One thing about me: my skin is going to be dry. I’m talking about a screaming-crying-begging-for-moisture type of dry. The rough patches and tightness are par for the course, but the dehydration goes into overdrive come winter. Hydrating face washes and serums are the first line of defense, and a consistent slugging routine locks in all the nourishing goods. But the piece de resistance of my winter skincare routine is one of the best moisturizers for dry skin.
In my book, the thicker the formula, the better. Give me a rich, heavy cream that will instantly soothe my skin and bestow a glazed donut-level glow before bed. “You want to look for a moisturizer that has a mix of humectants (attract water), emollients (add moisture), and occlusives (trap moisture) to add maximum hydration,” says board-certified dermatologist Sapna Palep, M.D. FAAD. Thankfully, the beauty industry has no shortage of high quality moisturizers for super dehydrated skin. My personal collection is proof.
With over 50 moisturizers in my collection (I take hydration very seriously), I’ve identified the best cream for every possible dry skin concern in the book. Want a good glow? Dr. Barbara Sturm’s Face Cream Rich is up for the impossible. Need a non-pilling plump? Summer Fridays Rich Cushion Cream gives my skin an infusion overnight. An option for sensitive skin? Dieux’s Instant Angel actively calms irritation.
To find the best moisturizer for your dry skin, keep reading. I’m sharing before and after photos, what to know about texture, and breaking down the key ingredients in my favorite products. Plus, you'll find tips from Dr. Palep and board-certified dermatologist Nava Greenfield, M.D. FAAD.
Best Moisturizers for Dry Skin
- Best Moisturizer for Dry Skin Overall: Dr. Barbara Sturm Face Cream Rich
- Best Rich Moisturizer for Dry Skin: Danucera Cream Supreme
- Best Daytime Moisturizer for Dry Skin: Summer Fridays Rich Cushion Cream
- Best Moisturizers for Sensitive, Dry Skin: Tata Harper Calming Créme
- Best Nighttime Moisturizer for Dry Skin: SkinbetterScience TrioLuxe Moisturizer
I have been using this moisturizer religiously for six years now—I am that deeply, head-over-heels in love with it. The cream is rich, but not in a way that fuels pore-clogging anxieties. Its finish is shockingly lightweight for the heavy hydration it delivers. My skin drinks it up and instantly feels more comfortable. Bonus: it smells like a spa.
Texture: Light cream
Key Ingredients: Skullcap (supports cell renewal), vitamin E (antioxidant protection and soothing agent), avocadin (hydrates and calms skin)
Who It’s For: Mature skin and dry skin
What We Love: Gentle enough to use on the eye area; provides instant and long term hydration; a cream that doesn’t feel too thick—I could wear it during the day if I wanted to
What We Don’t: It doesn’t last very long; I normally get three months out of a jar; pricey
Review for MC: “When I was in college (making minimum wage, mind you), I would march over to Bluemercury and spend $240 on this moisturizer. I saved every possible penny to afford this because it is truly that transformative. I’ve continued using every day through present day—and that’s saying a lot considering the sheer volume of products that come across my desk. My skin is addicted to this cream and it’s quite literally the only reason I’m able to maintain a glow during the brutal NYC winters.” — Samantha Holender, Senior Beauty Editor
Samantha Holender wears Dr. Barbara Sturm Face Cream Rich.
Big statement: Danucera is my favorite skincare brand discovery of the year. It’s been around for a beat—it’s the brainchild of the fantastic Danuta Mieloch, the founder of RescueSpa—but only entered my orbit a few months ago. I’ve been using the brands Tonic and Eye Cream on repeat, but my favorite addition has been this ultra-luxurious cream. The texture is equivalent to a soft serve ice cream and the formula is packed with calming, nourishing, and fine line-reducing ingredients, making this ideal for the driest of dry skin types.
Texture: Rich cream
Key Ingredients: Squalane (hydrates), bacillus ferment (lifts), centella asiatica (calms), peptides (stimulates skin regeneration), vitamin C (brightens)
Who It’s For: Dry, mature skin
What We Love: Multi-benefit moisturizer that checks off multiple skin concerns; safe for sensitive skin; feels incredible; a little goes a long way
What We Don’t: Would not recommend this for acne-prone skin
Review for MC: “If you ask me to envision what products sit on the one percent’s vanity, I’d say the Danucera line. It’s an if-you-know-you-know brand that feels and smells like luxury. I cherish every little drop in this jar, saving it for the nights when my skin is crying out for an extra dose of moisture. One night of use is like an overnight treatment—my face feels softer, smoother, and plumper in just 12 hours.” — Samantha Holender, Senior Beauty Editor
Samantha Holender wears Danucera Cream Supreme.
As Marie Claire’s resident Summer Fridays expert (I’ve tried every single product in existence), I can confirm that this in the top five best products the brand has ever launched. It’s thick and creamy, but non-comedogenic and oil-free so I never have to deal with a greasy feel or unwanted shine. Bonus: it layers so well under makeup.
Texture: Heavy cream
Key Ingredients: Glycerin (hydrating), watermelon rind and apple skin (plumping), coastal plants (supports moisture barrier)
Who It’s For: Mature, dry skin
What We Love: Plumps up fine lines temporarily; National Eczema Association Seal of Approval; boosts hydration in a few hours
What We Don’t: Some report irritation
Review for MC: “I have a love-hate relationship with my radiator. It keeps my feet from freezing off (huge pro), but leaves my skin begging for hydration in the morning. While I don’t have wrinkles just yet, fine lines start to show when my skin is severely dehydrated. With just a little layer of this cream, they instantly plump up thanks to a little help from watermelon rind and apple skin.” — Samantha Holender, Senior Beauty Editor
Samantha Holender wears Summer Fridays Rich Cushion Cream.
I’ve waxed poetic about this calming moisturizer—it’s the ideal texture (not too heavy, not too light), calms redness like no other, and amps up hydration pretty instantaneously. This product is part of Tata Harper’s SuperKind line, which was developed specifically for people with sensitive skin (hi, yes, that’s me!). It’s my go-to on days when my rosacea is flaring up thanks to the inclusion tazman pepperberry, an unsung hero for redness.
Texture: Light cream
Key Ingredients: Tazman pepperberry (reduces redness and itching), Tahitian gold microalgea (soothes), marine prebiotic complex (supports balanced skin)
Who It’s For: Sensitive, eczema-prone skin
What We Love: Non-irritating, even for those with sensitive skin; fragrance free; certified by the National Eczema Association
What We Don’t: It can feel a bit oily
Review for MC: “When my skin is acting up, pretty much everything makes it sting and burn. This cream is one of the select few products that’s a consistently safe bet. It’s thicker than you would expect and has a silicone-feeling texture (without using any silicones) and never pills under makeup. The best part: it visible reduces the redness on my cheeks with consistent use.” — Samantha Holender, Senior Beauty Editor
I spend at least six hours a month in dermatologists offices. During that time, I keep my eyes peeled and ears open. What I’ve learned: doctors love SkinBetter Science, carry it in their practices, and recommend it to their patients—especially those with moderate to severely dry skin. The ingredient profile reads like a wishlist. You get hydrators like urea, glycerin, and jojoba oil, as well as antioxidants like niacinamide and vitamin C.
Texture: Balm-like cream
Key Ingredients: Urea (intense moisturization), niacinamide (promotes hydration), jojoba esters (occlusive)
Who It’s For: Dry and dehydrated skin
What We Love: Pump dispenser is very sanitary; product contains humectants, occlusives, and emollient ingredients
What We Don’t: Not available at many retailers
Review for MC: “This moisturizer is the equivalent of a velvet jacket—luxurious, smooth, and so soft, I never want to stop touching it. One pump is truly plenty to hydrate my entire face. It’s my MVP on days when the temperature drops below 15 degrees. It’s a bit heavy though, so I try and only use it a few times a week; otherwise I find that I get little dots on my forehead.” — Samantha Holender, Senior Beauty Editor
Other Moisturizers for Dry Skin I Love
If you’re looking for a dermatologist-recommended moisturizer that’s friendly to your wallet, Dr. Palep has you covered. “Cetaphil’s Moisturizing Cream soothes, hydrates, and protects skin from dryness and is proven to restore the skin barrier in one week,” she says. “There’s a mix of niacinamide and panthenol that soothes sensitive skin, while glycerin hydrates the outer layer. Plus, it rubs in easily and doesn’t feel heavy or sticky.”
Texture: Light cream
Key Ingredients: Glycerin (hydrates), panthenol (soothes), niacinamide (improves texture)
Who It’s For: Dry to very dry skin
What We Love: Affordable; dermatologist-recommended; proven results in one week
What We Don’t: Not the prettiest jar to have sitting out your counter; takes a while to rub in
Customer Review: “Very hydrating but it feels heavy on the skin. For me personally I didn't like how long it took to absorb into the skin & the film left behind. But your skin looks very bouncy and hydrated after using it.” — Ulta
I’m not usually a celebrity beauty brand fan, but Scarlett Johannson created a really strong skincare line with The Outset, which launched in 2022. “It uses only fragrance-free and gentle ingredients,” says Dr. Greenfield. “It gives a huge moisture boost while still gentle enough for sensitive skin and all skin types.”
Texture: Ultra-rich cream
Key Ingredients: Niacinamide (brightening), bakuchiol (improves hyperpigmentation/fine lines), Hyaluroset Complex (hydrates and plumps)
Who It’s For: Dull skin, mature skin, dry skin
What We Love: Whipped cream-style texture; visibly plumps
What We Don’t: Can flake off once it dries; wouldn’t use under makeup as it will cause pilling
Customer Review: “I have been using the night cream for over two weeks. Never had better skin than ever. The texture of the moisturizer is light-weighted and feels good on the skin!” — Sephora
My constant skin goal is to have my skin look bouncy—poke my cheek, and you should get an instant rebound. But trudging through the windy, freezing cold New York City streets for all of 10 minutes sucks the joy out of my skin. My pores look more prominent and radiance is non-existent. That’s where this balm-like moisturizer swoops in. It’s so thick that it truly creates a barrier between my skin and the wind. My hair might still look a bit disheveled when all is said and done, but at least my skin stays wind-proof.
Texture: Cream that boarders on a balm
Key Ingredients: Ceramides and fatty acids (creates a strong moisture barrier), hyaluronic acid (plumps skin), squalane (delivers hydration)
Who It’s For: Severly dry, not acne-prone skin
What We Love: Long lasting moisture that doesn’t fade away throughout the year
What We Don’t: Contains fragrance and might clog pores
Customer Review: “Extremely moisturizing. This moisturizer is a deep and dense moisturizer. I highly recommend it for dry skin. I have combo skin and only use it at night. I find if I use it in the morning I feel very moisturized all throughout the day.” — Sephora
Instant Angel’s ingredient profile reads like my own personal wishlist. There are lipids, squalane, glycerin, urea, peptides, and amino acids—which hit the humectant, emollient, and occlusive marks. I’ll use a normal dime-size dollop during the day for a little glow under makeup, but I layer on a generous amount of product on at night to let this double as a mask. The white cream slowly sinks into my skin over the course of an hour.
Texture: Lighter cream—still thick, but has a softer finish that’s easier to rub in
Key Ingredients: Meadowestolide (protects skin barrier), peptide (improves wrinkle depth), hydro-lipid blend (hydrates)
Who It’s For: Normal to dry skin
What We Love: Hydrating; leaves a glow; never feels greasy
What We Don’t: Fragrance free, but has a subtle “musty” smell that some reviewers don’t like
Customer Review: “I’ve used instant angel for ~two years now and would never use anything else. I have very dry skin all year round and this is a saviour. My skin stays supple without breaking out which for me is the ultimate test of a moisturizer. I cannot recommend this stuff (and honestly all dieux products enough).” — Sephora
During peak winter weather (think: late December through February) my dry skin needs all the help it can get. While one of the best moisturizers for dry skin is my failsafe starting point, slugging—the concept of locking in hydration with an occlusive—is what secures hydration levels overnight. This SkinCeauticals is my slugging pick because in addition to petrolatum (the same ingredient you’ll find in Vaseline), this includes aloe and bisabolol, botanical ingredients that provide relief for dry skin.
Texture: Gel-like balm
Key Ingredients: Pure petrolatum (creates a barrier on top of the skin), aloe and bisabolol (nourish and hydrate)
Who It’s For: Post-procedure, eczema, very dry skin
What We Love: Bottle lasts forever; can also be used on lips, eyes, and cracked body skin
What We Don’t: Might cause acne-prone skin to break out
Customer Review: “I use this when I have had microneedling, and when my skin becomes wind chapped or if I've overdone it with the Rx retinoid. It's lighter than some of the recommended OTC ointments, which is a plus for oily skin.” — Dermstore
I’m a big cryotherapy fan. Give me all the ice rollers and cold plunges you can muster. But on the days when I don’t fee like dunking my head in a bucket of ice, this luxe moisturizer quickly provides the same redness-calming effects. It also contains 12 different types of hyaluronic acid to hydrate the skin at every level, from the surface to deeper layers of the dermis.
Texture: Cream
Key Ingredients: Kelp extract (depuffs), ectoin (protects), hyaluronic acid (hydrates)
Who It’s For: Dry and rosacea prone skin
What We Love: Calms redness; luxury feel; plumps fine lines and boosts hydration levels
What We Don’t: Expensive
Customer Review: “The cooling effect of the Cryo Revitalising Moisturiser is so refreshing, and my skin feels firmer, more hydrated, and noticeably less puffy. My complexion looks healthier and more radiant, great product!” — 111Skin
Get this: you’ll notice a 22 percent improvement in skin barrier integrity after just 15 minutes with this treatment on your face. The clinically studies were what encouraged me to try this product, but one night of use left me hooked. The texture is unlike anything else; it’s creamy and a bit tacky—like if a gel and balm had a baby.
Texture: Gel meets balm
Key Ingredients: Urea (hydrates), fruit AHAs (increases cell renewal), vitmain B6 (soothes rough skin)
Who It’s For: Dry, mature skin
What We Love: Unique texture smooths rough patches; won’t irritate sensitive or reactive skin; hydrates while also improving skin renewal
What We Don’t: Might feel a bit greasy for some skin types
Customer Review: “I bought the bioactive treatment on a whim, while I was stocking up on moisturizer and it's been mind-blowingly soothing to experience. It truly is magic in a bottle. Would highly recommend for anyone looking for a brighter, more hydrated look in the morning!” — Bluemercury
Designed for all skin types—especially mature skin—this peptide-packed moisturizer will set your skin up for success. It strengthens the skin barrier by 23 percent, according to the brand, and has a lightweight, non-greasy texture that's easy to love.
Texture: Lotion
Key Ingredients: Niacinamide (evens tone); hyaluronic acid (hydrates); allantoin (soothes)
Who It's For: All skin types
What We Love: No fuss formula; pleasant texture
What We Don't: Nothing
Customer Review: "Definitely impressed. Notable improvements within 30 days." — One Skin
Think of this moisturizer like a nourishing hug for your face. It's creamy and silky, enveloping skin in a cozy blanket of moisture that's dense enough to protect it from the harsh effects of winter weather. Inside, you'll find nourishing ingredients like peptide, hyaluronic acid, and squalane, along with oat lipids to support the skin's barrier.
Texture: Cream
Key Ingredients: Peptides (hydrating), hyaluronic acid (moisturizing), squalane (nourishing)
Who It's For: Dry skin types
What We Love: Refillable; fragrance free
What We Don't: Nothing
Customer Review: "As an oily acne prone skin woman I struggle finding a good moisturizer. After having incredible success with Plump Up I decided to give bounce back a shot. Was NOT disappointed. I use it at night after my serum and the next day even after rinsing my face my skin is hydrated, looks glowy, and had reduced wrinkles. No excess oil. And less breakouts too, even during my cycle." — Trinny London
What to Look for in a Moisturizer for Dry Skin
Hydrating Ingredients
I try and look for the trifecta when picking my moisturizer: humectants, emollients, and occlusives. “Humectants like hyaluronic acid and glycerin attract water from the air or from within deeper layers of the skin to add moisture. Emollients, like shea butter and cocoa butter, add moisture to the skin when applied,” says Dr. Palep. “Occlusives like jojoba oil and argan oil also add moisture while also adding a physical barrier to help prevent water loss.”
Texture
There’s nothing wrong with a lotion, but if you have incredibly dry skin it’s better to opt for a cream-based moisturizer, says Dr. Greenfield. “A cream tends to be thicker and will add more hydration,” says Dr. Palep.
Do I Need Multiple Moisturizers for Dry Skin?
You absolutely can use one moisturizer for both day and night, but I personally prefer to switch off. “Daytime routines typically involve the application of several products so your moisturizer may need to be a little lighter so it doesn’t occlude sweat glands and lead to breakouts,” explains Dr. Greenfield. You may even want to look for an option with antioxidant production or SPF included. Night moisturizers on the other hand are generally thicker.
How Do I Apply Moisturizer?
After washing your face and applying any treatments and serums, you’ll reach for your moisturizer. “A dime-sized amount should be enough to apply one generous layer to the entire face,” says Dr. Greenfield. If it’s nighttime, you’re good to go. In the mornings, just make sure to apply one of best sunscreens, too.
Why Trust Us
Marie Claire is an authority on moisturizers, having evaluated the best moisturizers for every skin type, the best options for sensitive skin, acne-prone skin, and combination skin. We’re constantly staying up to date on the newest products and best ingredient innovations through brand meetings and research.
Samantha Holender is the Senior Beauty Editor at Marie Claire and has nearly a decade of experience in the beauty industry. She also has a dry, sensitive skin type so has intimate knowledge on the best moisturizers for dry skin. She’s tested over 50+ moisturizers for dry skin, is well-versed on ingredients, and has an expert opinion on texture and wear.
How We Tested
Marie Claire editors and dermatologists quickly volunteered their favorite moisturizers for dry skin. We also evaluated customer reviews and best-selling products across our favorite retailers. After picking 11 moisturizers, a few Marie Claire staffers tested the selected products. They individually reviewed their moisturizer based on hydration level, texture, ingredients, and wear.
Meet the Dermatologists
Dr. Sapna Palep has been recognized as one of New York’s leading board-certified dermatologists for over a decade. Since founding Spring Street Dermatology in 2010, Dr. Palep has helped countless patients achieve clear, healthy skin with her safe, effective, and highly individualized treatment plans. Dr. Palep conducts annual skin cancer screenings and treats all dermatologic conditions, including acne, eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea. She is also highly sought after for her skill in cosmetic treatments, including Botox, chemical peels, dermal fillers, microneedling, and resurfacing lasers.
A native of Florida, Dr. Palep completed her undergraduate studies in biology and chemistry at the University of Miami in 1999. She attended the University of Miami School of Medicine for two years before relocating to New York in 2000. She completed her medical degree at New York Medical College in 2004. The same year, Dr. Palep graduated with a Master’s of Business Administration from the Lubin School of Business at Pace University, where she majored in Health Systems Management.
After an internship in internal medicine at Soundshore Medical Center in New Rochelle, Dr. Palep began her residency in dermatology at Mount Sinai Medical Center in 2006. She served as Chief Resident in the department of Dermatology from 2008 to 2009.
Since 2010, Dr. Palep has served as Associate Clinical Professor, in the department of Dermatology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital. For her commitment to excellence in education, Dr. Palep was presented with the Teacher of the Year Award in 2010 and 2012, and the Mentor of the Year Award in 2013. In 2015, the Leading Physicians of the World recognized Dr. Palep as a Top Dermatologist in New York. Castle Connolly has named Dr. Palep a Top Doctor in the New York Metro Area consecutively since 2018.
Dr. Nava Greenfield is a dermatologist practicing at Schweiger Dermatology Group. Dr. Greenfield earned her Bachelor’s Degree from Queens College, City University of New York, where she graduated Cum Laude with honors in mathematics, natural sciences, chemistry and biochemistry.
Dr. Greenfield attended medical school at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Yeshiva University. She completed her internship at Yale-New Haven Hospital and her residency in dermatology at SUNY Downstate Medical Center. Dr. Greenfield has been published in many medical journals, including The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, the Journal of Women’s Dermatology and Pediatrics. Dr. Greenfield is a member of the American Academy of Dermatology, Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society, Women’s Dermatologic Society and the American Medical Association.
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