Facial Moisturizers
for
Dry Skin

If you’re wondering what dry skin looks like, there are a few simple ways to tell. First, you’ll need to identify your skin type. This can usually be done at home through simple observation. To begin, wash your face with a gentle cleanser, pat it dry, and wait for approximately 30 minutes. If your skin looks dry, rough, flaky, or noticeably dehydrated with pronounced fine lines, you may have dry skin. Your skin might also feel tight, itchy, or uncomfortable.

But remember: Everyone’s skin is unique, and therefore, it’s best to consult a board-certified dermatologist with any questions on your individual skin’s needs. (This is especially important if your dry skin is painful, cracks, bleeds, or interferes with your daily activities.)

Managing dry skin begins with choosing the right skincare essentials, and that includes a facial moisturizer. Fortunately, our range of products for dry skin helps make choosing a face moisturizer simple. Our formulas are developed with dermatologists to help address the unique needs of dry skin. CeraVe face moisturizers for dry skin are fragrance-free, allergy-tested, and non-comedogenic (meaning they won’t clog your pores). They also feature three essential ceramides, as well as hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and glycerin, and help maintain your skin’s natural protective barrier.

Ceramides are like the “glue” that holds your skin cells together. They help keep your skin barrier intact, so that it’s able to keep moisture in and harmful irritants out. According to research, lower ceramide levels have been linked to dry skin and certain dry skin conditions, like eczema and psoriasis.^1,2 All CeraVe face moisturizers for dry skin are formulated with three essential ceramides that are identical to those found naturally in your skin. To learn more about the science of CeraVe’s ceramides, visit The Ceramides Difference.

Dry skin is a common skin concern that affects many people, but the severity and frequency of dry skin can vary from person to person. Some of the factors that can compromise your skin barrier function and potentially contribute to dry skin include sun exposure, cold temperatures, low humidity, and overbathing. And although people of all ages can experience dry skin, it’s more likely to impact those over 40, according to the Mayo Clinic.³ If you need further guidance or suspect that your dry, itchy skin may be caused or worsened by an existing skin condition, seek the guidance of a board-certified dermatologist for a professional assessment.

We recommend using a dry skin face moisturizer twice daily (in the morning and at night) to lock in moisture and help maintain your skin’s protective barrier. However, like with all skincare products, consistency is key—so you’ll want to stick to a regular moisturizing regimen if you want to reap the full benefits of your face moisturizer. To learn more about how to moisturize properly, visit Moisturizing 101.

When searching for the best moisturizer for dry skin, it’s important to look for daytime options that offer hydrating benefits and broad-spectrum sun protection—such as CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion with Sunscreen. This non-comedogenic moisturizer with SPF makes a great daytime option for all skin types, including dry skin. It’s formulated with broad-spectrum SPF 30, as well as ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide. Developed with dermatologists, CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion works to help protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays. It’s also recommended by The Skin Cancer Foundation, making it an excellent year-round moisturizer with sunscreen for your healthy skin routine.

Note: Remember to use products with sunscreen as directed, reapplying them throughout the day and employing other sun protection measures. 

When choosing a nighttime face moisturizer for dry skin, consider an option that helps hydrate, calm, and soothe your skin while you sleep, like CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion. This rich, yet lightweight night cream is an excellent option for a number of reasons. Developed with dermatologists, the fragrance-free formula features beneficial ingredients, such as niacinamide. It helps hydrate, promotes a softer skin texture, and delivers a steady stream of much-needed moisture to your skin throughout the night. With three essential ceramides, this face moisturizer also helps maintain your skin’s protective barrier with consistent use.

1. Spada F, Barnes TM, Greive KA. “Skin hydration is significantly increased by a cream formulated to mimic the skin's own natural moisturizing systems.” Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2018 Oct 15;11:491-497. doi: 10.2147/CCID.S177697. PMID: 30410378; PMCID: PMC6197824.

2. Imokawa, G et al. “Decreased level of ceramides in stratum corneum of atopic dermatitis: an etiologic factor in atopic dry skin?.” The Journal of investigative dermatology vol. 96,4 (1991): 523-6. doi:10.1111/1523-1747.ep12470233

3. “Dry Skin - Symptoms and Causes.” Mayo Clinic, 25 Jan. 2022.