4 Facial Moisturizers to Refresh Your Skin in 2024

Insider Goods Review Team

Expert Picks for Your Daily Skincare Routine

Facial moisturizers are essential in any skincare routine, providing hydration and essential nutrients to keep skin healthy, smooth, and glowing. However, with countless options on the market, it can be challenging to choose a product that meets your specific needs and delivers optimal results. Whether you have dry, sensitive, or aging skin, finding the right facial moisturizer is crucial for maintaining a balanced and healthy complexion.

Moisturizers are known for their ability to lock in moisture, protect against environmental damage, and support overall skin health. But with so many products available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s why Insider Goods has curated a list of the top 4 facial moisturizers to help you achieve your best skin yet.

A+

OVERALL GRADE

CeraVe Face Moisturizer for Dry Skin

By CeraVe

A

OVERALL GRADE

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer

By La Roche-Posay

B+

OVERALL GRADE

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream

By Kiehl's

B

OVERALL GRADE

Neutrogena Retinol Face Moisturizer

By Neutrogena

Many people are searching for the perfect facial moisturizer to address dryness, sensitivity, and aging concerns. However, finding a high-quality product that offers effective hydration without causing irritation can be difficult. This is because many moisturizers lack the right combination of ingredients to provide comprehensive skin benefits.

Facial moisturizers, known for their ability to maintain moisture balance and support the skin barrier, have become essential for anyone looking to improve their skin health. Unfortunately, many products on the market today do not meet these standards.

It’s no wonder why choosing the right facial moisturizer is critical. But you need to be selective—finding one that truly enhances your skin's health and appearance can be a challenge. To help you make an informed decision, Insider Goods has evaluated the best options available and what to avoid when selecting a facial moisturizer.

6 Ways Facial Moisturizers Can Improve Your Skin Health

Moisturizers penetrate the skin’s surface, delivering hydration where it’s needed most, helping to alleviate dryness.
Formulated with ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid, moisturizers help reinforce the skin’s natural barrier to prevent moisture loss.
Moisturizers with ingredients like retinol or peptides can help minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles over time.
Products with soothing ingredients like niacinamide and thermal spring water help calm irritated or sensitive skin.
Regular use of moisturizers can help even out skin tone and improve overall complexion.
Antioxidants and SPF in moisturizers help protect skin from environmental aggressors like pollution and UV rays.

3 Things All Effective Facial Moisturizers Must Have

Hydrating Ingredients

Look for products with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides that effectively hydrate and retain moisture.

Suitable for Skin Type

Choose a moisturizer that caters to your specific skin type, whether dry, oily, combination, or sensitive

Non-Comedogenic

Ensure that the moisturizer is non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores, to prevent breakouts.

Facial Moisturizer: 3 Things to Avoid

Avoid products with ingredients like sulfates, parabens, or alcohol, which can irritate or dry out your skin.
Artificial fragrances can cause irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin. Opt for fragrance-free options.
Steer clear of moisturizers with greasy textures that can leave a residue or cause breakouts.

Top 4 Facial Moisturizers of 2024

A+

OVERALL GRADE

Pros

  • Contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid
  • Non-comedogenic and fragrance-free
  • Suitable for sensitive skin
  • Long-lasting hydration
  • Lightweight texture
  • Recommended by dermatologists

Cons

  • In high demand and may be on backorder/sold out

The Bottom Line

Our panel of reviewers and skincare experts agree that CeraVe Face Moisturizer for Dry Skin is the top choice. This product is lauded for its combination of ceramides and hyaluronic acid, which work together to provide deep hydration and restore the skin’s natural barrier. With a lightweight texture and dermatologist recommendation, it remains the best facial moisturizer for those with dry and sensitive skin.

A

OVERALL GRADE

Pros

  • Contains niacinamide and ceramides
  • Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic
  • Provides 48-hour hydration
  • Soothes irritated skin

Cons

  • Slightly higher price point
  • Limited availability in some regions

The Bottom Line

Coming in at the number two spot is La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer, known for its soothing formula that includes niacinamide and ceramides. While it has a higher price point, it is a reliable choice for those with sensitive or irritated skin.

B+

OVERALL GRADE

Pros

  • Provides intense 24-hour hydration
  • Lightweight and fast-absorbing
  • Contains squalane and glycerin
  • Suitable for all skin types

Cons

  • More expensive than other options
  • Contains some synthetic ingredients

The Bottom Line

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream is a premium choice for those seeking intense hydration. With its blend of squalane and glycerin, it offers long-lasting moisture in a lightweight formula. Despite its higher cost, it is a versatile moisturizer suitable for various skin types.

B

OVERALL GRADE

Pros

  • Contains retinol for anti-aging benefits
  • Lightweight, non-greasy formula
  • Affordable price point
  • Dermatologist recommended

Cons

  • Retinol may cause irritation for some skin types
  • Not suitable for daytime use without sunscreen

The Bottom Line

Neutrogena Retinol Face Moisturizer offers a budget-friendly option with added anti-aging benefits from retinol. While it may not be suitable for sensitive skin or daytime use without sunscreen, it remains a solid choice for those looking to reduce signs of aging.