{"id":3129,"date":"2026-01-22T13:46:19","date_gmt":"2026-01-22T13:46:19","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/cncurc.org\/index.php\/2026\/01\/22\/the-best-moisturizers-to-quench-thirsty-dry-skin\/"},"modified":"2026-01-22T13:46:19","modified_gmt":"2026-01-22T13:46:19","slug":"the-best-moisturizers-to-quench-thirsty-dry-skin","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/cncurc.org\/index.php\/2026\/01\/22\/the-best-moisturizers-to-quench-thirsty-dry-skin\/","title":{"rendered":"The Best Moisturizers To Quench Thirsty Dry Skin"},"content":{"rendered":"
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It may not be as trendy as the latest PDRN serum or sleek gadget, but if there’s one skincare step that’s giving workhorse vibes, it’s definitely moisturizer<\/a>. From shielding skin from dry, cold weather to strengthening the skin barrier, proper hydration and moisture (which are two different things, both important: In layman’s terms, hydration is more surface-level, lending an immediate softening, plumping effect to skin, while moisturizing locks in hydration via oils\/butters to prevent evaporation.) is an essential step in your routine, and one worth investing in.<\/p>\n

I personally learned (the hard way, might I add) that neglecting moisturizer is honestly, one of the worst things you can do to your skin. As an acne-prone gal, I spent more years than I’d care to admit robbing my face of hydration in the hopes it would curb my breakouts, when in reality, it only exacerbated them since my sebum production skyrocketed as a result of dehydration.<\/p>\n

As beauty editors, we test hundreds of moisturizers a year, and as such, know a thing or two about the ones that actually work and the ones worth skipping. Ahead, the 12 best moisturizers for dry skin that really quenched our thirst.<\/p>\n

At Refinery29, we\u2019re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.<\/em><\/p>\n

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Bubble Skincare Soft Swerve Barrier Restore Balm
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\u201cThis is no ordinary dry-skin moisturizer. For starters, it\u2019s thick \u2014 probably the most dense I\u2019ve tried. But it delivers instant, long-lasting relief for very dry, flaky skin, with results that last for hours. When I use it at night, I wake up to skin that looks and feels brand new. That\u2019s thanks to squalane, a humectant that draws moisture into the skin, alongside skin-smoothing ceramides, hydrating niacinamide and cholesterol \u2014 a natural lipid that helps repair and maintain the skin barrier, keeping moisture in and bacteria out. The most interesting thing about this moisturizer, though, is the way it dispenses: it comes out like whipped cream. It\u2019s so satisfying and fun to use \u2014 which dry skin definitely isn\u2019t.\u201d\u00a0\u2014 Jacqueline Kilikita, beauty director.<\/em><\/p>\n

Bubble Skincare<\/strong> Soft Swerve Barrier Restore Balm, $, available at Ulta<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + PhytoCeramides Rich Moisturizer<\/h2>\n

\u201cWhen I need intense, long-lasting moisture during the driest of cold, arid weather, this is what I reach for every time. It’s thick, but not greasy, which I know sounds impossible \u2014\u00a0but not for The Ordinary. Plus, the ceramides work wonders to support a healthy, happy skin barrier.\u201d \u2014 Karina Hoshikawa, senior writer.<\/em><\/p>\n

The Ordinary<\/strong> Natural Moisturizing Factors Rich Moisturizer, $, available at Ulta Beauty<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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U Beauty\u00a0The\u00a0Super Hydrator
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\u00a0
\u201cIf you\u2019re going to invest in a high-end moisturizer,\u00a0make it\u00a0this one. In winter, cleansing my skin can leave it feeling so tight and rough\u00a0it\u2019s\u00a0as though it might crack, but when I use this consistently, that never happens. U Beauty promises hydration for up to 48 hours, and\u00a0it\u2019s\u00a0all down to five sizes of hyaluronic acid molecules that hydrate every layer of the skin. It\u00a0doesn\u2019t\u00a0stop there, though. Skin-strengthening peptides and smoothing shea butter support repair and deliver deep moisturization. Two pumps\u00a0is\u00a0enough to cover the entire face, and while it takes a moment to absorb, the glow is truly unrivaled.\u201d\u00a0\u2014 Jacqueline Kilikita, beauty director.<\/em><\/p>\n

U Beauty<\/strong> The SUPER Hydrator, $, available at U Beauty<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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The\u00a0Inkey\u00a0List\u00a0Bio-Active Ceramide Repairing and Plumping Moisturizer
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\u201cWhen freezing temperatures and icy winds make my skin feel like\u00a0it\u2019s\u00a0about to fall off, I turn to this. Applying it feels like instant relief, thanks to a trifecta of moisturizing, hydrating ingredients. First up are ceramides, which act like glue between skin cells, keeping skin soft and healthy rather than rough and flaky. Then there\u2019s shea butter, which dermatologists praise for its deeply moisturizing properties, alongside glycerin. Glycerin is both a\u00a0humectant\u00a0\u00a0(meaning it draws moisture into the skin)\u00a0and an emollient, helping to keep that moisture locked in. Even though\u00a0it\u2019s\u00a0a souped-up moisturizer, it never breaks me out. I must be on my fifth tub by now.\u201d\u00a0\u2014 Jacqueline Kilikita, beauty director.<\/em><\/p>\n

The Inkey List<\/strong> Bio-Active Ceramide Repairing and Plumping Moisturizer, $, available at Sephora<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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Beekman 1802 Bloom Cream Daily Moisturizer<\/h2>\n

\u201cThis everyday moisturizer is the GOAT \u2014\u00a0no, really: It’s made with goat milk, niacinamide, and botanical extracts to quench dryness and promote radiant, glowing skin.\u201d \u2014 Karina Hoshikawa, senior writer.<\/em><\/p>\n

Beekman 1802<\/strong> Bloom Cream Daily Moisturizer, $, available at Ulta Beauty<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair\u00ae Cream Intense Hydration\u00a0
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\u201cFor very dry skin, it has to be First Aid\u2019s Ultra Repair Cream. It\u00a0feels like wrapping\u00a0your skin in silk, instantly calming thanks to oatmeal and allantoin. If I\u2019ve overdone it on the Differin, this is the only thing that helps repair my skin barrier. But\u00a0don\u2019t\u00a0just take my word for it \u2014 its five-star reviews speak volumes, with users praising the comforting whipped texture, its ability to soothe even eczema, and the fact that it contains no added fragrance or perfume, so it won\u2019t aggravate sensitive skin.\u201d\u00a0\u2014 Jacqueline Kilikita, beauty director.<\/em><\/p>\n

First Aid Beauty<\/strong> Ultra Repair Cream Intense Hydration, $, available at First Aid Beauty<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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Sofie Pavitt Face Omega Rich Moisturizer<\/h2>\n

\u201cIf you’re dry and acne-prone, I truly cannot recommend a better moisturizer than Sofie Pavitt’s Omega Rich Moisturizer<\/a>. The texture is divine \u2014\u00a0silky, creamy, but not heavy or greasy \u2014\u00a0and my skin drinks the stuff right up.\u201d \u2014 Karina Hoshikawa, senior writer.<\/em><\/p>\n

Sofie Pavitt Face<\/strong> Omega Rich Moisturizer, $, available at Sephora<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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Aestura\u00a0ATOBARRIER365 Cream Moisturizer with Ceramides & Niacinamide for Skin Moisture Barrier Repair
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\u201cI\u2019ve\u00a0used\u00a0Aestura\u2019s\u00a0Autobarrier\u00a0Cream down to the last drop multiple times\u2014it\u2019s\u00a0that good. Beneath the simple packaging, it feels and performs just like a high-end moisturizer.\u00a0I\u2019d\u00a0expect nothing less \u2014\u00a0it\u2019s\u00a0Korean, after all. This cream cocoons dry, dehydrated, and sensitive skin with ceramides, which act like scaffolding to reinforce the skin barrier without leaving a greasy residue. Fatty acids and glycerin mimic the skin\u2019s natural moisturizing lipids, topping up hydration where\u00a0it\u2019s\u00a0needed most. For best results, use it morning and night.\u201d\u00a0\u2014 Jacqueline Kilikita, beauty director.<\/em><\/p>\n

Aestura<\/strong> Atobarrier 365 Cream, $, available at Sephora<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer with Niacinamide<\/h2>\n

\u201cAnother excellent formula available at most drugstores is La Roche-Posay’s soothing moisturizer, which counts ceramides, thermal water, and niacinamide among its powerhouse ingredients.\u201d \u2014 Karina Hoshikawa, senior writer.<\/em><\/p>\n

La Roche-Posay<\/strong> Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer with Niacinami, $, available at Ulta Beauty<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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Caudalie\u00a0VinoHydra\u00a0Sorbet Cream Moisturizer with Hyaluronic Acid\u00a0
<\/h2>\n

\u00a0
\u201cIf your skin is showing subtle signs of dryness \u2014 like flakiness around the mouth or tightness on the cheeks \u2014 but you hate that most dry-skin creams feel suffocating, you\u00a0have to\u00a0try Caudalie\u2019s VinoHydra Sorbet Cream Moisturizer with Hyaluronic Acid. It\u2019s more of a lotion than a thick cream, but don\u2019t underestimate it. A blend of hydrating hyaluronic acid, antioxidant-rich grape water, and soothing chamomile extract is complemented by nourishing glycerin and shea butter. Even though it\u2019s packed with all the good stuff, I find it sinks in quickly, leaving behind a hint of dew. Even better, it\u2019s non-comedogenic, so it\u2019s unlikely to clog pores.\u201d\u00a0\u2014 Jacqueline Kilikita, beauty director.<\/em><\/p>\n

Caudalie<\/strong> VinoHydra Sorbet Cream Moisturizer, $, available at Sephora<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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Vichy\u00a0Min\u00e9ral 89 100H Rich Cream Fragrance-Free
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\u201cI\u2019ve lost count of how many dermatologists have told me they rely on this cream; it\u2019s often one of the first they mention when I ask for recommendations for dry skin. It sits in a comfortable space between a lightweight lotion and a rich face mask, spreading easily and quenching skin instantly. I love that it leaves skin feeling bouncy to the touch, thanks to ultra-moisturizing squalane and vitamin E, along with hydration-boosting niacinamide. It\u2019s dependable, effective, and reasonably priced.\u201d\u00a0\u2014 Jacqueline Kilikita, beauty director.<\/em><\/p>\n

Vichy<\/strong> Min\u00e9ral 89 100H Rich Cream Fragrance-Free, $, available at Ulta Beauty<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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BeautyStat Universal Pro-Bio Moisture Boost Cream<\/h2>\n

\u201cThis cushiony cream from cosmetic chemist Ron Robinson’s beloved brand, BeautyStat, is perfect for sensitive skin types since it has biofermented reishi mushroom extract and a ceramide-powered complex to deliver soothing moisture that lasts.\u201d \u2014 Karina Hoshikawa, senior writer.<\/em><\/p>\n

BeautyStat Cosmetics<\/strong> Probiotic 24HR Moisture Boost Cream Moisturizer, $, available at Ulta Beauty<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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Tatcha The Dewy Skin Cream
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\u201cI always have a tub of this on hand for sub-zero temperatures. It\u2019s\u00a0the only thing that quenches my parched skin without triggering breakouts. If your makeup tends to cling to dry patches like it does on me, I can vouch for this as an excellent smoothing primer. It makes my skin gleam without appearing oily.\u201d\u00a0\u2014 Jacqueline Kilikita, beauty director.<\/em><\/p>\n

Tatcha<\/strong> Chilli Oil on Everything 250ml Pourer Jar, $, available at Tatcha<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?<\/strong><\/p>\n

14 Pro-Approved Moisturizers For Sensitive Skin<\/a><\/p>\n

I Tried $173 Worth Of Hand Creams To Find The Best<\/a><\/p>\n

The Best Double Cleansing Steps For All Skin Types<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

\t\t\t\tIt may not be as trendy as the latest PDRN serum or sleek gadget, but if there’s one skincare step that’s giving workhorse vibes, it’s definitely moisturizer. From shielding skin from dry, c<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":0,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[15],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-3129","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-fashion"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"http:\/\/cncurc.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3129","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"http:\/\/cncurc.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"http:\/\/cncurc.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/cncurc.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3129"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"http:\/\/cncurc.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3129\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"http:\/\/cncurc.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3129"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/cncurc.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3129"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/cncurc.org\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3129"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}