Best Moisturizers for Dry Skin

Dry skin can be uncomfortable, itchy, and even painful when left untreated. Whether you’re dealing with seasonal dryness or have naturally dry skin year-round, finding the right moisturizer is essential for maintaining healthy, comfortable skin. This guide will help you understand dry skin and recommend the best moisturizers to address this common concern.

What Causes Dry Skin?

Dry skin occurs when your skin lacks sufficient moisture or natural oils. Several factors can contribute to dry skin, including:

• Environmental conditions: Low humidity, cold weather, and indoor heating can strip moisture from your skin
• Hot showers and baths: Prolonged exposure to hot water removes natural oils
• Aging: As we age, our skin produces less natural oils
• Genetics: Some people naturally have fewer oil-producing glands
• Harsh soaps and cleansers: Products containing alcohol or fragrances can disrupt the skin barrier
• Medical conditions: Certain conditions like eczema and psoriasis can cause extremely dry skin

Signs You Have Dry Skin

Common signs of dry skin include:

• Rough, flaky patches
• Tightness after washing
• Itchiness or irritation
• Fine lines or cracks
• Redness
• Dull appearance

What to Look for in Moisturizers for Dry Skin

The most effective moisturizers for dry skin typically contain:

Humectants

These ingredients attract water to the skin’s surface:

• Hyaluronic acid
• Glycerin
• Propylene glycol
• Urea
• Aloe vera

Emollients

These fill in gaps between skin cells for a smoother appearance:

• Shea butter
• Cocoa butter
• Squalane
• Ceramides
• Fatty acids

Occlusives

These create a protective barrier to lock in moisture:

• Petrolatum
• Dimethicone
• Lanolin
• Mineral oil
• Beeswax

Our Top Moisturizer Picks for Dry Skin

After extensive testing and consultation with dermatologists, we’ve selected the best moisturizers for various types of dry skin and different budgets.

Best Overall: CeraVe Moisturizing Cream

This dermatologist-developed cream contains three essential ceramides and hyaluronic acid to restore and maintain your skin’s natural barrier. It’s non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and suitable for face and body, making it a versatile option for those with dry, sensitive skin.

Key Ingredients: Ceramides, hyaluronic acid, glycerin
Best For: All types of dry skin, including sensitive and eczema-prone
Price Range: $$

Best Luxury Option: La Mer The Moisturizing Cream

This iconic cream contains the brand’s proprietary Miracle Broth™, a fermented sea kelp blend that deeply nourishes dry skin. The rich texture provides immediate relief and works overnight to repair and strengthen the skin barrier.

Key Ingredients: Seaweed (algae) extract, mineral oil, glycerin, citrus extract
Best For: Extremely dry, mature skin
Price Range: $$$$

Best Budget Pick: [Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel-Cream](Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel-Cream)

This lightweight gel-cream formula contains hyaluronic acid to draw moisture into the skin. The oil-free, fragrance-free formula absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue, making it perfect for those who dislike heavy creams.

Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, dimethicone
Best For: Dry skin that’s also prone to congestion
Price Range: $

Best for Sensitive Skin: [Avène XeraCalm A.D Lipid-Replenishing Cream](Avène XeraCalm A.D Lipid-Replenishing Cream)

Specifically formulated for eczema-prone or hypersensitive dry skin, this cream contains the brand’s thermal spring water and evening primrose oil. The minimal ingredient list reduces irritation potential while providing excellent moisture.

Key Ingredients: Thermal spring water, evening primrose oil, glycerin
Best For: Extremely sensitive, irritated dry skin
Price Range: $$$

Best Natural Option: Weleda Skin Food Original Ultra-Rich Cream

This cult classic contains a blend of plant oils and extracts, including sunflower seed oil, sweet almond oil, and rosemary leaf extract. The thick, rich formula is perfect for extremely dry areas that need intensive moisture.

Key Ingredients: Sunflower seed oil, sweet almond oil, rosemary leaf extract, pansy extract
Best For: Very dry, rough patches of skin
Price Range: $$

Best for Daytime Use: First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream

This whipped cream contains colloidal oatmeal and shea butter to calm irritated skin while providing long-lasting hydration. It absorbs quickly, making it an excellent option for daytime use under makeup.

Key Ingredients: Colloidal oatmeal, shea butter, ceramides, allantoin
Best For: Dry skin that needs all-day hydration
Price Range: $$

Best for Night: Drunk Elephant Lala Retro™ Whipped Cream

This rich cream contains six African oils and a plantain extract that supports the skin’s acid mantle. The airless pump dispenser keeps the formula fresh, and the whipped texture feels luxurious while deeply nourishing skin overnight.

Key Ingredients: Marula oil, baobab oil, passionfruit oil, ceramides
Best For: Dry skin that needs overnight repair
Price Range: $$$

How to Apply Moisturizer for Maximum Benefits

For best results with your moisturizer:

1. Apply to slightly damp skin after cleansing to lock in additional moisture
2. Use upward, gentle motions to avoid tugging on the skin
3. Allow moisturizer to fully absorb before applying makeup or sunscreen
4. Apply more frequently in drier conditions or after exposure to hot water
5. Consider a humidifier in your bedroom to add moisture to the air while you sleep

Complete Skincare Routine for Dry Skin

A good moisturizer is essential, but a complete routine will provide the best results:

Morning Routine:

1. Gentle, hydrating cleanser
2. Hydrating toner (optional)
3. Hydrating serum with hyaluronic acid
4. Moisturizer
5. Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)

Evening Routine:

1. Oil-based or cream cleanser
2. Hydrating toner (optional)
3. Treatment serum with ceramides or fatty acids
4. Rich night moisturizer or sleeping mask
5. Facial oil for extra nourishment (optional)

When to See a Dermatologist

While most cases of dry skin can be managed with the right products and routine, you should consider consulting a dermatologist if:

• Your skin remains extremely dry despite using good moisturizers
• You experience severe itching, redness, or inflammation
• Your dry skin is accompanied by a rash or other unusual symptoms
• Your dry skin significantly impacts your quality of life

A dermatologist can determine if you have an underlying condition like eczema or psoriasis that requires prescription treatment.

Conclusion

Dry skin doesn’t have to be a permanent condition. With the right moisturizer and consistent skincare routine, you can restore your skin’s moisture barrier and maintain soft, comfortable skin. Remember that hydration also comes from within, so drink plenty of water and include healthy fats in your diet for skin support from the inside out.

By understanding your skin’s specific needs and choosing products with the right ingredients, you can effectively manage dry skin and enjoy a healthy, radiant complexion.