Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (2025)

Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (1)

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  • Winter is coming, and you know what that means: It's dry skin snz, baby. Rough, flakey, irritated skin can feel almost unavoidable as the temperatures start to dip, especially if you've already got dry skin year-round. In times like these, the usual suspects (Aquaphor! Barrier creams! Hydrating serums!) just won't cut it. However, I'm partial to a really good (dare I say, the best) moisturizer for dry skin to remedy it in one fell swoop. These combine a trifecta of humectants, emollients, and occlusives that draw moisture to the skin and lock it in for a smooth, plump, happy face.

    There's certainly no shortage of moisturizers for dry skin—literally, there are hundreds—and sifting through the options can be overwhelming. That's where I come in: I did the dirty work for you, testing dozens of formulas and consulting with dermatologists to find the top 12 moisturizers for dry skin. Just take a little look at what's on my list...

    Some of our top moisturizers for dry skin

    Any of these moisturizers will feel like a ~tall glass of water for your skin~. We're talking soothing, hydrating, and locking all that moisture in, all dependent on your very specific skin needs and preferences. Keep scrolling to banish dry, sandpapery skin for good.

    1

    Best Moisturizer for Dry Skin Overall

    CeraVe Moisturizing Cream

    Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (8)

    Pros
    • Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (9)The big tub will last you forever
    • Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (10)Dermatologist recommended
    • Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (11)Super affordable
    • Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (12)Can be used all over your face and body
    Cons
    • Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (13)Some people might not like how thick it feels on their face

    When I have a dry skin flare-up, the first thing my dermatologist tells me to do is ditch my entire routine for this singular product until my complexion goes back to normal—and it has never failed me. There are many reasons why derms, including dermatologist Robyn Gymrek, MD, constantly recommend this trusted drugstore staple. But at the most basic level, it is simple, fragrance-free, and formulated with ceramides that mimic the ones your skin naturally produces to get your complexion back to normal. Plus, the tub is massive so this could last you through multiple dry seasons.

    • Key ingredients: Ceramides, hyaluronic acid, dimethicone
    • Size: 19 oz

    Glowing customer review: "This CeraVe cream is a lifesaver! My skin feels so soft and hydrated without being greasy. It’s thick but absorbs quickly, so it’s perfect for day or night. I have sensitive skin, and this doesn’t cause any irritation at all. Plus, it’s fragrance-free and keeps my skin feeling smooth and moisturized all day. If you’re looking for a great everyday cream that actually works, this is it!"

    2

    Best Night Cream for Dry Skin

    MDSolarSciences Advanced Hydration Crème

    Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (14)

    Pros
    • Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (15)Feels weightless on skin while deeply moisturizing
    • Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (16)Holy Grail Award winner (!)
    Cons
    • Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (17)I wish it came in a bigger bottle

    While many night creams are mega rich, this silky formula feels weightless on my skin while still packing in mega hydration. This is because it contains almost every single hydrating ingredient—I'm looking at you hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and squalane—along with mushroom peptides that instantly sink into skin to replenish the deeper layers and repair the moisture barrier. By morning, you'll wake up feeling ultra-refreshed. No wonder it earned itself a spot on Cosmo's Holy Grail Beauty Awards.

    • Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, mushroom peptide, squalane
    • Size: 1.7 oz

    Glowing Customer Review: "Absolutely wonderful night cream! The cream itself feels like silk, and it’s so gentle and hydrating on my skin. There’s no greasiness or leftover residue that sometimes accompanies night creams. When I wake up in the morning, my skin looks fresh and nourished. Would highly recommend!"

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    Pros
    • Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (19)Pump dispenser is easy to use and more hygienic than a tub
    • Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (20)Makes skin glowy, not greasy
    Cons
    • Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (21)Can make makeup pill if you don't wait for it to fully absorb

    You don't need to drop $$$ to properly hydrate your skin. since Bubble has your back for under $20. Everything about this moisturizer makes skincare fun, from the brightly colored packaging, to the convenient pump, and of course the pillowy soft, botanical-powered formula that contains avocado oil and aloe leaf juice to soften and moisturize. This effective concoction plumps and hydrates your skin to give you that post-facial glow with just a few dabs.

    • Key Ingredients: vitamin E, avocado oil, aloe leaf juice
    • Size: 1.7 oz

    Glowing customer review: "I ran out of this product about two months ago and thought I could go without, but then all of a sudden, my face started breaking out and was unbelievably dry. I didn’t realize at the time how much this was helping my skin. I have super dry skin and didn’t realize it for the longest time because I was using this product and it was helping me so much. Sure enough as soon as my order came and I started using it again my face cleared up."

    4

    Best Moisturizer for Irritated, Dry Skin

    Kate Somerville DeliKate Recovery Cream

    Pros
    • Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (23)Uses soothers to help bring down redness and irritation
    • Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (24)I love the rich texture
    Cons
    • Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (25)Might feel too heavy for some people

    If you love the texture of thick creams but hate the greasy feeling many leave behind, try this recovery cream recommended by Dr. Gymrek. "It includes my favorite ingredient—ceramides—to help hydrate and heal your skin barrier, as well as ginger root extract and a natural botanical that decreases inflammation," she says. Essentially, on top of rejuvenating dry skin, it also tamps down redness a little bit too.

    • Key Ingredients: Peptide complex, ceramides, ginger root extract
    • Size: 1.7 oz

    Glowing customer review: "The usual red and dry dark areas that come with harsh winter every year has ceased to exist for me with this cream. I usually get really dry around my mouth to a point that it peels and turns dark. But with this lotion, it didn’t happen this year."

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    5

    Best Travel Moisturizer for Dry Skin

    Kiehl's Ultra Facial Barrier Balm

    Pros
    • Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (27)Convenient stick format makes it easy to hydrate anywhere!
    • Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (28)Simple formula makes this ideal for all skin types
    Cons
    • Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (29)Some people might not like the application method (it's just different)

    Dry skin flare-ups can strike at any time—and they're more prone to appear when you're traveling. To remedy any patchy dry spots on a moment's notice, keep this moisturizing stick on hand. It earned a spot in Cosmo's Holy Grail Beauty Awards for its easy glide-on application and the way it leaves skin feeling soft, supple, and non-greasy. You can thank extra moisturizing squalane and ceramides for that.

    • Key ingredients: Squalane, pro-ceramides, glacial glycoprotein
    • Size: 0.3 oz

    Glowing customer review: "I'm a huge Kiehl's lover, and I carry their Facial Cream everywhere. This is like a large chapstick for your face. It rolls on smooth, no glistening, moisturizes. I love this product."

    6

    Best Multi-Tasking Moisturizer for Dry Skin

    Skinfix Barrier+ Strengthening and Moisturizing Triple Lipid-Peptide Cream

    Pros
    • Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (31)Not too heavy that it clogs my pores
    • Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (32)Works to firm the skin as well as hydrate with lipids and peptides
    Cons
    • Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (33)Really, really rich (people with oily dry skin probs won't like)

    When a dermatologist personally uses a formula to keep their dry skin in check, you know it must be good. Dermatologist Nicole Lee, MD, swears by this moisturizer in the winter because its "rich, yet non-comedogenic formulation" gives her dry skin "instant relief," she says. Skinfix utilizes a patented lipid complex (aka natural fats that are an essential part of healthy skin) to plump, nourish, and illuminate your complexion. And with consistent use, skin won't just feel soft and supple, it will also be firmer and more elastic too.

    • Key Ingredients: Lipids, peptides, glycerin
    • Size: 1.7 oz

    Glowing customer review: "Emptied tons of 'em. makes you look like a real-life porcelain doll. Where did my pores go? I don't know, but they're non-existent."

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    7

    Best Rich Moisturizer for Dry Skin

    Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream Moisturizer

    Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (34)

    Pros
    • Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (35)Leaves my skin feeling hella plump and firm
    • Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (36)Packaging looks like art on my vanity
    • Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (37)Beautifully preps skin for makeup
    Cons
    • Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (38)Another ultra rich pick that might feel too heavy for some people

    Let me tell ya, the name of this moisturizer is soooo spot on. Charlotte Tilbury's Magic Cream turns my skin into a plush plump pillow and makes any trace of dryness—and fine lines and dullness—disappear. Because this is extra thick and rich, the smallest dollop is more than enough to reenergize my complexion. I reserve it for night time use to wake up with smooth, soft skin come morning; though it also preps skin beautifully for makeup as well in natural CT fashion.

    • Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, peptides
    • Size: 1.7 oz

    Glowing customer review: "This really is magic. I have extremely dry, reactive skin, and I have struggled to find moisturizers that didn't agitate my face and that provided enough moisture. I use it daily, and it's amazing. Highly recommend!"

    8

    Best Splurge Moisturizer for Dry Skin

    Caudalie Premier Cru The Cream

    Pros
    • Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (40)Minimizes the look of fine lines and wrinkles
    • Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (41)Intensely hydrates skin (like instantly)
    Cons
    • Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (42)Most expensive moisturizer on this list

    When skin is dry, fine lines and wrinkles become even more exaggerated. This fancy schmancy cream—while expensive—works overtime to deeply hydrate and fill in those defined lines so that your skin looks younger and feels smoother. It doesn't just tackle wrinkles though, it also addresses seven other signs of aging to brighten dark spots, enhance radiance, and firm skin.

    • Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, viniferine, tightening sugars
    • Size: 1.7 oz

    Glowing customer review: "I am a loyal Caudalie buyer. I have never tried this line from them as I have always bought the vinoperfect line. I am obsessed with the rich cream. It has done wonders to my skin and a little goes a long way! Definitely recommend this to anyone as to me it is worth the price!"

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    9

    Best Barrier-Repair Cream for Dry Skin

    Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Cream

    Pros
    • Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (44)Fast-acting
    • Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (45)The tube is convenient to dispense the cream
    Cons
    • Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (46)Don't use too much or skin can feel greasy

    I'm gonna let you in a little secret: If your skin is consistently dry, that's a sign you have a compromised skin barrier. This cream helps repair a damaged barrier, providing you with instant relief from that tight skin feeling. Ceramides and panthenol comprise the formula's secret sauce, which works to heal your barrier and leave skin feeling soft to the touch after just one use.

    • Key Ingredients: Ceramides, panthenol, glycerin
    • Size: 1.7 oz

    Glowing customer review: "I have extremely dry skin, this instantly makes my skin feel quenched and hydrated. I have had no issues with this product an allergic reactions."

    10

    Best for Eczema-Prone Dry Skin

    First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream

    Pros
    • Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (48)Great for soothing irritated skin, even eczema and rosacea
    • Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (49)Feels fluffy and soft
    • Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (50)The tub is huge!
    Cons
    • Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (51)Some people prefer to use it as a body cream over a face cream (though it works as both!)

    If your dry skin leads to eczema, this rich, enveloping cream can cut down on flare-ups and restore skin to health. The key is colloidal oatmeal, a soothing natural ingredient that reduces inflammation and reinforces the skin barrier. This, paired with calming allantoin and mega moisturizing shea butter, create a heavy-hitting cream that will have your skin feeling soft and supple after just a few uses.

    • Key Ingredients: Colloidal oatmeal, shea butter, allantoin
    • Size: 6 oz

    Glowing customer review: "This is the second time I've bought this product, if that tells you anything. It's thick enough to provide my older skin with the moisture it needs so badly. I use it under my makeup during the day and again at night before going to bed."

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    11

    Best Lightweight Moisturizer for Dry Skin

    Deinde Barrier-Building Moisture Cream

    Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (52)

    Pros
    • Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (53)A cream that's weightless yet ultra nourishing
    • Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (54)The gel texture feels soothing
    Cons
    • Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (55)Can't get it at Sephora or Amazon (yet!)

    Contrary to popular belief, not all moisturizers for dry skin have to be rich and thick. This lightweight gel-cream deeply moisturizes on contact and feels refreshing, almost like a tall glass of water on a hot summer's day. I love how it absorbs quickly and gives my complexion a lit-from-within glow. I've worn this on extra windy days (I'm prone to windburn), and my skin didn't look red or raw at all. As someone who has naturally dry skin that's prone to rosacea, I'd say that's a pretty impressive feat, tbh.

    • Key Ingredients: Polysaccharides, hyaluronic acid, skin-identical lipids
    • Size: 1.7 oz

    Glowing customer review: "This has been a game-changer for my skincare routine. It's super hydrating, and refreshing, and provides a soothing sensation that leaves my skin feeling nourished and restored."

    12

    Best Calming Moisturizer for Dry Skin

    Rhode Barrier Restore Cream

    Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (56)

    Pros
    • Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (57)The cooling effect is a nice touch
    • Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (58)Makes my skin extremely glowy
    Cons
    • Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (59)Tube is a little small, tbh

    I'm not the biggest fan of celebrity skincare lines, but Hailey Bieber knew exactly what she was doing when she made the Barrier Restore Cream. I can immediately feel the cream working because it imparts a cooling sensation that calms irritation and wraps my skin in comfort. Many barrier creams can feel thick and goopy, yet this one maintains a lush, lightweight texture that makes it more comfortable to apply and wear. And the glow it leaves? It's giving glazed donut.

    • Key Ingredients: Shea butter, squalane, peptides
    • Size: 1.7 oz

    Glowing customer review: "The most important step in my skincare routine, especially during the winter months! The Barrier Restore Cream leaves my skin so moisturized and soft, and we can't forget the glow it gives to the skin ✨ this is truly one of my tried and trues and I can't live without it!"

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    What causes dry skin?

    Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (60)

    According to Dr. Gymrek, there's not a one size fits all answer because there are a variety of things that can cause dry skin, including genetics. But here are a few of the most common causes:

    • Environment: Naturally dry environments (like deserts) "can pull moisture out of the skin and contribute to dryness," she says. Since the air is also more arid in the winter, this can also exacerbate dry skin, which is why you might only experience dry patches during the cold months.
    • Products: Dr. Gymrek says that in addition to exfoliating skincare products (that contain either physical or chemical exfoliants, like AHAs), certain soaps can be too harsh on your skin, causing dryness. Always make sure to opt for hydrating formulas to replenish your moisture barrier and ward off that dry, tight feeling.
    • Showering in hot water: Even though a hot shower feels soooo nice, it actually can strip moisture out of your skin, exacerbating dryness. Don't forget to layer on moisturizers (like the ones above, maybe!) and oils after every cleanse.
    • Age: "As people age, their skin produces less natural oil," explains Dr. Gymrek, which leads to dry skin. Unfortunately, you can't control this one, which brings us to...

    How do you fix dry skin?

    Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (61)

    In general, there's typically no way to "fix" dry skin if it's genetic. But there are steps you can take to manage dryness and help your skin feel more comfortable. According to Dr. Lee, using creams formulated with heavy emollients (aka ingredients that trap water in the skin) can "assist the skin with retaining moisture and/or improve its ability to attract moisture." Any of the moisturizers on our list will help your skin maintain proper hydration levels.

    To boost the efficacy of your moisturizer, try "adding a humidifier to your room and avoiding alcohol or drying substances can also help," says Dr. Lee. Plus, never underestimate the power of drinking water—this is also a very important key to keeping your skin dewy, plump, comfortable, and hydrated.

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    How to choose the best moisturizer for dry skin

    Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (62)

    Look at the ingredients.

    Hydrating ingredients can be broken down into three categories: Humectants, emollients, and occlusives. Dr. Gymrek says that humectants, like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, pull moisture into the skin; emollients, like squalane and jojoba oil, seal cracked skin and smooth it out; and occlusives, like shea butter and rich oils, create a barrier to seal in moisture. The best moisturizer is gonna be one that already combines all three for long-lasting hydration.

    Consider the texture.

    While many moisturizers for dry skin have a thick, rich texture, there are also options that are lighter and feel weightless. This all comes down to personal preference. Heavy creams often leave skin feeling like a pillowy cloud—and really offer up a mega dose of hydration—while lighter gel-cream formulas absorb faster and make for a great makeup base.

    Think about your skin concerns.

    Do you struggle with eczema or inflammation on top of dry, flakey skin? Or are you trying to minimize the look of fine lines and wrinkles? Many creams designed for dry skin offer multiple benefits to address a range of concerns. Research all of the benefits and see what best suits your skin's needs. For example, First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream can soothe irritation, while the heavy-hitting Caudalie Premier Cru The Cream works to slow down signs of aging like sagging and dark spots too.

    Meet the Experts:

    Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (63)

    • Robyn Gymrek, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at UnionDerm in New York, NY. She's extremely well-versed in the latest in-office treatments and products.
    • Nicole Lee, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Epoch Dermatology in Garden City, NY. She's also an assistant clinical professor at Mount Sinai.

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    Why trust 'Cosmopolitan'?

    Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (64)

    Mary Honkus is a contributor for Cosmopolitan with six years of experience researching, writing, and editing beauty stories, including reviewing the top non comedogenic sunscreens and comparing CeraVe vs Cetaphil. She is an authority in all beauty categories and has painstakingly curated a skincare routine that works for her skin. For this story, she interviewed two dermatologists and tested dozens of moisturizers to find the best options for dry skin.

    Dermatologists Say These Moisturizers Work Wonders for Dry Skin (65)

    Mary Honkus

    Mary Honkus is a freelance writer who covers beauty, home, fashion, health, and wellness (just call her a jack of all trades!). She has held staff roles at Real Simple, People, and InStyle, and her bylines can be found in numerous other publications. When she's not testing the latest and greatest products, she can be found chilling on her Hell's Kitchen rooftop, checking out NYC's hottest new restaurants, or recording her podcast Good Trouble NYC. Follow her on Instagram.

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