According to Derms, Dry Skin Doesn't Stand a Chance Against These Moisturizers

Here's the deal. Finding a face moisturizer that, for all intents and purposes, does exactly what it promises to do for your skin can be a challenging feat for anyone (yes, even your most trusted Who What Wear beauty editors). One thing we can count on, however, is the guidance we have from skin experts across the U.S. We're lucky enough to have them on speed dial offering steadfast solutions for all our skincare woes. Before you add another moisturizer to your virtual shopping basket without experiencing it in person or sifting through thousands of reviews, check out what two of the industry's most reputable dermatologists and one integrative aesthetics doctor have to say on the topic.

Feeling bold and ready to shop after discovering their skincare secrets? Scroll on to find 13 of the face moisturizers they swear by, ranging from products offering broad spectrum UV protection to others that dramatically minimize the appearance of pores, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation. Don't worry—you can thank us later.

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(Image credit: @tamaramory)

What to Look for in a Moisturizer

For Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD, finding the perfect moisturizer match is all about identifying the ingredients that are most beneficial to your skin. Glycerin and hyaluronic acid, for example, draw in moisture, while ceramides lock it in. "Some moisturizers may also contain occlusive ingredients like petrolatum, which can be especially helpful for those with dry, flaky skin," says Garshick. "Other ingredients that can be helpful include emollients to help to soften and smooth the skin, like squalane and niacinamide, which helps to calm the skin and reduce redness."

But what about individuals dealing with a compromised skin barrier? Another dermatologist, Mara Weinstein Velez, MD, FAAD, recommends choosing a moisturizer that has ceramides, lipids, and peptides to encourage repair. Alternately, those with acne-prone skin should opt for oil-free moisturizers using hyaluronic acid and glycerin in their formulas. 

Rahi Sarbaziha, MD, a Beverly Hills–based board-certified integrative aesthetics doctor, also offered her take on simplifying the decision process based on the specific needs of your skin type. "First, identify if you have dry, oily, sensitive, or combination skin. It's important to note that you still need to moisturize oily skin," Sarbaziha begins. "Most moisturizers contain three categories of ingredients: humectants, emollients, and occlusives. Humectants draw water into the skin, emollients seal the skin's outer layer, and occlusives prevent moisture loss." She recommends looking for moisturizers crafted from formulas that contain hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and glycerin to provide the skin with its required hydration and protection.

Must-Have Moisturizers

Best Overall

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(Image credit: @emmanullek_)
Maya Thomas
Assistant Beauty Editor
Maya Thomas is Who What Wear's assistant beauty editor based just outside of Seattle, Washington. Her strong love for all things beauty and fashion stems from a strong childhood interest in the fine arts. During a gap year spent in Paris studying the history of French fashion, she shifted her focus to English literature and journalism as a student at Loyola Marymount University with the goal of one day pursuing a career in fashion. After graduating in May 2021, Maya began freelancing for Parade.com as a contributing commerce writer while also building a following on her lifestyle blog, Itsmayalala.com. When she's not writing, Maya spends her free time catching up on reading, perusing art galleries, and enjoying a night out at the ballet every now and then.