Top All-Purpose Facial Moisturizers Recommended by Skincare Professionals

Dr. Y. Claire Chang, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist at Union Square Laser Dermatology, previously told HuffPost about her preferred creams, including this ceramide treatment cream by SkinMedica. While it was originally designed to aid post-procedure skin recovery, such as after laser treatments or chemical peels, it also excels at rejuvenating severely dry or damaged skin. The cream features a specialized peptide blend that promotes collagen production to address fine lines, along with ceramides, which are vital for maintaining a healthy and hydrated skin barrier.

Customer review: "As someone with dry skin, this moisturizer is a game-changer. It works perfectly under makeup, providing hydration without any greasiness. My makeup stays flawless all day. Highly recommended for mature skin." —Charlotte 

Available at Dermstore for $72. 

The Inkey List's bakuchiol cream was recommended by Dr. Loretta Ciraldo, a Miami-based board-certified dermatologist, as an excellent option for those interested in exploring this natural alternative to retinol. She noted that it performs effectively and, priced under $15, offers an affordable way to test your tolerance for this ingredient, which aids in promoting cellular renewal. The lightweight formula contains 1% bakuchiol to address fine lines and loss of elasticity, alongside hydrating squalane and nutrient-rich sacha inchi oil, a plant-based oil abundant in omega-3.

Customer review: "This product is transformative. As someone with sensitive, dry skin, it worked wonders without causing dryness and visibly reduced my fine lines. I would definitely buy it again." —Nitzs

Available at Inkey or Sephora for $12.99.

Our recommendation: HuffPost Shopping writer and skincare enthusiast Lourdes Avila Uribe has praised Dieux's Instant Angel moisturizer multiple times. She describes it as the one product she consistently relies on due to its perfect compatibility with her sensitive, acne-prone skin.

"It’s deeply nourishing, soothing, and, remarkably, doesn’t clog my pores. The best part? The longer I use it, the more my skin improves," Uribe explained, highlighting the thoughtfully selected ingredients designed to strengthen the skin barrier and enhance overall skin health. "A gentle blend of phytosterols, free fatty acids, meadowestolide, ceramides, glycerin, squalane, and more work together to deliver exceptional results." —Lourdes Avila Uribe, HuffPost Writer 

Customer review: "I’ve been using Instant Angel since its launch and can’t imagine being without it (thanks to the subscription). My very dry, acne-prone skin stays hydrated without any breakouts." —Laura O.

Available at Dieux for $45. 

This Skinfix lipid peptide cream has been endorsed by dermatologists not just once, but twice as an excellent choice for those with dry, sensitive, and problematic skin. It features a patented triple-lipid complex designed to replenish ceramides and fatty acids, promoting a healthy skin barrier. Additionally, it includes a peptide blend for plumping and glycerin for deep hydration. I’ve personally used this cream, especially during winter, to soothe my eczema-prone skin.

Customer review: "I’m a huge fan of this brand. It’s perfect for my sensitive skin. The cleanser is equally amazing and removes all my makeup, even waterproof mascara. I love that it never irritates my skin, so I’ll continue using it. This product was gifted by Barrier in exchange for my honest review." —AnaVel19

Available at Sephora for $54.

Candace Marino, a Los Angeles-based medical aesthetician, previously highlighted the advantages of this hydrating and firming moisturizer by Kora Organics, particularly for individuals dealing with dullness and hyperpigmentation.

"Turmeric is a powerful antioxidant known to visibly brighten, soothe, and protect the skin, while marine micro-algae delivers a rich source of proteins to enhance skin health," Marino explained.

Customer review: "As someone with dry skin, this moisturizer is a lifesaver! I adore its texture—it feels deeply hydrating and absorbs seamlessly without leaving any greasy residue." —Truexiong

Available at Sephora or Kora Organics for $62.

Our recommendation: Sephora's prebiotic moisturizer is a staple in my skincare regimen. It’s rich, fragrance-free, and my skin absorbs it effortlessly. The naturally derived prebiotics in this formula provide deep hydration, while marula oil fortifies the skin barrier, enhancing its resilience against environmental stressors. Beyond its soothing effect, I appreciate that it feels lightweight and doesn’t leave a greasy residue, unlike many other moisturizers designed for dry, sensitive skin.

Customer review: "This moisturizer is amazing! I tried a sample and loved it so much that I bought the full size. It’s incredibly hydrating yet feels light, even in the summer heat." —Nashayy

Available at Sephora for $18.

Our recommendation: This potent overnight treatment harnesses bioactive marine components to enhance skin renewal, leaving it softer and more resilient. The brand highlights a patent-pending capsule technology that ensures efficient delivery of active ingredients, resulting in noticeable improvements in skin texture and appearance.

Customer review: "As someone with sensitive, fair, combination skin prone to acne, dullness, and dryness, this product has transformed my complexion. My cheeks are less congested, breakouts are fewer, and my skin tone is more even. I use it 1–2 times weekly, sometimes more on problem areas." —Lindsay B.

Available at U Beauty for $198.

This deeply hydrating and restorative day cream by Clarins is a top choice of New York City-based dermatologist Dr. Marisa Garshick for those with severely dehydrated or menopausal skin. She highlights its inclusion of organic harungana, which mimics retinol’s effects while remaining gentle on the skin.

"It also features an anti-pollution complex to shield the skin from damage caused by pollution and blue light," she added.

Customer review: "I’m a huge fan of Clarins products, and this cream is a standout. I use it daily, both morning and night. It’s an essential part of my routine." —me2inhouston

Available at Sephora for $134.

Lindsay Kastuk, a New York-based makeup artist, previously shared that Augustinus Bader's iconic moisturizer — known as "The Cream" — is "a makeup artist's ultimate luxury moisturizer." This rich formula aids in cellular renewal, enhances moisture retention, and strengthens the skin barrier. We, too, have praised The Cream’s ability to transform the complexion, thanks to the brand’s patented Trigger Factor Complex, which combines over 40 ingredients based on decades of research and clinical trials.

Customer review: "I’ve been using this product for six months, and it’s hands down the best moisturizer I’ve ever tried. Despite having sensitive, combination skin prone to breakouts, my skin texture has improved significantly, with fewer acne flare-ups." —Cryptoyu

Available at Sephora or Dermstore for $180.

Garshick previously recommended Charlotte Tilbury's Magic Cream, describing it as a product that "enhances moisture and boosts skin radiance, delivering both instant and lasting results." This luxurious formula combines hyaluronic acid, peptides, vitamins C and E, and more, which Garshick notes can plump the skin and minimize the appearance of fine lines.

Customer review: "I absolutely adore this product. At 24, I have normal to dry skin and a history of cystic acne, making my skin extremely sensitive. After thorough research, I tried the 30ml size, which lasted me three months. The scent is strong but pleasant. It works wonderfully under makeup and feels incredibly soft. Highly recommend!" —Kacex

Available at Sephora or Charlotte Tilbury for $65+ (available in four sizes).

Our recommendation: I’ve been a dedicated fan of The Ordinary’s simple, effective, and budget-friendly skincare approach, and this moisturizer was one of the first products that won me over. It deeply hydrates my dry skin with a blend of 11 proven ingredients, including fatty acids, glycerin, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid. If you’re looking for a facial cream that works seamlessly with other actives, delivers exceptional hydration, and is incredibly affordable, look no further.

Customer review: "As someone with combination/dry skin and occasional eczema around my eyes, I tried this while traveling after running out of my usual moisturizer. I’m completely obsessed—it’s now my go-to. The medium-thick texture hydrates perfectly without irritating my eczema flare-ups. At this price, you have to try it!" —MakeupMel14

Available at Sephora or Ulta for $6.50+ (available in two sizes).

Our pick: This hydrating and feather-light moisturizer comes from Glow Recipe, a Korean skincare brand renowned for its expertise in utilizing fruit-based ingredients. The Plum Plump hyaluronic acid cream earned its spot on our list due to its non-greasy formula, which features brightening plum extract, polyglutamic acid, and multi-weight hyaluronic acid for deep skin absorption. Its unique whipped gel texture is perfect for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin.

Promising review: "I struggle with extremely dry patches and an oily t-zone. After trying numerous moisturizers, this one has truly transformed my skin! Despite my sensitive skin, this cream hasn’t caused any breakouts and has left my complexion radiant and glowing! I’ll definitely repurchase!" —Kristen P.

Available at Glow Recipe for $21 (comes in two sizes).