Every skin type needs a good moisturizer to lock in the moisture in the skin to look and feel good. Those with sensitive skin, on the other hand, may have a tougher time selecting the best face moisturizer for them because practically every formulation seems to irritate their already delicate skin.
Sensitive skin can be caused by environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, sun exposure and even wind. However, lifestyle factors such as using too many cosmetics with irritating chemicals or swimming in chlorine pools can also irritate the skin. Because moisture is so necessary for good skin, finding an appropriate moisturizer is even more crucial, as it might be the only product your skin will tolerate. We have prepared a list of the top 10 best moisturizers for sensitive skin.
Top 10 Best Moisturizer for Sensitive Skin According to Experts
1. Overall Best Moisturizer for Sensitive Skin
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream
Packed with key ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, ceramides and glycerin, the National Eczema Association (NEA) Seal of Acceptance has been given to this gentle, all-purpose cream, which is a significant distinction for sensitive skin products. It’s fragrance- and oil-free, making it popular among those with sensitive skin, and it can be used on both the face and the body, which is an added advantage.
2. Drugstore Best Moisturizer for Sensitive Skin
Simple Kind to Skin Replenishing Moisturizer
This low-cost formula is hypoallergenic and noncomedogenic, as well as gentle and nourishing. It’s also pH-balanced, which means it helps your skin retain moisture by keeping it at the right acidity level. It’s packed with glycerin, allantoin, bisabolol and it keeps sensitive skin clear of breakouts and doesn’t sting on contact.
3. Budget Best Moisturizer for Sensitive Skin
Olay Moisturizing Face Lotion Sensitive Skin
This is an excellent all-around choice for individuals looking for a lotion that meets all of the requirements for sensitive skin while being affordable. The formula’s aloe leaf and chamomile soothe sensitive skin, while glycerin draws and locks in moisture. To be more specific, it provides 12 hours of moisture while remaining extremely light on the skin.
4. Best Moisturizer for Sensitive Skin: Dry
Eau Thermale Avene XeraCalm A.D Lipid-Replenishing Cream
This cream has been acknowledged by the NEA for its efficacy, and it’s great for those with eczema and atopic dermatitis, which can be caused by sensitive and dry skin. It restores the skin’s microbiome, the bacteria that protect against numerous diseases and pathogens, and helps to heal the look and feel of the skin through rehydration.
5. Best Moisturizer for Sensitive Skin: Acne Prone
Neutrogena Oil-Free Moisturizer with Sunscreen
With glycerin and oxybenzone, this dermatologist-recommended product may be an excellent alternative if your skin is sensitive but also prone to breakouts, as it provides oil-free hydration. While some reviewers thought the cream was overly greasy, the majority of individuals said it was a good moisturizer for sensitive, acne-prone skin.
6. Best Moisturizer for Sensitive Skin: Night
Caudalie Resveratrol Lift Night Infusion Cream
This Caudalie cream is a GH Beauty Lab test winner for best night cream. It hydrates and improves skin texture without triggering inflammation, thanks to the moisturizing glycerin and the skin-protecting antioxidant resveratrol. It was the best night cream evaluated for not irritating skin, receiving a perfect score, and for smoothing skin’s texture. The moisture levels improved by 43% according to lab measures. Six testers remarked on how “smooth” the cream was as it applied to their skin and how it made their faces feel.
Read also: Our best night moisturizer picks.
7. Best Moisturizer for Sensitive Skin with SPF
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer
This La Rosche-Posay lightweight moisturizer has SPF, so you won’t have to worry about adding another product to your skin care routine. Ceramides, niacinamide, and glycerin are all present to help rebuild the skin’s barrier. This moisturizer is also fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and paraben-free, making it suitable for even the most sensitive skin.
8. Best Moisturizer for Sensitive Skin: Repairing
Biossance Squalane + Omega Repair Cream
Squalane, omega fatty acids, ceramides, and plant sterols are all found in plenty in each jar. This nourishing repair cream is vegan, cruelty-free, and fragrance-free, making it a good choice for sensitive skin and could be an ideal anti-aging moisturizer. Your skin may appear more soft and hydrated after a few uses.
9. Best Moisturizer for Sensitive Skin: Face and Body
EltaMD Intense Moisturizer
EltaMD is more commonly linked with sunscreen, although it offers much more than that. Take, for example, this product. According to the brand, the creamy consistency melts into the skin and can help skin maintain up to 90% of its moisture for up to 12 hours. It’s perfect for sensitive skin as well as post-procedure skin, indicating that it’s super gentle.
10. Best Moisturizer for Sensitive Skin: Soothing
BeautyStat Cosmetics Universal Pro-Bio Moisture Boost Cream
This fragrance-free, dermatologist-tested product has two distinct soothers. The first is a ferment made from a rare mushroom, while the second is a probiotic that also aids in the fight against environmental aggressors. This is perfect for reducing inflammation and has a wonderful, cloud-like texture to boot, thanks to ceramides and pomegranate sterols that work to rebuild the skin barrier.
We know it can be overwhelming for people with sensitive skin when choosing a moisturizer and it ends up irritating their skin. To make the process easier, read the labels carefully and steer clear of synthetic ingredients. If you still can’t find a moisturizer that works for you, maybe you can try reaching out to a dermatologist and together you can discuss which product would work best for you.
For more moisturizer options for your skin type check out our other articles on the best Korean moisturizer for sensitive skin and the best tinted moisturizers for sensitive skin.