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Best for All Skin Types
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer
Pros
- Gentle enough for sensitive skin and unscented
- Oil-free and doesn’t clog pores
- Includes niacinamide to reduce acne and oil
- Ingredients help reduce hyperpigmentation
- Good for daytime or nighttime use
Cons
- Doesn’t include SPF
- May not be rich enough for those with very dry skin
Key Specs
- Formula Type: Lightweight lotion
- Notable Ingredients: Niacinimide, ceramides
- For Day or Nighttime Use? Both
- Scented? No
While I experienced a breakout at the beginning of using this product, I can’t be sure that it was due to this moisturizer. Plus, I haven’t experienced any further breakouts while continuing to use it twice daily. I plan to purchase this again, though I may go with the SPF version next time.
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Best for Men
Marlowe No. 123 Facial Moisturizer for Men
Pros
- Vegan and made without parabens, phthalates, or gluten
- Won’t leave the skin greasy
- Suitable for dry skin
- Marketed toward men, but can be used by anyone
Cons
- Not fragrance-free (but scent is mild)
Key Specs
- Formula Type: Lightweight lotion
- Notable Ingredients: Aloe, willow bark extract
- For Day or Nighttime Use? Both
- Scented? Yes
“My skin felt slightly smoother after using the product,” said writer and registered dietitian Sarah Glinski’s husband, Greg Glinski, who tested this moisturizer. “I enjoyed using this product. Even though it's advertised for men, I think women could also use it, since the scent is quite mild.” Greg describes his skin as combination skin and says it felt less dry after a few applications. Though the scent is very mild, those with scent sensitivities or very sensitive skin may want to opt for a fragrance-free product instead.
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Best for a More Even Skin Tone
Leaf People Rosehip & Sea Kelp Antioxidant Face Cream
Pros
- Absorbs quickly, doesn’t feel heavy on the skin
- Helps brighten age spots
- Neroli helps fight acne and reduce inflammation
- Pleasant, botanical scent
Cons
- Pricey for the amount of product
- Scent may be overpowering to some
Key Specs
- Formula Type: Medium-consistency cream
- Notable Ingredients: Neroli, sea kelp, shea butter, green tea
- For Day or Nighttime Use? Both
- Scented? Yes
“It has a fresh, botanical scent,” Sarah said. “I really liked the scent (it reminded me of fresh flowers), but I could see it being overpowering for people who don't enjoy the smell of botanicals/flowers.” And while it’s quite pricey for the amount of product, it delivers on its promises of evening skin tone and delivering hydration.
Best for Oily Skin
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel
Pros
- Water-based formula ideal for oily or breakout-prone skin
- Doesn’t leave behind any sticky or oily residue
- Hyaluronic acid maintains moisture and elasticity
- Wears well under makeup and sunscreen
Cons
- Those with very dry skin may prefer a lotion or a cream for maximum hydration
- Contains fragrance (scent is mild)
Key Specs
- Formula Type: Lightweight gel
- Notable Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, dimethicone
- For Day or Nighttime Use? Both
- Scented? Yes
Those with oily skin or breakout-prone skin may benefit from trying out a gel moisturizer because it’s more lightweight than a cream or lotion. Neutrogena’s Hydro Boost Water Gel provides hydration without the oily feel or residue left behind by many moisturizers. “This product is water-based and perfect for oily skin or complexions prone to breakouts from too many chemicals (like mine),” said writer Jen Sinclair. “It goes on smoothly and absorbs into the skin. This product is very easy to apply, and it was weightless for me, which is huge. I don't like it when my skin feels greasy after applying moisturizer.”
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Best for Dry Skin
The Body Shop Vitamin E Intense Moisture Cream
Pros
- Rich, thick cream doesn’t weigh heavy on skin
- Absorbs quickly with no residue
- Hyaluronic acid and vitamin E provide moisture
- Pleasant floral scent
Cons
- May not be ideal for those with oily complexions
- Glass jar doesn’t make for convenient application
- Light scent may not be best for those with sensitive skin
Key Specs
- Formula Type: Rich cream
- Notable Ingredients: Vitamin E, hyaluronic acid
- For Day or Nighttime Use? Both
- Scented? Yes
Chan said she used the moisturizer mostly at night, but it wore well under makeup and sunscreen when she tested it during the day. Also, she experienced a small breakout during testing, but said she can’t be sure that it was from the cream. We also wish the bottle had a pump because the glass jar was a bit messy.
Best for Scars
Bio-Oil Skincare Oil
Pros
- Contains vitamin A for skin cell turnover
- Highly moisturizing to both scars and normal skin
- Vegan and made with natural oils
Cons
- Bottle is a bit inconvenient for application
- May be too greasy for those with oily skin
Key Specs
- Formula Type: Oil
- Notable Ingredients: Vitamin A, vitamin E, sunflower oil, calendula extract, mineral oil
- For Day or Nighttime Use? Both
- Scented? Yes
You can use this face moisturizer twice a day for at least three months, and because our test was just over two weeks, Chan didn’t notice any huge difference in the appearance of that scar. But she still saw the value in the oil. “I think Bio-Oil definitely delivers on its promise of rehydrating skin and making it feel softer and smoother,” she explained. “After 17 days of using it twice a day, my skin felt nourished and comfortable, even after a shower when my knees and elbows usually get really dry.”
While this product is great for fading scars, it may not be a long-term moisturizer for those with more oily skin. It left behind a greasy feel before finally absorbing. We also thought the bottle was a bit inconvenient to use, as the hole in the top is quite small.
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Best for Wrinkles
VOL.U.LIFT GLP-1 4D Skin Rebound Complex
Pros
- Developed for skin changes due to GLP-1 use
- Plumps skin, reducing the appearance of wrinkles
- Absorbs quickly
Cons
- Some may find the scent unpleasant
- Pricey
Key Specs
- Formula Type: Lightweight lotion
- Notable Ingredients: Bakuchiol, glycerin, dimethicone
- For Day or Nighttime Use? Both
- Scented? No, but our tester noticed a plastic-like scent
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Best for Sensitive Skin
First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Face Moisturizer
Pros
- Colloidal oatmeal is soothing to sensitive skin
- Unscented, which is great for sensitive skin
- Moisturizing to dry skin but won’t leave skin oily
- Lightweight consistency; doesn’t leave behind a residue
Cons
- Doesn’t contain SPF
Key Specs
- Formula Type: Lightweight lotion
- Notable Ingredients: Colloidal oatmeal, ceramides
- For Day or Nighttime Use? Both
- Scented? No
“I felt this product did a good job of balancing my skin,” raved writer Jill Di Donato. “I was neither dry nor oily after using it. The texture of my skin felt smoother and more supple.” The product absorbed quickly and left no residue behind. “I noticed an improved softness to the texture of my skin after a week of consistent use,” she added. This First Aid Beauty face moisturizer doesn’t have any SPF, but the brand makes another version with it, if that’s what you’re looking for.
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Best Night Cream
Suntegrity Synergy NiteFix
Pros
- Impressive number of beneficial ingredients
- Lightweight and absorbs quickly with no residue
- Leaves skin smoother and softer
Cons
- No major improvement in wrinkles or aging skin
Key Specs
- Formula Type: Lightweight cream
- Notable Ingredients: Ceramides, hyaluronic acid, provitamin B5, vitamin C, retinol
- For Day or Nighttime Use? Night
- Scented? No
We like how the moisturizer is lightweight and soaks in completely, so you won’t be going to bed with dewy or oily-feeling skin.“This is a nighttime cream that contains a plethora of vitamins and minerals that help moisturize and refine the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles,” said Sinclair. Though she didn’t see a huge difference as far as anti-aging (“I still have my wrinkles!” she noted), she enjoyed how much moisture this delivered to her skin. “My skin felt smooth in the mornings,” she explained. Sinclair hopes to see more improvement in the skin with long-term use, but our testing period was too short to determine any major difference.
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Best Sleeping Mask
Laneige Water Sleeping Mask
Pros
- Thick, cream-like gel stays put all night
- Leaves skin feeling hydrated and soft
- Probiotic-derived complex strengthens skin barrier and treats acne
- Niacinamide and squalane brighten the skin
Cons
- Fragrance may be too strong for some
- Feels sticky and sits heavily on the skin
Key Specs
- Formula Type: Thick, creamy gel
- Notable Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, probiotics, niacinamide, squalane
- For Day or Nighttime Use? Night
- Scented? Yes
Because this moisturizer is more like a face mask, the moisturizer doesn’t easily absorb, so it “lies heavily on the surface of the skin,” Di Dontato said. We also thought the product was a bit sticky, and it remained so until rinsed off in the morning. Moreover, the floral scent was quite overpowering — a potential deal-breaker for those with sensitive skin or who are sensitive to scents. Despite that, Di Dontato “would recommend [it] to someone who is looking to hydrate skin overnight. The results are pretty remarkable.”
Best Face and Body Lotion for Very Dry Skin
Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream
Pros
- Ingredients keep skin hydrated for 48 hours
- Leaves skin soft and moisturized
- Fragrance-free, paraben-free, and hypoallergenic
- Won’t clog pores
Cons
- Leaves behind a residue
- Tub makes it hard to apply to the skin hygienically
Key Specs
- Formula Type: Thick cream
- Notable Ingredients: Glycerin, niacinamide, vitamin B5
- For Day or Nighttime Use? Both
- Scented? No
For the driest of skin, the Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream is a thick face moisturizer that hydrates your skin for hours. Despite being a heavy cream, it won’t clog the pores. It’s also fragrance-free and hypoallergenic, so it’s suitable for sensitive skin. With glycerin and vitamin B5 for hydration retention, and niacinamide for skin barrier repair, this is a skin cream that’s meant to heal and protect.
Tori Martinet, a registered dietitian and writer, found that this moisturized her sensitive skin and left it feeling soft. We recommend it when your skin is very dry, as it leaves a residue and is a bit too thick for regular use. “It did rub in easily, but also definitely left a texture behind. It's not sticky exactly, but definitely does sit on the skin and leave a residue,” Martinet said. We also weren’t a fan of the tub packaging, but the product is available in squeeze bottles as well.
Why Trust Everyday Health
Nicole Bonaccorso
Author
Nicole Bonaccorso is a writer and editor with more than 12 years of journalism experience. She has been writing for Everyday Health since 2025, and has also been published on NBCNews.com, Treehugger, Verywell, Mashable, and Upworthy, among other publications.
Nicole was also a senior editor at Weather.com for more than 11 years, covering everything from weather and climate change to health, science, and travel.
In addition to writing, Nicole has also found a passion in helping new parents reach their breastfeeding goals and is working towards becoming a certified breastfeeding specialist.
In her free time, Nicole enjoys hiking, camping, cooking, reading, and spending time outdoors with her two young sons, husband, and dog.
Susan Bard, MD
Medical Reviewer
Susan Bard, MD, is a clinical instructor in the department of dermatology at Weill Cornell Medicine and an adjunct clinical instructor in the department of dermatology at Mount Sinai in New York City. Her professional interests include Mohs micrographic surgery, cosmetic and laser procedures, and immunodermatology.
She is a procedural dermatologist with the American Board of Dermatology and a fellow of the American College of Mohs Surgery.
Dr. Bard has written numerous book chapters and articles for many prominent peer-reviewed journals, and authored the textbook The Laser Treatment of Vascular Lesions.
Orlando de Guzman
Fact-Checker
Orlando de Guzman is a writer and editor with expertise in health and environmental news. He has a background in investigative and science journalism and has worked on documentary films about war and trauma, health, sanitation, and the changing climate around the world. His interest in health and medicine started after an early career as a medical and legal translator.
De Guzman is a longtime health and fitness enthusiast who is interested in nutrition, diet, and mental health. He participates in endurance sports and cross-trains in several traditions of martial arts from Southeast Asia. De Guzman is interested in how the progressively complex movements of martial arts training can improve cognition and mental well-being, especially for those with PTSD and for those approaching middle age and beyond.
De Guzman has a dual B.A. in communications and international studies from the University of Washington in Seattle. He is committed to factual storytelling and evidence-based reporting on critical choices that affect our planet.
Katrina Cossey
Editor
Katrina Cossey is a writer and editor with over 10 years of experience in broadcast and service journalism. Over her career, she’s covered topics such as the COVID-19 pandemic, newborn care, healthy skin-care routines, dental health, and more. She's also tested hundreds of products, ranging from fitness equipment and blood pressure monitors to car seats, toys, and kitchen items.
She received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Central Oklahoma with a focus on professional media. During her time at university, Katrina served as a reporter for the university’s news channel and webpage.
When she’s not working, Katrina is outside with her family. They love riding their bikes and walking various trails around their community.
Nicole Bonaccorso
Tester
Nicole Bonaccorso is a writer and editor with more than 12 years of journalism experience. She has been writing for Everyday Health since 2025, and has also been published on NBCNews.com, Treehugger, Verywell, Mashable, and Upworthy, among other publications.
Nicole was also a senior editor at Weather.com for more than 11 years, covering everything from weather and climate change to health, science, and travel.
In addition to writing, Nicole has also found a passion in helping new parents reach their breastfeeding goals and is working towards becoming a certified breastfeeding specialist.
In her free time, Nicole enjoys hiking, camping, cooking, reading, and spending time outdoors with her two young sons, husband, and dog.
Sarah Glinski, RD
Tester
Sarah is a registered dietitian and accomplished health and nutrition writer known for her expertise in crafting engaging content. She received dual bachelor’s degrees in nutrition and biology with distinction from the University of Alberta. She started her career in 2018 as a clinical dietitian and has experience in several clinical areas, including weight management, diabetes, kidney disease, oncology, gut health, and intuitive eating.
In 2022, Sarah took her wealth of clinical experience and transitioned to freelance writing. She has contributed to outlets like Forbes Health, Well+Good, Livestrong, Yahoo!, and PS, and has written about topics ranging from mental health to gut health to diabetes care. Her goal as a writer is to convey complex health information in an easy-to-understand and engaging way.
Sarah is dedicated to simplifying complex health information so people can make informed decisions regarding their health. She currently lives in British Columbia, Canada, where she enjoys reading or crocheting in the company of her husband and two cats.
Jen Sinclair
Tester
Jen Sinclair Is a freelance health and wellness writer who has spent the last two years writing feature articles and reviews of mental health and medical services and products. Her work has been published by Verywell Mind, Verywell Health, Health, and Parents. Prior to this, she worked for six years as a copywriter and blog writer for several legal and healthcare businesses, and as a paralegal for 15 years.
Jen currently lives with her husband and children in St. Augustine, Florida, where she enjoys spending time outdoors paddling waterways, driving around with the top off her Jeep, or trekking around with her writer hiker pals.
Katharine Chan, MSc, BSc
Tester
Katharine Chan, MSc, BSc, PMP, is a freelance writer with over 15 years of experience in British Columbia’s healthcare system. She has led patient safety investigations, quality improvement projects, and change management initiatives in mental health, women’s health, and emergency services.
Katharine holds a master of science in health sciences and a bachelor of science in biomedical physiology and kinesiology from Simon Fraser University. She is certified in project management (PMP), Prosci change management, and health quality improvement through Health Quality BC’s Quality Academy.
Katharine specializes in translating complex health information and scientific research into clear, relatable content that engages a wide audience. Her areas of expertise include mental health, parenting, public health, and patient safety. She has contributed to major platforms such as Verywell Mind, Psychedelic Support, HuffPost Canada, CBC Parents, Family Education, Mamamia Australia, WordWorks Magazine, and CafeMom. She also conducts expert interviews and creates SEO-optimized, evidence-based content to support informed decision-making.
A Chinese Canadian author, Katharine has published three books, including How to Deal With Asian Parents, and four guided journals, including 60 Feelings to Feel and How to Deal With Asian Parents: The Workbook. Through her platform, Sum on Sleeve, she shares honest reflections about culture, relationships, and healing from intergenerational trauma. Her writing aims to empower readers — especially those from cultures that suppress emotional expression — to better understand and articulate their inner experiences.
Sarah Garone
Tester
Jill Di Donato
Tester
Jill has over 15 years of experience writing about women's health, wellness, and beauty. She has deep knowledge of buzzy products and what makes them popular with consumers. She's tested hundreds of skin care products, tools, and medical aesthetics procedures throughout her career, and she has interviewed top dermatologists, plastic surgeons, and holistic physicians to stay on top of the latest in skin health and wellness.
Jill is the former associate editorial operations director of the beauty group at Dotdash Meredith, where she worked on brands such as Shape and Byrdie, editing health, fitness, skin care, wellness, and body care commerce content.
She's also a former sex and relationship writer, and has made national television appearances to discuss sexual wellness topics for women. In addition to anything beauty and sexual wellness, Jill specializes in writing about body neutrality and mental health.
Jill has a degree in sociology, with a focus on gender studies and she has taught sociology classes at Barnard and Columbia University.