Sensitive skin can sting, turn red or feel tight after using the wrong product. The good news: you don't need an expensive cream to fix it. A simple, fragrance-free moisturizer with barrier-supporting ingredients is often all it takes. Below we compare four of the most popular drugstore options so you can choose the right one.
What to look for in a moisturizer for sensitive skin
- Fragrance-free: added fragrance is one of the most common causes of irritation.
- Ceramides: lipids that help repair and protect the skin barrier.
- Hyaluronic acid or glycerin: pull water into the skin for lasting hydration.
- Short ingredient list: fewer ingredients means fewer chances of a reaction.
- Non-comedogenic: important if your skin is also prone to breakouts.
Quick comparison
| Moisturizer | Best for | Texture | Key ingredients |
|---|---|---|---|
| CeraVe Moisturizing Cream | Very dry face and body | Rich cream | 3 ceramides, hyaluronic acid |
| CeraVe PM Facial Lotion | Oily or combination skin, night use | Light lotion | Ceramides, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid |
| Vanicream Moisturizing Cream | Extremely reactive skin | Thick cream | Minimal formula, free of dyes and fragrance |
| Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer | Everyday face hydration | Light cream | Ceramides, hyaluronic acid |
| Cetaphil Face & Body Moisturizer | Simple all-over hydration | Lotion | Gentle hydrating formula |
| La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair | Sensitive face, under makeup | Light cream | Ceramide-3, niacinamide, prebiotic thermal water |
1. CeraVe Moisturizing Cream: best for very dry skin
The CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is a cult favorite for a reason. It combines three essential ceramides with hyaluronic acid in a rich, non-greasy cream you can use on both face and body. It's a great choice in winter, when dry indoor heat leaves skin rough and flaky. Prefer something lighter for the body? Try the CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion.
2. CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion: best for oily or combination skin
If heavy creams make you break out, the CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion is a lightweight, oil-free option. Niacinamide helps calm the look of redness, while ceramides support the skin barrier overnight. For a richer night option, see the CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream.
3. Vanicream: best for extremely reactive skin
Vanicream is known for its ultra-simple formulas made without common irritants like dyes, fragrance and lanolin. The Vanicream Moisturizing Skin Cream is thick and protective, ideal for very dry patches. For daily face care, the Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer adds ceramides and hyaluronic acid in a lighter texture.
4. Cetaphil Face & Body Moisturizer: best simple everyday option
The Cetaphil Face & Body Moisturizer is a gentle, budget-friendly choice for the whole family. It absorbs quickly and works well as a daily lotion after showering.
5. La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair: best under makeup
The La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer has a light, smooth finish that sits well under sunscreen and makeup. It pairs ceramide-3 and niacinamide with the brand's prebiotic thermal water.
How to build a simple routine for sensitive skin
- Wash with a gentle, non-foaming cleanser like the CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser.
- Apply moisturizer to slightly damp skin to lock in water.
- In the morning, finish with a broad-spectrum sunscreen.
- Introduce one new product at a time and patch test on your inner arm first.
Note: this guide is general information, not medical advice. If you have eczema, rosacea or a persistent rash, talk to a dermatologist.
The bottom line
For most people with sensitive skin, CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is the best all-round pick. Choose CeraVe PM if you're oily, Vanicream if your skin reacts to almost everything, and La Roche-Posay if you want a light finish under makeup. Shop all options in our Skincare & Beauty collection, with free US shipping on orders over $70.