Top 15 Best Face Moisturizers for Sensitive Skin

Nowadays, you can spot an advertisement for a skincare product everywhere you turn. You will come across different types of moisturizers, exfoliators, and cleansers in the market these days. When it comes to cleansers and exfoliators, they are known for the obvious benefits they bring to the skin. But, how about face moisturizers. Why are they important for a person with sensitive skin? Let us find out here.

Why is Moisturizer Important for Sensitive Skin?

For individuals with sensitive skin, face moisturization is an important step to maintain healthy skin cells. Face moisturizers play a major role in protecting the skin against irritation as this is a common problem faced by individuals with sensitive skin. Studies show that people using moisturizers right from their young age are able to maintain the best complexion when they get old. It will prevent skin breakouts as irritated and dry skin is more prone to breakouts. It will be possible to prevent skin problems with the best face moisturizer for sensitive skin.

So, now, you know that it is important to use a face moisturizer for sensitive skin. But, with many different options available in the market, your question will be how to select the right moisturizer. Understanding your concern, we have shortlisted some products that effectively moisturize without irritating your sensitive skin:

Top Best Sensitive Face Moisturizers

#1 Sterile Face Moisturizer For Sensitive Skin from Eau Thermale Avene

This gluten-free unisex product suits not just the soft skin of women, but also the rough shaved skin of men. To make it suitable for sensitive skin, the product has not used soy, gluten, paraben, and fragrance.

The thermal water used as the key ingredient in this product helps with locking the natural moisture of the skin. Also, the vegetable extracts used in this product provide the skin with healthy nutrients and minerals. This product suits not just sensitive skin but also a normal skin type.

Many users with hypersensitive skin are highly satisfied with the gentle moisturization that this product provides to their skin.

#2 Toleriane Ultra Sensitive Skin Face Moisturizer from La Roche-Posay

This product has won the Allure Best of Beauty Awards in the year 2013. It has been created as a daily moisturizer not just for normal skin but also for individuals with very sensitive skin.

To suit sensitive skin, it has been dermatologist tested for non-allergic nature. Also, the product is free of fragrance, preservatives and paraben to make it safe for sensitive skin type. The product encompasses limited ingredients evaluating the little tolerance level of sensitive skin. The probiotic thermal water used as the key ingredient in this product helps with providing the skin with beneficial microflora, thereby keeping the invisible skin barrier healthy.

Many users of this product with sensitive skin are highly satisfied with the soothing and gentle effect of this product on their skin.

RELATED: Top 10 Best La Roche-Posay Skincare

#3 Daily Oil-Free Hydrating Lotion from Cetaphil

To provide intense and immediate hydration, this product from Cetaphil has been created as an easy-absorbing formula. To provide daily skin hydration, the product has been formulated with hyaluronic acid and strong humectants. In addition to providing the best moisturization, this product also functions as the best foundation for makeup.

To make this product suit sensitive skin, Cetaphil has not used any fragrance and it is also a non-comedogenic product that has been tested by dermatologists. Hyaluronic acid used as the key ingredient in this product acts as a powerful moisturizing agent. Also, it can retain nearly 1000 times its weight in water. In turn, this product is able to provide the best hydration to the skin.

Many users feel that this is the best moisturizer for problem-prone skin.

RELATED: Top 10 Best Cetaphil Skincare – Expert Reviews

#4 Ecological Compound With Pump from Sisley

This product from Sisley has been created as a synergistic compound of plants like Horsetail, Hops, Rosemary, Ginseng, and Centella Asiatica. These ingredients work to restore the suppleness and tone of the skin. Even, the ingredients make this product effective to protect sensitive skin from environmental stressors like cigar smoke and pollution.

The ginseng used as the key ingredient in this product helps with revitalizing the skin, while rosemary tones. The toning is taken care of by horsetail, while Centella Asiatica revitalizes and renews the skin.

Many users of this compound have stated that this product leaves their skin with a matte appearance with its non-greasy and fluid texture.

#5 Primrose Facial Hydrating Cream from Aesop

This hydrating cream from Aesop contains powerful doses of beneficial fatty acids to soften and hydrate the skin.

The product is known for its healthy ingredients with deeply penetrating and fast-absorbing nature. This cream has healthy doses of gamma linoleic acids and has been boosted with hip seed and primrose extracts along with other natural sources of vitamin C and E to bring health benefits to the skin. To bring a soothing smell, the product also uses lavender, wild rosemary and sage as ingredients.

Many users are pleased with the performance of this product and many have stated that it smells organic and natural.

RELATED: Top 8 Best Aesop Skincare Products

#6 Calendula Skin Moisturizer Cream from Jurlique

This cream from Jurlique is offered as a natural remedy to soothe and calm the skin.

The product encompasses potent calendula extract as the key ingredient to deeply comfort sensitive skin. The Calendula extract used in this product has been obtained from the pure calendula grown at the organic farms in Australia. This ingredient is rich in calming antioxidants and oleanolic acid to safeguard the skin.

This skin cream with its intense hydration benefits suits sensitive skin as it helps calm the skin after exposure to harmful elements. The product softens, soothes and clarifies the skin as claimed by many users. In addition to calming the skin, it deeply hydrates sensitive skin and safeguards it from environmental stressors.

#7 Rose Deep Hydration Face Cream from Fresh

This face moisturizer for sensitive skin from Fresh is a lightweight cream. To attract and to retain moisture, the product encompasses time-release hydro patches. These patches form a protective moisturizing veil to the sensitive skin of the user.

To soothe and quench sensitive and dry skin, this product encompasses other ingredients like vitamin E, angelica leaf extract, rose flower oil and rosewater. The angelica leaf extract in this product helps with retaining the moisture content, while rose flower oil helps to nourish the skin.

Nearly 94% of the users of this product claimed that this cream provides long-lasting hydration and comfort to their skin. Also, many with dry skin stated that it relieved the tightening sensation in their skin.

RELATED: Top 9 Best Fresh Skincare – Expert Reviews

#8 Skin Renewing Night Cream from CeraVe

The product uses MVE Delivery Technology to restore the protective skin barrier. This technology helps with replenishing the ceramides in the skin. Further, it helps with softening and renewing the tired face.

The biomimetic peptides in this product function as a unique complex to help bring down the look of tired skin overnight. The hyaluronic acid present in this product helps with hydrating the skin and helps to bring down the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. As it has a non-greasy texture and it is free of fragrance, this product suits individuals with sensitive skin.

As this product works overnight, users feel that they are able to get fresh looks in their faces when they get up in the morning after applying it before going to bed.

RELATED: Top 10 Best CeraVe Skincare – Expert Reviews

#9 Ultra-Calming Daily Facial Moisturizer from Aveeno

This product includes a broad spectrum SPF 15 sunscreen protection. So, in addition to soothing and calming dry and sensitive skin, this product also provides the best sun protection.

The product uses calming feverfew as the key ingredient that is known for its gentleness on sensitive skin. This product has been tested by dermatologists and it is non-comedogenic besides being hypoallergenic.

Many users of this product have stated that within a week of use, this product rebalanced their dry skin, while sensitive skin users stated that it helped to reduce the redness in their skin quickly. Users feel that this product is gentle enough for daily use as the skin absorbs it quickly and it is lightweight.

RELATED: Top 8 Best Aveeno Skincare Products: Expert Reviews

#10 Oil-Free Moisturizer for Sensitive Skin from Neutrogena

To make this product gentle for sensitive skin, it is free of alcohol, oil and fragrance. It is non-comedogenic and it has been created as a hypoallergenic formula. The water-based, non-greasy and lightweight lotion effectively gets rid of dryness without leaving the skin shiny or greasy.

It has been designed to provide optimal hydration to the skin and makes skin soft and smooth. The active ingredients in this product are oxybenzone, octocrylene, octisalate and avobenzone. These are sunscreens that protect from the harmful UV rays.

Many users feel that this product is ultra-gentle on their sensitive skin. Some users are of the opinion that this product works great when applied before applying makeup not just on the face but also on the neck.

RELATED: Top 10 Best Neutrogena Skincare

#11 Moisturizing Cream with Pump from Vanicream

This dermatologist-tested cream from Vanicream comes with a pump for easy use and application with hands. This semisolid, unisex product suits sensitive skin as it is free of dyes, parabens, lanolin, masking fragrance and formaldehyde. The National Eczema Association has awarded a seal of acceptance for this product. As it won’t clog pores, it can be used either as a night cream or for massaging. To bring the best hydration benefits, purified water is the key ingredient in this product.

Many users of this product are highly happy that this product is ideal for use as a daily moisturizing cream as it provides gentle hydration.

#12 Sensitive Skin Moisturizing Cream from Derma-E

This product from Derma-E has been designed to improve skin elasticity and texture. It is proven to rebuild elastin and collagen, thereby fighting the signs of aging in the skin.

The product uses antioxidant-rich Pycnogenol as the key ingredient that helps with gently delivering soothing properties to help calm skin discomfort. It has replenishing vitamin E, C and A to nourish and moisturize the skin for a younger-looking and vibrant complexion. The product has passed an allergy test, dermatologist test and it also has been clinically tested to suit sensitive skin.

Many users of this product have claimed that this product helped to improve their skin elasticity and texture. The product suits not just sensitive skin but also mature and acne-prone skin.

#13 All Day Moisturizer Lotion with SPF 15 from Olay

The gentle formula from Olay for sensitive skin is free of any oil and fragrance. The PABA-Free formula conditions the skin surface with aloe and vitamin E. Also, with SPF 15, this lotion protects the skin from the harmful UV Rays.

This Olay Complete lotion is formulated with patented SolarSheer Technology. This product holds the pride of being America’s #1 UV Sunscreen Face Moisturizer. The active ingredients in this product are zinc oxide and octinoxate. Both these ingredients effectively protect the skin from UV rays.

Many users feel that this gentle formula provides 12 hours of continuous hydration. Further, many users expressed that this lotion gets absorbed by the skin quickly and feels lightweight when applying.

RELATED: Top 10 Best Olay Skincare – Expert Reviews

#14 Daily Face Moisturizing Cream from Burt’s Bees for Sensitive Skin

This moisturizer from Burts Bees hydrates the skin without causing any irritation and redness. It is a hypoallergenic product free of any fragrance to suit sensitive skin. This dermatologist-tested product has been clinically proven to improve the skin barrier function and leaves skin feeling and looking healthier.

The product uses cotton extract as the key ingredient. It is loaded with fatty acids, antioxidants and vitamin E to reduce inflammation and to safeguard the outer layer of the skin.

Many users said that this product greatly removes makeup and heals sensitive skin.

RELATED: Top 10 Best Burt’s Bees Skincare – Expert Reviews

#15 Ultra Facial Cream from Kiehl’s

This product from Kiehl’s has been created as a 24-hour daily lightweight hydrating formula to make the skin healthy.

This cream uses glacial glycoprotein as the key ingredient. This ingredient is obtained from sea glaciers and it has the ability to withstand extreme climate changes. It deeply hydrates besides protecting the skin from water loss.

Many users appreciated the feel and texture of this cream from Kiehl’s.

RELATED: Top 10 Best Kiehl’s Skincare

Benefits of Moisturizer for Sensitive Skin

Well-moisturized skin makes you look and feel great. Face moisturizers prevent dehydration to prevent rough and itchy texture of the skin. Continue reading to find out the benefits of face moisturizer for sensitive skin. You will also get vital tips on picking the best product for your skin. 

People often start looking for skincare products without understanding their benefits. Sensitive skin reacts quite easily when you apply a poor-quality product. Moisturizers ensure the adverse effects are negligible and your skin heals faster. There are some more benefits of face moisturizer for sensitive skin that you must know before buying the product. 

1. It improves your appearance

Dry or dehydrated skin looks dull and quite unattractive. Your face can never gain that glow if the skin is dehydrated. Users with sensitive skin face more severe issues due to a lack of hydration. The skin can get reddish, inflamed, and quite tight. It can also cause premature ageing! 

Apply top-quality face moisturizer daily and you can retain the natural glow of your skin. It is quite beneficial during the winter season because it reduces the effects of cold wind and room heaters. You can look quite attractive without applying several skincare products. All you need is a good moisturizer!   

2. No blemishes

Are there unappealing marks or discolored spots on your face? These blemishes appear darker than your natural complexion. Nobody likes to see such spots on the face. Women often apply cakey makeup to hide those skin imperfections and look beautiful. 

The appearance of blemishes becomes a common occurrence if you do not moisturize your skin properly. Moisturizers deliver water into skin cells along with ingredients that make blemishes fade away. This product can lessen discolored spots and the need to apply excess makeup also reduces!  

3. Younger appearance

A whole lot of products are available at cosmetic stores that claim to make people look young. Some products are great at this job and the rest are simply useless. Face moisturizers hydrate your skin to regain its charming glow. You can feel the softness and plumpness after applying the right product. 

Well-hydrated skin looks younger because it gets plump and more elastic. Top moisturizers also contain anti-ageing ingredients, such as retinol and peptides to stimulate collagen and elastin production. Consequently, the skin looks fresh and much younger! 

You may not observe the change immediately after applying the product. Give it a few weeks and your skin will look much younger than before!  

4. No inflammation

You have to do everything carefully if you got sensitive skin. Allergens, toxins, pollutants, and various other elements can cause itching and inflammation. The best way of preventing such issues is to keep your skin moisturized. 

Cleanse your face and apply the moisturizer on the moist face. It will lock moisture and create a protective layer on your skin. Thus, the top moisturizer can keep allergy-causing elements away from your epidermis.  

5. It can prevent moisture loss

Do you know the skin loses moisture when you sleep? It happens to everyone and that’s why most people wake up with the dull-looking face. What’s the solution? Expensive night creams are not in every person’s budget. Besides, users with sensitive skin may find it a bit tough to pick the right night cream! 

A top-quality moisturizer can hydrate your skin and trap moisture in the skin for hours. It means you do not need an expensive night cream if you got the right face moisturizer for sensitive skin. Apply it before you go to bed! Thus, you will sleep and wake up with plump skin. 

How to Choose Face Moisturizer for Sensitive Skin

Do you believe it when a brand claims its moisturizer is suitable for all skin types? It might contain common irritants, such as dye, fragrances, alcohol, parabens, vitamin A, C, and preservatives! 

There are some more factors you have to assess buying a face moisturizer for sensitive skin!

1. Type of the face moisturizer

You will find three types of face moisturizers in cosmetic shops, which are explained below. 

Humectants

Humectants are present in face moisturizers to hydrate the skin. Of course, humectants alone cannot do all the work. Therefore, there are various other ingredients in moisturizers. Even if a product contains only humectants, it will cause adverse reactions! 

The most commonly found humectants in face moisturizers are as follows:

• Glycerin: It is a transparent liquid that our body produces naturally. Best face moisturizers for sensitive skin provide plant-based glycerin to nourish our skin.

• Hyaluronic acid: You will find this humectant on the ingredient list of moisturizers, toners, serums, face creams, and lotions. It lubricates and cushions skin tissues to prevent dehydration and allergic reaction.

• Urea: This organic compound is also present in many moisturizing lotions. Your skin produces it to prevent dehydration. However, externally sourced urea can cause allergic reactions if you got extremely sensitive skin!

• Sorbitol: This humectant is extracted from fruits and plants and then added to moisturizing formulas. It is safe for sensitive skin and therefore specifically formulated products contain it.

• Propylene glycol: It is a synthetic humectant and often blended in drinks and certain cuisines. You should avoid face moisturizers containing this particular ingredient. It will moisturize sensitive skin, but it will also trigger allergic reactions!

Occlusives

Occlusive moisturizers contain ingredients that create a protective layer on the epidermis to prevent moisture loss. If you find a moisturizer that offers a combination of humectants and occlusive ingredients, it’s perfect for your skin! 

Sensitive skin-friendly occlusive ingredients include:

• Beeswax: This ingredient is obtained from a bee honeycomb. Brands commonly use it to produce face creams with thicker consistency and lip balm. Sensitive skin moisturizers also contain this ingredient to keep it hydrated.

• Squalene: This lightweight ingredient is considered safe for sensitive skin. It is produced from the hydrogenation of squalene. You will find many top-quality skincare products for sensitive skin.

• Shea Butter: It is one of the most popular ingredients in skincare products nowadays. Most people know that it is sourced from the nuts of the Shea tree. This African ingredient provides antioxidants and fatty acids to nourish the skin and prevent the loss of moisture.

• Castor oil: Many face moisturizers contain this organic ingredient. It not only develops a barrier against skin-damaging elements but also soothes inflammation. You must seek it in a face moisturizer to treat allergic reactions.

Emollients

Many face moisturizers contain emollients that repair the natural protective layer of the skin. If your skin is dry and sensitive, it can easily get rough and flaky. You should look for a combination of humectants and emollients to improve your skin condition. 

You can find emollient moisturizers formulated specifically to treat skin conditions, such as flaky skin and eczema. It is considered the best prevention against allergic reactions. Therefore, your face moisturizer must contain emollients to prevent reactions caused by common irritants. 

2. Look for face moisturizer offering a blend of organic ingredients

Top brands carefully pick skin-nourishing ingredients for sensitive skin. If you really want to try a soothing face lotion, choose one that contains a blend of the following ingredients. 

• Coconut oil: It is the best ingredient to soothe allergic reactions. Coconut oil is commonly found in every house. People keep it to nurture healthy hair and soothe itching and inflammation. What if your face moisturizer contains this ingredient? It will certainly treat redness, rashes, and reactions triggered by allergens.

• Aloe Vera: It is a magical ingredient and completely safe for sensitive skin. Several affordable organic face moisturizers contain aloe vera gel. This gel is the source of over 75 active constituents, including minerals, vitamins, sugars, enzymes, lignin, salicylic acids, saponins, and amino acids. You can also use aloe vera extract as a home remedy to soothe skin inflammation. Top-quality aloe vera gel moisturizers are the best for dry and sensitive skin.

• Chamomile: This herb has been blended in skincare remedies for thousands of years. It is known to relieve stress, cure ailments, and help users relax. Along with being a natural cure for many diseases, chamomile is also a skin-nourishing ingredient. It helps remove ageing signs and cures redness, inflammation, and itching. You can easily find face moisturizers containing chamomile in their organic blend to promote healthy skin.

• Honey: You should not be amazed if honey is on our list. Many skin care home remedies include honey as a key ingredient. It is called scar fader, gentle exfolator, soothing moisturizer, and exterminator for germs. Honey beautifies and protects your skin at the same time. That’s why your face moisturizer must contain it in its formula.

• Shea Butter: We have already explained how vital shea butter is for your skin. You have gotten a soothing and skin-nourishing moisturizer if shea butter is the main ingredient!

3. Red flags you should not miss at all

You should not buy a moisturizer containing fragrances, artificial colors, parabens, phthalates, retinol, vitamin C, and other irritants. Not all aromatic and colorful moisturizers are bad for your skin! Reputable brands use only skin-nourishing natural ingredients that make the product look and smell great.

Conclusion

The best face moisturizer for sensitive skin will help with locking the moisture content in the skin. So, we have recommended some best options available in the market. Here is a list that we have further shortlisted:

Long-lasting hydration: Ultra Facial Cream from Kiehl’s

Moisturizer with natural ingredients: Calendula Skin Moisturizer Cream from Jurlique

Compromised skin with issues: Moisturizing Cream with Pump from Vanicream

Unisex: Sterile Face Moisturizer For Sensitive Skin from Eau Thermale Avene

Men with sensitive skin are recommended to check whether the product suits them. Otherwise, they can choose a unisex product.