There is no dispute that moisturizing is an essential part of any skincare regimen. Quite arguably one of the most important steps. With so many brands out there competing for attention, one can get jaded and disoriented pretty quickly. That’s why we are here to narrow down some options for you with our Au Naturale skin care segment: the moisturizer edition.
Of course, as mentioned in previous posts, we have accommodated this list for a variety of skin types and concerns.So buckle up and help us count down the top 10 clean and affordable moisturizers our editors will not stop raving about (and trust us: soon you won’t be able to either).
1. BEST UNIVERSAL PRODUCT: CERAVE PM FACIAL MOISTURIZER LOTION
A fit for every skin type and every budget, this trusty drugstore fave will not disappoint. Suitable for normal to oily skin, this moisturizer checks off all our boxes: non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, non-irritating, and affordable! It also contains our fave moisturizing properties. Ceramides help restore and maintain skin’s natural moisture barrier. Hyaluronic moisture helps the skin absorb and retain moisture like a sponge. Niacinamide balances out sebum production and keeps skin soothed. Finally, MVE technology: a patented system that continuously releases moisture throughout the day for an all-day, plumpy glow. Cerave did that, and kept it affordable in the process- grab it here.
2. BEST FOR ACNE: HOLISTIC VANITY BLACK MUD TURMERIC LOTION
Congested complexions rejoice! This beauty is a must-have for acne- prone skin. Vegan and formulated with organic, natural ingredients, this matte and non-greasy formula calms and helps purify problem skin. The key ingredient is black mud sourced from the Dead Sea, which contains anti-inflammatory properties, is antibacterial, and chock full of antioxidants and skin-loving minerals. Turmeric is anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory, and is the perfect sidekick for helping soothe and regenerate inflamed skin. Babassu oil encourages skin healing, fades acne scars, and encourages spot healing as it is rich in Vitamin E.
3. BEST FOR ITCHY/IRRITATED SKIN: FIRST AID BEAUTY ULTRA REPAIR CREAM INTENSE HYDRATION MOISTURIZER FOR FACE AND BODY
A sure bet for the itchiness and flakiness that comes with dry, sensitive skin. Formulated with no fragrances or essential oils, this calming companion will both soothe and pack a hydrating punch. Colloidal oatmeal calms the skin and prevents redness. Ceramides repair the skin’s damaged moisture barrier. Shea butter tops things off with an intense surge of moisture. Perfect with those struggling with drying and itchy skin conditions such as Eczema and Dermatitis. With regular use, this moisturizer will smooth over those dry patches in no time.
4. BEST FOR WINTER MONTHS: KIEHL'S ULTRA FACIAL CREAM
Brave the Winter cold and the havoc it can wreak on your skin with confidence and ease. This bestselling moisturizer from Kiehls is formulated with pure hydrating power. Cold air tends to suck the moisture right out of our faces. This magical cream prevents water loss, thanks to Glacial Glycoprotein, which deeply hydrates the skin by helping it retain water throughout the day. Olive-derived Squalane and Glycerin both strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier, locking hydration right in. Despite being rich, this cream has a super lightweight, fast-absorbing texture that won’t leave you feeling greasy.
5. BEST HIGH-END: DRUNK ELEPHANT PROTINI POLYPEPTIDE CREAM
Looking for an effective anti-aging hydrator that provides luxurious results but won’t completely break the bank? Well, here it is- Drunk Elephant’s Protini is a protein moisturizer that visibly improves skin‘s tone, texture, and firmness. A signal peptide complex, consisting of nine signal peptides, is made up of amino acids that form proteins in the skin. These peptides bind moisture to the skin which visibly plumps, firms, and restores bounce. Pygmy Waterlily Stem Cell Extract, an excellent source of antioxidants and nutrients, is extremely moisturizing, soothing, and calming; effective in supporting healthy, youthful-looking skin. Soybean Folic Acid Ferment Extract is a B vitamin that plays an important role in supporting the elasticity in skin. Folic acid is something skin craves, particularly after sun exposure. Think of using this moisturizer as adding protein powder to your smoothie. Kick sun damage, dullness, and aging skin to the curb with this facelift in a jar!
6. BEST FOR OILY SKIN: PETER THOMAS ROTH WATER DRENCH HYALURONIC CLOUD CREAM HYDRATING MOISTURIZER
Oily skin can be tricky- it needs ample moisture to stay balanced, and yet a lightweight enough texture to prevent excess shine throughout the day. Peter Thomas Roth’s Water Drench Moisturizer is the solution. Its formula boasts an impressive 30% Hyaluronic acid content to help skin retain ample moisture. Ceramides work to smooth out and repair the skin. The key to this moisturizer is the formula- it is not as emollient like most creams, and possesses a unique cloud-like, whipped texture that goes on like a gel. What you get is a smooth formula which plumps the skin without leaving a greasy residue- the bane of oily-skinned folks’ existence. This cream also creates a perfectly smooth, hydrating base for make-up!
7. BEST ANTI-AGING: SKINCEUTICALS TRIPLE LIPID RESTORE 2:4:2
Revitalize and replenish mature skin with SkinCeuticals’ triple lipid formula! As we age, our complexion slows down on producing certain lipids, which maximizes fine lines and wrinkles and minimizes skin fullness. A formulation of 2% pure ceramides, 4% natural cholesterol, and 2% fatty acids restore skin elasticity and hydration cycles. Vitamin E fights free radical damage and supports natural cell repair. Essential oils are packed with antioxidants and fight environmental damage that maximizes signs of aging. This moisturizer brings essential lipids lost from natural skin aging and environmental aggressors back to the face- a true miracle-worker. You are one step away from fuller, more youthful, and radiant skin!
8. BEST FOR SENSITIVE SKIN: LA ROCHE-POSAY TOLERIANE ULTRA MOISTURIZING CREAM
La Roche-Posay is a brand that prides itself on creating formulations that are perfect for sensitive skin sufferers. Its formulas are made with thermal water from a village in France which has been used to treat Eczema and Psoriasis sufferers for centuries! This formula is no different- it has been tested on people with skin allergies to ensure optimal performance. Free of parabens, fragrance, preservatives, or alcohol, this formula is sure to provide ample hydration without further irritating the skin. For risk-aversive skin, this product is a sure bet (along with the rest of La Roche Posay’s Toleriane line).
9. BEST DRUGSTORE MOISTURIZER: NEUTROGENA HYDRO BOOST HYALURONIC ACID HYDRATING WATER GEL
Neutrogena’s iconic gel formula is quickly becoming a favorite among high-end skincare aficionados and drugstore lovers alike! Packed with hyaluronic acid for ample water retention and hydration, its formula is lightweight, and non-comedogenic. While great for oily skin types, this cooling gel is generally a great pick for those hot and humid Summers. It’s also oil and alcohol-free- a perfect pick for those who prefer gel moisturizers over rich, emollient creams. Might we add- the $14 price tag makes this skincare favorite an absolute no-brainer!
10. BEST INDIE BRAND: SHELBY NATURALS FACE CREAM
We fell in love with this Canadian-based brand. Formulated in small batches with luxurious plant oils and absolutes, you are getting high-quality products chock full of potent nutrients for the skin. Their face cream is no exception. Fortified with nutrient-dense fruit (medium chain triglycerides from coconut; sweet orange; lemon; white grapefruit) and floral (sunflower, rosehip, sweet almond, shea, seabuckthorn, argan) oils, this miracle in a jar is a true multitasker. According to their website, it “hydrates, firms, soothes, prevents visible signs of aging, and brightens thanks to skin nourishing acids like alpha-linolenic acid, palmtoleic acid, and caffeic acid.” It also reduces the breakdown of collagen and protects skin from pollution and free radicals. Packed with phytosterols, this soft and lightweight formula reduces water loss in the skin. Founder Shelby Ondrus believes in skincare that is clean, reliable, and simple- her personal struggles with acne, sensitive skin, and premature aging inspired this line. We love an uplifting indie brand that aligns with our values- developing products that are natural and sustainably sourced with love. You go girl!
There you have it- Ten moisturizers for ten different skin concerns. No matter your skin type, you deserve to keep your skin hydrated and happy. We believe good skincare and sleep are essential to unlocking eternal youth and vitality- we hope you agree. Happy pampering!