looking smooth and supple all day long.
Infused with collagen and other powerful ingredients, our day and night cream helps fight signs of aging like wrinkles, dark spots, fine lines and more. Not only does it provide moisture for all-day hydration, this anti-aging facial moisturizer also helps firm skin on your neck & chest making it appear more youthful.
What You Need To Know
L’Oreal Paris' Collagen Face Moisturizer contains key ingredients that are beneficial to the skin; formulated with collagen, elastin, and vitamins A, C, and E which helps improve the appearance of skin texture and reduce the signs of aging. It also contains HA to help keep skin moistened.
Get your youthful infusion of anti aging benefits today!
Curél Ultra Healing Lotion, Hand & Body Moisturizer
Why It Rocks
Meet Curél Ultra Healing Lotion – your cure-all for extra dry and tight skin! With it's advanced Ceramide Complex and extra-strength hydrating agents, you can now keep the dryness at bay with this nourishing moisturizer.
The unique formulation is designed to target areas on your body that never seem to get enough hydration: elbows, ankles, hands, and other stubbornly dry spots.
The Ceramide Complex helps increase the moisture of your skin surface barrier to help lock-in hydration and improve overall condition. You will also get an extra boost of hydration from special ingredients like Shea butter and squalene oil, so your skin gets an intense surge of moisture right where it needs it most.
So if you’re feeling uncomfortable in your own skin due to extra-dryness or tightness, Curél Ultra Healing Lotion is here to help! Get ready to make this condition a thing of the past and say Hello to a more supple you!
What You Need To Know
This hand and body moisturizer is a skin saviour! It will tackle even the driest skin type.
Specifically designed to tackle extra dry skin and provide intense hydration, it's advanced Ceramide Complex helps to restore the critical balance of lipids within dry, tight skin and sends extra-strength hydrating agents deep into the epidermis for maximum moisturizing effects.
With regular use, you will find your skin transformed into smoother, softer, more supple skin with added natural glow. Goodbye to dry skin!
Olay Regenerist Microsculpting Cream with SPF 30
Why It Rocks
Say Hello! to Olay's Regenerist Microsculpting Cream, an anti-aging masterpiece that is sure to be your secret weapon against the effects of time! This lightweight sunscreen face moisturizer contains SPF 30 and E Vitamin which protect skin from the sun’s harmful rays while firming and hydrating skin. Its Amino-Peptide Complex works synergistically to diminish wrinkles and improve overall skin texture.
This unique blend of peptides promote increased collagen production for firmer-looking skin and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles for a younger look that you have to see to believe.
What You Need To Know
Help your thirsty skin while protecting it from sun damage with Olay's Regenerist Microsculpting Cream with SPF 30 Sunscreen. Its key ingredients like peptides and Vitamin B3, work together to instantly hydrate skin while fighting the signs of aging. The formula also includes broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection from zinc oxide.
With consistent use, you can start to see reduced fine lines and wrinkles, more even texture and tone, and firmer appearance of your skin. And don't forget that SPF 30 sunscreen! It helps to protect your skin from the sun's damaging UV rays so you can feel confident any time you step out into the sunshine.
Don't wait any longer - take your age into your own hands with Olay Regenerist Microsculpting Cream! Your skin will thank you for it - trust us!
Tree to Tub Deep Hydrating Face Moisturizer
Why It Rocks
Introducing the Tree To Tub Deep Hydrating Face Moisturizer! Luxurious face moisturizer perfect for those with dry, sensitive skin. Keep your skin balanced and healthy with the pH balanced formula; refresh your senses with natural fragrances from essential oils and truly nourish your skin with only the finest natural ingredients.
Experience deep hydration and ultimate comfort with this formulated cream blend that helps bring suppleness and softness back into your face. Natural humectants are included for their natural ability to attract and hold moisture close to the surface of your skin.
Indulge in a luxurious spa-like experience and forget about irritation, dehydration, itching, flaking or redness. Your skin will love it!
What You Need To Know
Soothe dry, sensitive skin with this Deep Hydrating Face Moisturizer!
Experience a delicate blend of plant-based ingredients such as organic Aloe Leaf Juice and organic Shea Butter. Your skin will love the combination of botanicals, super fruit antioxidants and cold-pressed seed oil that helps to protect against environmental stress beside keeping your skin deeply hydrated.
Whether you have sensitive or dry skin, this moisturizer is a great choice to restore moisture without leaving behind a greasy residue.
Try Tree to Tub today for smooth, renewed, and deeply hydrated skin!
Majestic Pure Argan Oil Hydrating Face Cream
Why It Rocks
Are you ready for more vibrant and youthful looking skin? Majestic Pure Argan Oil Hydrating Face Cream is here to help no matter what age you are or what your skin type is.
Not only does it quickly absorb into your skin, leaving it feeling silky soft, but also helps improve the appearance of uneven patches and reduce imperfections. Its gentle yet effective formula provides long-term results that will leave you with beautiful and radiant skin you can be proud of!
What You Need To Know
This amazing facial moisturizer contains argan oil, which is known for its nourishing properties. It is packed with moisture-rich ingredients, including Hyaluronic Acid for long lasting hydration, E Vitamin for a blast of antioxidant protection against environmental aggressors, and Vegan Collagen to stimulate collagen production in the dermis.
This luxurious blend of natural ingredients is sure to keep your skin feeling soft, nourished, and refreshed all day.
So don't wait any longer – transform your dull complexion into glowing perfection with Majestic Pure Argan Oil Hydrating Face Cream today!
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream & Cleanser Combo
Why It Rocks
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is here to soothe and nourish your skin! This rich, non-comedogenic cream helps restore a healthy skin barrier while providing 24-hour hydration. Its unique MVE Technology works to release essential ceramides to help your skin look and feel its best. Featuring three essential ceramides (1, 3, and 6-II), CeraVe Moisturizing Cream will become an irreplaceable part of your skincare routine!
But that's not all - the combo package comes with a CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser, formulated with HA and ceramides to help retain skin’s natural moisture, as well as restore the protective skin barrier. It cleanses without feeling dry or irritated.
This CeraVe combo has you covered! Try it today to experience enriching nourishment with each use.
What You Need To Know
CeraVe combo packs a big punch! Not only does it hydrate the skin, but also cleanses it. The key ingredients in both products are MVE technology, ceramides, and HA.
All three work together not only to moisturize the skin, but also to restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier, keeping your skin healthy and hydrated all day long!
Skin Care Products for Dry Skin FAQs
When should I use face moisturizer?
The best time to apply moisturizer is after you have cleansed your skin and it is still damp to help seal in the moisture. If your skin type is dry, apply moisturizer every day. Using a moisturizing cream as your final step in your daily skincare routine before bed allows your skin to be nourished and revitalized while at rest.
How to choose the right moisturizer?
Different skin types require different moisturizers so it's important to find one that fits your skin type. If you have oily skin, for example, you'll want to find a moisturizer that is light and oil-free; for drier skin, you'll want to find a moisturizer that is heavier and contains more oil.
The best way to determine skin types is to examine your T-zone--that is, the area of your forehead, nose, and chin. If your T-zone is oily, then you have oily skin; dry type if it's dry, and of course, if it's normal, then you have normal skin.
What ingredients should we look for in a good quality moisturizer?
For skin elasticity to remain strong, you must use lipid, ceramide or fat.
A facial moisturizer should ideally have the following ingredients:
- Hyaluronic acid can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, so it's great for hydrating the skin.
- Ceramides are essential for maintaining the barrier function of the skin, which helps keep moisture in.
- Antioxidants help protect the skin from free radicals and other environmental damage.
- SPF in sunscreen is important for protecting the skin from UV damage and premature aging.
What are Ceramides?
Ceramides are a type of lipids (or fats) that are naturally found in the skin cells. They play an essential role in maintaining the skin’s natural protective barrier, keeping it soft and hydrated.
Ceramides also help to prevent moisture loss from our face as they act like a seal around the surface cells of our skin, holding moisture and other beneficial components in place.
For this reason, they are often included as a key ingredient in facial moisturizers.
Is a gel face moisturizer good?
Gel moisturizer is known to be gentle but effective on a broad range of skins. They can especially help people who face acne and itch as they are prone to shedding oil on their skin.
How do you moisturize acne prone skin?
Look for a moisturizer specifically designed for acne-prone skin. These products generally contain oil-free ingredients such as glycerin or hyaluronic acid that will hydrate without clogging your pores. Additionally, products labeled ‘noncomedogenic’ are often better suited because they don’t contribute to pimple breakouts.
Should all women use a facial moisturizer, regardless of their skin type?
Absolutely! Every woman should use some kind of facial moisturizer no matter what their skin type may be. Moisturizing your skin is important to keep it looking healthy and hydrated, as well as help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, leading to a more youthful complexion.
When it comes to selecting a facial moisturizer, there is no one-size-fits-all solution for everyone because of different skin types. Some people have oily skin, some have sensitive skin, and others may require additional moisture. That's why all women should use a facial moisturizer that suits their individual needs and preferences.
Is a natural facial moisturizer effective i.e. those made with oils, such as coconut oil or olive oil?
Yes, a natural facial moisturizer can be very effective! Oils such as coconut oil and olive oil contain powerful antioxidants that can help protect your skin from environmental damage and keep it feeling supple.
In addition to providing moisture, these oils have anti-inflammatory properties that make them great for treating skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. They also have antibacterial and antifungal benefits, making them ideal ingredients in facial moisturizers.
What products are needed for the driest skin type?
Use hyalurionic acid, glycerins or ceramides as hydrating ingredients. You can use a rich and hydrating moisturizer that will give even the driest skin an extra slick texture.
Are gel moisturizers better?
No, gel moisturizing cream show no advantage over cream. It all largely depends on skin types, preferences and concerns about skincare. Technically a moisturizer gel is just another type of hydrating cream.
How do you hydrate dry, sensitive skin?
When dealing with dry, sensitive skin, one of the best things you can do is to properly hydrate it. This helps to replenish any moisture that’s been lost in order to give it a healthy and supple appearance. Be aware of skin types and choose skincare products specifically formulated for this type of skin; use products that are free from alcohol-based ingredients and fragrances to avoid irritating and drying of delicate skin.
Opt for natural oils such as jojoba oil or grape seed oil to deeply moisturize while being gentle enough even on the most sensitive complexions. Incorporating a daily moisturizer into your routine will help keep your dry, sensitive skin looking its best all year round! Hyaluronic acid or ceramides can be helpful when added into a moisturizing formula; both of which can help lock-in moisture and protect against further dehydration due to their natural humectant properties.
How do moisturizers work with your skin's barrier?
Moisturizers are a great way to improve your skin's barrier, which is essential for healthy and hydrated skin. A healthy barrier helps regulate moisture, protects against dirt and irritants, and helps keep skin soft and supple.
Moisturizers work by helping to maintain the oil balance of the epidermis (outer layer) of your skin; preventing water from evaporating from the surface of the skin; providing long-term protection from environmental damage; keeping your complexion smooth and even toned; as well as providing nourishment that can help repair damage from aging or pollution.
In summary, moisturizers support the basic functions of your skin's barrier to keep your skin looking it's best.
How do Ceramides contribute to skin health?
Ceramides are lipids (or fats) naturally found in the outer layer of skin and they play a key role in maintaining its health. They help to form a protective barrier that locks moisture into the skin, which is essential for keeping it hydrated and preventing dryness. Irritation, itching and even inflammation can result if left untreated.
Ceramides function as the mortar between “bricks” of cells called corneocytes, which are made up of multiple layers of dead skin cells filled with proteins such as collagen and elastin. This forms a protective barrier on top of our living skin cells that serves to protect us from environmental aggressors like free radicals, pollution or UV light. Without this protection from ceramides, our skin would be much more vulnerable to damage and irritation!
In addition to providing protection against external elements, ceramides also help keep moisture within our cells by forming an occlusive film on top of them - think of it like cling wrap over your food! The film traps water molecules inside each cell so they don't evaporate away throughout the day when exposed to things like air conditioning or heaters. This helps keep your complexion moisturized longer than it would without them!
We hope you enjoyed our shortlist of moisturizers for dry skin and found it helpful in your search for the perfect product! With so many products on the market, it can be hard to know where to start. But with this list in hand, you are well on your way.
So what are you waiting for? Go out there and try one... or a few! The skin you love is waiting for you!