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15 best moisturisers for every skin type, tried and tested in 2026
Sick of stubbornly dry skin? Can't find an oil-free option? You've come to the right place
Moisturiser is one of the most important steps in any skincare routine, no matter your skin type. Ask any dermatologist and they’ll say the only products we actually need is a cleanser, sunscreen and (you guessed it) moisturiser.
Finding the best moisturiser for your skin type is like finding your soulmate. Once you’ve found the one, you will wonder how you ever lived without it. Whether you’ve got oily skin or suffer from an ‘as dry as sandpaper’ complexion, a hard-working moisturiser is one product we would highly recommend everybody use, day and night.
Their main job is to protect the skin barrier and to keep it moisturised – errr, obviously. The best way to think of your skin is like a brick wall and lipids act like the cement holding your skin cells (or bricks) together. If your skin barrier becomes compromised, moisture can escape which will cause dry, sensitive and even acne-prone skin. So layering up with a moisturiser will ensure a plump and glowy complexion. And yes, if you have oily skin, we’re still looking at you.
The best moisturisers for every skin type 2026
Best moisturiser for very dry skin
The INKEY List Bio-Active Ceramide Repairing and Plumping Moisturiser
Read review
What’s the best moisturiser for my skin type?
Choosing the best moisturiser takes a little more consideration than picking up the first tub you lay eyes on. To start with, consider your skin type as this will influence texture. Those with oily or acne-prone skin will appreciate lightweight, non-comedogenic (they don’t clog pores) or oil-free moisturisers in a gel or water-based formula. Those with dry or sensitive skin will enjoy richer creams to protect the skin barrier and quell dehydrated zones.
What’s more, pay attention to the ingredients list. If you have dry or dehydrated skin, look for ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, squalane and glycerin to nourish your skin barrier and feed it with hydration. Oily or acne-prone skin types will benefit from niacinamide and salicylic acid to ease congested pores and reduce shine, while combination skin can handle a mix of niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and glycerin. If you have sensitive skin, be sure to opt for fragrance-free formulas (fragrance can exacerbate sensitivity) as well as soothing ingredients like aloe.
We’ve tried and tested *hundreds* of moisturisers on the market, to see which left skin the most dewy and plump. Here are our top hydrating moisturiser picks for all skin types...
Dr Althea 345 Relief Cream
Dr Althea 345 Relief Cream
Pros
- Lightweight and weightless on the skin
- Kind to sensitive skin types
Cons
- Those with very dry skin may find it too lightweight
Why we love it: Dr Althea’s 345 Relief Cream is the moisture-boosting, skin-calming, antioxidant-rich moisturiser we (and when I say ‘we’, the entire beauty industry) can’t get enough of.
This is a brilliant option if you have sensitive skin as it’s fragrance-free and packed with all the right ingredients to hydrate your skin without causing irritation. There’s niacinamide, panthenol (a skin softener) and opuntia ficus-indica stem extract – a type of antioxidant – to name a few, so it deeply nourishes the skin while also helping to defend it against free-radical damage.
As for the texture, it’s incredibly silky and refreshing: not too rich nor too lightweight but sits perfectly in-between. It really does feel like ‘relief’ for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin. Stick to it and your complexion will improve in texture, evenness and tone.
Key Specifications:
| Skin type: | Dehydrated, sensitive, oily or acne-prone skin |
|---|---|
| Key ingredients: | Niacinamide, panthenol (keeps water in the skin), and opuntia ficus-indica stem extract (an antioxidant) |
| Texture: | Lightweight gel |
Clarins Super Restorative Day Cream SPF15
Clarins Super Restorative Day Cream SPF15
As we begin to age, our skin goes through changes associated with menopause – think: a loss of firmness, increased dryness and dullness as collagen levels decline. Of course, ageing is a natural process to embrace, but it's worth finding a moisturiser that pays extra attention to these changes – and Clarins' Super Restorative Day Cream SPF15 is a standout choice.
True to its name, the rich cream contains organic harungana extract (Clarins' "nature's retinol") and organic gorse extract to help restore the skin's firmness and glow. Sitting alongside them are some of skincare's most trusted ingredients: hyaluronic acid to hydrate and vitamin C to brighten. With broad-spectrum SPF 15 too, it's a day cream designed to protect skin through every stage of menopause, helping to improve firmness, radiance and replenish moisture.
The INKEY List Bio-Active Ceramide Repairing and Plumping Moisturiser
The INKEY List Bio-Active Ceramide Repairing and Plumping Moisturiser
Pros
- Affordable
- Excellent for barrier repair and deep hydration
- Dermatologist tested
- Good option for mature skin
Cons
- Those with oily/acne-prone skin may find it too heavy
Why we love it: You likely recognise this unassuming tub. Though it may look fairly basic on the outside, there’s nothing basic about the formula.
The Inkey Lists’ moisturiser is packed with ceramides which naturally occur in the skin (see them like the glue that holds your skin cells together, keeping moisture in and nasties out). While a ceramide-boosted moisturiser won’t permanently increase the amount of ceramides your body produces, it will feed the outermost layer of skin with them to ensure a hydrated, supported and supple barrier. And if you have a happy barrier, you’ll notice stronger and smoother skin that’s less prone to acne.
As for the texture, opt for this formula is you love a rich, buttery moisturiser that feels like giving your skin a hug after a long day.
Key Specifications:
| Skin type: | Very dry skin |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients: | Ceramides |
| Texture: | Rich |
TIRTIR Matcha Calming Cream
TIRTIR Matcha Calming Cream
Pros
- Skin feels supple and soft after use
- Hydrates and calms dry, sensitive skin
- Blends quickly
Cons
- Some may find it’s too thick as a pre-makeup moisturiser
Why we love it: The texture of this moisturiser is like no other. Imagine the inside of the most wobbly crème brûlée you’ve ever had – the texture of this Matcha Calming Cream isn’t far off. Scoop out a small amount using your fingers (or spatula provided) and gently massage it into your skin.
Quickly, the pudding-like texture dissolves into a silky, refreshing gel that feels instantly hydrating without leaving any stickiness. Fun texture aside, the formula is packed with vegan Matcha PDRN (concentration: 10,000 ppm), heartleaf and 13 peptide complexes, so it helps to soothe irritation and redness while loading your skin with hydration.
Key Specifications:
| Skin type: | Dry, dehydrated and sensitive |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients: | Matcha PDRN (a vegan alternative as most is made from salmon sperm), heartleaf and 13 peptide complexes |
| Texture | Bouncy, pudding-like texture |
AESTURA Atobarrier365 Cream
Pros
- Ceramides and fatty acids support the skin barrier
- Fragrance-free – great for dry and sensitive skin
- A small drop goes a long way
Cons
- It’s not widely stocked
Why we love it: This cream has become one of Korea’s most trusted moisturisers with one sold every 20 seconds. The USP of Aestura’s Atobarrier365 Cream is that it’s packed with ceramides, which will strengthen the skin barrier and keep all moisture locked in.
ICYDK, ceramides are naturally found in the body – they make up a large part of the skin’s lipid layer – which keeps your skin plump and hydrated.
If you have sensitive skin, your skin barrier is likely compromised so it’s a wise idea to supercharge your ceramide production with this cream. A small dollop is all you need: as you’ll discover, the texture is fairly thick, so the warmth of your fingers helps to melt the cream into your skin.
Stay loyal to it and your complexion will look brighter and healthier after only a few uses.
Key Specifications:
| Key Ingredients: | Ceramides |
|---|---|
| Who's it best for? | Dry, sensitive skin |
| Texture: | Lightweight cream |
Supergoop! Triple Prep Moisturiser
Pros
- Multi-tasking: combines hydration with protection
- Has a silky, comfortable texture that blends easily
Cons
- It’s expensive
Why we love it: Here’s the thing: an SPF moisturiser won’t provide the level of protection you need – unless you apply a lot of it. However, supplementing your routine with the Triple Prep Moisturiser is a great way to double down on your protection – because yes, you should already be wearing sunscreen every day.
SPF aside, the formula contains hyaluronic acid, ectoin and glycerin – all deeply nourishing, hydrating and skin-loving ingredients that will leave your skin hydrated on the inside and soft on the outside. There’s also niacinamide, so over time your skin should look more even and unified.
Key Specifications:
| Skin type: | All skin types |
|---|---|
| Key ingredients: | Hyaluronic acid, ectoin, glycerin, niacinamide and SPF 30 |
| Texture: | Silky cream |
Curél Intensive Moisture Facial Cream
Curél Intensive Moisture Facial Cream
Pros
- Packed with conditioning and moisturising ingredients
- A small amount goes a long way
Cons
- May feel too rich if you prefer lighter textures
Why we love it: If you have dry or sensitive skin, you’ve likely come across Curél. Backed by Japanese research, Curél’s Intensive Moisture Facial Cream is the perfect comfort blanket for those with sensitive or dehydrated skin.
It’s all thanks to the barrier-supporting ingredients that make up this formula – there’s ceramides to hydrate and support the skin, while eucalyptus extract (rich in antioxidants) prevents dryness and irritation caused by a compromised moisture barrier.
As for the texture, it’s certainly on the richer side but it doesn’t take any elbow grease to work it into the skin. Our top tip for application: spritz the Deep Moisture Spray onto dry skin followed by the Intensive Moisture Facial Cream. It instantly sinks in, feeling weightless and refreshing.
Key Specifications:
| Skin type: | Dry, sensitive skin |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients: | Ceramides and eucalyptus extract |
| Texture: | Rich |
No7 Good Intent Dew Bank Water Cream
Pros
- Affordable
- Refreshing and lightweight
- Hydrated without feeling too rich
Cons
- Those with very dry skin may want something more intensive
Why we love it: No7’s budget skincare range was a big hit when it launched, and for brilliant reason. It features a range of cleansers and serums as well as this lightweight cream that’s worth all of the hype – and not just for the cute, pastel packaging.
It’s a great formula to buy if you have oily or combination skin as it has a gel-like texture that instantly sinks in without feeling claggy or rich. As for the ingredients list, there’s lightweight hydrators to nourish dehydrated skin without feeling rich – as oily skin still needs hydration! There’s hyaluronic acid and camellia oil (a very light moisturising oil) to keep the skin plump and hydrated. You can’t argue the £14.95 price tag.
Key Specifications:
| Skin type: | Oily or combination skin |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients: | Hyaluronic acid and camelia oil |
| Texture: | Lightweight gel |
Dr.Jart+ Ceramidin Cream
Pros
- Rich texture instantly soothes dryness and irritation
- Packed with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, panthenol and glycerin
- A small drop is all you need
Cons
- It’s expensive
Why we love it: The Ceramidin Cream is one of those skin saviors every bathroom cupboard should contain. This uber-rich cream is packed with ceramides and hyaluronic acid, so it’s a great solution if your skin is having a post-retinol flare up, you suffer from eczema or you just have very very dry skin. Better yet, it also contains panthenol and glycerin to soothe the feeling of tightness and irritation.
It has a buttery, rich texture. Don’t be alarmed though, as cosseting as it is, it instantly absorbs without leaving a greasy slick. Your skin will thank you for it.
Key Specifications:
| Key Ingredients: | Ceramides and hyaluronic acid |
|---|---|
| Who's it best for? | Dry, sensitive skin |
| Texture: | Rich |
PM Facial Moisturising Lotion
Pros
- Great for barrier support
- Affordable
- Lightweight yet hydrating
Cons
- It’s a simple formula that’s more practical than indulgent
Why we love it: If you’re in need of an affordable, hard-working moisturiser that does what it says on the tin, turn to CeraVe’s PM Facial Moisturising Lotion. It may not have that aesthetic shelf appeal, but it’s an uncomplicated, faff-free formula that does what every good moisturiser should do – without breaking the bank either.
TBH anyone can use this fragrance-free cream, though it’s a great option for those with oily skin as it’s non-comedogenic so it won’t clog pores or cause excessive greasiness. It’s also jam packed with barrier-strengthening ceramides to gently soothe and hydrate skin.
Key Specifications:
| Skin type: | Normal-oily skin |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients: | Ceramides, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid |
| Texture: | Lightweight cream |
Weleda Skin Food Original Rich Cream
Pros
- Creates a protective layer to hydrate dry skin
- Lends a radiant sheen
- Can be used as a makeup primer too
Cons
- The finish can look slightly greasy – those with oily or acne-prone skin may find it too intense
- It has a botanical scent
Why we love it: This famous green tube is the classic Weleda Skin Food. Trust us, peep into any MUA’s kit and you’ll likely find one of these tubes inside or in the makeup bag of big-time celebs like Charlie XCX or Rihanna.
Rather than spotlighting ceramides or hyaluronic acid, it’s rich in sunflower seed oil, sweet almond oil, beeswax, lanolin and glycerin, creating a thick and cosseting cream that nourishes dry zones in an instant. It also lends the skin a glossy radiance, so many use it as a primer as it leaves a lit-from-within sheen.
The only downfall, it contains essential oil components so it has a botanical aroma that those with sensitive or acne-prone skin may find too overpowering.
Key Specifications:
| Key Ingredients: | Sweet almond oil and sunflower seed oil, lanolin and chamomile |
|---|---|
| Who's it best for? | Dry skin |
| Texture: | Rich |
Rhode Barrier Restore Cream
Pros
- It’s lightweight, giving the skin a glazed look
- Contains effective hydrating ingredients
- Works well under makeup
Cons
- It’s expensive
Why we love it: It’s easy to get influenced by the celebrity appeal of brands, but Rhode is one of those names we genuinely rate – especially when it comes to its skincare. The Barrier Restore Cream is a brilliant daily choice that will work exceptionally hard in your routine. You can apply it in the morning before SPF, as the last step in your evening routine, or before makeup application. Better yet, it leaves you with that enviable glazed doughnut glow we’re still obsessed with.
It’s not just a pretty face either: it features squalane, shea butter, peptides and niacinamide, so you're getting a whole lot of skincare benefits. After one use, it leaves the skin feeling soft, plump, hydrated and soothed.
Key Specifications:
| Key Ingredients: | Squalane, shea butter, peptides and niacinamide |
|---|---|
| Who's it best for: | Dry skin |
| Texture: | Rich but weightless |
Moisturising Gel Cream
Pros
- Hydrates without appearing greasy
- Helps regulate oil production
- Affordable
Cons
- May feel too lightweight for dry skin types
Why we love it: As gel creams go, this couldn't be any lighter on skin, making it a perfect match for those prone to oiliness.
A weightless moisturiser is exactly what oily skin types need – nothing too rich or heavy that may exacerbate oiliness further – so this pink bottle is perfect for the job. Despite being as light as air, it still contains nourishing ceramides to hydrate the skin as, yes, oily skin types need moisture too.
There’s also niacinamide and green tea to keep oil production in check, soothe irritation and minimise the apperance of pores.
Key Specifications:
| Skin type: | Oily skin |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients: | Ceramides, niacinamide, green tea |
| Texture: | Gel |
Simple Face Cream Soothing Water
Pros
- Hydrates without feeling too rich or heavy
- Lightweight and refreshing
- Affordable
Cons
- Those with super dry skin may find it too light
Why we love it: There’s no need for skincare to break the bank when brands like Simple provide hardworking formulas at affordable prices. Hallelujah!
This hydrating yet lightweight face cream is in equal parts refreshing and nourishing thanks to its ceramide-boosting complex. Once you try it for yourself, you’ll understand why.
It’s water-based so it has a silky and lightweight texture (top tip: store in the fridge for a cooling sensation) that instantly feeds the skin like a pint of water. Alongside ceramides, there’s aloe so you can use this to keep signs of sensitivity (read: redness and irritation) at bay.
Key Specifications:
| Skin type: | Dehydrated, sensitive, acne-prone skin |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients: | Ceramides and aloe |
| Texture: | Lightweight cream |
Vichy Normaderm Double-Correction Daily Care
Vichy Normaderm Double-Correction Daily Care
Pros
- Hydrates acne-prone skin
- Salicylic acid helps to decongest pores
- Lightweight and non-greasy
Cons
- Salicylic acid may be too potent for dry or sensitive skin
Why we love: When you’re prone to spots, applying a moisturiser can feel fairly daunting – we get it. When you’re battling acne, the last thing you want to do is load on a moisturiser. But, here’s the thing: dehydrated skin only compromises your skin barrier further which can lead to more spots. So hydration is crucial.
This gel moisturiser is perfect for the job as it hydrates without feeling too heavy. There’s salicylic acid to gently exfoliate (this helps to decongest pores that can cause acne flare ups) while hyaluronic acid works to quench thirsty skin. It leaves a velvety finish behind so skin is left looking smoother and clearer. What more could you ask for?
Key Specifications:
| Skin type: | All, and blemish prone |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients: | Salicylic and hyaluronic acid |
| Texture: | Gel |
Clinique Moisture Surge 100 Hour Auto-Replenishing Hydrator
Clinique Moisture Surge 100 Hour Auto-Replenishing Hydrator
Pros
- Offers instant and long-lasting hydration
- It’s a great option for makeup prep
- Lends a plump, hydrated and fresh-faced glow
Cons
- It’s less of a barrier repair cream compared to other moisturisers in this edit
Why we love it: If there was a moisturiser hall of fame, this would 100% be in it. Clinique’s Moisture Surge is a tried-and-true formula that’s earned its spot in many skincare routines. Why? It could be the refreshing, jelly-like texture that makes application a dream. Or maybe it’s the fresh scent that feels nostalgic and inviting. But our best guess? It’s the deeply-hydrating formula.
Packed with hydrating hyaluronic acid and soothing aloe water, the lightweight gel soaks in instantly but the moisturising effect will leave skin juicy for hours after. It’s a great option if you have combination skin as it provides a major hydration hit without looking shiny or exacerbating oily zones. A small dollop is all you need either, so this tub will last you.
Key Specifications:
| Skin type: | Combination skin |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients: | Hyaluronic acid and aloe vera water |
| Texture: | Gel |
The Dewy Skin Cream
Pros
- Gives a dewy, fresh-faced finish
- Has a silky-soft texture that’s a treat to use
- Includes skin-conditioning ingredients
Cons
- It’s expensive
Why we love it: There was a lot of chat when the Tatcha Dewy Skin Cream first launched. A moisturiser for nearly £70? *gulp* This is certainly investment territory, but if you have the means to splurge, recently won a scratch card or want to see what the hype is about, it lives up to every expectation.
This lilac pot does what it says on the tin: it leaves a gorgeous, dewy and fresh-faced glaze that looks like you’ve just emerged from a triple-figure facial. It’s all thanks to antioxidant-rich Japanese purple rice that helps to brighten, protect and support the skin barrier – while hyaluronic acid and squalane feeds the skin with hydration.
The results are worth the £69 price tag too. Even after one application, skin looks visibly plumper and more youthful. Not to mention the sensorial experience is a treat too: it turns your skincare routine into something that’s practical into a spa-like experience.
Key Specifications
| Skin type: | Dry skin |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients: | Hyaluronic acid and Japanese purple rice |
| Texture: | Silky, lightweight cream |
What are the best ingredients to look out for in a moisturiser?
If you haven't found your holy grail moisturiser yet, it’s essential to look at the ingredients list first to help decipher what your skin needs.
Dry skin: According to Dr Sina Ghadiri, consultant dermatologist and founder of Sinaesthetics, dry skin needs the most intensive moisturising routine. “Ingredients like glycerin, squalane and ceramides are particularly important to look out for in a facial moisturiser,” he says.
Oily skin: “When you have oily skin, it’s a common misconception that moisturiser isn’t needed. In fact, using the right kind helps balance oil production. Look for lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturisers with niacinamide (which helps regulate sebum production), ultra-low molecular weight hyaluronic acid (which can help actives penetrate deeper) and panthenol (provitamin B5) which is lightweight, hydrating and soothing,” says Dr Sina.
Combination skin: When it comes to combination skin, Dr Sina says it is all about balance. “You want something that hydrates dry areas without overwhelming the oilier zones. Ingredients like niacinamide and ceramides should remain staples. Alternatively, you can also use different moisturisers for different areas of the face – lighter gels for the T-zone and more occlusive moisturisers for the cheeks,” he says.
What are the different types of moisturiser?
Moisturisers fall into three categories: humectants, occlusives and emollients. So which one do you pick based on your skin type? Dr Sina, over to you.
Humectants: “Humectants are ingredients that draw water to themselves in the skin, particularly from the deeper layers of the skin or the environment into the upper layers, hydrating the immediate environment around them,” says Dr Sina. The best examples include glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and urea, making them a great choice for those with dry or dehydrated skin.
Emollients: “These are ingredients designed to soften and smooth, essentially “fill in cracks” in the outermost layer of the skin,” says Dr Sina. Light emollients like squalane, fatty acids and lanolin are brilliant for oily skin as they provide moisture without clogging pores.
Occlusives: “Occlusives essentially form a hydrophobic (water-repelling) barrier over the skin to prevent water loss. Heavier substances like petrolatum, mineral oil, and dimethicone fall into this category. These are best for very dry or compromised skin barriers,” says Dr Sina.
How should you apply moisturiser?
You can buy the most expensive moisturiser out there, but if you’re not using it correctly, you're essentially wasting your skin's potential (harsh, but true).
Dr Ifeoma Ejikeme, medical consultant and founder of the Adonia Medical Clinic, recommends applying your moisturiser when your skin is slightly damp after washing your face or showering. She adds, “It’s easy to get too busy to do this so doing it in the morning is a great way to start the day and protect your skin.”
When it comes to how often you should moisturise, Dr Sina suggests that it is dependent on your skin type. “In general, twice daily is enough – once in the morning and again in the evening. However, for those with very dry or compromised skin, or suffering from particular skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis, may benefit from more frequent application,” he says.
Clare Stephenson is the Senior Fashion and Beauty E-commerce Writer for Cosmopolitan, ELLE and Harper’s Bazaar. She has been an e-commerce writer since 2022, creating matter-of-fact reviews and shopping pages filled with her favourite products for every budget and need – whether that’s a glow-giving foundation, a high-tech LED face mask or the perfect wear-with-everything blazer.
Alongside writing, Clare loves to be in front of the camera creating shopping content, putting viral products to the test to see which ones are truly worth the hype. Through her work, she has interviewed leading dermatologists, makeup artists and industry experts to bring readers trusted advice and product recommendations.
Clare has contributed to titles across the Hearst UK portfolio, including Women’s Health, Good Housekeeping, Red and Prima. Prior to joining Hearst, she earned a BA in Multimedia Journalism from Bournemouth University, focusing her studies on magazines and editorial. She later worked as an editorial assistant at Voir Fashion Magazine, covering events including Fashion Week and interviewing notable brand founders.
Outside of work? You can find Clare strolling through London’s Columbia Road Market, pouring her fourth coffee of the day or heading to a Pilates class.
Follow Clare on Instagram @clarefrancesstephenson.
Lia Mappoura (she/her) is the Beauty Writer at Cosmopolitan UK, with over four years of experience reporting across the brand's print, social, video and digital platforms. Lia covers everything from emerging trend analysis to viral celebrity hair and makeup moments, making her an expert at spotting the season’s next big beauty look (before it takes over social media feeds).
In 2025, she was named The Rising Media Star at the Love Perfume Awards with The Perfume Shop, recognised for her outstanding digital fragrance content and for building genuine authority within the space. She is passionate about challenging outdated beauty stereotypes, championing inclusive representation in beauty, and educating readers on the trends, products and conversations shaping the industry today. Follow her on Instagram or find her on LinkedIn.
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