The top-rated moisturisers our beauty team trust for hydration (2025)

A moisturiser is a staple in any skincare routine, so it's important to find the right formula to suit you. Certain creams may be too rich for those with oily skin, while others may be too lightweight if you've weakened your barrier – the point being that not all are created equal.

We tested a range of formulas to suit different skin types and concerns, while also considering price point, texture, and sensorial experience, to bring you our round-up of the best results-driven moisturisers for every skin type.

Medik8's philosophy is that the key to unlocking radiant and resilient skin is as easy as using vitamin C during the day and vitamin A at night. Many of its formulas are targeted treatments, but its Daily Facial Cream is the restorative product to use alongside your active ingredients.

The cosseting cream contains peptides and probiotics to strengthen and firm the skin barrier. As for hydration? It comes from hyaluronic acid to draw moisture to the deeper layers of your skin. It won't alter the results of any active ingredients in your regime; just rely on it to keep your barrier sturdy and content.

Many oil-controlling moisturisers promise to mattify and soak up excess sebum, but not many do so successfully without drying out the skin.

This sensorial gel, new from CeraVe, does a stellar job at reducing shiny zones but also keeps the skin feeling wonderfully moisturised and refreshed. The lightweight gel also happily sits under makeup, helping to create a smoother-looking complexion.

If you're easing into retinoid use, we highly recommend beginning your journey with Elizabeth Arden's Rapid Skin Renewing Water Cream.

This cleverly formulated moisturiser combines retinol with hydroxypinacolone retinoate – a more potent form of retinoid, compared to retinol, that is also more stable. It's also less likely to trigger those common side effects associated with retinoid use, like dryness and peeling.

With such a velvety texture you'll be tempted to use it every day but, like with all retinoid-based products, we'd suggest phasing it in.

Allies of Skin's Firming Daily Treatment is worth every ounce of hype. It may have a premium price tag, but once you dip into its advanced formula, you'll understand why. Supercharged with multiple peptides, antioxidants and vitamin C, the cream is an ideal choice for skin in need of a brightening boost.

And because collagen breaks down as we age, the treatment is also tweaked with the brand's Repair Complex to strengthen the skin barrier and support the production of collagen, while encouraging a firm, lifted and smoother complexion.

This formula is so delicate that all skin types will get on with it, but it's especially good for those looking to soothe redness and irritation.

Gentle ingredients, like ceramides and glycerin, help to keep your skin barrier content while promoting sustained hydration.

Free from any potential irritants (think: fragrance and parabens) it’s a reliable option for anyone with sensitive skin.

The endlessly hyped (and attractively priced) CeraVe line is based around ceramides, which are important for a strong, resilient and healthy complexion.

Boosted with hyaluronic acid, this rich cream will bring ample moisture to very dry skin.

The packaging might not beg for a spot on your skincare shelf but, for £11, it's a steal of a product that really works.

Managing combination skin can be tricky – thicker creams may work great on those pesky dry patches but overwhelm the oily spots. Well, a gel-based formula may be the way to go.

Clinique’s Dramatically Different Hydrating Jelly feels incredibly refreshing on the skin, thanks to hyaluronic acid and cooling cucumber.

The lightweight formula won’t clog your oily regions, but it sinks in fast so that you can apply another layer to those dry patches that need it the most.

Whether your skin is dry, oily or combination, it's often dehydrated, making a trusty moisturiser paramount.If your skin feels tight and dry, ceramides are key power players as they help to bind your skin cells together and prevent moisture from escaping throughout the day.

If you have oily or acne-prone skin, look for formulas with a water base to hydrate without clogging your pores. Niacinamide is a stand-out ingredient here, as it balances oil production and reduces inflammation.

Unlike many high-maintenance products on the market, moisturisers don't come with a rule book; there is nothing stopping you from slathering on a layer whenever your skin is feeling a little parched.

However, the general rule of thumb is that you should moisturise morning and night. It's used as the last step in your skincare regime as it keeps moisture sealed in and environmental stressors – like pollution and UV rays – out. You can think of it as your skin's personal bodyguard.