Discover the secrets to radiant skin with the best moisturisers that are essential in your skincare routine. Choose wisely, and your skin will express its gratitude!
Incorporating a high-quality moisturiser into your daily skincare regimen is vital for maintaining healthy, hydrated skin. After cleansing your face and applying a skin toner (opens in new tab), as well as your favorite facial oil (opens in new tab), the next crucial step is to apply a moisturiser. However, with a vast array of products available, finding the right one tailored to your skin’s needs is key. If you’re having trouble keeping your skin adequately moisturised, it’s essential to seek out formulations rich in beneficial ingredients. According to NHS dermatologist Dr Cristina Psomadakis (opens in new tab), the ideal moisturisers generally include three types of active ingredients: emollients that smooth the skin, humectants that attract moisture, and occlusives that create a protective barrier to lock in hydration.
Contrary to the common misconception that the thickest creams are the most effective, the best moisturisers rely on the quality of their ingredients rather than their texture. For instance, hyaluronic acid is a superstar hydrating ingredient that can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water, ensuring your skin remains plump and hydrated. Additionally, ceramides are vital for reinforcing the skin barrier, while glycerin is a staple ingredient in many moisturisers, known for its ability to draw moisture from the air into the skin. Dr. Psomadakis emphasizes the importance of looking for specific ingredients that cater to your skin type, such as ceramides, glycerin, panthenol, and allantoin. From budget-friendly options to luxurious anti-ageing formulations, we’ve compiled a list of the best moisturisers that will provide your skin with the nourishment it craves.
Key Factors to Evaluate When Selecting the Ideal Moisturiser for Your Skin
- Star rating: Our in-house star rating system is based on thorough peer reviews. These experts have rigorously tested the most effective moisturisers and awarded stars based on several criteria such as product quality, usability, consumer feedback, accolades, and overall value. A 5-star rating is a rare accolade, indicating that a product has exceeded our reviewers’ expectations.
- Active ingredients: We focused on identifying moisturisers that offer a blend of emollient, humectant, and occlusive components. Some of the most powerful moisture-binding ingredients include hyaluronic acid, ceramides, peptides, glycerin, and fatty acids.
- Cruelty-free options: As the beauty industry evolves, more brands are recognizing the importance of ethical practices. We prioritize selecting products from companies that are committed to cruelty-free testing.
- Sustainable packaging: Moisturisers typically come in jars that allow you to scoop out the desired amount easily. This ensures minimal product waste. While some options come in squeeze bottles, we only include those with justifiable formulas and widely recyclable packaging, as sustainability is a critical concern—non-recyclable products are not included.
(Image credit: Stephanie Maylor)
Explore Our Comprehensive List of the 12 Best Moisturisers for Every Skin Type
(Image credit: Kiehl’s)
Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream stands out as their best-selling product, beloved by Beauty Editors for its efficiency. This moisturiser is straightforward—providing intense hydration that leaves skin feeling full and elastic. Remarkably, it enhances skin hydration by 2.3 times following just a single application. What makes this cult-favorite cream so remarkable is its proven ability to combat moisture loss in harsh environments that typically sap skin moisture, ensuring lasting comfort and suppleness even in extreme conditions like frigid winters, scorching heat, or dry air-conditioned spaces.
“Ultra Facial Cream is one of my all-time favorite hydrators, and I’m constantly recommending it,” shares Fiona McKim (opens in new tab), Beauty Editor of Woman&Home. “What I enjoy most is its unique slippery texture, which is somehow both lightweight and deeply hydrating. It never feels heavy or sticky on my combination skin but effectively leaves it feeling soft, bouncy, and comfortable.” With over 70 international beauty awards under its belt, it’s no surprise that this cream has garnered such acclaim!
(Image credit: Indie Lee)
2. Indie Lee Active Oil Free Moisturizer
The best choice for those with oily skin
Product Specifications
RRP: $50/£47
Active ingredients: Mandarin extract, Glycerin, Pomegranate, Milk Thistle
Cruelty-free: Yes
Packaging: Recyclable box and glass bottle
Benefits of Choosing This Product
Sienna Blake is a licensed aesthetic consultant and beauty writer specializing in cosmetic surgery advancements and non-invasive treatments. With a background in dermatology and over eight years of industry experience, Sienna is passionate about helping people achieve confidence through informed beauty decisions. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Health Sciences and regularly collaborates with top plastic surgeons to stay at the forefront of aesthetic innovations. Outside of her work, Sienna enjoys traveling, skincare research, and practicing Pilates.