15 Best Drugstore Moisturizers, Per Testing and Dermatologists
<p>As someone who struggles with dry, <a href=” target=”_blank”>sensitive skin</a>, I know that finding the right moisturizer is everything. But after years of using luxury creams, I was pleasantly surprised to find that the best drugstore moisturizer may work just as well, if not better than, more expensive ones. “There are many fantastic options for moisturizers at the drugstore, and this is a product that doesn’t need to be expensive,” explains <a href=” target=”_blank”>Michele Farber, M.D.</a>, a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology group in Philadelphia.</p><p>When selecting a drugstore moisturizer, it’s important to consider your skin type and specific concerns, says <a href=” target=”_blank”>Pooja Rambhia, M.D.</a>, a board-certified dermatologist. “Look for ingredients that cater to your needs: for <a href=” target=”_blank”>dry skin</a>, opt for richer formulas with <a href=” target=”_blank”>hyaluronic acid</a> and glycerin; for oily or <a href=” target=”_blank”>acne-prone skin</a>, lightweight, non-comedogenic options are best,” she says.</p><p class=”body-tip”>Meet the experts: <a href=” target=”_blank”>Michele Farber, M.D.</a>, board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in Philadelphia; <a href=” target=”_blank”>Pooja Rambhia, M.D.</a>, board-certified dermatologist; <a href=” target=”_blank”>Debra Jaliman, M.D.</a>, board-certified cosmetic dermatologist.</p><p class=”body-text”>But the drugstore moisturizers that go above and beyond do more than just hydrate. “Additionally, consider the presence of beneficial ingredients like <a href=” target=”_blank”>antioxidants</a> or SPF for added protection,” Dr. Rambhia suggests. “Reading labels and choosing products that are dermatologist-tested can also help ensure you’re making a safe and effective choice.”<br><br>Ahead, find the best drugstore moisturizers for all skin types according to experts and testing.</p>”/>
1
Best Drugstore Moisturizer Overall
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Facial Moisturizer
Pros
- Non-comedogenic
- Works for all skin types
- Lightweight formula
Cons
- Some reviewers noted pilling
Dr. Rambhia, Dr. Farber, and Debra Jaliman, M.D., a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist, all sing the praises of this moisturizer. “This lightweight, oil-free moisturizer helps to hydrate and restore the skin barrier while soothing irritation,” Dr. Rambhia explains. “Its non-comedogenic formula ensures that it won’t clog pores, providing essential hydration without worsening breakouts.” Plus, “it’s great for nearly all skin types,” Dr. Farber adds.
What reviewers say: “The Double Repair Face Moisturizer is incredible! It’s so refreshing and has noticeably improved my skin’s texture and appearance in just a week. This is the ONLY facial moisturizer with sunscreen I’ve found that doesn’t clog my pores or leave a greasy feeling.”
| Key Ingredients | Niacinamide, ceramides, antioxidants |
|---|---|
| Size | 3.38 fl oz |
2
Best Drugstore Moisturizer for Dry Skin
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested
- Fragrance-free
- Affordable
Cons
- Some reviewers noted packaging issues
All three dermatologists say CeraVe is a great affordable option for dry skin. “It contains ceramides to help repair the barrier as well as hyaluronic acid for hydration. It’s also fragrance free,” Dr. Jaliman says. “CeraVe products are also dermatologist-tested, making them a trusted choice for many,” Dr. Rambhia adds. “Additionally, the cream is incredibly versatile–safe for babies, children, and adults of all ages, it is perfect for those with sensitive skin and effectively moisturizes both the face and body.”
What reviewers say: “I have very dry skin so I slather this on every single day after I shower. CeraVe is amazingly moisturizing and absorbs well with no lingering stickiness,” said one shopper. “Great product, great value!”
| Key Ingredients | Hyaluronic acid, ceramides |
|---|---|
| Size | 1.19 lb |
5
Best Drugstore Moisturizer for Mature Skin
Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream
Pros
- Helps diminish appearance of wrinkles
- Promotes cell turnover
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Some reviewers experienced breakouts after use
“Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream is great for mature skin because it’s a fantastic hydrator and contains ingredients that are anti-aging,” Dr. Farber says. “It contains amino peptides to decrease fine lines and wrinkles and hyaluronic acid to hydrate the skin,” Dr. Jaliman explains. Plus, it’s free of common irritants like fragrance and contains Vitamin B3 to promote skin cell turnover.
What reviewers say: “This cream takes good care of my aging dry skin; I have no wrinkles and my skin doesn’t look dry or crepey. I no longer wear foundation as this skin moisturizing cream helps my skin look radiant, smooth, and natural.”
| Key Ingredients | Vitamin B3, hyaluronic acid, amino peptides |
|---|---|
| Size | 1.7 fl oz |
6
Best Drugstore Moisturizer with SPF
Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Moisturizer with SPF 30
Pros
- Contains SPF
- Helps even skin tone
- Oil-free
Cons
- Some reviewers noted packaging issues
My dermatologist recommended this to me years ago as a daytime moisturizer/sunscreen and it’s been my holy grail ever since. Unlike other moisturizers with SPF I’ve tried, this one never pills or leaves a white cast. In fact, it leaves a sheer, glowy finish and evens my skin’s texture, making it an amazing base for makeup. “It contains soy to even skin tone and has glycerin to hydrate the skin,” Dr. Jaliman adds.
What reviewers say: “I have rosacea on my upper cheeks so when I use products they have to be for super sensitive skin or else my skin starts to burn and my rosacea flares up. This is very gentle on my skin, doesn’t cause flare ups, and smells AMAZING!”
| Key Ingredients | Soy, antioxidants, SPF, glycerin |
|---|---|
| Size | 2.3 fl oz |
9
Best Value Drugstore Moisturizer
Olay Whip Face Moisturizer
According to Dr. Jaliman, this lightweight cream works like a dream under makeup.
“It contains peptides to stimulate collagen production and niacinamide to even out skin tone,” she explains. “It’s very lightweight and is great under makeup.” Plus, it leaves a matte finish so your skin won’t be left looking greasy.
What reviewers say: “This product delivers what it says it will deliver. It’s a great moisturizer and keeps the wrinkles away for as long as possible.”
| Key Ingredients | Peptides, niacinamide, dimethicone |
|---|---|
| Size | 1.7 oz |
11
Best Thick Drugstore Moisturizer
Weleda Skin Food Light Nourishing Cream
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Fragrance-free
- Fragrance free
Cons
- Some reviewers found it greasy
“If you want a thick, moisturizing cream that keeps dry winter skin at bay, here’s your perfect pick,” says Digital Director Allie Early. “This lotion is my go-to for colder months (and I use it on my face and body). When I’m feeling dry, I also layer a serum under Weleda. It smells great, never breaks me out, and is so affordable. My husband also steals it often to keep his hands moisturized for rowing crew, which says a lot…it works!”
What reviewers say: “My skin has never felt so nourished and rejuvenated. The texture is light and absorbs quickly, leaving my skin feeling supple all day.”
| Key Ingredients | Glycerin, beeswax, sunflower oil, pansy extract |
|---|---|
| Size | 2.5 fl oz |
12
Best Drugstore Moisturizing Night Cream
CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Works to improve skin texture
Cons
- Some reviewers found it greasy
“This moisturizer contains a unique blend of ingredients, including peptides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid, which work together to hydrate and restore the skin’s barrier,” says Dr. Rambhia. “While it doesn’t contain retinol, its formulation is designed to improve skin texture and firmness over time. This night cream provides rich moisture, making it ideal for mature skin that needs extra hydration and support for a more youthful appearance.”
What reviewers say: “This cream has been a great addition to my nighttime skin care routine,” said one shopper. “The texture is rich but not greasy, and it absorbs well, leaving my skin feeling soft and refreshed by morning. I’ve noticed my skin looking more even and plump after using it for a few weeks.”
| Key Ingredients | Niacinamide, peptides, ceramides, hyaluronic acid |
|---|---|
| Size | 1.7 fl oz |
15
Best Lightweight Drugstore Moisturizer
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Dermallergo
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Good for dry skin
- Paraben-free
Cons
- Pricey
“La Roche-Posay Toleriane Dermallergo is fantastic for dry skin as it’s ultra-rich but doesn’t feel heavy,” says Dr. Farber. “It has squalane, dimethicone, and glycerin to hydrate and protect the skin barrier.” Plus, it’s free of fragrances, parabens, and alcohols, making it a great choice for sensitive skin.
What reviewers say: “I’m a 72-year-old woman who started breaking out after menopause. This product put an end to my breakouts,” said one shopper. “This product was a miracle for me.”
| Key Ingredients | Shea butter, squalane, dimethicone, glycerin |
|---|---|
| Size | 1.35 fl oz |
How to choose the best drugstore moisturizer
- Know your skin type. While all skin types will benefit from a good moisturizer, different skin types will react differently to certain products. “If you’re dry, a thicker product like a cream is best,” Dr. Farber explains. “If you’re oily or acne-prone, choose a lighter product like a lotion and make sure it’s oil-free.” If you have sensitive skin, Dr. Jaliman also suggests looking for a moisturizer with soothing ingredients like colloidal oatmeal.
- Read the ingredients. While browsing through the skin care aisle, it’s a good idea to check the ingredient labels on moisturizers. “Ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin are great for hydration,” Dr. Farber says. “Shea butter is also very moisturizing,” Dr. Jaliman adds.
- Avoid common irritants. Just as you want to look for certain beneficial ingredients, there are also some it’s a good idea to avoid. Dr. Jaliman suggests staying away from moisturizers that contain fragrance, for instance, especially if you have sensitive skin. Other common irritants to avoid are parabens, dyes, lanolin (if you have an allergy), and formaldehyde.
How we chose the best drugstore moisturizers
Our team consulted Michele Farber, M.D., board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in Philadelphia, PA; Pooja Rambhia, M.D., board-certified dermatologist; and Debra Jaliman, M.D., a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist. We also conducted our own testing and evaluated dozens of customer reviews to narrow down the best drugstore moisturizers for various needs and preferences.
Why trust us
For more than 70 years, Prevention has been a leading provider of trustworthy health information, empowering readers with practical strategies to improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Our editors interview medical experts to help guide our health-focused product selections. Additionally, Prevention also examines hundreds of reviews—and often conducts personal testing done by our staff—to help you make informed decisions.
Jenn Gonick was previously Prevention’s editorial intern for e-commerce and gift guides, and she now writes about health and wellness for Prevention. Jenn is also a recent graduate of George Washington University.
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