Beauty Skin-Care Tips

Derms Agree That This $16 Moisturizer Is the Best of the Best for Dry Skin

Rachel Harrell

October 26, 2019

Thumbnail for Derms agree that this $16 moisturizer is the best of the best for dry skin

Pin It

Photo: Getty Images/AleksandarNakic

There are moisturizers that claim to be plumping, brightening, oily-skin friendly, intensive... the list goes on. But really, the name of the game is bestowing your skin with hydration that stays put—especially as the temperatures drop. In the face of zillions of creams lining the shelves to choose from, dermatologists all seem to recommend one specific product: CeraVe Moisturizing Cream ($16).

“I love Cerave Moisturizing Cream and the brand's hydrating cleanser,” says Melissa Kanchanapoomi Levin, MD, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Entiere Dermatology. “They're gentle but effective moisturizers and cleansers that are reliable, moisturizing, and elegant for all skin types.” Sheel Desai Solomon, MD, a dermatologist with Preston Dermatology, echoes this, noting that the moisturizer is oil free and "hydrates like the best of them."

Once you take a closer look at the ingredients, it all starts to make sense. All of the skin-moisturizing must-haves are in the cream: hyaluronic acid, various ceramides, and glycerin, so your face won't be left thirsty. And its use of not just one but three ceramides makes sure to strengthen your skin's barrier, leaving it plump and strong (even in the face of that incoming winter air).

Another perk? Even though it's mighty, derms say you can apply it throughout the day as needed. "You can apply this cream throughout the day and throughout your skin-care routine," says Dr. Solomon—which means morning, night, and if you so happen to feel the need for moisture midday because of that drying office heat. Every single skin type can do this, BTW, whether you're oily, sensitive, or acne-prone. "I always say to choose an oil-free, lightweight moisturizer like Cerave as it will not cause acne," says Rachel Nazarian, MD, a board-certified dermatologist with Schweiger Dermatology who's also a fan of the stuff. "The ceramides and hyaluronic acid help make skin stronger and help it maintain more water and hydration with continued use."

So—slather on this all-praised drugstore moisturizer, because it's basically doctor's orders.

Also for your skin-hydrating regimen are the best serums for dry skin, according to a dermatopathologist. Plus, if you're looking to extend the hydrating love to the rest of your body, an editor bought an entire liter of this lotion after falling in love with its luxurious effects.