Back to basics: what really makes a good face moisturiser? (2025)

As innovation abounds in the skincare space, product options continue to multiply along with, at times, consumer confusion – information overload leaving many of us unsure of what to really invest in (and use until the last drop).

Take moisturiser, for example. Where these humble creams were once relied upon to simply hydrate and soften skin, there’s now a face cream that promises to deliver on anything and everything, from fading lines to brightening hyperpigmentation and, our most abstract request of them all, making skin ‘glow’.

So, to clear up any confusion over what you really need from and in your moisturiser (and what you absolutely don’t), we spoke to consultant dermatologist Dr. Anjali Mahto. Once you’re armed with her common-sense knowledge, scroll through to see our verdict on the best moisturiser for every skin type, from the acne-prone to the ultra-sensitive.

Why use a moisturiser?

According to Dr. Mahto, the purpose of moisturising is to “restore the elasticity and flexibility of the top part of your epidermis, also known as your stratum corneum, and restore its barrier function”.

From an aesthetic point of view, “moisturising helps restore the skin’s appearance to make it look soft and supple,” she adds.

Do all skin types need to moisturise?

While most of us will benefit from using a moisturiser, anyone with dry skin will find it truly essential. “Dry skin occurs when normal functioning of the skin is compromised," says Dr. Mahto. "If the water content in your epidermis falls below 20 per cent for an extended period of time then it will manifest as dry skin, with flaking, scaling, or irritation.”

What are emollients, humectants and occlusives?

There are three basic categories of ingredients found in moisturisers: humectants, occlusives and emollients. As Dr. Mahto explains, most moisturisers will contain a combination of these in varying proportions:

“Humectants are molecules that attract and bind water from the deeper layers of the skin – or environment if ambient humidity is over 80 per cent. Occlusives create a barrier over the skin and prevent water loss from the surface. Finally, emollients work by filling in the gaps between skin cells and replacing skin lipids.” Certain skincare ingredients claim to be more than one: for example, glycerin is both a humectant and emollient.

Does acne-prone skin need an oil-free moisturiser?

Some (though not all) oils rank highly on the comedogenic scale, meaning they have the ability to block the pores, thus spelling trouble for oily and acne-prone skin types. “In general terms, choosing an oil-free or 'non-comedogenic' moisturiser is beneficial for oily skin types,” says Dr. Mahto. “These types of moisturisers often contain additional actives to target blemish-prone skin such as salicylic acid, niacinamide and zinc. While the label is not a 100 per cent guarantee that the product will not block pores, it is still likely to be better than a product that does not carry the label.”

Where do face oils come in?

Face oils do not sit in the same category as your face cream, and so should not directly replace your moisturiser. However, they do have some welcome benefits as an add-on to your routine, particularly during the cold winter months. “In short, oils are occlusive, meaning they’ll seal in anything you apply beneath (such as your moisturiser) helping it to absorb and work better, for longer,” explains Dr. Mahto.

Below, see the best moisturisers we've tried for dry skin, oily skin, and everything in-between – including the ones the Bazaar beauty editors keep permanently on their shelves.

Our edit of the best moisturisers for every skin type

We love many of Tatcha's products but The Water Cream is the best choice for anyone whose skin is neither chronically dry nor excessively oily. The perfect middle ground, it's a watery, gel-like formula that feels intensely hydrating without tipping into 'suffocating' territory. A Japanese rose extract keeps pores refined, while the brand's signature Hadasei-3 nutrient complex feeds skin to keep the barrier calm and content.

More than a swift skin replenisher (although a quick application will certainly bring dry skin back to life), Skinceuticals' clever moisturiser works to boost collagen production while bringing down inflammation, which is the root cause of so many bugbears in more mature skin. It's rich and comforting without veering into the 'nighttime-only' category: in fact, it works beautifully under foundation.

There are so many stellar facial suncreams in La Roche-Posay's line-up, but this one is the real crowd-pleaser. It feels just like a traditional moisturiser (ideal for the SPF-phobic) and strikes the perfect balance of glow without grease. Hyaluronic acid and niacinamide keep your barrier happy, while SPF 50 and antioxidants ensure skin is fully shielded, whatever the weather.

Sisley's long-loved Black Rose line is best suited to those with more mature, dry skin. A highlight from the collection, this indulgent moisturiser is packed with a cocktail of precious rose oils and extracts, alongside heavy-duty emollients that'll leave your skin feeling incredibly soft. Trust it to see you through the coldest months with ease.

This 3-in-1 cream from Trinny Woodall's eponymous line has a remarkably loyal fan base – and indeed, the make-up expert and magnate does seem to have thought of everything. The cream hydrates without feeling sticky, delivers broad-spectrum SPF 30, and contains encapsulated pigments that burst on application, delivering a sheer, unifying tint.

If you're someone on an endless search for skin 'glow', Dr. Barbara Sturm's formula is bound to impress. A moisturiser for glowing skin in seconds, this pink-tinged, emollient-rich cream lights skin up with a tiny dose of translucent pigment that fades sallow tone and dark circles into the background. Use it on makeup-free days, or let it add extra luminosity under your foundation.