Best Face Moisturizers for 2026
Discover expert reviews and ratings on the best face moisturizers to hydrate, nourish, and protect your skin. Our comprehensive guides help you find the perfect moisturizer for your skin type, whether you're looking for anti-aging formulas, lightweight daily hydration, or intensive repair treatments.
Updated January 2026 • 17 Products Analyzed
The Good
- Lightweight, non-greasy formula absorbs instantly
- Delivers lasting hydration without heavy feel
- Controls oiliness and strengthens moisture barrier
- Excellent value with included cleanser sample
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Moisturizer
This lightweight gel moisturizer delivers 24-hour hydration using hyaluronic acid, perfect for normal to oily skin. Users consistently praise its weightless texture, quick absorption, and matte finish that controls oil without feeling greasy. The included cleanser completes an effective, affordable skincare duo that delivers visible results within a week of consistent use.
The Bad
- Contains fragrance; fragrance-free version unavailable for oily skin
- Results require consistent weekly use to appear
The Good
- Excellent for sensitive and reactive skin
- Fast-absorbing, lightweight texture with no grease
- Visibly improves dryness and eczema symptoms
- Clean, dermatologist-tested formula with proven results
First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream
First Aid Beauty's Ultra Repair Cream is a lightweight, fast-absorbing moisturizer that delivers exceptional hydration for sensitive and dry skin types. Clinically proven to improve skin hydration by 169% and strengthen the skin barrier, this whipped formula contains colloidal oatmeal and is free from irritating ingredients. Users consistently praise its effectiveness for eczema relief and calming reactive skin, though the premium price point is a notable consideration.
The Bad
- Premium pricing compared to competitors
- Small jar size relative to cost
The Good
- Lightweight gel texture absorbs quickly without greasiness
- Delivers instant hydration with visible plumping results
- Cooling, soothing effect works great for sensitive skin
- Long-lasting moisture throughout the day
belif Aqua Bomb Daily Hydrating Moisturizer
The belif Aqua Bomb is a lightweight, gel-based moisturizer that delivers instant hydration with a refreshing cooling effect, making it ideal for all skin types including sensitive skin. Powered by hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, it absorbs quickly without greasiness and provides clinically-proven lasting moisture. Customers consistently praise its luxurious feel, plumping results, and excellent value for a premium skincare product.
The Bad
- Noticeable scent that may not suit all preferences
- Higher price point for the product size
The Good
- Lightweight, non-greasy formula absorbs quickly
- Delivers intense hydration and plumping effect
- Works well for sensitive and combination skin
- Excellent ingredient safety profile with refill options
LANEIGE Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Cream Moisturizer
The LANEIGE Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Cream is a lightweight, hydrating moisturizer that delivers impressive results without heaviness or greasiness. Users consistently praise its ability to plump and hydrate the skin while maintaining a smooth, dewy finish, making it an excellent alternative to premium competitors at a reasonable price point.
The Bad
- Hydration may not last a full day for all skin types
- Premium pricing compared to budget alternatives like CeraVe
The Good
- Lightweight yet deeply hydrating with ceramides and hyaluronic acid
- Fragrance-free and free of common irritants; dermatologist-recommended brand
- Affordable price point with excellent long-term results
- Non-comedogenic; works well for sensitive, acne-prone, and mature skin
Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer
Vanicream's dermatologist-recommended facial moisturizer combines ceramides and hyaluronic acid in a lightweight, fragrance-free formula designed specifically for sensitive skin. With great ratings from over 21,000 reviews, this affordable option delivers effective hydration without common irritants, making it a standout choice for those with reactive or compromised skin barriers.
The Bad
- May feel insufficient during extreme winter conditions without layering
- Light texture not suitable for those needing heavier moisturization
The Good
- Rich hydration without greasy residue
- Noticeably reduces fine lines and dryness
- Luxurious formula with pleasant, delicate fragrance
- Long-lasting; a little goes a long way
Estée Lauder Revitalizing Supreme+ Youth Power Cream
A premium anti-aging face moisturizer that delivers rich hydration with a lightweight, non-greasy feel. Users consistently praise its effectiveness in reducing dryness and fine lines while maintaining a luxurious texture with subtle fragrance. Despite its higher price point, the product's superior quality and long-lasting efficacy make it a worthwhile investment for mature and sensitive skin types.
The Bad
- Premium price point may not suit all budgets
- Fragrance presence not ideal for scent-sensitive users
The Good
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing formula with no greasy residue
- Effective for sensitive skin and eczema-prone areas
- Works well in diverse climates and humidity levels
- Small amount needed, product lasts 2+ months
Clinique Moisture Surge Intense 72H Hydrator
This lightweight, non-greasy face moisturizer delivers hydration that absorbs quickly while maintaining skin softness throughout the day. Clinique's formula works effectively across various climates and skin types, including sensitive skin prone to eczema. Users consistently praise its lightweight texture and long-lasting results, making it a trusted staple despite its premium price.
The Bad
- Premium price point may be prohibitive for budget-conscious buyers
- 72-hour claim oversold; daily reapplication still recommended
The Good
- Lightweight texture absorbs quickly without greasiness
- Effective for all skin types including sensitive
- Excellent makeup primer and long-lasting hydration
- Economical 5.7 oz size with minimal product needed
Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream
Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream is a lightweight, fast-absorbing moisturizer with 4.5% squalane that delivers all-day hydration without greasiness. Highly praised across all skin types, particularly for sensitive and dry skin, it provides a smooth base for makeup while strengthening the skin's moisture barrier. With over 6,000 customer reviews and great ratings, this is an industry-standard moisturizer backed by consistent consumer satisfaction.
The Bad
- Premium pricing, best purchased during sales
- Packaging ink rubs off onto hands
The Good
- Delivers dewy glow and radiant skin immediately
- Lightweight yet deeply hydrating and nourishing
- Works great on sensitive, dry, and combination skin
- Silky texture feels luxurious and leaves skin soft
TATCHA The Dewy Skin Cream
TATCHA's Dewy Skin Cream is a luxurious, lightweight moisturizer that delivers visible hydration and a radiant glow without feeling greasy. Praised for its effective formula suitable for sensitive and dry skin, it provides lasting moisture and makes an excellent primer. However, the premium price point may be a concern for budget-conscious consumers.
The Bad
- Premium price at its current price point for limited quantity
- Jar size small relative to cost
The Good
- Visible anti-aging results starting day one
- Non-greasy, fast-absorbing formula with SPF protection
- Improves skin texture and minimizes pores
- Long-lasting hydration throughout the day
Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream with SPF 30
Olay's Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream is a lightweight, fast-absorbing anti-aging moisturizer with SPF 30 that delivers visible results from day one. Users consistently praise its smooth application, non-greasy formula, and ability to improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of fine lines within weeks. The product combines effective hydration with sun protection in a luxurious formula that works well under makeup.
The Bad
- Can cause eye irritation if applied near eyes
- Occasional whiteheads with daily use for some users
The Good
- Exceptional value: 3oz for its current price point, twice the amount of pricier competitors
- Fast-absorbing, lightweight formula with no oily residue
- Clean ingredients: fragrance-free, oil-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free
- Dermatologist-tested and suitable for daily use and travel
Amazon Basics Hyaluronic Acid Face Lotion
Amazon Basics' Hyaluronic Acid Face Lotion delivers impressive hydration and lightweight feel at an unbeatable price point. Users consistently praise its fast-absorbing formula that rivals premium competitors like Neutrogena HydroBoost, making it an excellent choice for daily facial moisturizing. While most reviewers love the value and effectiveness, some note it may not be powerful enough for extremely dry or mature skin concerns like fine lines.
The Bad
- May lack potency for severe dryness or advanced anti-aging needs
- Limited effectiveness for deep wrinkles and pronounced skin concerns
The Good
- Lightweight, non-greasy texture absorbs quickly
- Provides lasting hydration for up to 48 hours
- Non-comedogenic formula suitable for most skin types
- Fresh, natural scent without overpowering fragrance
Youth To The People Superfood Air-Whip Moisture Cream
This lightweight gel moisturizer delivers impressive hydration with natural superfood ingredients like kale and green tea. Users consistently praise its non-greasy formula and ability to absorb quickly while leaving skin soft and glowing. However, the premium price point and limited quantity may give some customers pause.
The Bad
- Premium price point for relatively small jar size
- May cause breakouts for sensitive or acne-prone skin
The Good
- Lightweight, non-greasy formula absorbs quickly
- Combines SPF 30 with daily moisturization
- Gentle for sensitive and acne-prone skin
- Essential ceramides restore skin barrier
CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30
CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion combines daily hydration with broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection in a lightweight, oil-free formula. Formulated with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide, it delivers moisturization without greasy residue and is suitable for all skin types including sensitive skin. An efficient morning staple that consolidates sun protection and hydration in a single step.
The Bad
- White cast or streaking in certain conditions
- May not provide sufficient moisture for very dry skin
The Good
- Lightweight gel texture feels non-greasy and hydrating
- Visibly reduces acne, redness, and improves skin clarity
- Creates dewy, glowing finish perfect for makeup base
- Works well for sensitive skin without side effects
Charlotte Tilbury Magic Water Face Cream
Charlotte Tilbury Magic Water is a lightweight, hydrating gel moisturizer that delivers a dewy finish without greasy residue, making it ideal for sensitive and acne-prone skin. Users consistently praise its ability to improve skin clarity, reduce redness, and provide long-lasting hydration, though some note the premium price point as a consideration.
The Bad
- Premium price point
- May feel expensive relative to comparable moisturizers
The Good
- Deeply hydrates and brightens skin with visible glow
- Smooth texture, effective for sensitive and mature skin
- Citrus scent and excellent performance justify quality brand reputation
- A little goes a long way; lasts several months
Sunday Riley C.E.O. Vitamin C Rich Hydration Cream
A premium vitamin C moisturizer praised for its hydrating, brightening, and skin-smoothing properties with a pleasant citrus scent. Most reviewers report noticeable improvements in skin texture and glow, though many express concern about the steep price relative to the product size. The formula is well-regarded for sensitive and mature skin types, though value for money remains a significant point of contention.
The Bad
- Container size deceptively small relative to high price tag
- Premium pricing may not align with perceived value
The Good
- Visibly smoother, more hydrated skin with anti-aging benefits
- Works exceptionally well for sensitive and allergy-prone skin
- Long-lasting formula requires minimal product per application
- Legendary brand with decades of proven results
La Mer Creme de La Mer Moisturizing Cream
La Mer's legendary moisturizing cream delivers visible skin improvements with a luxurious, fine-textured formula enriched with marine properties and vital ingredients. While praised for exceptional results in hydration, smoothness, and anti-aging benefits, this premium product commands a premium price point and concerns about product authenticity from third-party sellers have been noted.
The Bad
- Premium price point may deter budget-conscious consumers
- Authenticity concerns with some third-party sellers
The Good
- Lightweight formula absorbs quickly without greasiness
- Excellent for sensitive skin with no breakouts
- Plumping and smoothing effects visible results
- Works well under sunscreen and makeup
Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream
Drunk Elephant's Protini Polypeptide Cream is a lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer that delivers plumping and smoothing benefits with clean, dermatologist-tested ingredients. Users with sensitive skin particularly praise its fast absorption and efficacy, though many express significant concerns about the small container size relative to its current price point. The product offers genuine skincare benefits but represents a premium investment that may not justify the limited quantity.
The Bad
- Extremely small container size for its current price
- Product runs out quickly despite minimal use needed