Finding the best moisturisers for dry skin is something I take very seriously, both as a beauty writer and as someone who’s always dealt with dryness, especially during winter. After years of interviewing dermatologists and testing countless formulas, I can confidently say it’s not a straightforward process. While a lot of moisturisers do a decent job at hydrating on the surface, far fewer are actually able to hold onto that moisture long term on very dry skin.
From personal experience, having dry and sensitive skin means your routine really does need to be tailored. Alongside common issues like tightness, flaking and irritation, dry or dehydrated skin is often more vulnerable in general, which makes choosing the right products even more important. A rich texture alone isn’t enough. What really matters is how well a formula supports the skin over time.
That’s where barrier-focused ingredients come in. Experts often recommend ceramides, peptides, hyaluronic acid and squalane to help strengthen and protect the skin. And depending on what else you’re trying to target, whether it’s dullness, fine lines or uneven texture, ingredients such as vitamin C, niacinamide or retinol can also play a part.
To help you pick, I’ve curated a round-up of the best moisturisers for dry skin for every budget and preference – from those with SPF protection to oil-free formulas and weightless consistencies. I’ve also consulted with a handful of dermatologists and skincare experts to answer all of your moisturiser-related FAQs, so be sure to scroll all the way to the bottom of this page for the full lowdown.
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How we tested the best moisturisers for dry skin & why you can trust us:
At Glamour, testing moisturisers for dry skin is something we take seriously, mostly because so many of us actually struggle with dry or sensitive skin ourselves. Over the years, our team has collectively tested hundreds of formulas, from rich, winter-ready creams to lighter hydrators that still promise long-lasting moisture. We don’t just try something once and move on either. We spend weeks putting these products through their paces, seeing how they perform in real life, not just in theory.
Every moisturiser in this edit has been judged on how it feels, how well it layers with other skincare and makeup, and most importantly, how effectively it locks in moisture over time. We’ve also kept conditions like eczema, sensitivity and rosacea front of mind throughout testing. If a moisturiser has made it onto this list, it’s because it genuinely impressed our dry and sensitive-skinned testers.
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