Top 10 Moisturizers for Radiant Skin suggested by Dermatologist and Editor

Discovering a dependable moisturizer stands as a cornerstone in any effective skincare routine. Unveiling the best moisturizers for achieving radiant skin begins with understanding your skin type whether it tends towards dryness, oiliness, acne susceptibility, or a combination followed by clarifying your desired outcomes. "Moisturizers often go beyond mere hydration, frequently incorporating active ingredients tailored to address specific skin concerns," remarks Dr. Dylan Greeney, a board-certified dermatologist specializing in cosmetic, medical, and surgical dermatology.

For individuals seeking solutions for mature skin or aiming to combat signs of aging, Dr. Greeney advocates for moisturizers infused with retinol. Simultaneously, he suggests incorporating formulations enriched with antioxidants such as vitamin C to combat dullness and refine texture, revitalizing a lackluster complexion.

To streamline your search, we've enlisted dermatologists to unveil their preferred choices products frequently endorsed to their clientele and canvassed skincare enthusiasts for their trusted favorites.

Paula's Choice C5 Super Boost Vitamin C Moisturizer

In addition to its hydrating properties, this moisturizer offers skin-brightening effects, as highlighted by Dr. Turner. "Vitamin C plays a crucial role in combating skin discoloration," he explains. "It fights against free radical damage induced by UV rays and environmental aggressors while serving as a tyrosinase inhibitor, thereby regulating melanin production and reducing dark spots." Dr. Turner emphasizes that this formula incorporates two stable forms of vitamin C, ensuring potent skin-brightening benefits. Furthermore, the airless pump packaging from Paula's Choice safeguards the formula from air and light exposure, preserving the integrity of the vitamin C.

Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, hexapeptide-5, polyglutamic acid

Fragrance: None

Pros: Airless pump packaging preserves ingredients and is user-friendly, aids in addressing discoloration

Cons: Some users may experience irritation and redness, may not be suitable for sensitive skin

This moisturizer stands out for its ability to brighten the skin while providing hydration, though individuals with sensitive skin should exercise caution, as some users may experience irritation.

Caudalie Vinoperfect Instant Brightening Moisturizer

According to Sarah grown, a CartMeFirst tester, this Caudalie moisturizer not only hydrates her dry skin but also induces a sense of relaxation, thanks to its subtle and soothing scent. Dr. Bowles recommends it specifically for individuals with dry skin and pigment imperfections, noting its inclusion of niacinamide an effective treatment for hyperpigmentation and overall complexion brightening. She highlights the presence of viniferine, a rare ingredient derived from vine sap, which rivals or surpasses the efficacy of vitamin C as a potent antioxidant.

Key Ingredients: Biotech hyaluronic acid, viniferine, pearl particles

Fragrance: Yes

Pros: Diminishes pigment imperfections, reduces dark spots, oil-free, sulfate-free, phthalate-free, paraben-free

Cons: Higher price point, may not be suitable for acne-prone skin

This moisturizer stands out for its ability to brighten the complexion while addressing dryness, though its luxurious scent and efficacy come with a higher price tag, and individuals with acne-prone skin should proceed with caution.

True Botanical Renew Chebula Extreme Cream

This cream not only hydrates, plumps, and brightens the skin but also excels in combating oxidative damage a distinguishing feature according to Dr. Mian, making it her top choice for mature skin afflicted with sun spots and redness. "It incorporates soothing ingredients like aloe vera, green tea, and glycerin, alongside potent antioxidants derived from olives," she elaborates.

Key Ingredients: Chebula, hyaluronic acid, acerola cherries, potassium

Fragrance: Yes

Pros: Combats UV damage, delivers anti-aging benefits

Cons: Some users find the scent too overpowering

This cream stands out for its comprehensive skincare benefits, offering hydration, skin-plumping, and brightening effects, alongside its ability to combat oxidative damage, although the fragrance may be too strong for some users.

NeoCutis Bio Cream Firm

Applying this moisturizer before bed ensures you wake up to dewy skin, while its ongoing use aids in rebuilding the skin barrier and diminishing the appearance of fine lines. Dr. Fisher recommends this product for its anti-aging benefits, noting its formulation with growth factors and peptides designed to support collagen production and enhance skin tone and texture.

Key Ingredients: Growth factors, proprietary peptides, glycerin, argan oil, borage seed oil

Fragrance: None

Pros: Improves skin firmness, promotes collagen and elastin production, non-comedogenic

Cons: Higher price point

This moisturizer stands out for its ability to enhance skin firmness and texture, supported by its formulation rich in growth factors and peptides, though its premium price may be a deterrent for some.

SkinFix Triple Lipid Hyaluronate Serum

This creamy serum is specifically formulated to visibly restore the skin barrier, making it an ideal choice for individuals with skin conditions or sensitivities. Dr. Fisher recommends its gel formula for acne-prone patients seeking a lighter alternative. Meanwhile, Dr. Julia Schwartz, a board-certified dermatologist, suggests this product for individuals using potent retinoids or oral isotretinoin, as it provides maximum skin barrier protection. Users can expect to see remarkable improvements in their skin's appearance after incorporating it into their skincare routine.

Key Ingredients: Triple lipid complex, seaweed hyaluronate blend, peony root complex

Fragrance: None

Pros: Suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin, compatible with retinoids or oral isotretinoin

Cons: Some users note insufficient product volume in the bottle

This serum stands out for its ability to restore and protect the skin barrier, offering gentle yet effective skincare benefits, although some users may find the packaging less than optimal.

Avene Tolerance Control Soothing Recovery Balm

Offering a soothing sensation and effectively addressing dryness and redness, this lightweight balm is a go-to choice for sensitive skin. Dr. Foad recommends Avene Tolerance Control Soothing Recovery Balm as an affordable option for individuals with sensitive skin. Additionally, this fragrance-free formula minimizes the risk of irritation and holds approvals from both the National Rosacea Society and the National Eczema Association.

Key Ingredients: D-sensinose, Avene thermal spring water, Sterile cosmetics

Fragrance: None

Pros: Budget-friendly, non-greasy, endorsed by National Eczema Association and National Rosacea Society, preservative-free, paraben-free, oncology-safe

Cons: Thick texture may feel too heavy for some

This balm stands out for its ability to soothe and moisturize sensitive skin, boasting approvals from reputable organizations, though individuals sensitive to thicker textures may find it too heavy.

Olay Regenerist Micro Sculpting Cream Face Moisturizer

You probably know someone who swears by this skin-tightening cream it might even be a staple in their mom's skincare routine. Milee Hillon, a CartMeFirst tester, adopted this dewy cream into her nightly skincare regimen under her mom's recommendation, and she's not disappointed. "Her suggestions never fail me," says Milee. "Every few nights, I'll also use it for the 'sandwich' technique, applying a layer, followed by a thin layer of my dermatologist-prescribed tretinoin for acne treatment, topped off with another layer of the moisturizer. It provides the perfect buffer between my skin and the retinoid, keeping my skin smooth even with the treatment." Dermatologists unanimously agree that this is an excellent moisturizer. "It's an affordable option for those seeking the anti-aging benefits of peptides, the hydrating properties of hyaluronic acid, and all the advantages of niacinamide," notes Dr. Foad, suggesting that the formula is particularly suited for individuals with normal to dry skin.

Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, amino peptides, hyaluronic acid

Fragrance: No, but also available in fragranced version

Pros: Soothing, lifts and smoothens fine lines, phthalate-free, dye-free

Cons: Some users experience pilling and difficulty layering makeup

This cream is praised for its skin-tightening effects and hydrating properties, offering a budget-friendly option with potent anti-aging benefits, though some users may encounter challenges with makeup application.

Vanicream Moisturizing Cream

Arizona College of Medicine, this product stands out for its straightforward approach to hydration. "It's a no-frills product focused solely on hydration, ensuring thorough moisturization without any unnecessary additives," he explains. The cream-based formula effectively soothes dry, flaky skin and provides relief from itchiness. Endorsed by the National Eczema Association, it's also suitable for soothing psoriasis and ichthyosis. Dr. Margarita Lolis also praises this soothing moisturizer for its versatility, highlighting its suitability for children with skin concerns. "Free from parabens, propylene glycol, fragrances, and formaldehyde, it's ideal for young kids, as well as patients with rosacea, acne, and eczema," she notes. Additionally, this after-sun lotion can aid in restoring sunburned skin.

Key Ingredients: Purified water, petrolatum, sorbitol, cetearyl alcohol, propylene glycol, ceteareth-20, simethicone, glyceryl stearate, PEG-30 stearate, sorbic acid, BHT

Fragrance: None

Pros: Gentle on flaky skin, paraben-free, endorsed by the National Eczema Association

Cons: May feel too heavy for oily skin

This moisturizer is lauded for its simplicity and effectiveness in providing hydration, earning accolades from dermatologists and organizations alike, though individuals with oily skin may find it too heavy.

Gold Bond Age Renew Retionl Overnight Face & Body Lotion

This thick night cream serves as an excellent drugstore option for both facial and body skincare. According to Dr. Foad, it boasts a blend of seven moisturizers, three vitamins, and retinol, aimed at supporting and renewing the skin overnight. Moreover, the formula is free from fragrance, dye, and parabens, making it suitable for sensitive skin. Utilizing retinol, this body lotion aligns with anti-aging goals, providing hydration and rejuvenation. Apply generously to dry areas before bed for a refreshed feeling upon waking.

Key Ingredients: Retinol and peptide complex

Fragrance: None

Pros: Thick and creamy texture, suitable for overnight use, non-comedogenic, paraben-free, phthalate-free

Cons: May feel too heavy for sensitive skin

This night cream stands out for its rich formulation and effectiveness in supporting skin renewal, though individuals with sensitive skin may find it too heavy.

Tatcha The Dewy Skin Cream

Here's an editor-approved Tatcha product that's garnered praise from CartMeFirst tester Norah Fical for its luxurious feel. She raves about its thick, creamy formula, which she says adds a touch of luxury to her skincare routine. According to Norah, it feels incredibly silky smooth and leaves her skin feeling exceptionally soft, with an amazing scent. Dr. Thosani also expresses admiration for the Dewy Skin Cream, labeling it a "powerhouse moisturizer." Apart from its hydrating properties, she highlights its efficacy as a potent antioxidant and wrinkle reducer. Dr. Thosani explains that it combines hyaluronic acid with a blend of antioxidants sourced from green tea, algae, and fermented rice. In her review of the Dewy Skin Cream, CartmeFirst contributor Sarah Maclova describes it as "miraculous."

Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, red algae, hadasei-3, biomimetic squalane lipid blend, Japanese purple rice

Fragrance: Yes

Pros: Leaves a dewy glow, provides oxidative protection, non-comedogenic, paraben-free, phthalate-free

Cons: Higher price point, bulky packaging, may not be suitable for oily skin

This Dewy Skin Cream stands out for its luxurious feel and potent skincare benefits, though its higher price and bulky packaging may be drawbacks for some, and individuals with oily skin may find it too heavy.