14 Best Drugstore Facial Moisturizers (2024), Recommended By An Esthetician

An effective moisturizer helps to keep your skin hydrated, rejuvenated, revitalized, and soft. Especially in dry climates, your skin needs a lot of hydration. So, the best drugstore facial moisturizer comes in handy. In addition, some moisturizers come with SPF to protect your skin from sun damage, while some moisturizers may be infused with anti-aging ingredients that combat aging signs. So, carefully choose the facial moisturizer that can minimize fine lines and wrinkles, keep your skin radiant, prevent acne, and keep your skin supple.

Finding a suitable moisturizer that matches your skin requirements is crucial. But choosing the perfect one is tricky with numerous moisturizers around. Hence, we have provided you with a list of the 13 best drugstore facial moisturizers below. Keep scrolling!

14 Best Drugstore Facial Moisturizers

1. Best Dermatologically Tested: Vanicream Moisturizing Cream

4.6

Now 8% Off

BUY ON AMAZON | $13.56

This dermatologically tested thick, smooth moisturizing cream restores and maintains the moisture level in your skin. It is gentle on sensitive skin and can be used daily as a moisturizing cream.

This moisturizing cream is ideal for dry skin and can be used to relieve the symptoms of eczema, psoriasis, and ichthyosis. It has a moisturizing formula that helps soothe red, cracking, itchy, or irritated skin. This is one of the best drugstore beauty products approved by the National Eczema Association. This expert-recommended product has excellent reviews on Amazon, confirming why this product is on our top list as one of the favorite moisturizers among reviewers.

Key features

• Contains petrolatum that forms a thick layer on top of the skin.
• Prevents loss of moisture from the skin.

Specifications

1. Product Dimensions: 6″ x 4″ x 5″
2. Product Weight: 16 oz
3. Vitamin Types: None listed
4. Brand: Vanicream
5. Organic: No

2. Best Oil-Free: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel

4.5

Image: Neutrogena

Now 40% Off

BUY ON AMAZON | $16.11

This is one of the most popular drugstore moisturizers for dry skin. This hyaluronic acid-infused moisturizer is recommended by certified dermatologists. The clinically proven Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel is an oil-free, hyaluronic-based moisturizer. Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance found in the skin cells that absorbs water and locks it in the skin. The gel-like texture of this formula gets absorbed quickly into the skin and lasts long, like a cream-based moisturizer. This skin care product leaves your skin hydrated, smooth, and supple.

Key features

• Hyaluronic acid helps the skin retain moisture and look plump.

Specifications

1. Product Dimensions: 9″ x 2.9″ x 4.1″
2. Product Weight: 1.76 fl.oz
3. Vitamin Types: None listed
4. Brand: Neutrogena
5. Organic: No

Quick Tip

Use the Neutrogena Deep Clean Facial Cleanser before applying the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel for better absorption.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

With over 8,067 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.

3. Best Hydrating: Obagi Medical Hydrate Facial Moisturizer

4.5

Image: Obagi

BUY ON AMAZON | $51.5

The Obagi Medical Hydrate Facial Moisturizer is a clinically proven formula that can keep your skin moisturized and nourished for up to 8 hours. The hydrating moisturizer is infused with the goodness of shea, mango, and avocado butter, which prevents your skin from drying up and gives you long-lasting moisturization. This dewy skin cream is also hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic which makes it suitable for all skin types.

Specifications

Product Dimensions: 1.33 x 1.97 x 6 inches

Product Weight: 1.76 Ounces

Vitamin Types: None listed

Brand: Obagi Medical

Organic: No

4. Best For Sensitive Skin: CeraVe Moisturizing Cream

4.7

Image: Cerave

BUY ON AMAZON | $14.99

CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is specially formulated by dermatologists. This sensitive skin-friendly moisturizing cream provides hydration to the skin around the clock for up to 24 hours! It also contains ceramides. Ceramides are waxy lipid molecules that make up the skin’s natural barrier. CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is specially formulated with the three most essential ceramides that restore the protective skin barrier and help with moisture barrier repair, which works best for people with skin sensitivity. It is non-greasy and gets absorbed into the skin quickly. It can be used on the body, as well.

Key features

• Contains (1,3,6-II) ceramides that help in maintaining the skin barrier.
• Hyaluronic acid helps the skin retain moisture.
• MVE Technology is a patented delivery system that slowly but steadily releases moisturizing ingredients into the skin for 24-hour hydration.
• Can also be used as a body moisturizer

Specifications

1. Product Dimensions: 6″ x 3.6″ x 8 “
2. Product Weight: 19 oz
3. Vitamin Types: None listed
4. Brand: CeraVe
5. Organic: No

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

This product has garnered over 100,383 positive reviews on Amazon, and the number continues to grow.

5. Best Anti-Aging Benefits: Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Moisturizer

4.6

Image: Aveeno

BUY ON AMAZON | $15.77

This SPF-based moisturizer contains a key ingredient, soy complexes that even out the skin tone and texture. The SPF helps in protecting the skin from harmful sun damage and environmental aggressors. Using this clinically proven moisturizer daily helps in reducing dullness and brown spots. It also helps in reducing the signs of early aging. It contains natural light diffusers that reflect light. This gives a natural glow to the skin. This moisturizer is suitable for sensitive skin as it is hypoallergenic.

Key features

• Contains Soy Complex and other rich emollients.
• Keeps your skin moisturized for long periods of time.

Specifications

1. Product Dimensions:5″ x 1.3″ x 5.7″
2. ProductWeight: 4 fl.oz
3. Vitamin Types: None listed
4. Brand: Aveeno
5. Organic: No

Pro Tip

Follow up with the La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen SPF 60 to keep your skin hydrated and smooth even after sun exposure.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The overwhelming 1,996 positive reviews on Amazon show how popular this product is with happy users.

6. Best For Oily Skin: La Roche-Posay Effaclar Moisturizer

4.4

Image: La Roche-posay

BUY ON AMAZON | $35.99

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat Moisturizer is perfect for that smooth matte look. It is ideal for oily skin as it is formulated with the star ingredient micro-exfoliating lipo-hydroxy acid (LHA), which gives a matte finish to the skin. Thus, it is perfect to use before applying makeup. It removes excess oil and visibly tightens the pores. The clinically-tested product contains zinc pidolate that helps your skin look matte as it neutralizes shine. This helps create an all-day matte look.

Key features

• Absorbs oil and refines pores.
• Matte finish.
• Sebulyse Technology helps reduce excess oil.
• Lipo-Hydroxy Acid (LHA) provides exfoliation.
• Zinc pidolate helps reduce shine.

Specifications

1. Product Dimensions:2″ x 1.1″ x 5″
2. Product Weight: 1.35 fl.oz
3. Vitamin Types: None listed
4. Brand: La Roche-Posay
5. Organic: No

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

More than 1,894 customers have given the product positive reviews on Amazon.

7. Best For Blemishes: LilyAna Naturals Retinol Cream Moisturizer

4.3

Image: Lilyana Naturals

BUY ON AMAZON | $29.9

This retinol-based cream is an excellent anti-aging moisturizer. It helps in giving skin a young and healthy look. This cream is specially formulated to not cause any side effects such as irritation, redness, and dryness, which are common complaints when using retinol-based products. It also contains the highest concentration of plant-based compounds such as green tea, jojoba oil, and aloe vera. It uses organic compounds that help in clearing breakouts. It also has hyaluronic acid that hydrates the skin. It is suitable for all skin types and can be used as a daily moisturizing lotion. This vitamin-enriched moisturizer is free of toxic chemicals, and all the active ingredients in it are formulated to help you achieve flawless, youthful skin.

Key features

• Loaded with the best organic ingredients for your face, such as green tea, hyaluronic acid, shea butter, vitamin E, and jojoba oil.
• One of the best moisturizers for sensitive skin.

Specifications

1. Product Dimensions: 5″ x 1.8″ x 3.5″
2. Product Weight: 1.7 oz
3. Vitamin Types: Vitamin A, vitamin E, and vitamin B5
4. Brand: LilyAna Naturals
5. Organic: Yes (71%)

Quick Tip

Cleanse your face with the Cetaphil Dermacontrol Oil Removing Foam before applying this moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and nourished for a long period.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

It has received over 11,062 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.

8. Best For Acne-Prone Skin: Cetaphil Pro Oil Absorbing Moisturizer

4

Image: Cetaphil

BUY ON AMAZON | $11.24

This is a clinically proven moisturizer that is specially formulated for acne-prone and oily skin. It gets absorbed quickly and creates a matte finish. This oil-control moisturizer has SPF 30 and is a perfect base for makeup. This lightweight, non-comedogenic cream is also free of fragrance and clinically tested. This 3-in-1 amazing moisturizer hydrates your skin gently, protects it, and controls shine.

Key features

• Formulated for acne-prone skin.
• Controls oil.
• SPF 30.
• Works well with acne medication.

Specifications

1. Product Dimensions:8″ x 2.5″ x 6.5″
2. Product Weight: 4 fl.oz
3. Vitamin Types: None listed
4. Brand: Cetaphil
5. Organic: No

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

With over 1,214 Amazon acclaimed reviews, this product is sure to find a place in everyone’s shopping bag.

9. Best For Fine Lines And Wrinkles: Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Regenerating Cream

4.3

Image: Neutrogena

BUY ON AMAZON | $26.71

This anti-wrinkle face cream is formulated with powerful anti-aging compounds such as retinol and hyaluronic acid. Retinol and a glucose complex help in regenerating new skin cells and reducing the signs of aging, such as dark spots, fine lines, and wrinkles. This clinically proven wrinkle-repair cream is rich in hyaluronic acid, which provides daily hydration to your skin to make it look healthy and youthful. Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair is gentle enough for daily use.

Key features

• Glucose Complex and Retinol SA reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
• Hyaluronic acid adds line-plumping moisture.
• Helps rejuvenate the look of dull skin.

Specifications

1. Product Dimensions: 8″ x 2.6″ x 5.3″
2. Product Weight: 1.7 oz
3. Vitamin Types: Vitamin A
4. Brand: Neutrogena
5. Organic: No

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The product has more than 3,605 reviews claiming its efficacy.

10. Best Lightweight: Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion

4.7

Image: Clinique

BUY ON AMAZON | $23.0

Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion is popular among users and dermatologists alike. It has a silky formula that penetrates deep into your skin. This lightweight lotion keeps your skin soft and glowing by keeping it hydrated all day long. It is specially developed for different skin types such as very dry, dry, and dry combination. A moisturizing gel variant is also available for oilier skin types.

Key features

• Improves the skin barrier strength by 54%.
• Locks the moisture in the skin.

Specifications

1. Product Dimensions: 2″ x 2.1″ x 4.6″
2. Product Weight: 4.2 fl. oz
3. Vitamin Types: None listed
4. Brand: Clinique
5. Organic: No

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

This product has received 7,034 reviews from customers on Amazon, indicating its popularity and reliability.

11. Best Non-Greasy: Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer With SPF

4.4

Image: Cetaphil

BUY ON AMAZON | $25.4

Incorporating sunscreen into your daily skin care regimens is important. This lightweight moisturizer takes care of your SPF needs too. It contains compounds that protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays. These rays are responsible for premature lines, wrinkles, and sunburn and can even cause cancer. This clinically-proven moisturizer also restores and improves your skin’s ability to retain vital moisture. It replenishes moisture and effectively nourishes your sensitive skin without making it feel greasy. This is one of the best moisturizers available currently and is a must-have skincare essential, especially for mature skin.

Key features

• Contains Avobenzone 3% and Octocrylene 10%.
• Broad spectrum SPF 15.

Specifications

1. Product Dimensions: 7″ x 6.5″ x 2.4″
2. Product Weight: 4 fl.oz
3. Vitamin Types: Vitamin E
4. Brand: Cetaphil
5. Organic: No

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

This product is so liked by shoppers that it has gained over 9,476 great reviews on Amazon.

12. Best Allergy-Tested: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer

4.5

Image: La Roche-posay

BUY ON AMAZON | $21.99

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer is a unique moisturizer that has prebiotics in its formula. This moisturizer has been rigorously tested and found safe for sensitive skin. The unique prebiotics help in restoring the skin cells. This moisturizer replenishes the moisture in your skin for up to 48 hours and helps protect the skin barrier. It is highly recommended by dermatologists worldwide.

Key features

• Contains many compounds that are beneficial for good skin health such as glycerin, dimethicone, niacinamide, and ceramides.
• Contains the unique La Roche-Posay Prebiotic Thermal Water.

Specifications

1. Product Dimensions: 5″ x 3.2″ x 5.7″
2. Product Weight: 2.5 fl. oz.
3. Vitamin Types: Vitamin E and vitamin B3
4. Brand: La Roche-Posay
5. Organic: No

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

There are more than 4,377 Amazon reviews attesting to the quality of the product and endorsing its value.

13. Best For Dehydrated Skin: Eau Thermale Avene Hydrance Rich Hydrating Cream

4.6

Image: Eau Thermale Avene Hydrance Rich Hydrating Cream

BUY ON AMAZON | $35.0

Eau Thermale Avene Hydrance Rich Hydrating Cream is trusted by millions. This moisturizer helps in protecting the skin barrier. It restores your skin’s moisture levels. Its rich moisturizing ingredients, such as shea butter, help treat dry and dehydrated skin. It is specially formulated for sensitive skin. You will achieve healthy and supple skin with regular use of this product.

Key features

• Contains hydration boosting microspheres and Avène Thermal Spring Water that soothes your skin
• Cohederm patented revolutionary technology helps in improving skin elasticity.
• Beneficial for sensitive skin.

Specifications

1. Product Dimensions: 6″ x 1.3″ x 5″
2. Product Weight: 1.3 fl. oz.
3. Vitamin Types: None listed
4. Brand: Avène
5. Organic: No

14. Best Fragrance-Free: Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream

4.5

Image: Olay

Now 13% Off

BUY ON AMAZON | $22.57

Olay’s Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream makes your skin look firm and healthy. It contains collagen peptides that provide all-day hydration as well as elasticity to your skin. Thus, it makes your skin look firm and lifted. The Amino-Peptide Complex II in it reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The anti-aging ingredients leave your skin looking hydrated and plump. Olay claims that using this moisturizer for four weeks reduces the appearance of wrinkles by ten years.

Key features

• Re-engineered with Amino-Peptide Complex II and combined with key anti-aging ingredients like carob extract, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide
• Regenerates the skin.
• The moisture-binding formula plumps and lifts the skin.

Specifications

1. Product Dimensions: 2.5″ x 2.7″ x 5.4″
2. Product Weight: 1.76 fl. oz.
3. Vitamin Types: Vitamin B3 and vitamin E
4. Brand: Olay
5. Organic: No

Now that you know all the best drugstore moisturizers available right now, let’s talk about how to choose the right moisturizer for your skin type.

How To Choose The Right Moisturizer

Although everybody’s skin is different, it can broadly be divided into five types. Different skin types need different moisturizers. It is important to choose the right kind of moisturizer for your skin type.

1. Oily Skin: A moisturizer with hyaluronic acid or glycerin that absorbs moisture into the skin is good for people with oily skin. Since your skin already produces excess oil, it is best to avoid oil-based moisturizers that can clog your pores. A lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer suits oily skin the best. If your skin is acne-prone, look for ingredients such as salicylic acid.
2. Dry Skin: A cream-based moisturizer is best suited for dry or extra dry skin. Ingredients like shea butter, jojoba oil, and hyaluronic acid help replenish moisture and lock it in the skin. For very dry and dehydrated skin, look for emollients like mineral oil.
3. Sensitive Skin: Sensitive skin is prone to allergic reactions and irritation. Thus, people with this skin type should avoid moisturizers with fragrances and irritants. Natural organic ingredients, such as aloe vera are good for sensitive and flaky skin. Avoid powerful anti-aging ingredients like retinol that may cause strong reactions like flaking, redness, and burning sensation.
4. Normal Skin: This skin type is more balanced as it is neither too dry nor too oily. Moisturizers that contain lightweight oils or silicone-based ingredients, such as cyclomethicone, are best for normal skin.
5. Combination Skin: People with combination skin have normal skin type around their cheeks but an oily forehead and nose (also known as the T-zone). Lightweight, non-greasy moisturizers are best for this skin type.

Besides picking the right moisturizer for your skin type, you also need to adjust it according to the climate. Check out how to do that in the next section.

Adjust Your Moisturizer With The Climate

There are many different factors like humidity, temperature, nutrition, and genetics that contribute to your skin health. The hydration needs of the skin tend to vary across seasons and places. During summers, a non-oily, lightweight moisturizer may be sufficient, while winters require a thick moisturizing cream to combat dryness. Depending on the situation, one must cater to their skin needs. Drinking adequate water, using a humidifier, and applying sunscreen are recommended for good skin. Following a dedicated skin care regimen with proper cleansing, hydration, and moisturizing is important as well. Avoid products with harsh drying chemicals and tugging on your skin as well. In addition to this, look for the ones with a good number of reviews, positive tester’s experiences, or the ones that are expert-recommended.

Infographic: 5 Common Mistakes To Avoid While Moisturizing Your Face

A moisturizer helps lock in nourishment and hydration and helps in skin revitalization. Although it is the most essential part of any skin care routine, we often commit certain mistakes while applying it that can damage our skin further. Learn more about them in the infographic below.

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I look for in a face moisturizer?

A face moisturizer should contain skin-nourishing ingredients that work well for your skin type. For example, if you have very dry skin look for ingredients like shea butter, cocoa butter, and hyaluronic acid. Make sure to get the right texture as well. For example, if you have oily skin, choose a lightweight, gel moisturizer for your skin.

Is it OK to use a moisturizer on the face every day?

Yes, absolutely! Moisturize your face twice daily for the best results.

What happens if you use too much face moisturizer?

Using too much moisturizer can make your skin oily and greasy and cause pimples and acne.

How do you tell if a moisturizer is right for you?

If your skin feels soft, and hydrated, and stays plump for long hours without any breakouts, you have the right moisturizer.

What should we apply on the face for glowing skin at night?

Use a brightening moisturizer like the Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Moisturizer for a radiant complexion and anti-aging benefits.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

The wordsmith behind this article is Shiboli Chakraborti, a certified skin care expert. A key step in any skin regimen is moisturization. This is why she has dedicated many hours to researching each of the products mentioned above thoroughly. She read through many product reviews on various forums to curate this list. She selected these products based on ingredients, skin care benefits, and the absence of harsh elements.

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Reviewer Author Editor Fact Checker

Olunife OfomataLicensed Esthetician & Makeup Artist

 

Olunife Ofomata, founder and CEO of Sweeter Juice Skin, is an expert in the fields of esthetics, medical esthetics, and makeup artistry with over 14 years of experience. She is a licensed esthetician and certified makeup artist and obtained her makeup and esthetics education from Makeup Designory in Soho, NYC and Long Island Nail & Skin Care Institute.

Read full bio of Olunife Ofomata

Shiboli ChakrabortiCommerce Editor

 

Shiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.

Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti

Krati DarakAssociate Commerce Editor

Krati is an associate commerce editor, a certified skin care coach, and a beauty enthusiast. She has a master’s degree in advertising and publishing relations from DAVV University and three years of experience in writing and editing for different niches.

Read full bio of Krati Darak

Medha DebCommerce Editor

Medha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.

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