The Best Face Moisturizers
You don't have to commit to a ten-step skincare routine just to make your face look great in the mornings. In fact, all you really need to keep your skin healthy through the years is a good face moisturizer. Whether you have dry, oily, or sensitive skin, face lotions hydrate your skin barrier, making it stronger against different types of damage, ranging from redness to fine lines. But with so many products on the market today, it can be hard to know where to begin, which is why we did some of the legwork for you in compiling our favorite moisturizers on the market.
What to Look For
We took protective quality, ease of absorption, and cost into consideration when vetting the top contenders on our list to make sure your new moisturizer matches your skin routine and your lifestyle. So, for example, if you’re looking for a super-affordable protective ointment, you can’t go wrong with the bulk bottle of facial sunblock by CeraVe. But if you don’t mind spending a bit more on a lightweight moisturizer that can shield your skin from the sun’s rays while also giving you color at the same time, opt for the tinted gel by bareMinerals instead. Check out the rest of our best balms below.
EltaMD UV Daily Face Moisturizer
Pure protection for your pores
When it comes to caring for your skin, sun protection is one of the most important factors to consider. That’s why the folks over at EltaMD created a moisturizer that protects as it hydrates. This daily lotion blocks UVA and UVB rays and also has hyaluronic acid in its formal to diminish aging lines as you wear it. Best of all, this mineral moisturizer is as natural as it is shielding thanks to its vegan, paraben-free recipe.
Pros:
- This face balm offers full sun protection without leaving unsightly white residue like other sunblocking lotions.
- You can apply your regular makeup regime over this moisturizer without worrying about cakiness or clumping.
Cons:
- This moisturizer has a stronger smell.
CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion
Save on cost, not ceramides
Splurging on beauty products can set you back a pretty penny, and face moisturizers are no exception. Thankfully, though, you can get all-day hydration for less with this morning facial balm by CeraVe. Formulated with ceramides that naturally occur in the skin, this moisturizer strengthens your skin barrier over time. Plus, you can use this larger pump container on any skin type so you can share the goodness between your household.
Pros:
- Your skin should feel hydrated without also looking greasy. Fortunately, this moisturizer goes on easily and absorbs just as fast for reliable replenishment all day.
- The added hyaluronic acid and niacinamide retain moisture while calming the skin at the same time.
Cons:
- Due to its sunblocking formula, this moisturizer leaves a white cast on the skin.
The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors HA
Better everyday
Finding the right face lotion for your skin isn’t always easy, which is why so many people stick to their preferred product when they finally do. With that in mind, we love this moisturizer by The Ordinary because it’s designed to work with your skin over time. With over 11 amino acids, essential ceramides, and a heap of other components that are naturally found in the skin, this lotion replenishes while rebuilding with every subsequent use. Plus, you can put it on under your makeup for results that last.
Pros:
- This non-greasy formula is safe to use on even the most sensitive skin types.
- If you have competing perfumed products in your skincare routine, then you’ll appreciate the unscented formula of this bad boy.
Cons:
- This moisturizer comes in a very small container, so you’ll need to replace it more often.
Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Facial Moisturizer
Goodbye to breakouts
Not all face moisturizers are created equal. So if your skin is prone to breakouts and clogged pores, then you need to find a lotion that works for you rather than against you. Fortunately, here’s where this acne moisturizer by Neutrogena really stands out. Made with a water-based formula, this lightweight balm absorbs quickly without feeling greasy on oily skin. Moreover, it also contains salicylic acid medication in every drop to help treat blemishes as you use it.
Pros:
- The scent of naturally derived grapefruit extract doesn’t just leave your skin smelling fresh — it also fades over a few minutes of wear so that you can apply your normal perfume.
- Perfect for mornings when you’re running late, this moisturizer comes in an easy-to-use pump bottle for fast dispensing.
Cons:
- Because it’s designed for oily skin, this moisturizer doesn’t feel very hydrating on dry skin types.
bareMinerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Hydrating Gel Cream
Cover and color
Though most makeup products these days are formulated with your skin in mind, it can still feel quite heavy to layer serums, moisturizers, and concealers atop one another every day. Instead, why not combine the last few steps into one for a more natural look and feel? This tinted cream by bareMinerals is made with botanicals and electrolytes to instantly hydrate your skin while giving it sheer to medium coverage at the same time.
Pros:
- Get the tan without the burn thanks to the UV-protecting components of this SPF 30 face lotion.
- Unlike normal foundation, this moisturizer won’t settle into your wrinkles and fine lines, giving you plumper-looking skin in the process.
Cons:
- This moisturizer costs more than other non-tinted options.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I’m using the right moisturizer?
Though there’s always some room for experimentation when trying a new lotion, there are a few tell-tale signs to look out for when figuring out if your balm is right for you. For example, if you notice any redness, dryness, acne, or new bumps that develop after the first few weeks of use, then you may want to try a new product.
When should I moisturize?
To keep your skin feeling hydrated and healthy, we recommend applying your face lotion after cleansing twice a day — once in the morning and once at night before you go to sleep. This will help keep your skin happy over an entire 24-hour period. And if you have other steps in your skincare routine, like serums, for example, apply those first before using the moisturizer.
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Since 2001, our experts at TheFashionSpot have been providing millions of people with our take on the latest trends. TheFashionSpot is constantly looking for the hottest styles in clothing and accessories for people of all body types. Our team knows that beauty starts well before the closet, so we are also dedicated to finding the best products for your skin and hair.