As far as moisturizers go, there are endless options to choose from—which can make it extremely difficult to actually choose one. From the daytime formulas to overnight formulas and even tinted moisturizers, it can be hard to sort through each product to determine which one is right for you. So instead of giving you a massive 20-product list, we decided to bring you the 5 best moisturizers for each category—from the top formula to use under makeup that gives you glowing skin underneath to the non-toxic moisturizer that leaves your skin feeling plump and hydrated for hours. Below are our favorite formulas for each category.
Best Clean Formula: Biossance Squalane + Omega Repair Cream ($58)
Biossance Squalane + Omega Repair Cream
Biossance has been one of the buzziest skincare lines since it burst on the scene a few years ago, creating major waves for being one of the only clean skincare lines that actually works. Their Squalane + Omega Repair Cream is a thick, non-greasy formula perfect for both the morning and evenings that will deliver the hydration your skin needs. It contains omega fatty acids plus ceramide which plumps the skin while supporting it’s natural barrier. The thick formula never feels heavy but delivers major moisture for even the dryest of skin types.
Best For Under Makeup: La Mer Moisturizing Cream ($180)
Crème de La Mer Moisturizing Cream
La Mer is known for their luxurious skin products that deliver serious results, and this one is no different. The La Mer Moisturizing Cream is an iconic product for a reason—it’s infused with cell-supporting Miracle Broth to heal away dry skin and protect against pollution. The secret to using this product is warming it for a few seconds in your hands until it melts and then pressing it gently into your skin. This gives you a natural glow that becomes the perfect palette for applying makeup over, which is why many top makeup artists use this to prep the skin before they begin their makeup application. It’s moisturizing and skin plumping without ever feeling greasy, making it the ideal canvas for makeup.
Best For Eyes: SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Eye Complex ($98)
SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Eye Complex
Dark circles, be gone! SkinCeuticals’ A.G.E. Eye Complex instantly reduces the appearance of dark circles, crow’s feet, and puffiness. The antiwrinkle cream also helps firm the skin under the eyes (which we all know is the most fragile and one of the first places to start losing elasticity) and reduce the appearance of any sagging. This is the ultimate product for anyone that suffers from persistent dark circles, or when you just need an extra boost after a night of less-than optimal sleep. One quick application under the eyes and you’ll be able to fool everyone into thinking you got a full night’s rest.
Best Multipurpose Product: UBeauty Resurfacing Compound ($148)
Talk about a product that works double-duty—U Beauty’s Resurfacing Compound is like three products in one. Made in Italy, it helps improve skin’s texture and minimize pores while resurfacing and renewing your complexion. Just apply a few pumps morning and night after cleansing (no need for toner!), and within a few days your skin will appear brighter, plumper, and more even. If your skin is more on the dry side, you’ll probably want to add another moisturizer on top, but if you have normal to oily skin this should stand well on it’s own. It also works particularly well in humid weather because it’s never greasy or oily.
Best For Overnight: Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream ($100)
Photo: Charlotte Tilbury
Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream Moisturizer
Charlotte Tilbury’s Magic Cream is as iconic as products get—and it’s easy to understand why once you start using it. It visibly plumps the skin using bionymph peptides and delivers a burst of hydration using hyaluronic acid, all while softening the skin with shea butter. Tapping Magic Cream into your cheeks and underage area also helps de-puff. The thick formula is great for overnight because although it absorbs into the skin quickly, it really seals in moisture so that 8 hours later you’ll wake up still feeling hydrated (especially if you suffer from ultra-dry skin).
What’s your favorite moisturizer?
Let us know in the comments below!
