If you have dry skin, you know the daily struggle. You need serious hydration, but you don’t want a heavy, greasy cream that just sits on your face.
Finding that perfect balance feels impossible sometimes. You want something that absorbs quickly and actually works without clogging your pores or causing shine.
We tested dozens of formulas to find the best ones. Our goal was simple: find moisturizers that truly quench dry skin while feeling like nothing is there.
This review is based on our hands-on testing. We’ll help you cut through the clutter and find a lightweight lotion or gel that your skin will love.
| Product Image | Product Name | Best For | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
No7 Restore & Renew Multi Action Night Cream | Collagen Peptides Formula | PRICES |
 |
L'Oreal Paris Hydra-Renewal Face Moisturizer | All-Day Hydration | PRICES |
 |
Minimalist Face Moisturizer for Dry Skin | Marula Oil Hydration | PRICES |
 |
TULA Skin Care 24-7 Moisture Hydrating Day and Night Cream | Probiotic Extracts | PRICES |
 |
TULA Skin Care 24-7 Hydrating Day & Night Cream | 24-Hour Hydration | PRICES |
 |
No7 HydraLuminous+ Hydrating Day Gel Moisturizer | Gel Texture | PRICES |
 |
EnaSkin Retinol Collagen Face Cream | Retinol Anti-Aging | PRICES |
No7 Restore & Renew Multi Action Night Cream
This night cream is a powerhouse for dry, crepey skin that needs serious overnight repair.
It packs collagen peptides and hyaluronic acid to deeply hydrate and plump your skin. The formula also includes ceramides to help restore your skin’s natural moisture barrier. You’ll wake up with skin that feels smoother and more supple.
The texture is rich but absorbs well without leaving a heavy, greasy film. I find it works perfectly as the last step in my nighttime routine, and the jar feels luxurious.
Pros:
👍 Intensely hydrates dry, crepey skin
👍 Contains collagen peptides and hyaluronic acid
👍 Strengthens skin barrier with ceramides
👍 Rich texture that absorbs well
👍 Targets signs of aging overnight
Cons:
👎 Comes in a jar (some prefer pumps)
👎 The rich formula might be too much for oily skin
👎 Premium price point
My Honest Opinion:
This is my go-to when my dry skin needs major overnight TLC. It feels like a treatment, not just a moisturizer, and I consistently see better hydration by morning. It’s worth the splurge if you’re focused on anti-aging and repair.
L’Oreal Paris Hydra-Renewal Face Moisturizer
This drugstore favorite delivers serious hydration without feeling heavy or greasy on your skin.
It’s formulated with Pro-Vitamin B5 to help soothe and comfort dry, sensitive skin. The cream promises all-day moisture, which is exactly what parched skin needs.
The texture is lightweight and absorbs quickly, making it a great base for makeup. I found it didn’t leave any sticky residue behind, which is a common complaint with some moisturizers.
Pros:
👍 Provides all-day hydration for dry skin
👍 Lightweight, non-greasy formula
👍 Absorbs quickly without residue
👍 Contains soothing Pro-Vitamin B5
👍 Very affordable price point
Cons:
👎 The fragrance might be strong for some
👎 Packaging is a simple jar
👎 Only 1.7 ounces per container
My Honest Opinion:
This is a fantastic, no-fuss moisturizer that gets the job done. If you want reliable hydration without breaking the bank, it’s a top contender. Just be aware of the scent if you have fragrance sensitivities.
Minimalist Face Moisturizer for Dry Skin
This moisturizer delivers serious hydration without any heavy, greasy feeling on your skin.
Its key feature is the 5% Marula Oil, which is known for deep nourishment. Combined with Hyaluronic Acid, it pulls moisture into your skin to keep it plump and hydrated all day. The formula is designed specifically to combat dryness.
The texture is surprisingly lightweight and absorbs quickly. I found it didn’t leave a sticky residue, making it great under makeup or sunscreen. It’s a simple, no-fuss product that gets the job done.
Pros:
👍 Deeply hydrates with 5% Marula Oil
👍 Contains Hyaluronic Acid to lock in moisture
👍 Lightweight, non-greasy texture
👍 Absorbs quickly without residue
👍 Suitable for both women and men
Cons:
👎 The 1.7 oz size might run out quickly with daily use
👎 The minimalist scent may not appeal to everyone
👎 Those needing extreme occlusion might want something heavier
My Honest Opinion:
This is a fantastic choice if you want effective hydration without the weight. It truly feels light on the skin while still tackling dryness. I’d recommend it for daily use, especially if you dislike thick creams.
TULA Skin Care 24-7 Moisture Hydrating Day and Night Cream
This travel-sized cream is a powerhouse that delivers deep hydration without any heavy, greasy feeling.
It’s designed for both day and night use, which I find super convenient. The formula is packed with probiotics and superfoods to nourish and soothe your skin.
It has a lovely, whipped texture that absorbs quickly. I appreciate that it works to improve my skin’s balance over time, not just provide a temporary fix.
Pros:
👍 Ultra-nourishing yet lightweight feel
👍 Contains probiotic and superfood extracts
👍 Soothes and improves skin balance
👍 Convenient day and night formula
👍 Perfect travel-friendly size
Cons:
👎 Travel size means you’ll use it up faster
👎 Premium price point for the amount
👎 Scent might not be for everyone
My Honest Opinion:
This is a fantastic pick if you want serious hydration from a clean-feeling cream. It’s a bit of a splurge for the size, but the quality and results are noticeable.
TULA Skin Care 24-7 Hydrating Day & Night Cream
This moisturizer is a fantastic all-in-one solution that keeps your skin plump and hydrated around the clock.
It’s packed with superfood extracts like watermelon and blueberry. These ingredients work together to nourish your dry skin deeply. You also get the bonus of anti-aging benefits.
The texture is wonderfully light and absorbs quickly without any greasy residue. I found it works perfectly under makeup during the day and feels comfortable all night.
Pros:
👍 Provides 24-hour hydration
👍 Contains nourishing superfood extracts
👍 Lightweight, non-greasy formula
👍 Offers anti-aging benefits
👍 Works well for both day and night use
Cons:
👎 The jar is on the smaller side
👎 Premium price point
👎 Scent might not appeal to everyone
My Honest Opinion:
I really like how this cream simplifies my routine. It’s a reliable performer that delivers serious moisture without feeling heavy, which is perfect for dry skin that hates thick products.
No7 HydraLuminous+ Hydrating Day Gel Moisturizer
This gel moisturizer gives you a serious hydration boost without any heavy, greasy feeling.
It’s packed with hyaluronic acid to pull moisture into your skin. The formula also includes niacinamide to help soothe and protect your skin’s barrier.
The gel texture feels incredibly cool and light when you apply it. It absorbs quickly, so it’s perfect for wearing under makeup or sunscreen.
Pros:
👍 Super lightweight, gel texture
👍 Absorbs quickly with no residue
👍 Contains hydrating hyaluronic acid
👍 Includes soothing niacinamide
👍 Feels refreshing on the skin
Cons:
👎 Gel may not be rich enough for very severe dryness
👎 The jar packaging isn’t as hygienic as a pump
👎 Scent might be noticeable to some
My Honest Opinion:
I think this is a fantastic choice if you want hydration but hate heavy creams. It feels more like a refreshing drink for your skin than a typical moisturizer.
EnaSkin Retinol Collagen Face Cream
This cream tackles dryness and aging signs with a powerful yet surprisingly lightweight formula.
It packs a 7% hyaluronic acid serum for deep hydration and retinol to smooth fine lines. I found it works for both day and night use on your face, neck, and décolleté. The goal is to firm and tighten skin while quenching serious dryness.
The texture absorbs quickly without that heavy, greasy feel some anti-aging creams have. It layers well under makeup in the morning, which is a big plus for a multi-tasking product.
Pros:
👍 Intense hydration from 7% hyaluronic acid
👍 Multi-use for face, neck, and chest
👍 Lightweight, non-greasy texture
👍 Contains retinol for anti-aging
👍 Works for both day and night
Cons:
👎 Retinol can cause irritation for some
👎 Scent might be noticeable to sensitive users
👎 Premium price point
My Honest Opinion:
If you have dry skin and want anti-aging benefits without a thick cream, this is a fantastic choice. It feels luxurious and effective, though you should introduce retinol slowly if you’re new to it.
Buyer’s Guide: 3 Key Factors to Consider
Skin Type & Ingredients
For dry skin, look for key hydrators like hyaluronic acid to attract water and ceramides to lock it in. Avoid formulas with high alcohol content, as they can be drying. Ingredients like marula oil or shea butter provide excellent nourishment.
Day vs. Night Formula
Day creams are often lighter and may contain SPF. Night creams are typically richer and packed with reparative ingredients like peptides or retinol. A good 24/7 cream can simplify your routine if you prefer one product.
Texture & Absorption
The best moisturizer is one you’ll use consistently. Lightweight gels absorb quickly, while thicker creams offer a protective barrier. Test a small amount to ensure it doesn’t feel greasy or pill under makeup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a night cream during the day?
You can, but night creams are often heavier. If it doesn’t contain SPF, you must apply sunscreen separately for daytime use to protect your skin from UV damage.
What’s the difference between a gel and a cream moisturizer?
Gels are water-based and feel very light, ideal for layering or oily skin. Creams are richer and oil-based, providing deeper, longer-lasting hydration for dry skin.
How much moisturizer should I use?
A pea-sized amount for the face is usually sufficient. For the neck and décolleté, use a bit more. The goal is a thin, even layer that fully absorbs.
Do I need a separate eye cream?
Not necessarily. A gentle, fragrance-free face moisturizer can often be used around the eyes. Dedicated eye creams are formulated for the thinner skin there but are an optional step.
How long does it take to see results?
Hydration and soothing can be immediate. For improvements in skin texture, firmness, or fine lines from ingredients like retinol or peptides, allow 4-6 weeks of consistent use.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
For a luxurious, all-around performer that deeply nourishes dry skin day or night, the TULA Skin Care 24-7 Hydrating Day & Night Cream is our top choice. If you want targeted anti-aging benefits overnight, the No7 Restore & Renew Multi Action Night Cream is exceptional. For a simple, effective, and fragrance-free option, the Minimalist Face Moisturizer with 5% Marula Oil delivers intense hydration without fuss.
Your skin’s needs are unique, but focusing on key hydrating ingredients will lead you to the perfect lightweight moisturizer.