While not as attention-grabbing as a fun face mask or intriguing serum, I believe face moisturisers are underappreciated. In my opinion, the seemingly unappealing beauty product is the most thrilling since the greatest face moisturisers hydrate, brighten, and level out the skin, removing the need for many serums and treatments. Although the formula you choose depends on your skin type and needs, experts recommend moisturisers with a high concentration of humectants like glycerine, hyaluronic acid, polyglutamic acid, or sodium PCA. “These can attract water into the skin, not just prevent it from escaping, and are worth seeking out if your skin feels constantly dehydrated,” explains Kristyn Smith, a master aesthetician and founder of Practise NYC.
For decades, InStyle’s editors have tried moisturisers. We gathered to talk about the finest solutions for different skin types, such as ageing, acne-prone, dry, and oily skin. We discovered that the best are not always the most expensive or opulent. In fact, our favourite moisturiser is among the most affordable (and aesthetically beautiful) of the group.
Why We Love It: Like a never-ending rom-com from the 1990s, you return to the classics for a reason. Consider CeraVe the “When Harry Met Sally” of moisturisers: it’s consistent, never leaves you wanting more, and always puts you in a happy mood. The brand has developed their oil-free moisturiser over the years, and it now contains three types of ceramides that penetrate deeply into the skin barrier while remaining extremely lightweight.
Who It’s For: Whether you’ve recently had an intense retinol treatment or your skin is freaking out due to a change in weather, the CeraVe moisturising lotion is a fantastic reset for sensitive skin. Its fragrance-free recipe eliminates potentially irritating chemical and synthetic additives, so use this one if you have sensitive skin or simply want something that works.
Worth noting: Fortunately, the container is large and the recipe is inexpensive, as you’ll only need a couple of pumps to thoroughly cover your skin.
Tessa Petak, news editor with sensitive skin: “It’s lightweight, suitable for all skin types, and layers well under makeup. “I like how the ingredients are simple and non-irritating.”
Why We Love It: This is the type of moisturiser you reach for without thinking—which is exactly the idea. Our InStyle tester adored the lightweight, silky composition, which absorbed swiftly with no greasiness or stickiness. It keeps skin hydrated all day and blends easily with sunscreen and makeup. There is no odour or irritation, making it a reliable choice for daily use.
Who It’s For: If your skin is generally healthy, or if you want a nonirritating moisturiser to supplement your regimen that won’t interfere with the other products you’re using, this is an excellent choice. It provides the ideal quantity of moisture to your skin during your daily routine.
Worth noting: While this moisturiser works well, it is unlikely to address more serious skin care issues such as fine lines or excessive dryness. Our tester reported that she noticed no major difference in her skin, however she did enjoy how hydrated it felt throughout the day.
Paige, a tester with seasonal dryness and occasional breakouts, says: “This product is gentle on the skin and hydrates without overdoing it.” I believe it would be suitable for most, if not all, skin types.
Why We Love It: This Dieux moisturiser focuses on firming and barrier restoration. It contains skin-nourishing ingredients like as hyaluronic acid, squalane, and a tailored peptide combination, which provide deep hydration while also helping to soften the appearance of visible symptoms of ageing over time. Welcome to your new “instant angel” for protection, plumping, and smoothing.
that It’s For: This rich moisturiser is for dry, older skin types that want to get deep hydration while also reducing the appearance of fine wrinkles.
It’s worth noting that this product may not be suitable for people with acne-prone skin. Our tester said that after a few usage, her pores became clogged, resulting in additional outbreaks.
