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My favorite creams, lotions, and gels to get you through winter and beyond.
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Luckily, high-quality skincare doesnt have to break the bank.
While some were quick rejects, others became must-haves in myskincare routine.
Steve Xu, board-certified dermatologist fromNorthwestern Dermatology and founding dermatologist for Geologie.
PHOTO: Amazon
Its one of the pricier options on this list.
I used it both in the morning and before bed with zero complaints.
I always woke up feeling moisturized, and my morning software lasted all day.
PHOTO: Real Simple
Since its lightweight and I have particularly dry skin, I had to reapply throughout the day.
During testing, its thin consistency spread easily and absorbed seamlessly into my skin no vigorous rubbing needed.
And, since its ultra light, it sits well under makeup without causing pilling or greasiness.
In fact, its become a permanent part of my makeup routine.
But for a quick boost of hydration in the morning or pre-makeup software, its definitely worth the buy.
It isnt very portable and doesnt have a pump.
Its velvety texture felt super soothing, hydrating my dry patches with zero irritation.
Of all the moisturizers I tried, this one left my skin feeling the softest.
Despite its thick consistency, it applied surprisingly smoothly, absorbing into my skin without requiring too much rubbing.
However, thats a small price to pay considering its high quality.
It takes a bit of effort to rub in and can feel heavy for daytime wear.
CeraVe is a household name for a reason, so its no surprise that its moisturizing cream is top-notch.
Its also versatileyou can use it on your face, arms, legs, or pretty much anywhere.
As someone with eczema, this is one of the few moisturizers thats never stung or irritated my skin.
Its thick enough to really nourish the skin but not as sticky as other creams.
So, I tend to use it after I shower, when my skin feels extra dry and raw.
It isnt as nourishing for super dry skin.
The cooling formula spread smoothly over my skin, almost like water, with no white cast whatsoever.
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I was honestly surprised by how hydrating it was.
It absorbed quickly (actually, instantly), leaving my skin feeling soft and nourished immediately after app.
It also became my go-to makeup base.
PHOTO: Real Simple
I even blended it with bronzing drops before applying concealer.
It’s thick enough to nourish my skin but lightweight enough for daily usebasically the perfect balance.
Still, its important to know what youre putting on your skin.
Occlusiveshelp retain moisture by forming a protective barrier on the skin.
Petrolatum creates a thin layer on the skin to prevent water and moisture from evaporating.
And last, but certainly not least:emollients.
One of his favorite emollient ingredients is squalene, which is found naturally in the skins sebum.
Skin jot down
Moisturizers are not a one-size-fits-all category, and different skin types require different types.
For those with dry skin, Dr. Xu recommends going for a heavier cream-based moisturizer.
If you fall in this category (like me),CeraVe Moisturizing CreamandPonds Dry Skin Creamare great options.
In these cases, water-based gels or serums are best because theyre lightweight and non-greasy.
Questions You Might Have
What ingredients should you look for or avoid in a moisturizer?
What other products should you use with a drugstore moisturizer?
Dr. Xu suggests adding a serum andsunscreento your skincare routine.
He emphasizes that SPF is essential year round, no matter the season.
Is a cream-based or gel-based moisturizer better?
During testing, theCeraVe Moisturizing CreamandPonds Dry Skin Creamwere my favorite to use before bed.
Are expensive moisturizers worth it?
PHOTO: Amazon
Take Our Word for It
This article was written byJamie Fischer, a writer forReal Simple.
For expert insight, I consultedDr.
Steve Xu, board-certified dermatologist fromNorthwestern Dermatologyand founding dermatologist forGeologie.
PHOTO: Real Simple
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