There's Barely a Moisturiser Out There I Haven't Tried—Nothing Compares to These 17 Hardworking Creams

The best moisturisers are one of the most important players when it comes to a happy complexion. Think about it, when it comes to the perfect skincare routine, cleansers and toners can strip your skin of moisture, so if you're not adding that moisture back in, your complexion will end up dry and irritated.

No, moisturiser isn't just for the winter months either. Sure, our skin can be drier in winter thanks to the colder weather, but no matter your skin type, your complexion will benefit from using moisturiser all year round.

Junior beauty editor, Grace Lindsay taking a makeup-free selfie

(Image credit: @gracelindsay__ for Who What Wear UK)

I have combination skin and have been busy putting the best moisturisers to the test.

As a beauty editor with true combination skin (I'm talking oily, dry and blemish-prone skin), I have spent years putting some of the most popular moisturisers on the market through their paces, and I'd like to think that I know what's what when it comes to choosing a new moisturiser to add to even the most basic skincare routine. Below, I've rounded up my ride-or-die formulas for every skin type, and I've even consulted an expert on how to choose the right moisturiser for you—whether you're looking for the best moisturiser for glowing skin, the best moisturiser for dry skin or the best moisturiser for mature skin.

When Should You Use Moisturiser?

First things first, when should you be using moisturiser as part of your skincare routine? "In the morning, [apply your moisturiser] after your serums or actives, and before sunscreen," says consultant dermatologist Dr Alia Ahmed. At night, Dr Ahmed advises applying moisturiser or night cream as the last step in your routine.

"The order of application depends on the product consistency," she explains. "Lighter or more fluid textures go on the skin before heavier textures. [This is because] lighter formulations, like serums, are absorbed quickly. [By applying these first], you will also ensure that you get the best out of every product."

How Much Moisturiser Should You Use?

So, now that you know how to apply your moisturiser, how much product should you use? The thing is, this will depend on what formula you go for. I always recommend following the instructions and seeing how you get on. If your skin is still feeling parched, try upping the amount of product and see how your complexion reacts. It can be a little bit of trial and error, but once you get it right, your skin will thank you.

@tylynnnguyen taking a selfie with glowing skin

(Image credit: @tylynnnguyen)

How to Find the Best Moisturiser for Your Skin Type

Different skin types will require different moisturisers. "For those with dry or irritated skin, replenishing the skin barrier is key," says Dr Ahmed. "Look for ingredients that mimic natural moisturising factors in the skin like glycerin, which works to attract and hold water in the skin to provide optimal hydration." Dr Ahmed also recommends looking out for allantoin, which works to soothe and soften the skin, as well as vitamin E, an antioxidant that protects skin from environmental damage. Of course, hyaluronic acid is also key when it comes to hydration.

Those of you with oily or blemish-prone skin might think that moisturiser will make your skin concerns worse, but according to Dr Ahmed, this is a total myth. "Maintaining hydration and protecting the skin barrier is very important for people with this skin type," she tells me. However, it's important to choose the right formula. "Greasy or heavy textures should be avoided, as these can aggravate inflammation and clog pores," she says. "Highly fragranced products can also cause further irritation to blemish-prone skin."

Instead, look for gentle, fragrance-free formulas that prove non-comedogenic moisturisers. This means that they are formulated without pore-clogging ingredients so shouldn't aggravate oily or blemish-prone skin types.

Best Moisturisers Testing Criteria

Below, I've rounded up a tight edit of the best options on the market, from luxury buys to affordable moisturisers. I've spent years testing the best formulas for both dry and oily skin types, and have seen first-hand just how effective each product can be. I've made sure to keep the below criteria in mind, and have included all of the pros and cons so that you can make an informed decision before investing in your top picks. You are welcome.

  • Is it suitable for all skin types?
  • Did my skin feel hydrated after using?
  • Is it good value for money?
  • Is it enjoyable to apply?
  • Can I apply it morning and night?

A picture of different moisturisers on a marble table

(Image credit: @gracelindsay__ for Who What Wear UK)

A selection of moisturisers that I have been testing.

15 Best Moisturisers 2025, Tried and Tested

1. Biossance Squalane + Omega Repair Cream

2. CeraVe Oil Control Moisturising Gel-Cream

3. Tatcha The Dewy Skin Cream

4. Cetaphil Daily Hydrating Moisturiser

5. Drunk Elephant Lala Retro Whipped Cream

6. Caudalie VinoHydra Gel Moisturiser

7. Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream

8. Beauty Pie Super Healthy Skin Ultimate Anti-Aging Cream

9. Byoma Moisturizing Gel Cream

10. No7 Lift & Luminate Triple Action Day Cream

11. La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Balm

12. Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream

13. Vichy Minéral 89 72Hr Hyaluronic Acid and Squalane Moisture Boosting Cream

14. Kate Somerville Goat Milk Moisturizing Cream

15. La Mer The Moisturizing Cream

16. Aveeno Face Calm and Restore Oat Gel Moisturiser

17. Sunday Riley C.E.O. Afterglow

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Grace Lindsay
Junior Beauty Editor

Grace Lindsay is the junior beauty editor at Who What Wear UK. At the age of 18 she decided to train as a makeup artist before going on to study english and media at Goldsmiths University. It was during that time that she explored her love for journalism by interning at a small beauty start-up based in Shoreditch. Since then, she has worked at a number of publications including Marie Claire and Hello!, where her love for all things beauty continued to grow.

As Who What Wear UK's junior beauty editor, she covers everything from the latest hair trends to the stand-out makeup products of the season.