Here Are the 15 Best Moisturizers to Try If You Have Dry Skin

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For many, dry skin is a seasonal problem, reemerging every fall and winter like clockwork. But for others, dryness plagues them all year long. Either way, using the right moisturizer is one of the most important steps to rehydrating dry skin.

According to board-certified dermatologist Jeremy Brauer, solving dry skin all comes down to protecting the skin barrier. "Keeping skin moisturized is just as important as keeping the skin clean," he says. "Using a good moisturizer on dry skin can work to alleviate discomfort, minimize the look of flaking and peeling, and help the skin feel balanced."

So which moisturizer is right for you? We gathered the best moisturizers for dry skin, according to Brauer, plus our editors' own recommendations, and best-sellers to help you find your new skin essential.

Moisturizing Cream

Made with CeraVe's signature ceramides, "This is a great cream for dry skin because it supports your skin’s microbiome without appearing greasy or shiny, and it is gentle enough for most skin types, with a thicker consistency," says the derm. "By locking in your skin’s natural moisture, it supports your skin’s ability to keep moisture in and irritants out."

Customer Review:

"I use this at night and it is a good staple product. It never burns my skin or causes any irritation. It is thicker than regular moisturizer, but it soaks into the skin well." —Erin

Honey Halo Ultra-Hydrating Ceramide Moisturizer

"My skin is chronically dry and dehydrated, but this moisturizer brings it back to life after just one use," says BAZAAR Beauty Director Jenna Rosenstein of this moisturizer, made with honey and bee propolis. "Plus, I love how it creates the perfect smooth base for makeup."

Customer Review:

"I have such dry skin and I use this in the morning before makeup and on its own. I am very sensitive of smells and it smells good but not irritating. If you like water based creams you still might like this because it is very hydrating but not that heavy. It also never broke me out which is super important." —JadaWatkins

Trio Luxe Moisture Treatment

This new moisturizer "has a rich, clinically-proven formula that provides a triple action approach to support skin barrier and improve hydration," says Brauer, who adds that "The new airless jar is also a plus, which gives you access to the most amount of product possible and helps maintain the formula’s shelf life."

Customer Review:

"This cream is amazing, it feels like butter on the skin not greasy at all. It helps a lot with dryness on the side of my nose, makes me glow, keeps me hydrated all day. I love it!!!"—Valeria

Supremÿa At Night Anti-Aging Cream

"While this rich cream is pricey, products that instantly quench dry skin aren’t easy to come by, so it’s well worth the splurge," says BAZAAR Associate Beauty Editor Katie Intner. "Despite this balmy cream’s heavy consistency, the formula quickly sinks into the skin and doesn’t break me out (a true triumph when it comes to hydrating products). I turn to this night moisturizer year-round to heal flaky skin and to ensure I wake up with a plump complexion."

Customer Review:

"The new version of this cream is unbelievable!!! I am using this cream at night, after Supremya skin care lotion. Every morning my skin looks toned, firmed and radiant. I love the texture of this cream. I think this is the best anti-aging product I have ever used. It is truly a miracle in a jar." —Natalya

Instant Angel Moisturizer

Of Dieux's two moisturizers, this richer version is designed to support dehydrated skin and the skin barrier without leaving a greasy finish. Beloved by celebs like Hailey Bieber, it regularly sells out—so if you're considering trying this one, get on it.

Customer Review:

"This is by far the best moisturizer that I’ve ever used. I have sensitive skin and have had no issue. I’ve also gotten many compliments from co-workers on my glowing dewy skin. Don’t walk run!!!" —Joan V.

Rich Cushion Cream

This face cream helps "cushion" the skin barrier with hydrating glycerin, squalane, and saccharide isomerate, while plumping fruit extracts create a smooth finish. It can be used day or night, but the creamy texture is particularly great before bed.

Customer Review:

"I had been looking for a new moisturizer and am so happy I found this! It’s rich and super hydrating! It applies and absorbs really nicely and keeps my skin plump all day long! I definitely recommend if you are looking for a nice hydrating moisturizer!" —AmandaFayeee

Stabilizing Repair Cream

"This moisturizer includes a ceramide-building complex to protect the skin barrier." says Brauer, who says it's "great for all skin types, but especially those with sensitive or dry skin."

Customer Review:

"Love this cream. Have changed the landscape of my skin. After a couple of weeks of using twice a day I have less blemishes, more even complexion and my skin looks hydrated. My husband is now using too and I can notice a huge difference in his skin!" —Leslie D.

SOS Daily Skin Barrier Redness Recovery Moisturizer

This moisturizer from Tower28 proves that uncomplicated skin care is usually best. Designed for sensitive skin and made with ceramides to support the skin barrier, hyaluronic acid for hydration, and allantoin for irritation, it's the ideal product to calm down skin, fast.

Customer Review:

"BUY IT! I bought this product about a month ago and it has changed my skin for the better. My skin has cleared up, redness has calmed down, and my skin has never been more moisturized. A little goes a long way!" —Maddieee22

Nourishing Squalane Daily Moisturizer

"This clinically proven moisturizer provides long-lasting hydration and has soothing botanical extracts to reduce the look of redness," says Brauer.

Customer Review:

"This moisturizer is not only clean and fresh but moist truly beautiful and sometimes I mix with the oil when weather is harsh and it’s even more special." —Camille B.

Ultra Facial Cream with Squalane

This classic from Kiehl's is a go-to for those with dry skin—and basically everyone else (according to the brand, one is sold every minute in the U.S.). It also comes in refill pouches, so you can re-up the squalane, glacial glycoprotein, and pro-ceramides formula at your convenience.

Customer Review:

"The best moisturizer I've used so far. Doesn't leave my skin feeling oily or sticky. It's light and perfect for people with dry skin. Definitely helped the dry patches on my face." —Rose

Cloud Cushion Airy Brightening Moisturizer

Equal parts light and nourishing, this moisturizer from Eadem isn't cloying, but still soothes and reinforces the skin barrier. Plus, it has tetrapeptide-30 and niacinamide to help brighten and fade dark spots over time.

Customer Review:

"I love this moisturizer. It hydrates perfectly without being greasy or too heavy. It’s also buildable. I have dry skin and feel that you could easily apply less if your skin is oilier or more if it’s dryer. It also lightened my dark spots...My spots looked lighter after 1 week. They have faded significantly." —jtyndale

Adaptogen Deep Moisture Cream

You know how some people take adaptogens to calm their systems? This tea-toned face cream applies that logic to your skin, with a complex of ashwagandha, rhodiola, and reishi. Also containing squalane, jojoba and shea butter, it's like a hug for dry, irritated skin.

Customer Review:

"Whenever I have painful skin issues, like rashes or breakouts that turn into scabs, and especially dry skin, this cream is the best thing for my face. It gives me such relief and it helps it heal, let alone prevents the issues from getting worse." —imthewonderband

Lotus Youth Preserve Radiance Renewal Night Cream

If you like instant—or more accurately, overnight—results, consider this treatment from Fresh. Formulated with super lotus, star fruit leaf extract, and vitamin E to nourish and brighten, it works while you sleep and gets better the more you use it.

Customer Review:

"I have been using this product over the last few weeks and I really like it, it’s a really thick moisturizer that glides over the skin, doesn’t leave the skin feeling greasy. Some people complained about the small but I personally find it to be a nice smell, it smells really seeet. Overall I really like this product." —AliciaWilson

Soothing Hydration Cream

One of the more fascinating formulas we've come across lately, it's made with marine glycoproteins (an upcycled byproduct of lobster processing that would otherwise go to waste). In addition to dryness, the ultra-thick and rich cream can help soothe eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis.

Customer Review:

"I’m so thankful a friend recommended Marin skincare to me. In a matter of days I noticed a huge difference in my dry skin; and I’m for sure a customer for life! A little goes a long way." —Rayshawna

Lala Retro Whipped Cream

Don't let the Sephora tweens deter you—in fact, they're onto something. This ceramide-rich face cream helps soothe the skin and prevent water loss, and the whipped texture is a dream to apply.

Customer Review:

"I love this product!! This is one of the only moisturizers I’ve tried that has worked for me. Feels so hydrating but not oily and lasts a good amount of time. I have repurchased this 3 times."

Frequently Asked Questions

What Ingredients Should You Look for in a Moisturizer if You Have Dry Skin?

"The main ingredients to look for include lipids like fatty acids, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid, a.k.a. dry skin’s best friend," says Brauer. Also, if you're looking to combine hydration with anti-aging benefits, "many moisturizers also include antioxidants that help to protect skin from oxidative stress, which contributes to fine lines and wrinkles."

How Should You Layer Your Products?

In the simplest version of your skincare routine, you'll cleanse, then apply serums or treatments, and then moisturize. Moisturizer is especially important when using certain actives, which can further dry out your skin.

"If using products like retinol, it is important to use a rich hydrated moisturizer to counteract the potentially drying factor of the retinol," says Brauer. "Stay away from products that have salicylic acid, as the exfoliating formula can still strip the skin of its moisture."

Meet the Expert

• Jeremy Brauer, MD, is a New York-based board-certified dermatologist, dermatologic surgeon, and founder of Spectrum Skin and Laser.

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For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion and beauty resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in beauty by working with the world’s leading authorities in dermatology, plastic surgery, cosmetics, skincare, haircare, and fragrance. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of beauty editors and industry experts.

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