If you have extra dry skin, you know the daily struggle. Your skin can feel tight, flaky, and just plain uncomfortable.
You shouldn’t have to spend a fortune to find relief. The drugstore aisle is packed with options, but it’s hard to know which one will actually work for you.
We tested dozens of affordable moisturizers to find the best. We looked for formulas that hydrate deeply and don’t just sit on top of your skin.
This review is based on our real testing. We’ll help you find a moisturizer that makes your dry skin feel soft and happy again.
| Product Image | Product Name | Best For | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
No7 Lift & Luminate Triple Action Night Cream | Anti-Aging Peptides | PRICES |
 |
No7 Radiance+ Brightening Vitamin C Moisturizer Face Cream | Vitamin C Brightening | PRICES |
No7 Lift & Luminate Triple Action Night Cream
This night cream is a powerhouse for dry skin that also wants anti-aging benefits.
It packs collagen peptides and hyaluronic acid to deeply hydrate and plump your skin. The hibiscus extract works to even out your skin tone while you sleep. You wake up with a more radiant and smoother complexion.
The cream has a rich, luxurious texture that feels amazing on parched skin. It absorbs well without leaving a heavy, greasy residue behind. I found it very comfortable to wear overnight.
Pros:
👍 Intensely hydrates dry skin
👍 Contains anti-aging collagen peptides
👍 Helps improve skin tone and radiance
👍 Rich, non-greasy texture
👍 Great drugstore price point
Cons:
👎 Fragrance may irritate sensitive skin
👎 Jar packaging isn’t the most hygienic
👎 Might be too rich for oily skin types
My Honest Opinion:
This is a fantastic all-in-one night treatment for dry skin. It feels like a luxury cream without the luxury price tag. If you want hydration plus anti-aging, it’s a top contender.
No7 Radiance+ Brightening Vitamin C Moisturizer Face Cream
This moisturizer tackles dryness while giving your skin a brighter, more radiant glow.
It’s packed with Vitamin C, which helps even out skin tone and fight dullness. The formula is specifically designed to nourish extra dry skin without feeling heavy.
I found it absorbs quickly, so it won’t leave a greasy residue. It layers well under makeup or sunscreen for your daily routine.
Pros:
👍 Brightens skin with Vitamin C
👍 Lightweight, fast-absorbing feel
👍 Effectively hydrates dry skin
👍 Non-greasy formula
👍 Affordable drugstore price
Cons:
👎 Jar packaging isn’t as hygienic
👎 Scent might be strong for some
👎 May not be rich enough for severe dryness
My Honest Opinion:
This is a fantastic all-rounder if you want hydration plus a brightness boost. It’s perfect for everyday use when your dry skin also looks a little tired.
Buyer’s Guide: 3 Key Factors to Consider
Skin Concern & Ingredient Focus
For extra dry skin, look for key hydrators like hyaluronic acid and ceramides. If you also have dullness, vitamin C can brighten, while peptides and retinol are great for targeting fine lines and firming skin.
Formula Weight & Texture
Dry skin needs richer, creamier textures that provide a protective barrier. Avoid lightweight gels; instead, opt for deeply nourishing creams or balms that feel substantial and don’t disappear immediately.
Day vs. Night Use
Your daytime moisturizer should absorb well under sunscreen and makeup. Night creams can be heavier and packed with restorative ingredients like peptides or retinol, which work while you sleep.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can drugstore moisturizers really work for extra dry skin?
Absolutely. Many affordable brands use the same effective hydrating and barrier-repair ingredients (like hyaluronic acid and ceramides) as luxury lines, just without the high price tag.
What’s the difference between a day cream and a night cream?
Day creams are often lighter and may contain SPF. Night creams are typically richer, more emollient, and can include targeted treatment ingredients like retinol that are best used without sun exposure.
How often should I apply moisturizer on dry skin?
At least twice daily—morning and night. For severe dryness, you can apply a thicker layer as an overnight mask or reapply during the day if your skin feels tight.
Should I use a serum with my moisturizer?
Yes, layering is key. Apply a hydrating serum (like one with hyaluronic acid) to damp skin, then lock it in with your moisturizer. This combo is extremely effective for dry skin.
How long does it take to see results?
You should feel immediate relief from dryness. Improvements in skin texture, brightness, or fine lines from active ingredients like vitamin C or peptides can take 4-6 weeks of consistent use.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
For a comprehensive solution that tackles dryness, firmness, and wrinkles, the No7 Lift & Luminate Triple Action Night Cream is our top pick. Its rich, peptide-infused formula delivers intense overnight repair. If your primary goal is hydration with a radiant glow, the No7 Radiance+ Brightening Vitamin C Moisturizer is a fantastic daytime choice that absorbs quickly without feeling greasy.
Both offer exceptional, dermatologist-recommended quality at the drugstore. Your choice depends on whether you want targeted anti-aging (Night Cream) or all-day hydration with a brightening boost (Vitamin C Moisturizer).