Dealing with dry skin? It’s more than just an aesthetic issue—it’s uncomfortable, irritating, and can even fast-track the aging process. That’s why a powerhouse hydrating moisturizer isn’t just a nice-to-have, it’s a must. The good news? There are plenty of incredible moisturizers out there that can rescue your skin from head to toe.
Dry skin can be triggered by all sorts of things—shifting temperatures (because extreme heat and cold are both out to get us), aging, hormonal changes, or just plain bad luck. But here’s the deal: not all moisturizers are created equal. Some work better for less sensitive skin, while others focus on repairing the skin barrier—one of the biggest culprits behind dryness. Never heard of the skin barrier? Don’t worry, we’ll get to that.
For Bethenny’s top 10 hydrating moisturizers that actually deliver, keep reading. Each one has been tested, approved, and is guaranteed to turn your parched skin into a happy, hydrated glow-fest.
What to look for in Hydrating Moisturizers for Dry Skin:
If you’ve ever wandered down a drugstore beauty aisle or stepped into the black hole that is a beauty store, you know the options are beyond overwhelming. That’s exactly why we’ve curated this list of hydrating moisturizers that actually pass the test. Stick to these picks, and you’ll cut through the clutter and get one step closer to your best skin.
What Sets These Moisturizers Apart?
The secret is in the ingredients. Many of these formulas are packed with powerhouse hydrators like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and shea butter—all of which help keep your skin soft, plump, and happy. We were also mindful to include fragrance-free options for those with sensitive skin, plus moisturizers designed for both face and body (because let’s be real, what works on your face might not be what your legs need).
Key Ingredients to Look For
-
Ceramides – Think of these as the “glue” that holds your skin cells together. They help strengthen your skin barrier, locking in moisture and keeping irritants out.
-
Shea Butter – A super-nourishing ingredient with a naturally high ceramide content, making it ideal for deep hydration.
-
Hyaluronic Acid & Glycerin – These are humectants, meaning they attract and retain water in the skin, ensuring long-lasting hydration.
If your skin is on the sensitive side, steer clear of fragrance, as it can be a common irritant. And remember, you may want to curate a moisturizer collection—one for your face and another for your body—to ensure each area gets the care it truly needs.
10 Best Hydrating Moisturizers for Dry Skin
Neutrogena Hydro Boost
This drugstore staple is a cult favorite, and for good reason. The oil-free and non-comedogenic formula is packed with super-hydrating hyaluronic acid, allowing it to deliver plenty of hydration sans clogged pores or a greasy feel. Need something that plays well under makeup and doesn’t feel heavy on the skin? This is exactly what you’ve been looking for.
Buy now: Amazon.com; $22
True Botanicals Extreme Cream
Dewy skin can be yours no matter how dull and dry it may currently be. Its leading ingredient, Chebula, has been used in Ayurveda (a system of traditional medicine native to India) for years for its healing properties, including those for the skin, thanks to its antioxidant content. This rich cream is perfect for anyone who’s looking to fight the signs of aging including dryness, fine lines, discoloration, and more. Paired with hydrating hyaluronic acid and vitamin C-rich acerola cherries, the pink cream promises a stronger skin barrier and an overall more radiant complexion.
Buy now: Amazon.com; $88
Skinceuticals Daily Moisture
One of the biggest gripes that people have with moisturizers is that they feel too heavy and leave a thick film on the skin. But, this dreamy, botanical-packed formula delivers all the moisture in a lightweight cream that’s suitable for all skin types, including oily! And yes, oily skin can still be dehydrated, so don’t let a greasy appearance stop you from moisturizing. Bonus: this cream even helps to reduce the appearance of pore size– a true feat!
Buy now: Bluemercury.com; $78
L’Oreal Revitalift Triple Power Moisturizer
According to dermatologists, the ingredient trifecta for treating anti-aging consists of retinol, vitamin C, and SPF, and this budget-friendly formula combines two of the three with pro-retinol and vitamin C, so all you need to do is find a daily sunscreen that you like.
But, it doesn’t stop there– it also adds hyaluronic acid to the mix, so in addition to anti-aging benefits, you get optimal hydration, too. This powerhouse moisturizer hydrates, smooths, and brightens, promising visible results in as little as one week.
Buy now: Amazon.com; $30
Elemis Marine Cream
The Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream is beyond elite because it delivers serious hydration while feeling ridiculously lightweight—no heavy, greasy mess here. Packed with powerful marine and botanical actives like Padina Pavonica (a moisture-retaining algae) and Ginkgo Biloba, it visibly plumps, firms, and smooths skin, making fine lines look like they took a vacation. Plus, it absorbs like a dream, layers beautifully under makeup, and gives you that fresh, dewy glow that screams expensive.
Buy now: Amazon.com; $140
Bliss Drench & Quench Moisturizer
You know the deal, hyaluronic acid is an excellent hydrator, but did you know there are different types of HA? To put it simply, hyaluronic acid is a molecule that comes in varying weights– some smaller than others, which makes them better penetrators AKA they can get deeper into the skin.
Well, this brilliant cream-to-water formula incorporates four different weights of hyaluronic acid, meaning each layer of the skin gets a hefty dose of hydration and plumpness. We also love how quickly it absorbs, allowing us to get on with our morning routine and out the door in less time.
Buy now: Amazon.com; $26
CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream
Chock full of ceramides– that’s where CeraVe gets its name– this night cream promises a softer, more hydrated complexion come morning. This fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and non-irritating formula is a derm favorite– in fact, the line was formulated alongside dermatologists and is approved for all skin types including sensitive and acne-prone.
If you find that your skin is being more reactive than usual, it could be because of an impaired skin barrier, meaning your skin has a weakened ability to keep irritants out and nourishment such as moisture in. But, a few nights of this baby will help to get your skin back where it needs to be.
Buy now: Amazon.com; $22
L'Oreal Midnight Cream
Bethenny discovered L'Oréal Midnight Cream, and let’s just say—if you haven’t tried this cream yet, you’re an animal. This isn’t just any moisturizer; it’s the ultimate rich bitch cream—luxurious, deeply hydrating, and serving prestige without the price tag. Packed with a powerhouse trio of antioxidants, vitamin E, and shea butter, it works overnight to repair the skin barrier and leave you waking up looking like you just had a very expensive facial.
Buy now: Amazon.com; $30
Palmer's Natural Vitamin E Concentrated Cream Body Butter
The skin doesn’t stop at your neck and neither should your skincare routine. For some much-needed moisture from the neck down– bye,bye, scaly legs– slather on this vitamin E-packed body butter. Not only does it help transform dry skin, but it helps to improve the look of cracked, uneven, and chafed skin, too. Pro tip: apply to your feet at bedtime before slipping on a pair of cozy socks for the softest feet.
Buy now: Amazon.com; $11
Nivea Creme
Its iconic blue tin is just the beginning—the real magic is inside. This rich, multitasking cream does it all—hydrating like a dream as a face mask, makeup remover, hand and foot treatment, and even a rescue balm for rough elbows and knees. Whether your skin is dry, very dry, sensitive, or just in need of some serious TLC, this intensive formula has you covered—literally.
Buy now: Amazon.com; $11
Bottom Line
When skin starts feeling dry and looking dull, these ten moisturizers are Bethenny’s absolute go-tos. While there’s no one-size-fits-all approach, a solid rule of thumb is to apply moisturizer twice a day—morning and night. If yours is a night-specific formula with ingredients like retinol (which can make skin more sun-sensitive), stick to the recommended usage.
When dealing with dryness, look for powerhouse hydrators like ceramides, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and shea butter—these should be non-negotiables in your routine. Texture-wise, it’s all about preference, but if your skin is seriously parched, a thicker, balm-like, or occlusive formula will lock in moisture more effectively. Pro tip: Apply your moisturizer while your skin is still slightly damp post-cleansing—this helps trap hydration and boosts absorption for even better results.
FAQs:
What ingredients should I look for in a moisturizer for dry skin?
- Key hydrators like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and shea butter help lock in moisture and strengthen the skin barrier.
How often should I apply moisturizer for dry skin?
- For best results, apply moisturizer twice daily—morning and night—on damp skin to maximize hydration.
Can people with oily skin use hydrating moisturizers?
- Absolutely! Hydration is key for all skin types. Look for lightweight, non-comedogenic formulas to prevent clogged pores.