Finding the best face moisturizer in the UK can be a game-changer for your skincare routine. Whether you have dry, oily, sensitive, or combination skin, a high-quality moisturizer is essential for maintaining hydration, boosting radiance, and protecting your skin from environmental damage. With countless options available on the market, selecting the right one can be overwhelming.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top face moisturizers in the UK, carefully curated for every skin type and concern, so you can find the perfect match to keep your skin healthy, glowing, and well-nourished all year round.
Best Face Moisturiser UK to Radiance Revealed
Discover the best face moisturisers in the UK for every skin type and concern. Whether you’re dealing with dryness, sensitivity, or oily skin, our curated list highlights the top moisturisers that hydrate, protect, and rejuvenate your skin.
- Best Quality – CeraVe Moisturising Cream for Dry to Very Dry Skin 454g
- Best Overall – E45 Face Moisturiser – Hydrating Face Cream for Long-Lasting Moisturisation
- Best Rated – Simple Kind to Skin Hydrating Light Moisturiser Skin Care Product
- Best Budget – Weleda Skin Food Light, Dry Skin Moisturiser
- Best Versatile – Revolution Pro, Miracle Cream, Hydrating & Beautifying Face Cream
Say goodbye to dullness and hello to a radiant, glowing complexion with these must-have moisturisers, perfect for the UK climate.
What to Consider
- Skin Type: Identify your skin type (dry, oily, combination, or sensitive) to choose a moisturizer that addresses your specific needs.
- Skin Concerns: Consider your skin concerns, such as acne, aging, hyperpigmentation, or dryness, to select a moisturizer with targeted ingredients.
- Ingredients: Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, glycerin, and antioxidants, which are essential for hydration and skin health.
- SPF: If you’re looking for daytime protection, opt for a moisturizer with SPF to shield your skin from harmful UV rays.
- Texture: Choose a texture (cream, lotion, gel, or oil) that suits your preference and skin condition.
Types of Face Moisturizers:
- Hydrating Moisturizers: Ideal for dry skin, these moisturizers provide intense hydration and nourishment.
- Oil-Free Moisturizers: Suitable for oily or combination skin, these lightweight formulas control shine and prevent clogged pores.
- Anti-Aging Moisturizers: Packed with ingredients like peptides, retinol, and vitamin C, these moisturizers target fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin.
- Sensitive Skin Moisturizers: Formulated with gentle ingredients, these moisturizers soothe and protect sensitive skin.
How We Selected the Best Face Moisturizers
- Expert Recommendations: We consulted dermatologists and skincare experts to gather their insights on the most effective face moisturizers.
- Consumer Reviews: We analyzed customer reviews and ratings to assess the real-world performance and satisfaction of each product.
- Ingredient Analysis: We carefully examined the ingredient lists of each moisturizer to ensure they contain beneficial components.
- Brand Reputation: We considered the reputation and credibility of the brands when selecting products from trusted sources.
Key Features to Look for in a Face Moisturizer
- Quick Absorption: A moisturizer that absorbs quickly without feeling greasy is ideal for daily use.
- Non-comedogenic: This means the product won’t clog pores and cause breakouts.
- Lightweight Texture: A lightweight formula is perfect for oily or combination skin.
- Pleasant Scent: Choose a moisturizer with a fragrance that you enjoy, but avoid heavily scented options if you have sensitive skin.
How We Tested the Face Moisturizers
- Patch Testing: We conducted patch tests on sensitive skin to ensure the products were free from irritants.
- Hydration Assessment: We measured the moisture levels of our skin before and after applying the moisturizers to gauge their effectiveness.
- Long-Term Use: We used each moisturizer for several weeks to assess its long-term benefits and any potential side effects.
- Overall Satisfaction: We evaluated our overall satisfaction with the product’s texture, scent, and effectiveness.
By considering these factors and following our buying guide, you can confidently select the best face m
CeraVe Moisturising Cream for Dry to Very Dry Skin 454g
CeraVe Moisturising Cream for Dry to Very Dry Skin is a dermatologist-developed formula designed to provide intense hydration and restore the skin’s natural barrier. This fragrance-free, non-comedogenic cream is particularly suitable for individuals with dry, very dry, or sensitive skin. Packed with skin-loving ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin, it is a go-to choice for those seeking deep, long-lasting moisture.
Key Features:
- Ceramides: Contains three essential ceramides (1, 3, and 6-II) to help restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier.
- Hyaluronic Acid: Attracts hydration to the skin’s surface, providing lasting moisture.
- MVE Technology: Patented MultiVesicular Emulsion Technology releases hydration gradually throughout the day.
- Non-Comedogenic: Won’t clog pores, making it suitable for both face and body use.
- Fragrance-Free and Hypoallergenic: Reduces the risk of irritation and is safe for sensitive skin.
- Dermatologist Recommended: Developed with dermatologists to ensure effectiveness for dry to very dry skin types.
Pros:
- Intense Hydration: Provides long-lasting moisture, ideal for dry and very dry skin types.
- Restores Skin Barrier: Formulated with essential ceramides to support a healthy skin barrier.
- Suitable for Sensitive Skin: Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic, minimizing the risk of irritation.
- Multi-Use: Can be used on both face and body, making it versatile for daily skincare routines.
- Affordable and Accessible: Offers great value for a large quantity (454g) and is widely available.
Cons:
- Thick Texture: Some users may find the texture too heavy for facial use, especially under makeup.
- No Added Fragrance: While fragrance-free is a benefit for sensitive skin, those who prefer a scented product may find it less appealing.
- Slow Absorption: It takes longer to absorb into the skin, which might not be ideal for those looking for a lightweight feel.
CeraVe Moisturising Cream for Dry to Very Dry Skin is an excellent choice for anyone dealing with dryness, flakiness, or compromised skin barriers. With its blend of ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and MVE technology, this cream provides intense, long-lasting hydration while being gentle on sensitive skin. While its thick texture and slow absorption may not suit everyone, it remains a highly effective, dermatologist-recommended option for those looking to maintain deeply moisturized, healthy skin.
E45 Face Moisturiser – Hydrating Face Cream for Long-Lasting Moisturisation
E45 Face Moisturiser is a hydrating face cream specifically formulated to provide long-lasting moisture and comfort for sensitive and dry skin. Known for its gentle and dermatologically tested formulas, E45 offers this lightweight, fast-absorbing cream to deliver hydration without clogging pores or causing irritation. Ideal for daily use, it helps maintain smooth, soft, and healthy-looking skin.
Key Features:
- Long-Lasting Hydration: Formulated to provide moisture throughout the day, keeping skin soft and hydrated.
- Gentle Formula: Dermatologically tested and suitable for sensitive skin, with no added fragrance or harsh ingredients.
- Lightweight and Non-Greasy: Fast-absorbing cream that feels light on the skin, making it suitable for everyday use.
- Non-Comedogenic: Does not clog pores, which helps prevent breakouts and makes it suitable for all skin types.
- Pro-Vitamin B5: Enriched with Pro-Vitamin B5 to soothe and nourish the skin.
- Daily Use: Suitable for use as both a day and night cream to maintain skin hydration around the clock.
Pros:
- Affordable: A budget-friendly option that delivers effective hydration.
- Suitable for Sensitive Skin: Free from fragrance and irritants, ideal for sensitive and reactive skin.
- Lightweight Texture: Easily absorbed, leaving no greasy residue, and is comfortable for all-day wear.
- Non-Comedogenic: Perfect for those who are prone to acne or clogged pores.
- Dual Use: Effective as both a day and night cream, simplifying your skincare routine.
Cons:
- Limited Active Ingredients: Lacks some of the advanced active ingredients (like ceramides or antioxidants) found in other moisturizers.
- Basic Formula: Provides basic hydration without additional anti-aging or brightening benefits.
- Mild Hydration: This may not be sufficient for very dry or severely dehydrated skin types.
E45 Face Moisturiser – Hydrating Face Cream is a great option for those looking for a simple, gentle, and effective moisturizer suitable for daily use. With its lightweight, non-greasy formula, it offers long-lasting hydration without causing irritation or breakouts, making it ideal for sensitive skin. While it may not provide advanced skincare benefits, its affordability and reliability make it a solid choice for anyone needing a straightforward hydrating solution.
Simple Kind to Skin Hydrating Light Moisturiser Skin Care Product
The Simple Kind to Skin Hydrating Light Moisturiser is a lightweight, fast-absorbing facial moisturizer designed to provide up to 12 hours of hydration. Formulated without artificial perfumes, dyes, or harsh chemicals, this moisturizer is perfect for sensitive skin and those looking for a gentle, everyday skincare solution. Enriched with skin-loving ingredients, it helps maintain a healthy skin barrier while leaving the skin feeling soft and refreshed.
Key Features:
- Lightweight Hydration: Provides up to 12 hours of hydration without feeling heavy or greasy on the skin.
- Gentle Formula: Free from artificial fragrances, colors, and harsh chemicals, making it ideal for sensitive skin.
- Skin-Loving Ingredients: Contains pro-vitamin B5, vitamin E, and bisabolol to soothe, nourish, and protect the skin.
- Non-comedogenic: Does not clog pores, suitable for acne-prone skin.
- Cruelty-Free and Vegan: Approved by PETA, this product is cruelty-free and suitable for vegans.
- Dermatologically Tested: Tested by dermatologists and ophthalmologists to ensure safety for all skin types.
Pros:
- Affordable: Budget-friendly without compromising on quality or effectiveness.
- Fast Absorbing: Quickly absorbs into the skin, leaving no greasy residue, making it ideal for use under makeup.
- Soothing Ingredients: Includes pro-vitamin B5 and vitamin E, known for their soothing and moisturizing properties.
- Suitable for All Skin Types: Especially good for sensitive skin due to its gentle, non-irritating formula.
- Sustainable Packaging: This comes in recyclable packaging, appealing to environmentally-conscious consumers.
Cons:
- Basic Hydration: This may not provide sufficient moisture for very dry or dehydrated skin types.
- Lack of Advanced Ingredients: Does not contain anti-aging or targeted treatment ingredients like peptides, ceramides, or hyaluronic acid.
- No SPF: It does not offer sun protection and requires a separate sunscreen for daytime use.
The Simple Kind to Skin Hydrating Light Moisturiser is a fantastic choice for those with sensitive or combination skin looking for a no-fuss, lightweight daily moisturizer. It provides essential hydration without irritation or greasiness, making it ideal for everyday use, especially under makeup. While it may lack some advanced skin care ingredients, its affordability, gentle formula, and suitability for all skin types make it a popular option for those prioritizing simplicity and kindness to the skin.
Weleda Skin Food Light, Dry Skin Moisturiser
Weleda Skin Food Light is a refreshing take on the classic Skin Food formula, designed specifically for dry skin in need of lightweight yet effective hydration. This moisturiser is crafted with natural ingredients to provide instant relief and nourishment, making it an excellent choice for daily use. With its focus on simplicity and purity, Weleda delivers a product that caters to sensitive and demanding skin.
Key Features:
- Lightweight Formula: A lighter version of the original Skin Food, designed to hydrate without feeling heavy or greasy.
- Natural Ingredients: Contains organic sunflower seed oil, chamomile extract, and calendula to soothe and nourish the skin.
- Hydrating: Delivers essential moisture to dry skin while maintaining a non-oily finish.
- Dermatologically Tested: Safe for sensitive skin, free from synthetic fragrances, parabens, and mineral oils.
- Eco-Friendly: Packaged in recyclable materials, reflecting Weleda’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
Pros:
- Non-Greasy Texture: Absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving a smooth, non-greasy finish.
- Natural Ingredients: Enriched with plant-based extracts that are gentle and nourishing for the skin.
- Suitable for Sensitive Skin: Formulated without synthetic additives, making it ideal for sensitive and reactive skin.
- Eco-Conscious: Uses recyclable packaging and natural ingredients, appealing to environmentally-conscious consumers.
- Effective Hydration: Provides long-lasting moisture, helping to alleviate dryness and maintain skin softness.
Cons:
- Lightweight Hydration: This may not be sufficient for very dry or extremely chapped skin that needs more intensive moisture.
- Fragrance: Contains a natural fragrance that some users with fragrance sensitivities might find irritating.
- Price Point: Slightly higher price compared to other drugstore moisturizers, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious shoppers.
Weleda Skin Food Light is an excellent choice for those seeking a lightweight, natural moisturizer that delivers effective hydration for dry skin. Its blend of organic ingredients and quick-absorbing formula makes it suitable for daily use, especially for those with sensitive skin. While it may not provide the same intense moisture as heavier creams and contains natural fragrance, its eco-friendly packaging and commitment to natural ingredients make it a standout option in the world of skincare.
Revolution Pro, Miracle Cream, Hydrating & Beautifying Face Cream
The Revolution Pro Miracle Cream is a hydrating and beautifying face cream designed to instantly refresh and rejuvenate the skin, leaving it soft, smooth, and radiant. With a blend of skin-loving ingredients, this cream aims to provide intense hydration while enhancing the skin’s natural glow. Ideal for all skin types, it is a great choice for those looking to achieve a flawless, dewy complexion.
Key Features:
- Instant Hydration: Formulated to provide immediate moisture to the skin, leaving it plump and hydrated.
- Multi-Functional Formula: Combines hydration with skin-beautifying properties, offering a radiant and healthy-looking finish.
- Skin-Loving Ingredients: Enriched with glycerin, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and shea butter to nourish, hydrate, and protect the skin.
- Lightweight Texture: Creamy yet lightweight texture that absorbs quickly, making it perfect for use under makeup.
- Cruelty-Free and Vegan: Certified cruelty-free and vegan, suitable for ethical beauty lovers.
- Dermatologically Tested: Tested for safety and suitability for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
Pros:
- Hydrating and Plumping: Provides deep hydration, making skin look plump and youthful.
- Radiant Finish: Gives an instant, glowing finish to the skin, enhancing the complexion’s natural beauty.
- Suitable for All Skin Types: Gentle enough for sensitive skin while being effective for dry, normal, or combination skin.
- Multi-Use: Can be used as a daily moisturiser or a hydrating primer under makeup.
- Affordable: Offers a high-end feel and benefits at an affordable price point.
Cons:
- May Be Too Rich for Oily Skin: The hydrating formula may feel too heavy for those with very oily or acne-prone skin.
- No SPF: Lacks sun protection, so a separate sunscreen is needed for daytime use.
- Scented Formula: Contains a fragrance that might not be suitable for those with fragrance sensitivities.
The Revolution Pro Miracle Cream is an excellent choice for those seeking a versatile, hydrating face cream that not only nourishes but also enhances skin radiance. With its blend of powerful ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and shea butter, it delivers lasting hydration and a dewy finish, making it ideal for daily use or as a primer under makeup. While it may not be the best fit for oily skin types or those sensitive to fragrance, its affordability, cruelty-free formulation, and immediate beautifying effects make it a great addition to any skincare routine.
Conclusion:
Choosing the best face moisturizer in the UK depends on your skin type, concerns, and preferences. Whether you need deep hydration for dry skin, a lightweight option for oily skin, or a gentle formula for sensitive skin, there are top-quality moisturizers available to meet every need.
From CeraVe’s intensive hydration to E45’s gentle formula and Simple’s lightweight daily care, these options provide effective solutions to keep your skin healthy, hydrated, and glowing. By selecting the right moisturizer, you can maintain a radiant complexion all year round.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which face cream is best for daily use in the UK?
For daily use in the UK, CeraVe Moisturising Cream is a great choice for dry to very dry skin, while Simple Kind to Skin Hydrating Light Moisturiser is ideal for sensitive or combination skin. Both offer long-lasting hydration and are gentle on the skin.
What is considered the best facial moisturizer?
The best facial moisturizer is one that matches your skin type and needs. CeraVe Moisturising Cream is highly recommended for its hydrating and barrier-restoring properties, making it suitable for most skin types, especially dry or sensitive skin.
What are the top 5 moisturizers?
The top 5 moisturizers include:
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel – Ideal for oily or combination skin needing lightweight hydration.
CeraVe Moisturising Cream – For dry to very dry skin.
E45 Face Moisturiser – Hydrating and suitable for sensitive skin.
Simple Kind to Skin Hydrating Light Moisturiser – Lightweight and perfect for daily use.
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Sensitive Riche – Great for sensitive skin prone to irritation.
What is the best Moisturiser brand?
CeraVe is widely regarded as one of the best moisturiser brands for its affordable, dermatologist-developed formulas that cater to various skin types and concerns. Other trusted brands include La Roche-Posay, E45, and Simple.