Facial moisturisers have hydrating properties that keep the facial skin and neck, especially sensitive ones, moisturised all day. Different brands have come up with a variety of formulations that comes as occlusives, humectants, and occlusives. Moisturisers intended for the face are commonly infused with emollients to create their hydrating properties. These emollients in facial moisturisers create barriers to keep the skin from drying. There are a lot of benefits one can get from using facial moisturisers on a regular as these products don't just hydrate the skin, but they also protect, brightens, and slows down the effects of ageing. Most facial moisturisers now add on SPF or sunscreen properties that will protect the skin from the destructive UV rays of the sun. They can also help brighten the skin with their nourishing ingredients that lighten blemishes and dark spots on the face. Ingredients found in facial moisturisers now include anti-ageing properties like retinol and retinoids. Most facial moisturisers are now hypoallergenic and have proven safe to use for people with the most sensitive skin.
Major brands have come up with different formulations of facial moisturisers that will cater to the different needs of the people. People with sensitive skin are the most vulnerable to certain aspects that can dry and irritate their skins. It is important for them to choose facial moisturisers that have a lesser amount of ingredients that may irritate the skin and should opt for formulations that are hypoallergenic. Picking out the right facial moisturisers can be tedious with all the moisturising products that are out right now. CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion is considered the overall best facial moisturiser for its overall effective formula. The First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream Intense Hydration is known for its potent ingredients at the most affordable value. The SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 is praised for its cutting-edge and high-quality moisturising formula.
The top list of the best Facial Moisturisers for Sensitive Skin is Listed below.
- Best Overall: CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion is loaded with the best hydrating ingredients like ceramide, and hyaluronic acid that maintains optimum skin care for the face and body.
- Best Value: First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream Intense Hydration provides quality formulation that most people can afford
- Best Formula: SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 is praised for its nourishing formula that contains essential lipid ratio that protects and brings sensitive skin back to life.
1. CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion (Best Overall)
The CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion is a body and face lotion that keeps the skin hydrated for 24-hours. It strengthens the skin’s natural barriers with its ceramide-fortified formula that locks in moisture inside the skin. The moisturising lotion from Cerave easily seeps right through the layers of the skin and addresses the most problematic skin types, suited for dry skin. It is made without fragrance & oil and is non-comedogenic. This was tested for allergy and approved by the National Eczema Association to provide a safe product for people with sensitive skin. Cerave uses its own MVE Technology that effectively eases out the moisturising properties of its lotion all throughout the day. Despite its loaded ingredients, the Cerave lotion still feels lightweight on the skin. One can use the CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion preferably before one starts their day by spreading them entirely on skin areas that are prone to drying.
2. First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream Intense Hydration (Best Value)
The First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream Intense Hydration is a well-recognised skin moisturiser that provides the skin with the special care that it needs. Its gentle formula is made ideal for people with naturally dry skin and those suffering from skin problems like eczema, rashes, and redness. It eases skin irritation with its Colloidal Oatmeal and Allantoin ingredient that smoothens out the layers of the skin. Shea Butter provides the skin with the nourishment it requires as it is packed with vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids. It is certified vegan and free from skin-irritating ingredients like nuts, soy, and gluten. It is recommended to use the First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream Intense Hydration twice a day to help achieve skin hydration and repair that is needed. Among the other moisturising cream and lotions, this Ultra Repair Cream from First Aid brings the best value out of one’s money for its repair and soothing formula at the most affordable price.
3. SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 (Best Formula)
The SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 is voted the best formula for its nourishing and anti-ageing properties. The cream is formulated with potent ingredients from its special lipid ratio that includes ceramides, naturally sourced cholesterol, and fatty acids. This restores the skin to its healthier state by enhancing its texture, increasing its hydration, and reducing any enlargement of pores. This is a perfect pair for people who have a hard time adapting to retinoids as the SkinCeuticals Lipid Restore Cream alleviates the skin dryness that goes with it. It is free from paraben and dye and is well-suited for all skin types. The SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 can be used twice a day by applying it over cleansed face and neck. This could be layered over after the application of retinol.
4. Samarite Divine Cream Face & Eyes Rich Remedium Lasting 48h
The Samarite Divine Cream Face & Eyes Rich Remedium is created to hydrate the skin for a long time in as much as 48-hours. This product is made for every skin type from dry to oily and sensitive ones. It is versatile enough to be used as an all-day and night cream, and can also be dedicated as an eye cream. This would be a perfect formula for people who have damaged and ageing skin as this help restore and rejuvenate any signs of wrinkles or skin discolouration. It goes over the layers of the skin that deeply hydrates and nourishes it for optimum visible effects. It is proven safe for use by Dermatologists and Ophthalmologists. This cream can be used twice a day by applying it to clean areas of the face, neck, or around the eye area when used as an eye cream. Put on appropriate amounts of the Samarite Divine Cream face & eye cream as regularly as possible until such results are made obvious.
5. Bielenda Vegan Muesli Moisturizing Cream for Day & Night
The Bielenda Vegan Muesli Moisturizing Cream is specially made for people with dry and hypersensitive skin. This facial cream acts to tighten skin while effectively nourishing it with its vegan formula. It contains natural ingredients like wheat germ oil, oat extract, and coconut milk that have nourishing properties for the skin. Dull and dry skin usually results from imbalances or destruction of the normal barriers of the skin. The Bielenda Moisturising Cream revitalises the natural hydrolipid layers of the skin to restore its normal skin function. This organic product can safely be used even for the most sensitive skin type as the ingredients are all naturally-sourced. This Vegan Muesli Moisturising Cream from Bielenda can be applied either night or day on the face and around the neck.
6. Miya Cosmetics MyWonderBalm Hello Yellow Moisturizing & Nourishing Face Cream
The Miya Cosmetics MyWonderBalm Hello Yellow Face Cream aims to help nourish and deeply moisturise the skin. The Hello Yellow Face Cream adds on mango butter that brings out the natural hydrating power of the skin resulting in a more malleable skin epidermis. This formula could also be helpful for people with skin irritations that will be soothed out with the cream’s vitamin E provitamin B5 and Grapeseed oil ingredients. The cream quickly absorbs into the epidermis with its native QuickAbsorb formula. This leaves the skin smooth with a little hint of mango scent that pleasantly emits through the skin when worn. The essential ingredients assure a lightweight and non-sticky feel on the skin when worn the entire day. The Miya Cosmetics MyWonderBalm Hello Yellow Face Cream is perfect as a day or night cream that can be applied on the surface of the face, neck, cleavage, and around problematic skin areas.
7. EltaMD Intense Moisturizer
The EltaMD Intense Moisturizer assures its users of moisturised skin up to 12 hours of use. This Intense Moisturiser can be helpful for irritated skin as this gently eases out inflamed areas. The EltaMD Moisturizer is a perfect choice as a post-procedure or treatment cream for its waterless and sensitive-friendly formula. The product contains Petrolatum that retains the moisture on the layers of the skin to prevent dehydration or skin drying. It is produced without preservatives and is ideal for all vegan users. The EltaMD Intense Moisturizer could also come in handy while going to the beach as it can treat minor sunburns on the skin. Apply a pea-sized amount of the skin moisturiser on damp skin and gently spread it with clean fingers. The formula easily absorbs through the skin and melts as it touches the skin epidermis. This could be applied daily or whenever necessary.
8. BeautyStat Cosmetics Universal Pro-Bio Moisture Boost Cream
The BeautyStat Cosmetics Universal Pro-Bio Moisture Boost Cream can give the skin a 24-hour hydrating power and repairs the skin barriers. The Moisture Boost feature is achieved through its Hyaluronic acid and ceramide ingredient that keeps the moisturising ingredients intact on the layers of the skin. The product also addresses skin problems such as redness and inflamed areas with its Bio-fermented Nutrient Complex made from mushroom and Bifidus Extracts. Other ingredients in the BeautyStat Cosmetics Cream like pomegranate sterols and vitamin F reduces any dryness in the skin and block out any irritants and allergens. The BeautyStat Cosmetics Universal Pro-Bio Moisture Boost Cream can be incorporated as a day and night cream into one’s facial skincare routine.
9. Doctor Rogers RESTORE Face Lotion
The Doctor Rogers RESTORE Face Lotion is recognized as the best day cream for its smoothening and hydrating formula. The face lotion is ideal for all skin types including those that are prone to acne. The Niacinamide contained in the product reduces the skin redness caused by irritation and also prevents any signs of ageing like fine lines. Its skin-sensitive formula is approved for use by the National Eczema Association for people with skin issues such as eczema. It is formulated with centella asiatica extract that improves the barrier of the skin to be able to absorb the nutrients it needs. It is heavy on the ingredients but lightweight on the skin surface. The Doctor Rogers RESTORE Face Lotion can be used day and night all over the face, neck, and around the areas of the eyes. This should be layered in between serum and sunscreen application.
10. Avène Tolerance Control Soothing Skin Recovery Cream
The Avène Tolerance Control Soothing Skin Recovery Cream helps the skin cope with the damage from environmental pollutants and free radicals. It promises to provide a continuous 24-hours skin hydration. The Avène Skin Soothing Cream addresses skin problems like inflammation and redness with its key ingredients such as the D-Sensinose. It is infused with its own Avène Thermal Spring Water that soothes the surface of the skin. It has an overall sterile formula that is made without parabens, synthetic scents, and preservatives that disrupt skin flora and may cause irritation. It promises to calm the skin within 30 seconds of application and protects and rejuvenates the layers of the skin for 48 hours. The Avène Tolerance Control Soothing Skin Recovery Cream can be used two times a day right after facial cleansers. Apply evenly on the surface of the skin, eye contour areas, and neck.
11. La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer With SPF
The La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer is formulated with lightweight ingredients that hydrate the skin while protecting it. It contains SPF 30 that provides a protective layer for the skin from the harmful effects of the sun. It is formulated with its own Prebiotic Thermal Water that has selenium that naturally soothes the skin. Its skin moisturising property is retained with its ceramide-3 ingredient that improves the barrier of the skin. The La Roche-Posay Face Moisturiser is infused with Niacinamide that restores any destroyed skin cells and emerges a new healthy skin layer. It is produced free from paraben, oil, oxybenzone, and fragrance. This is tested for allergy and is best recommended for all skin types including the most sensitive ones. One can apply the Double Repair Face moisturiser on cleansed face and neck in the morning and evening.
12. Olay Moisturizing Face Lotion Sensitive Skin
The Olay Moisturizing Face Lotion Sensitive Skin, as the name suggests, is ideal for people that are very receptive to harsh formulas. It provides a 12-hour moisturising property that addresses most problems of dry and dull skin. The Olay Face Lotion is formulated free from fragrance and leaves a lightweight layer on the skin that does not grease out, the entire time it is worn. It is infused with organic ingredients like aloe vera and chamomile that soothes and smoothens skin texture. Glycerin adds to the moisturising properties of the face lotion by strengthening the layers of the skin resulting in a healthier and tighten skin surface. The Olay Moisturizing Face Lotion can be applied day and night after serums, creams, and mists. Apply a generous amount that will layer all over cleansed face and neck until it is absorbed by the skin.
13. SheaMoisture Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Oil & Witch Hazel Skin Rescue Moisturizer
The SheaMoisture Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Oil & Witch Hazel Skin Rescue Moisturizer is a unique formulation that leaves the skin healthy and hydrated. It functions as a face lotion and cream that revitalised tired skin with its hydrating properties. Its formulation includes Hemp Seed Oil, vitamin E, and Witch Hazel that collectively moisturises the skin. The SheaMoisture Moisturiser helps diminishes signs of ageing like fine lines and wrinkles. It is produced from all-natural ingredients without harmful chemicals like phthalate, paraben, and sulfate, and is also 100% cruelty-free. It is well suited for people with dry and mature skin that needs some rejuvenation. One can use the SheaMoisture Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Oil & Witch Hazel Skin Rescue Moisturizer on a cleansed and dried face using an upward direction. This is ideal for use during the day or a night.
14. Alastin Sensitive Skin Ultra Light Moisturizer With TriHex Technology
The Alastin Sensitive Skin Ultra Light Moisturizer is an ultra-hydrating formula that restores the natural barriers of the skin. It is recommended for use for people with sensitive skin and those that have undergone skin medical treatment. It helps alleviate signs of skin irritation and soothes any visible redness. Alastin uses its own TriHex Technology that induces the skin to create its own natural collagen and elastin that increases the firmness of the skin. It also incorporates peptide ingredients to even out the skin texture. Other nourishing ingredients include ginger, mushroom, white tea, and a mix of ceramides that naturally supplements the skin with needed nutrients. The Alastin Sensitive Skin Ultra Light Moisturizer can be used either during the day or night. A small amount of the moisturiser is enough to cover the entire face except the eyes.
15. Aveeno Calm + Restore Oat Gel Moisturizer For Sensitive Skin
The Aveeno Calm + Restore Oat Gel Moisturizer For Sensitive Skin is a gel-based moisturiser that promises to hydrate the skin for up to 24-hours and restore the skin’s natural barriers. It contains calming Feverfew formula that soothes irritated skin. It is highly recommended for people with sensitive skin as the Aveeno Gel Moisturizer is hypoallergenic and tested by dermatologists. It is free from the harmful effects of paraben, phthalate, dye, and is non-comedogenic. It contains natural ingredients of prebiotic oats that help bring dull and dry skin back to life with their nourishing properties. It leaves the skin smooth and light minus the greasy feeling. One can use the Aveeno Calm + Restore Oat Gel Moisturizer day and night on the face and neck. Apply a generous amount enough to cover the entire face and neck and gently massage it in an upward and downward direction.
16. La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm AP+ Moisturizer for Dry Skin Body Cream
The La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm AP+ Moisturizer for Dry Skin Body Cream resolves skin drying and contains nourishing products that revive the skin to its former glory. It contains hydrating ingredients like shea butter Niacinamide and glycerine that keep moisture in the layers of the skin. The prebiotic moisturiser helps retain the normal flora on the skin with La Roche-Posay prebiotic Thermal Water. Thermal water is enriched with minerals that have natural antioxidant properties that help fight free radicals. It is highly recommended for people with sensitive skin as this is free from parabens and synthetic fragrances. One can use the La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm AP+ Moisturizer during the day or night. Massage a small amount of the product on all parts of the body and allow it to seep into the epidermis.
How to identify if you're using the right moisturizer for sensitive skin?
To identify if one is using a facial moisturiser for sensitive skin, one must look at the back of its product information. One of the important things that must be considered is the ingredients that are used in making the moisturiser. People with higher skin sensitivity should opt for products that have lesser ingredients that can be intrusive to the skin. Avoid any formulations that may include harmful ingredients and preservatives like sulfates, paraben, phthalates, and even fragrances. They may contain allergens that can flare up irritation and inflame the skin. A good moisturiser for sensitive skin must be hypoallergenic and be tested safe by dermatologists and ophthalmologists. Choose moisturisers that have natural organic ingredients that are gentle to the skin.
What is the best face moisturizer for dry sensitive skin?
There are many facial moisturiser for dry sensitive skin produced by most well known cosmetic brands. However, Cerave Daily Moisturising Lotion is the best moisturiser for dry skin of 2022. It contains quality ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides that are formulated just right to be gentle for sensitive skin. The formulation is recognized as safe for use by the National Eczema Association and is hailed one of the best moisturisers for dry skin of 2022. It is tested free from allergen and is non-comedogenic. It is lightweight on the skin and most of all fragrance and sent free. Fragrances in skin products can be the number one culprit for skin irritation.
What is the best face moisturizer for dry sensitive skin that is dermatologist-recommended?
Cosmetic industry is growing and they always find a way to meet the needs of its customers. Some cosmetic brands have been producing top facial moisturiser to use for sensitive skin. The most trusted brand; Cerave Moisturising Cream is the best dry sensitive skin facial moisturiser. It is one of the most recommended products by dermatologists for sensitive skin. It is considered the best dry sensitive skin facial moisturiser among other products. The moisturising cream is claimed to be developed by certified dermatologists themselves. The product contains mild ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid that both hydrate and keep sensitive skin moisturised. The formula is suited for use not just for the face but for the entire body. It helps repair broken skin barriers that will be helpful for sensitive skin that is prone to allergens and free radicals. It is free from oil and fragrance that may irritate the skin layers.
What will happen if I use moisturizers that are not for sensitive skin?
Sensitive skin will have skin reactions depending on the ingredients they are exposed to. Common results for sensitive skin are skin redness, itching, and burning sensation. People with skin conditions like eczema will show signs of dermatitis that is triggered by the immune response to certain allergens found in products. One should consider products that are Dermatologists-recommended moisturisers to assure safety. A patch test is very important to see if there is a skin reaction to products like moisturisers that can be detrimental to health.
Do moisturizers help ease skin irritations?
Yes, moisturisers can help ease skin irritations. Moisturisers are even recommended for certain skin conditions like eczema and rosacea to reduce the irritations they experience. There are special made moisturiser formulations for people with sensitive skin that prevents reaction to allergens and can even act as antioxidants. There are also brands that offer moisturiser variants that are best used for post-operation treatments, mild burns, and sunburns.
Is it necessary to use moisturisers for sensitive skin?
Yes, it is necessary to use moisturisers for sensitive skin. Moisturisers contain nourishing ingredients that help strengthen the barriers of the skin against free radicals or allergens that attack sensitive skin. They help alleviate any symptoms that they experience, like skin irritation, redness, and itching. It works against further damage to the skin layer caused by everyday environmental pollutants, extreme temperatures, and stripping skin chemicals that destroy the skin barrier even more. If the skin barrier is further damaged, this would increase the sensitivity of the skin.
Are all moisturisers dermatologist-recommended?
No, not all moisturisers are dermatologist-recommended. Moisturisers are made differently when it comes to their formulation, ingredients, and the skin type it caters to. There are formulations that can be too stripping to the skin and can be harsh for people with sensitive skin. Dermatologists would recommend moisturisers that have milder and more organic formulations that can do more good than harm for people who have sensitive skin.