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Thats why a great face moisturizer is so importantits your skins first line of defense against dehydration and discomfort.

A collage of Allure editors applying face moisturizers

Collage: Laneen Wells; Source images:Allureeditors

The formula is unscented, thick without being gooey or sticky, and never irritating.

A no-brainer, really.

Best for Sensitive Skin:SkinCeuticals A.G.E.

Dieux Instant Angel in branded white tube component on a light gray background

Allureshopping contributor Annie Blackman applying the Dieux Instant Angel

Interrupter Advanced

SkinCeuticals

A.G.E.

Interrupter Advanced

Dermstore

Bluemercury

Alluresenior editor Jesa Marie Calaor applying the SkinCeuticals A.G.E.

Interrupter Advanced contains a slew of hydrators that skin slurps up for a softer, velvety feel.

A jar of the SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Interrupter Advanced on a light gray background

Alluresenior editor Jesa Marie Calaor applying the SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Interrupter Advanced

Tester feedback:Many moisturizers sting my dry, sensitive skinbut not the A.G.E.

Interrupter Advanced, says senior editorJesa Marie Calaor.

It coddles my skin, comforting the extra-dry patches and leaving my complexion bouncy and bright.

Trinny London Bounce Back in branded component on a light gray background

Allurecommerce editor Sarah Han applying the Trinny London Bounce Back moisturizer

Tester feedback:Im all about peptides these days and the more the merrier.

I also love the mess-free pump and not having to scoop my fingers into a jar.

(Chanel notesthat only the excess honey is collected and no hives are harmed in the process.)

Chanel Le Lift Pro Crème top and front view of a gray jar of moisturizer with a black lid on a light gray background with the red Allure Best of Beauty seal in the top right corner

Alluresocial director Kassidy Silva applying the Chanel Le Lift Pro Crème

And it actually succeeds, which explains why it won a2023 Best of Beauty Award.

Another bonus: It’s also fragrance-free, a tough find among luxury skin-care products.

“With chronically dry skinthank youeczemaand psoriasisit’s my nightly staple to keep my skin supple and glowing.”

Kate Somerville HydraKate Recharging Water Cream Moisturizer mint jar on light gray background with red Allure Best of Beauty seal in the top right corner

Allureassociate editor Annie Blay applying the Kate Somerville HydraKate Recharging Water Cream Moisturizer

“It sinks in quickly but leaves my skin moisturized all day and never greasy.”

Caudalies cream provides the comfort my constantly inflamed skin needs while leaving it with a dewy, bouncy appearance.

When I apply it before bed, my skin feels noticeably softer and smoother come morning.

Caudalie Premier Cru The Cream purple jar on light gray background

Allure commerce writer Jennifer Hussein applying the Caudalíe Premier Cru The Cream

It doesnt leave my skin feeling greasy afterwardjust velvety-smooth and ready for my concealer.

“It also has a seal of acceptance from theNational Eczema Association,” Dr. Landriscina adds.

It’s also free of silicone, which makes it lighter and less likely to feel occlusive on skin.

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

Allurefeatures director Dianna Mazonne Singh applying the Aestura Atobarrier 365 Cream

“One to two pumps is all you need and it gets absorbed instantly.”

This combination locks in moisture for the long haul, boosting elasticity and fortifying the moisture barrier.

Bonus: Mango shea butter adds a subtly fruity scent that makes you feel like you’re on vacation.

Charlotte Tilbury Charlotte’s Magic Cream in glass and brown component with black accents on a light gray background

Allurecommerce writer Jennifer Hussein applying the Charlotte Tilbury Charlotte’s Magic Cream

Here’s to firmer skin and more TikTok scrolling."

This lightweight cream pairs a cica complex withallantointo calm irritation, while niacinamide provides a gentle boost of radiance.

It layers beautifully beneath sunscreen and makeup but also holds its own as a nighttime moisturizer.

Tatcha Indigo Overnight Repair blue jar of moisturizer with cap and gold wand to the sides on light gray background

“The blend of ceramides and humectants in this moisturizer packs a punch,” Dr. Landriscina says.

(So, if youre wearing this during the day, ensure to follow with sunscreen.)

Why do you need a face moisturizer?

Skinfix Skin Barrier+ Restoring Gel Cream light blue jar on light gray background

The short answer: Absolutely.

“Just as our bodies require us to hydrate with water, so does our skin.”

While our skin appears dewier almost instantly, the real benefits show up in the long term.

Ole Henkrisen Strength Trainer Peptide Boost Moisturizer purple jar with white lid on light gray background

The consistent use of moisturizers slows down the rate and intensity at whichfine lines and wrinklesappear, she says.

This daily philosophy applies to all skin types and not justdry skin.

Increased hydration supports astronger barrier, Dr. Day says, which also helps curb oil production.

Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Sensitive Skin Moisturizer for Redness green and white tube on light gray background

What step is moisturizing in a skin-care routine?

Consider your moisturizer as the cellophane that seals in the rest of your skin-care routine.

“They seal in serums on your skin, which can make them more effective,” Wilsonsays.

Summer Fridays Cloud Dew Oil-Free Gel Cream light pink jar with white lid on light gray background

After moisturizing, you’re free to layer oil to make your skin look even dewier.

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

To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our completereviews process and methodology page.

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A beauty product is a personal purchase.

Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if its never been tested on curls?

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