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Finding a new moisturizer isnt always straightforward, especially if any little thing can set your skin off.

3 cosmetic items overlapping on a grey background. From top to bottom Blue jar white jar and white squeezable tube.

Source images: Courtesy of brands; Collage: Laneen Wells forAllure

But these formulas can vary in how they made and who they’re right for.

The formula is gentle and fragrance free, making it an excellent option for those with eczema.

Despite its nourishing texture, it doesnt feel especially heavy or greasy.

CeraVe Moisturizing Cream in branded tub component on a light gray background

This creamy moisturizer is gentle and packed with ceramides, he explains.

It also has this frosting-like texture that just melts on your skin, adds Dr. Kim.

He notes this product makes for a great hand cream, too.

SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 in branded tub component on a light gray background

This is the best soothing barrier healerit contains mineral water, says Dr. Lolis.

(No shock here, but we consider it of thebest barrier creams.)

As an added bonus, palmitoyl tripeptide-5 promotes firmer, smoother skin with fewer fine lines and wrinkles.

SkinFix Barrier+ Triple Lipid Peptide Cream in blue branded tub component on a light gray background

Superstar B vitamin niacinamide helps combat redness and discoloration, as does bromelain, an enzyme derived from papaya.

This one does have a bit of an oily finish, but we like that for an evening formula.

When skin is dry and sensitive, thats a sign that your skin barrier is compromised.

Aestura Atobarrier365 Cream in white and blue branded tube component on a light gray background

As the weather gets colder, our skin gets drier and inflamed, he explains.

Our skin barrier gets compromised and we need heavier moisturizers to keep our skin protected and hydrated.

Which moisturizer is best for a dry, sensitive face?

La Roche Posay Double Repair Facial Moisturizer tube component on light gray background

Humectants attract water like a sponge to keep the epidermis hydrated, says Dr. Lolis.

These include hyaluronic acid, sodium hyaluronate, and glycerin.

Ceramide is a naturally occurring molecule in our skin and helps keep the skin barrier intact, he says.

Avène Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Cream white tube on light gray background

I also like balms for specific dry patches, she adds.

How do you rehydrate dry sensitive skin on the face?

To really combat dryness and sensitivity, a multi-pronged approach is key.

Paula’s Choice RESIST Barrier Repair Advanced Moisturizer with Ceramides in blue branded component on a light gray background

Then, apply ahydrating serum.

Use ahyaluronic-acid serumwhile the skin is still damp to enhance absorption, she says.

Those with extremely dry skin can trysluggingwith a rich balm for added insurance against dehydration.

EltaMD Barrier Renewal Complex Face Moisturizer in branded bottle component on a light gray background

it’s possible for you to also add aface maskinto your weekly routine, says Dr. Kim.

Look for calming and hydrating ingredients like centella asiatica, oat extract, rice extracts, and ceramides.

We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies.

The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA in branded tube component on a light gray background

This ensures our testing base spans different skin tones, genders, and dermatological conditions.

For more on what’s involved in our reporting, check out our completereviews process and methodology page.

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IT Cosmetics Confidence in a Cream Anti-Aging Hydrating Moisturizer in branded tub component on a light gray background

Weleda Rejuvenating Night Cream in green branded tub component on a light gray background