Finding the Best Face Moisturizer For Dry Sensitive Skin
If you have dry sensitive skin, you’ll want a moisturizer that contains dermatologist-recommended ingredients like ceramides to repair the skin barrier and humectants, like glycerin and hyaluronic acid, to draw moisture into the skin. You also need one that’s non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog pores.
For truly dry skin, occlusive ingredients help to keep water locked in, says Marie Hayag, MD. These include squalane, mineral oils, and petrolatum (petrol jelly).
Water-based
Whether your skin is dry or sensitive, you need a moisturizer that doesn’t irritate or feel greasy. Luckily, there are plenty of options that won’t. A water-based face moisturizer will provide a boost of hydration without the heavy feeling that you might get with an oil-based cream. Those with more sensitive skin may also find that a water-based face moisturizer is more suitable since it won’t clog pores.
For dry skin, you’ll want to look for a formula that includes humectants, which attract moisture and hold it in the skin; emollients, which soften and smooth the skin’s surface and help repair the barrier; and occlusives, which sit on top of the skin and prevent water from escaping the skin, explains dermatologist Dr. Brian Hibler of Schweiger Dermatology Group. You’ll also want to make sure that your moisturizer is fragrance-free and contains no allergens like botanical products or essential oils, which can irritate or even cause dry skin to break out.
A good option is this lightweight, oil-free moisturizer from Neutrogena. In lab tests, it hydrated the skin more than a cream nearly 18 times its price and kept it quenched for 24 hours thanks to powerhouse hydrators including hyaluronic acid and olive extract. Another great choice is this oil-free moisturizer from K-beauty brand Laneige, which also has hyaluronic acid and feels cool and refreshing on the skin.
Oil-based
As the name suggests, oil-based face moisturizers are formulated with oils (usually natural) as the main ingredient. These are usually heavier than water-based formulas and tend to leave a dewy, glowing finish behind. They can be great for replenishing lipids in the skin and locking in other products like humectants and sunscreens. They also have the benefit of providing some short-term anti-aging benefits, since increased hydration can temporarily plump up fine lines and wrinkles.
When choosing an oil-based moisturizer, it is important to choose one that doesn’t contain a lot of fragrances or dyes, as these can irritate sensitive skin. Some people may also best face moisturizer for dry sensitive skin have a reaction to certain essential oils, so be sure to read labels carefully and test products before you buy them.
Another great option for dry sensitive skin is a hydrating serum. These are typically lighter in consistency than moisturizers, but can still deliver the moisture your skin craves. They can be layered underneath your regular facial cream, or even under makeup. They can also be used as an add-on to your cleansing routine.
This is a great option for those with sensitive skin who have a hard time finding an oil-free moisturizer. This moisturizer is free of all major allergens, and it contains hyaluronic acid to hydrate the skin. It also has zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to protect against the sun’s rays.
Fragrance-free
A moisturizer is a non-negotiable step in your skincare routine and the right one can keep your skin looking smooth, bright, and radiant. It’s important to choose a formula that fits your skin type and address any visible signs of aging you want to target with beneficial anti-aging ingredients like retinol or peptides.
A fragrance-free face moisturizer is also great for those with sensitive skin because it doesn’t contain any scented additives that may irritate your complexion. In fact, fragrance-free products are actually safer than scented ones as they don’t use the same chemicals to mask scents.
This fragrance-free moisturizer contains soothing emollients to hydrate and protect your skin from dryness. Its hydrating properties are further enhanced by its skin-brightening ingredients, and it’s suitable for all skin types. This oil-free moisturizer has a light texture and is designed to be easily absorbed by the skin, best face cream for wrinkles without feeling sticky or greasy. It’s also free from pore-clogging ingredients, and it’s hypoallergenic and clinically tested for irritation.
In our Lab tests, this budget-friendly moisturizer outperformed creams nearly 18 times its price and boosted skin’s moisture retention by 50% on average. It also features powerhouse hydrators, including hyaluronic acid and niacinamide. This creamy moisturizer is a true treat for mature skin, and it’s rich, luxurious, and replenishing. Its light fragrance is relaxing and not overpowering, and it layers well under makeup and sunscreen.
Hypoallergenic
If you suffer from a sensitive skin condition such as eczema or rosacea, you need to find a moisturizer that is fragrance-free and free of common irritants, such as alcohol, sulfates, parabens, and dyes. Look for a moisturizer that’s formulated with soothing ingredients, like ceramides and shea butter, to keep your skin calm.
You’ll also want a moisturizing product that contains ingredients that act as occlusives, which form a protective layer and help block moisture loss from your skin. Occlusives include mineral oil, petrolatum (aka petroleum jelly), lanolin, and silicone-based products such as dimethicone. For very dry skin, a heavier cream that contains these occlusives can work wonders.
A face moisturizer that’s formulated with natural plant oils is a good choice for very dry skin, since they are known to be non-comedogenic and won’t clog pores. You can even find moisturizers that contain antioxidants to keep your complexion looking younger and healthy.
For sensitive skin, you’ll want to look for a moisturizer that doesn’t contain common irritants, such as dyes and fragrances, and is backed by dermatologists. A few of the best options for sensitive skin include: