Dry skin often needs that extra hydrating boost that only a richly moisturizing cream can deliver. If you’re looking to add a heavy-hitting moisturizer to your routine, we’ve compiled a list of the best cream moisturizers for dry skin.
Our Recommendations
1. Rapid Wrinkle Repair Regenerating Cream
Neutrogena Moisturizer for Moisturization and Anti-Aging
Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Regenerating Cream
This cream moisturizer combines the power of retinol and hyaluronic acid to fight the signs of aging while also plumping and moisturizing the skin.
This anti-aging moisturizer is a great way to add retinol to your routine, as the addition of moisturizing ingredients may help mitigate some of the irritation often associated with retinol. The cream contains retinol SA, which works to smooth lines and even skin tone. It also contains hyaluronic acid, which pulls moisture to the skin for healthy hydration levels.
Pros
- Anti-aging
- Fragrance-free
- Non-greasy
- Hydrating
Cons
- May cause irritation
In addition to the hydrating benefits, hyaluronic acid has been shown to help minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, which makes this drugstore moisturizer even more effective for anti-aging. Even though the hydrating ingredients may mitigate the irritating effects of retinol, if you’re new to this skincare ingredient or have sensitive skin, you may want to start by using this cream every other day or every two days to see how your skin reacts.
Water, Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate, Glycerin, Dimethicone, PPG 15 Stearyl Ether, Stearyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Butylene Glycol, Glyceryl Behenate, Ceteareth 20, Isohexadecane, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Cyclopentasiloxane, Polyethylene, Sodium Polyacrylate, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Crosspolymer, Polyacrylamide, PTFE, C13-14 Isoparaf n, Chlorphenesin, Polysorbate 20, Hydrolyzed Myrtus Communis Leaf Extract, Retinol, BHT, Sodium Hyaluronate, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Hydroxide, Laureth-7, Ascorbic Acid
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Retinoids in the treatment of skin aging: An overview of clinical efficacy and safety"
Accessed Nov. 8, 2021. -
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Hyaluronic acid: A key molecule in skin aging"
Accessed Nov. 8, 2021.
2. Skin Renewing Night Cream
CeraVe Moisturizer for Daily Moisturization
CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream
This cream moisturizer contains peptides and a blend of other ingredients that soften, hydrate, and restore the skin’s barrier overnight.
It is important to pick an effective, hydrating night cream, especially if your skincare routine includes potent serums or treatments that may irritate or dry the skin (such as retinol). This affordable moisturizer contains a variety of skincare ingredients that help renew the skin and also protect its natural barrier.
Pros
- Affordable
- Non-comedogenic
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- May be too thick for some
This drugstore moisturizer features peptides, which help rejuvenate fatigued skin. It also contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid, which protect the skin’s barrier and lock in moisture. Additionally, it has niacinamide, which calms the skin and fights signs of aging.
Purified Water, Glycerin, Biosaccharide Gum-1, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Stearic Acid, Cyclopentasiloxane, Cetyl Alcohol, Dimethicone, Saccharide Isomerate, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Sterols, Ceramide 6 II, Ceramide 3, Ceramide 1, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, Caprooyl Tetrapeptide-3, Tripeptide-1, Cholesterol, Phenoxyethanol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Carbomer, Behentrimonium Methosulphate, Sodium Hydroxide, Tocopherol, Allantoin, Ethylhexylglycerin, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Phytosphingosine, Dextran, Xanthan Gum
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Hyaluronic acid: A key molecule in skin aging"
Accessed Nov. 9, 2021. -
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "How Much Do We Really Know About Our Favorite Cosmeceutical Ingredients?"
Accessed Nov. 9, 2021. -
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "The structure, function, and importance of ceramides in skin and their use as therapeutic agents in skin-care products"
Accessed Nov. 9, 2021.
3. Moisture Boost Hydrating Treatment Cream
Paula's Choice Moisturizer for Intense Moisturization
Paula’s Choice Moisture Boost Hydrating Treatment Cream
This fan-favorite rich face cream is packed with nourishing and restoring ingredients that are perfect for when dry skin needs an intense boost of moisture.
Those with drier skin may want a richer face cream in their skincare arsenal for when their skin needs even more hydration, particularly in the winter. This face cream is one of the best Paula’s Choice moisturizers for dry skin, because it contains plant oils, emollients, and antioxidants that restore and deeply hydrate.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Super moisturizing
Cons
- Heavier texture
One of the key ingredients in this cream is jojoba oil, which is anti-inflammatory, can help restore the skin’s barrier, and has the ability to help fight the signs of aging. It also contains other ingredients known to boost hydration and soothe the skin, including vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, squalane, and glycerin.
Water (Aqua), Ethylhexyl Stearate (texture enhancer), Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil (emollient plant oil), Butylene Glycol (texture enhancer), Glycerin (skin-replenishing ingredient), Petrolatum (emollient), Cetearyl Alcohol, Dipentaerythrityl Hexacaprylate/ Hexacaprate, Tridecyl Trimellitate (texture enhancers), Sodium Hyaluronate, Ceramide 3, Cholesterol (skin-replenishing ingredients),Tocopherol (Vitamin E/antioxidant) Squalane (emollient), Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (stabilized Vitamin C/antioxidant), Dimethicone (texture enhancer), Niacinamide (Vitamin B3/skin-restoring ingredient) Polysorbate 60 (texture enhancer), Hydrolyzed Jojoba Protein, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein (skin conditioning agents), Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract (soothing agent), Hydrogenated Lecithin (skin-restoring ingredient), Whey Protein (water-binding agent), Tridecyl Stearate, Neopentyl Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate, Phenyl Trimethicone, Myristyl Myristate (texture enhancers), Linoleic Acid, Linolenic Acid, Decarboxy Carnosine HCI (skin-restoring ingredients), Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer (texture enhancers/water-binding agents),Cetearyl Glucoside, Cetyl Alcohol, Polyglyceryl-3 Beeswax (texture enhancers/emollients), Aminomethyl Propanol (pH-adjustor), Disodium EDTA (chelating agent), Benzoic Acid, Chlorphenesin, Sorbic Acid, Phenoxyethanol (all preservatives)
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Barrier Repair Effects of Topical Application of Some Plant Oils"
Accessed Aug. 2, 2021.
4. Intense Riche Hyaluronic Acid Cream
La Roche-Posay Moisturizer for Daily Moisturization
La Roche-Posay Hydraphase Intense Riche Hyaluronic Acid Cream
This face cream uses the power of hyaluronic acid and other moisturizing ingredients to deeply hydrate the skin for up to 24 hours.
This rich but non-greasy face cream contains hyaluronic acid, which pulls moisture to the skin for healthy hydration levels. It also contains shea butter and glycerin, which further moisturize the skin.
Pros
- Non-comedogenic
- Dermatologist tested
- Non-greasy
Cons
- Contains fragrance
In addition to the hydrating benefits, hyaluronic acid has been shown to help minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, which makes this face cream a great choice for those also looking for anti-aging benefits.
Aqua / Water, Glycerin, Isopropyl Palmitate, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter / Shea Butter, Lauroyl Lysine, Cetyl Alcohol, Urea, Peg-100 Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate, Cera Alba / Beeswax, Pentylene Glycol, Stearic Acid, Carbomer, Glyceryl Acrylate/Acrylic Acid Copolymer, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hydroxide, Myristic Acid, Palmitic Acid, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Caprylyl Glycol, Citric Acid, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Xanthan Gum, Polysorbate 60, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-di-t-butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Chlorphenesin, Parfum / Fragrance
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Sage Journals. "Safety Assessment of Glycerin as Used in Cosmetics"
Accessed Aug. 20, 2021. -
Accessed Aug. 20, 2021.
5. Toleriane Ultra Night Moisturizer
La Roche-Posay Moisturizer for Nightly Moisturization
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Ultra Night Moisturizer
This gel-cream moisturizer is one of the best La Roche-Posay products for sensitive, dry skin. It contains intensely moisturizing ingredients, and has been formulated without potentially irritating ingredients.
This night moisturizer is packed with ingredients that help restore the skin’s moisture barrier. The shea butter is anti-inflammatory and has antioxidant effects, and is intensely moisturizing. Glycerin, squalane, and vitamin E also help moisturize and soothe the skin.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Dermatologist tested
- Suitable for sensitive skin
Cons
- Some reviewers complain about the packaging
This moisturizer has been tested on allergy-prone skin, and is free of any ingredients that may potentially cause irritation, including fragrance and drying alcohols.
Aqua/Water/Eau, Glycerin, Squalane, Propanediol, Butylene Glycol, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter/Shea Butter, Pentylene Glycol, Niacinamide, Dimethicone, Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Polysorbate 20, Tocopherol, Acetyl Dipeptide-1 Cetyl Ester, Allantoin, Toluene Sulfonic Acid, Dimethiconol, Xanthan Gum, Carnosine, Disodium EDTA, Citric Acid, Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate, Glyceryl Acrylate/Acrylic Acid Copolymer.
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Barrier Repair Effects of Topical Application of Some Plant Oils"
Accessed Aug. 19, 2021.
6. Substiane Riche Anti-Aging Cream
La Roche-Posay Moisturizer for Daily Moisturization
La Roche-Posay Substiane Riche Anti-Aging Cream
This is one of the best La Roche-Posay moisturizers for those with aging concerns. It effectively moisturizes while addressing lack of firmness and sagging skin.
One of the key ingredients in this moisturizer is pro-xylane, a sugar-protein hybrid that is used to help defend against water loss in the skin. Additionally, this moisturizer contains linactyl, which is used to help restore elasticity and firmness. The use of these ingredients, plus additional moisturizing ingredients, helps make this moisturizer excellent for aging skin.
Pros
- Non-comedogenic
- Dermatologist tested
Cons
- Contains fragrance
In addition to the ingredients mentioned above, this moisturizer contains a variety of ingredients that help moisturize the skin, including shea butter and apricot kernel oil.
Aqua/Water, Glycerin, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter/Shea Butter, Cyclohexasiloxane, Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil/Apricot Kernel Oil, Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate, Isohexadecane, Zea Mays Starch/Corn Starch, Silica, Hydroxypropyl Tetrahydropyrantriol, Cera Alba/Beeswax, Stearic Acid, Dimethicone, Palmitic Acid, PEG-100 Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate, Propylene Glycol, PEG-20 Tearate, Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane, Stearyl Alcohol, Dimethiconol, Arginine PCA, Serine, Disodium EDTA, Hydrolyzed Linseed Extract, Acetyl Dipeptide-1 Cetylester, Polysorbate 80, Acrylamide/Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Copolymer, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol, Benzoic Acid, Parfum/Fragrance
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Barrier Repair Effects of Topical Application of Some Plant Oils"
Accessed Aug. 18, 2021.
7. Resist Intensive Repair Cream
Paula's Choice Moisturizer for Intense Moisturization and Anti-Aging Benefits
Paula’s Choice Resist Intensive Repair Cream
This ultra-rich face cream contains a concentrated blend of ingredients that restore, deeply hydrate, and fight the signs of aging, including a low concentration of retinol.
This face cream contains a low concentration of retinol (0.01%), a skincare ingredient that is considered the gold-standard for fighting signs of aging, including fine lines and wrinkles. It also helps even skin tone and smooth texture, minimizing hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and acne scars. While the concentration is not super high, it is great for people who want to gently work retinol into their routine, but are worried about irritation from higher concentration treatments.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Intensely moisturizing
- Anti-aging
Cons
- Some reviewers note it has a greasy texture
In addition to the retinol, this cream contains hyaluronic acid, which locks in moisture and plumps the skin to reduce the appearance of fine lines. It also contains a blend of antioxidants that fight environmental aggressors to protect the skin.
Water (Aqua), Ethylhexyl Stearate (texture-enhancing), Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Petrolatum, Cetearyl Alcohol, Dimethicone, Dipentaerythrityl Hexacaprylate/Hexacaprate, Glyceryl Stearate, Tridecyl Trimellitate, PEG-100 Stearate, Phenyl Trimethicone, Retinol, Adenosine, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Ceramide NG, Sodium Hyaluronate, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Niacinamide, Tocopherol, Lecithin, Linoleic Acid, Linolenic Acid, Retinyl Palmitate, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Camellia Oleifera (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Citrullus Lanatus (Watermelon) Fruit Extract, Lens Esculenta (Lentil) Fruit Extract, Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Sterols, Tribehenin, PEG-10 Phytosterol, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Sodium PCA, Sodium Lactate, Pullulan, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Hydroxide, Neopentyl Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate, Cetearyl Glucoside, Tridecyl Stearate, Behenyl Alcohol, Sclerotium Gum, Carbomer, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Polysorbate 20, Disodium EDTA, Sorbic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin, Benzoic Acid
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Retinoids in the treatment of skin aging: An overview of clinical efficacy and safety"
Accessed Aug. 2, 2021. -
Accessed Aug. 2, 2021.
8. Moisturizing Cream
CeraVe Moisturizer for Daily Moisturization
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream
This rich, non-comedogenic cream – which is often called “CeraVe in the tub” – is a cult favorite for both the face and body. It is thick and effective at moisturizing, but doesn’t leave behind an overly greasy film.
This CeraVe cream is incredibly moisturizing. For dry and sensitive skin types, it is an excellent multi-purpose product to have on hand, since it can be used on both the face and the body.
Pros
- Multi-purpose
- Thick but not greasy
- Non-comedogenic
- Fragrance-free
- Oil-free
- Hypoallergenic
Cons
- People with oily skin may find the thick consistency uncomfortable
- Some people with acne-prone skin have noted that this product makes them break out
The CeraVe Moisturizing Cream contains three key ingredients that restore the skin’s barrier, hydrate, and replenish: hyaluronic acid, ceramides 3, 6-II, and 1, and glycerin.
Aqua / Water / Eau, Glycerin, Cetearyl Alcohol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetyl Alcohol, Ceteareth-20, Petrolatum, Potassium Phosphate, Ceramide Np, Ceramide Ap, Ceramide Eop, Carbomer, Dimethicone, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Cholesterol, Phenoxyethanol, Disodium Edta, Dipotassium Phosphate, Tocopherol, Phytosphingosine, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin
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Accessed Aug. 30, 2021.
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Skin hydration is significantly increased by a cream formulated to mimic the skin's own natural moisturizing systems"
Accessed Aug. 30, 2021.
9. Toleriane Ultra Moisturizing Cream
La Roche-Posay Moisturizer for Daily Moisturization
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Ultra Moisturizing Cream
This gentle moisturizing cream was formulated for dry and sensitive skin, and helps soothe and intensely hydrate.
This face cream contains a variety of effective ingredients that help hydrate and soothe the skin, including neurosensine, shea butter, squalane, and glycerin. It has been tested and shown to be suitable for ultra-sensitive, allergy-prone skin.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Allergy tested
Cons
- Some reviewers complain about the packaging
This moisturizing cream is free of ingredients that may further irritate sensitive skin, including fragrances, preservatives, and drying alcohol.
Aqua/Water, Isocetyl Stearate, Squalane, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter/Shea Butter, Dimethicone, Glycerin, Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate, Pentylene Glycol, Peg-100 Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate, Cetyl Alcohol, Dimethiconol, Sodium Hydroxide, Acetyl Depeptide-1 Cetyl Ester, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Barrier Repair Effects of Topical Application of Some Plant Oils"
Accessed Aug. 30, 2021. -
Sage Journals. "Safety Assessment of Glycerin as Used in Cosmetics"
Accessed Aug. 30, 2021. -
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Moisturizers: The Slippery Road"
Accessed Aug. 30, 2021.
FAQs
Which cream is best for dry and sensitive skin?
If you have dry and sensitive skin, the La Roche-Posay Toleriane Ultra Moisturizing Cream, the La Roche-Posay Toleriane Ultra Night Moisturizer, and the CeraVe Moisturizing Cream are all excellent options for you. These products are intensely hydrating, and free of ingredients that commonly irritate sensitive skin.
Which is better: moisturizer or cream?
A cream is technically a type of moisturizer – it is just thicker than what you might consider to be a “traditional” face moisturizer/lotion. Both are great for the skin, and what is “best” just depends on what your skin needs. A lotion has a higher percentage of water compared to a cream, and therefore has a thinner consistency. It will also contain other active ingredients that help hydrate the skin, and won’t feel too heavy or greasy. A cream will still contain water, but will also consist of a higher percentage of hydrating ingredients (such as oils). People with dry skin may choose to use a lotion in the morning, and a cream at night. They may also only add a cream to their routine when the weather gets cooler and drier.
How do I choose a cream moisturizer?
When picking out a cream moisturizer, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind. You need to know your skin type so that you can look for a product specifically formulated for that type, as well as any skin concerns you may have that you’d like to target. From there, you can look for a product that fits your needs. For example, if you have dry skin and want a cream that also contains anti-aging ingredients, you can look for a product that checks off those boxes (like the Paula’s Choice Resist Intensive Repair Cream or the La Roche-Posay Substiane Riche Anti-Aging Cream).
The Bottom Line
For people with dry skin, face creams can be incredibly helpful when it comes to intensely hydrating the skin. If you’re looking for a new face cream, consider adding one of these super effective products to your routine.