I Tried Over $300 in Moisturizers This Year—Here’s the Winner
When it comes to skincare, almost no step is more important than moisturizing.
But unfortunately, the options can be dizzying and seemingly endless. That's why we did the dirty work for you and slathered on more than $300 worth of moisturizer. We found a winner, along with worthy moisturizing adversaries along the way.
Read on for the favorite moisturizing formulas we tried this year (and scroll to the very bottom for our No. 1 pick!):
(via Unsplash)
OSEA Atmosphere Protection Cream
If you're gunning for a lightweight moisturizer that will leave behind a matte, silky finish, look no further than this $48 formula from OSEA. Organic Algae, Shea Butter and Avocado Oil are mixed together to moisturize and firm. The moisturizer's finish is so great, we even encourage you to use it as a primer.
(via OSEA)
Algenist Prebiotic Balancing Moisturizer
You've heard about prebiotics for your gut, but Algenist takes it to a new level with this lightweight moisturizer. The all-mineral SPF 15 is great to wear under makeup and is guaranteed to leave your skin feeling hydrated and balanced. This $40 tube includes probiotics and prebiotics that help balance skin's natural surface bacteria.
(via Algenist)
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Ultra Intense Soothing Care Moisturizer
French people know how to pull off chic, and part of that effortless look includes top-tier skin. This $29.99 soothing moisturizer is perfect for people with extra sensitive skin. Don't expect to see parabens, fragrance or drying alcohol in this formula, it only includes essential ingredients that can help even acne-prone skin.
(via La Roche-Posay)
La Roche-Posay Lipikar Lotion Daily Repair
La Roche-Posay's offerings are nothing short of French miracles, and this $17.99 replenishing moisturizer is proof. It goes to town on every skin type, from normal to dry. This is the bottle to grab when your skin needs a little TLC or if you suffer from eczema. It also boasts receiving the National Eczema Association's Seal of Acceptance.
(via La Roche-Posay)
Skin Actives Scientific Ultimate Moisturizing Cream
This moisturizer used to be called "Dream Cream" for a reason. The ingredients list is intense and includes everything from antioxidants and nutrients to essential fatty acids that help hydrate and repair. At $17 a pop, you can afford to share the goods with your bestie once in a while.
(via Skinactives.com)
COSRX Honey Ceramide Full Moisture Cream
If you haven't heard about K-beauty, you must be living under a rock. And if you haven't heard about the $26 cream that revives rough, dry skin, are you even a beauty junkie? Expensive manuka honey is added to the formula along with ceramides. Beeswax also helps hold in moisture after application.
(via Ulta)
Yon-Ka Paris– Creme 28
(via Yon-Ka-Paris)
Mad Hippie Face Cream
In addition to having one of the best names around, this $25.99 moisturizer is chock full of peptides and antioxidants. One of the main ingredients is also argan oil, known for its hydrating and soothing properties.
(via Madhippie.com)
The Winner – Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream
Charlotte Tilbury knows a thing or two about skin. The superstar makeup artist has been working with the biggest celeb names for many years. Our inkling is that all of this experience culminated in a perfectly hydrating moisturizer. Hyaluronic acid is prominent in the formula and it left our skin feeling soft as a baby's bum. The moisturizer comes in different sizes but you can start indulging with their smallest pot that clocks in at $29.
(via Charlotte Tilbury)
Nailed down your next moisturizer purchase? Check out THESE perfectly shimmery eyeshadows for your next soiree!