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Top 14 Best Face Moisturizers for Dry Sensitive Skin

UpdatedNovember 29, 2023

Dry, sensitive skin can be a challenging skin type to care for, especially when it comes to finding the right facial moisturizer. The ideal moisturizer for dry, sensitive skin should be gentle, hydrating, and free of harsh ingredients that can cause irritation. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for your skin.

When searching for the best face moisturizer for dry sensitive skin, there are a few key factors to keep in mind. First, it's important to look for a moisturizer that's specifically formulated for dry, sensitive skin. These products are typically fragrance-free and contain gentle ingredients that won't irritate or dry out the skin.

Another important factor to consider is the level of hydration the moisturizer provides. Look for a product that contains ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin, which can help to deeply hydrate and nourish dry skin.

Finally, it's essential to choose a moisturizer that offers long-lasting hydration without leaving a greasy or heavy residue on the skin. A lightweight, non-greasy formula is ideal for those with dry, sensitive skin who want to keep their skin moisturized and healthy without feeling weighed down.

Top 3 Best Face Moisturizers for Dry Sensitive Skin

  1. Tiege Hanley Nighttime Facial Moisturizer
  2. COSRX Snail Mucin 92% Moisturizer
  3. CeraVe Moisturizing Cream

As beauty enthusiasts, we understand the importance of a good moisturizer, especially for those with dry and sensitive skin. Finding the perfect moisturizer can be a daunting task, but we've done the research and put together a list of the best face moisturizers for dry sensitive skin. Our top picks not only provide intense hydration but also soothe and protect delicate skin. Check out our list below to find your new go-to moisturizer.

Tiege Hanley Nighttime Facial Moisturizer

Editor's Choice

Tiege Hanley's Nighttime Facial Moisturizer excels in deeply hydrating and comforting dry, sensitive skin, an ideal addition to your nightly skincare ritual. Its gentle formula caters to delicate skin, offering not just hydration but a blend of nourishing ingredients for a radiant complexion. Yet, its higher price and lack of SPF might be considerations. Overall, for those seeking tailored care, it's a top choice.

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If you're on the quest for the ultimate nighttime facial moisturizer tailored to dry, sensitive skin, look no further than Tiege Hanley Nighttime Facial Moisturizer. This skincare gem stands out in the crowded market with its unique blend of nourishing ingredients specially formulated to address the needs of those with delicate and moisture-craving skin.

Pros

  • Hydrates and soothes dry, sensitive skin throughout the night
  • Gentle formula suitable for sensitive skin types
  • Packed with key ingredients for skin nourishment

Cons

  • May be on the higher end of the price spectrum
  • Doesn't contain SPF for daytime protection

The standout feature of Tiege Hanley's Nighttime Facial Moisturizer lies in its ability to provide deep hydration and comfort to dry, sensitive skin, making it an ideal companion for your nighttime skincare routine. The gentle formula is crafted with sensitivity in mind, ensuring that even the most delicate skin types can benefit from its soothing properties.

This moisturizer doesn't just stop at hydration – it goes the extra mile with a carefully curated blend of key ingredients aimed at nourishing your skin. Its thoughtful formulation takes into account the specific needs of those with dry, sensitive skin, working harmoniously to promote a healthier and more radiant complexion.

However, it's essential to consider that quality often comes with a price, and Tiege Hanley's Nighttime Facial Moisturizer may be positioned at a higher price point compared to some alternatives. Additionally, for those seeking daytime protection from the sun, it's worth noting that this moisturizer does not contain SPF.

In conclusion, if you prioritize a nighttime facial moisturizer that caters specifically to the demands of dry, sensitive skin, Tiege Hanley Nighttime Facial Moisturizer emerges as a top contender. Its hydrating prowess, gentle formulation, and focus on nourishing ingredients make it a noteworthy choice for individuals looking to elevate their skincare game.

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If you're looking for a moisturizer that can keep your dry and sensitive skin hydrated and healthy, the COSRX Snail Mucin 92% Moisturizer might be the perfect product for you.

We've been using this moisturizer for a while now, and we can say that it's a great product for those with dry and sensitive skin. The snail mucin, hyaluronic acid, and betaine work together to provide long-lasting hydration and repair the skin after breakouts and other irritations. We love how it glides onto the skin and instantly soothes damaged skin while delivering moisture deep into the skin.

This moisturizer is made with natural and hypoallergenic ingredients, so it's perfect for those with sensitive skin. We also appreciate that it's cruelty-free and doesn't contain parabens, sulfates, or phthalates. However, we should note that this product may not work for everyone, and some users may find the texture to be too slimy. Additionally, the scent may not be appealing to everyone.

Overall, if you're looking for a moisturizer that can provide long-lasting hydration and repair your skin, the COSRX Snail Mucin 92% Moisturizer is definitely worth a try.

Pros

  • Long-lasting hydration that soothes and plumps the skin.
  • Supercharged repairing moisturizer that strengthens the skin barrier.
  • Made with natural and hypoallergenic ingredients.

Cons

  • May not work for everyone.
  • Some users may find the texture to be too slimy.
  • The scent may not be appealing to everyone.
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If you are looking for a reliable and gentle moisturizer for your dry and sensitive skin, CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is definitely worth considering.

We have been using CeraVe Moisturizing Cream for a while now, and we are impressed with its effectiveness and gentleness. The cream feels rich and velvety on the skin, and it absorbs quickly without leaving any residue or stickiness. Our skin feels instantly hydrated and nourished, and the effects last throughout the day and night.

We appreciate that the formula contains essential ceramides and hyaluronic acid, which are known to be beneficial for dry and sensitive skin. We also like that the cream is fragrance-free, oil-free, hypoallergenic, and non-comedogenic, making it suitable for various skin types and concerns.

Overall, we highly recommend CeraVe Moisturizing Cream to anyone looking for a gentle and effective moisturizer for their dry and sensitive skin. It is a great value for the price, and it delivers on its promises of hydration and skin barrier restoration.

Pros

  • The unique formula with hyaluronic acid and ceramides provides 24-hour hydration and helps restore the protective skin barrier.
  • The non-greasy and fast-absorbing texture leaves your skin feeling smooth and soft without any sticky or oily residue.
  • The gentle and non-irritating formula is suitable for both the face and body and holds the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance.

Cons

  • The large 19-ounce jar may not be convenient for travel or on-the-go use.
  • The cream may feel too heavy or thick for some users, especially in hot and humid weather.
  • Some users may experience breakouts or irritation due to the specific ingredients in the formula.
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If you are looking for a moisturizer that hydrates dry sensitive skin, L'Oreal Paris Skincare Hydra-Renewal Face Moisturizer with Pro-Vitamin B5 is a great option.

We have been using this moisturizer for a while now and have noticed a significant improvement in our skin's hydration levels. It leaves our skin feeling soft, smooth, and healthy-looking. We also appreciate that it is dermatologist tested for gentleness and non-comedogenic, which means it does not clog pores.

One thing to keep in mind is that if you have extremely dry skin, this moisturizer may not provide enough hydration. Additionally, it has a strong fragrance that may not be suitable for everyone. If you have oily skin, you may find that this moisturizer feels greasy.

Overall, we would recommend L'Oreal Paris Skincare Hydra-Renewal Face Moisturizer for anyone looking for a hydrating moisturizer for dry sensitive skin.

Pros

  • Provides all-day hydration
  • Leaves skin softer, healthy-looking, and radiant
  • Dermatologist tested for gentleness and non-comedogenic

Cons

  • May not work for extremely dry skin
  • Has a strong fragrance that may not be suitable for everyone
  • May feel greasy on oily skin
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If you're looking for a gentle moisturizer for sensitive, dry skin, we highly recommend Aveeno Calm + Restore Oat Gel Facial Moisturizer.

We've been using this moisturizer for a few weeks now and have been impressed with how quickly it soothes dry, irritated skin. The lightweight gel cream absorbs quickly and doesn't leave a greasy residue. Plus, it's hypoallergenic and free of common irritants, making it a great choice for those with sensitive skin.

One thing to note is that the product has a slight honey scent, which may be off-putting to some users. Additionally, the applicator could be more efficient - we found that it was difficult to get all of the product out of the container.

Overall, if you're in the market for a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer for sensitive, dry skin, we think Aveeno Calm + Restore Oat Gel Facial Moisturizer is a great option.

Pros

  • Instantly hydrates and soothes irritated, dry skin
  • Fragrance-free, paraben-free, alcohol-free, dye-free, and phthalate-free
  • Non-comedogenic, so it won't clog pores

Cons

  • Some customers have reported that the product has a slight honey scent
  • Applicator could be more efficient
  • Not as moisturizing as some other products on the market
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If you're looking for a daily facial lotion to quench extra-dry skin and keep it looking smooth, supple, and hydrated day after day, then the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Gel-Cream Moisturizer is a great choice.

We've been using this moisturizer for a few weeks now, and we're impressed with how well it works. It's very hydrating and has helped to relieve our intense dryness, leaving our skin feeling smooth and supple. The gel-cream formula is lightweight and absorbs quickly, and it doesn't leave any greasy or sticky residue.

One of the best things about the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Gel-Cream Moisturizer is that it's non-comedogenic, oil-free, dye-free, and fragrance-free, making it suitable for people with sensitive skin. It can be worn alone or under makeup, and it provides long-lasting moisture relief for extra-dry skin.

Overall, we would definitely recommend this product to anyone looking for a high-quality moisturizer for dry, sensitive skin. It's a little pricey, but it's worth the investment for the results it provides.

Pros

  • The unique gel-cream formula absorbs quickly like a gel and has the long-lasting moisturizing power of a cream.
  • Formulated with hyaluronic acid, a hydrator found naturally in the skin, it attracts moisture and locks it in.
  • This moisturizer formula for dry skin results in more supple, healthy-looking, and smooth-looking skin.

Cons

  • This product is non-sealed, which might be a concern for some customers.
  • It might not be suitable for people with oily skin as it is a little heavy.
  • The price is a little bit higher than other moisturizers on the market.
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If you have dry and sensitive skin, we highly recommend the CETAPHIL Deep Hydration Healthy Glow Daily Face Cream.

We've tried many face moisturizers, and this one stands out for its effectiveness on dry and sensitive skin. The HYDROSENSITIVE complex, combined with hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, vitamin B5, and vitamin E, rehydrates and soothes dry and dehydrated skin, leaving it soft and supple. The cream is gentle enough for sensitive skin and won't clog pores or irritate the skin.

The CETAPHIL Deep Hydration Healthy Glow Daily Face Cream is easy to apply and absorbs quickly, making it a great choice for a daily moisturizer. It leaves a gentle scent and is clinically tested on sensitive skin. We highly recommend this product to anyone looking for a reliable face moisturizer for dry and sensitive skin.

Pros

  • The HYDROSENSITIVE complex deeply hydrates and soothes skin sensitivity.
  • It replenishes skin's hydration for 48 hours, revealing a healthy glow and improving the quality of sensitive skin over time.
  • The lightweight and non-greasy cream nourishes without leaving a heavy after-feel.

Cons

  • The cream may feel heavy on some skin types.
  • Some users may not see significant anti-aging benefits.
  • The scent may not be suitable for those who prefer fragrance-free products.
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If you're looking for a lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer that can hydrate and protect your sensitive skin, then Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer SPF 35 is a great choice.

We've been using this moisturizer for a while now, and we're impressed with how well it works. It's gentle enough for our sensitive skin, and it doesn't irritate or cause any breakouts. The SPF 35 is a great bonus, and we love that it provides long-lasting hydration without feeling heavy or greasy.

The moisturizer is easy to apply and absorbs quickly, leaving our skin feeling soft and smooth. We also appreciate that it doesn't leave any white residue or cast on our skin.

Overall, we highly recommend Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer SPF 35 to anyone looking for a gentle, effective, and affordable moisturizer that can hydrate and protect their sensitive skin.

Pros

  • This moisturizer is fragrance-free and paraben-free, making it ideal for sensitive skin.
  • The broad-spectrum SPF 35 protects your skin from the sun's damaging UVA and UVB rays.
  • The edelweiss flower extract nourishes and repairs your skin barrier, providing long-lasting hydration without clogging your pores.

Cons

  • The product might feel slightly greasy on oily skin.
  • The dispenser can be difficult to use when the product gets low.
  • It might leave a film on your skin throughout the day.
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If you have dry and sensitive skin, CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion is a great choice for you. It is a lightweight, non-greasy formula that provides 24-hour hydration with slow release of MVE Technology and helps restore the protective skin barrier with three essential ceramides (1,3,6-II). The formula also contains hyaluronic acid to help retain skin’s natural moisture. This oil-free moisturizer with hyaluronic acid leaves the skin feeling comfortable and is gentle on skin.

We highly recommend CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion for those with dry and sensitive skin. It is a gentle and effective moisturizer that provides long-lasting hydration and helps restore the skin's natural barrier. The formula is fragrance-free and non-irritating, making it suitable for all skin types. However, if you have extremely dry skin, you may need to reapply the lotion throughout the day. Overall, this is a great product that delivers on its promises.

Pros

  • Provides long-lasting hydration with hyaluronic acid and MVE technology
  • Contains three essential ceramides to help restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier
  • Gentle, non-irritating formula that is fragrance-free and accepted by the National Eczema Association

Cons

  • May not provide enough hydration for extremely dry skin
  • May leave a slight residue on the skin
  • Packaging may be difficult to use for some people
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We highly recommend purchasing EltaMD Intense Face and Body Moisturizer for anyone with dry and sensitive skin. This product is perfect for those who suffer from irritated, flaky skin and redness.

This moisturizer is perfect for anyone who wants a product that is easy to apply and melts into the skin. It is great for those who suffer from dry and sensitive skin, as it gently soothes irritated skin and reduces redness. Additionally, this moisturizer is fragrance-free, making it perfect for those who are sensitive to strong scents.

The only downside to this product is that it can be difficult to squeeze out of the tube, as it is quite thick. Additionally, it may feel a bit greasy at first, but this feeling will go away quickly. Lastly, this moisturizer is quite expensive, but it is worth the investment if you suffer from dry and sensitive skin.

Overall, EltaMD Intense Face and Body Moisturizer is a great investment for anyone who wants to soothe dry and sensitive skin. It is easy to apply and melts into the skin, making it perfect for daily use.

Pros

  • Melts on contact
  • Soothes irritated skin
  • Fragrance-free

Cons

  • Difficult to squeeze out of the tube
  • May feel greasy at first
  • Expensive
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If you're looking for a gentle and effective moisturizer for your dry and sensitive skin, we highly recommend Neutrogena Oil-Free Daily Facial Moisturizer.

We've been using this moisturizer for a while now and we're impressed with how well it works for dry and sensitive skin. The formula is gentle and lightweight, making it easy to apply and quick to absorb. It doesn't leave any greasy residue or shiny finish, which is a plus for those with oily skin.

We appreciate that it's formulated without fragrances, dyes, or alcohol, making it suitable for even the most sensitive skin. It's also non-comedogenic, so we don't have to worry about it causing breakouts or clogging pores.

Overall, Neutrogena Oil-Free Daily Facial Moisturizer is a great choice for anyone looking for a gentle and effective moisturizer for dry and sensitive skin. It's affordable, easy to find, and delivers on its promises. Give it a try and see the difference it can make for your skin!

Pros

  • The lightweight and ultra-gentle formula hydrates and nourishes skin, leaving it soft and smooth.
  • The oil-free face lotion formula absorbs quickly into skin, eliminating dryness without leaving skin greasy or shiny.
  • It is hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic, so it won't clog pores or cause breakouts.

Cons

  • The moisturizer contains glycerin, which may not be suitable for all skin types.
  • It may not provide enough hydration for extremely dry skin.
  • Some users may prefer a moisturizer with SPF for added sun protection.
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We highly recommend the Cetaphil Body Moisturizer for those with dry and sensitive skin.

This moisturizer is a game changer for those with dry and sensitive skin. The non-greasy formula is enriched with sweet almond oil and vitamin E, which immediately comforts and hydrates the skin. The new blend of key ingredients, including hydrating glycerin, panthenol (vitamin B5), and niacinamide (vitamin B3), helps to soothe and preserve the skin barrier, smooth skin texture, and retain skin moisture.

The Cetaphil Body Moisturizer is perfect for those with very dry areas of skin on the hands, feet, elbows, and knees. It leaves the skin feeling soft, smooth, and nourished. The fragrance-free, paraben-free, and sulfate-free formula will not clog pores and is clinically tested for even the most gentle skin.

Overall, we highly recommend the Cetaphil Body Moisturizer for those in need of a deeply hydrating and nourishing moisturizer for dry and sensitive skin.

Pros

  • Instantly replenishes and intensely nourishes skin dryness for 48 hours
  • Clinically proven to restore skin's moisture barrier in 1 week
  • Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic formula is free of fragrances, parabens, and sulfates

Cons

  • Thick, rich cream may feel heavy on the skin
  • May take a few minutes to fully absorb into the skin
  • May not be suitable for those with oily or acne-prone skin
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If you're looking for a fragrance-free, lightweight moisturizer that won't irritate your sensitive skin, Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer might be the right choice for you.

We've been using Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer for a while now, and we're happy with the results. The moisturizer is lightweight and absorbs quickly, leaving our skin feeling soft and hydrated. We appreciate that it's fragrance-free and formulated without common irritants, which makes it suitable for sensitive skin.

The moisturizer is easy to apply and doesn't leave any greasiness or residue. However, we've noticed that it might not be moisturizing enough for extremely dry skin. Also, the packaging might vary, which might be confusing for some people.

Overall, we recommend Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer for anyone looking for a mild, fragrance-free moisturizer that won't irritate their sensitive skin. It's a great choice for everyday use, and it's affordable too.

Pros

  • The moisturizer is formulated with hyaluronic acid and ceramides, which help to hydrate and retain the skin's moisture.
  • It's free of common chemical irritants such as dyes, fragrance, masking fragrance, lanolin, parabens, and formaldehyde releasers.
  • The mild formula is non-comedogenic and won't clog pores.

Cons

  • The moisturizer might not be moisturizing enough for extremely dry skin.
  • The packaging might vary.
  • The moisturizer might feel too lightweight for some people.
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If you're looking for a daily moisturizer for dry and sensitive skin, we highly recommend the Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Face Cream.

We've been using this moisturizer for a few weeks now and have noticed a significant improvement in our skin's hydration levels. The cream is lightweight and absorbs quickly, leaving our skin feeling soft and smooth. We love that it's fragrance-free, making it perfect for those with sensitive skin.

The prebiotic oat formula is a game-changer, as it provides long-lasting hydration without feeling heavy or greasy. We also appreciate that it's free of parabens, fragrances, and dyes, making it a great choice for those with sensitive skin.

Overall, we highly recommend the Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Face Cream for anyone looking for a lightweight, fragrance-free moisturizer that provides long-lasting hydration.

Pros

  • This moisturizer is clinically proven to moisturize dry skin for 24 hours, leaving it soft and smooth.
  • The formula contains prebiotic oat, which is designed to nourish and moisturize the skin.
  • The cream is lightweight and fragrance-free, making it perfect for those with sensitive skin.

Cons

  • Some users have reported that the cream is a bit runny.
  • It does not contain SPF, so you will need to apply sunscreen separately.
  • The tube packaging can be difficult to squeeze towards the end.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best face moisturizer for dry sensitive skin, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind when shopping for a moisturizer:

1. Ingredients

Look for moisturizers that contain gentle, hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides. Avoid products that contain harsh chemicals, fragrances, or alcohol, as these can irritate sensitive skin.

2. Texture

Choose a moisturizer with a lightweight, non-greasy texture that won't clog pores or leave a heavy residue on the skin. A gel or lotion formula may be more suitable for dry, sensitive skin than a heavy cream.

3. SPF

If you plan to use your moisturizer during the day, look for a product that contains SPF to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. However, if you have extremely sensitive skin, it may be best to use a separate sunscreen product to avoid irritation.

4. Packaging

Consider the packaging of the moisturizer. A pump or tube dispenser is more hygienic than a jar, as it reduces the risk of contamination. Additionally, opaque packaging can help protect the product from light and air, which can degrade the ingredients over time.

5. Price

While it's important to invest in a quality moisturizer, you don't have to break the bank to find a product that works for you. Look for options that fit within your budget, but remember that cheaper products may not always be the best choice for your skin.

By considering these factors, you'll be able to find the best face moisturizer for your dry, sensitive skin.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the mildest moisturizer for sensitive skin?

For sensitive skin, it is recommended to use a mild moisturizer that does not contain harsh chemicals or fragrances. Look for products that are labeled as "hypoallergenic" or "fragrance-free." Ingredients such as aloe vera, chamomile, and oatmeal can also be soothing for sensitive skin.

2. Which moisturizer is best for dry and sensitive skin?

When looking for a moisturizer for dry and sensitive skin, it is important to choose a product that is hydrating but gentle. Look for moisturizers that contain ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides, which help to lock in moisture. Avoid products that contain alcohol or other harsh ingredients that can further dry out the skin.

3. What can I use for dry sensitive face?

For a dry sensitive face, it is important to use a gentle cleanser and a moisturizer that is specifically formulated for sensitive skin. Look for products that are fragrance-free and contain hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid or glycerin. It is also important to avoid using hot water when washing your face, as this can further dry out the skin.

4. What is the best moisturizer for face?

The best moisturizer for your face will depend on your skin type and concerns. For dry skin, look for a moisturizer that is hydrating and contains ingredients such as hyaluronic acid or ceramides. For oily skin, look for a lightweight moisturizer that is oil-free and non-comedogenic. For combination skin, look for a moisturizer that is hydrating but not too heavy.

5. What is the best moisturizer for dry skin in winter?

In the winter months, the air is drier and can cause skin to become even more dry and flaky. Look for a moisturizer that is rich and hydrating, such as a cream or balm. Ingredients such as shea butter, jojoba oil, and squalane can also be beneficial for dry winter skin.

6. What is the best moisturizer for glowing skin?

To achieve glowing skin, it is important to use a moisturizer that hydrates and nourishes the skin. Look for products that contain ingredients such as vitamin C, niacinamide, or retinol, which can help to brighten and even out the skin tone. A moisturizer with a slight shimmer or glow can also help to give the skin a radiant appearance.

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