Winter is tough on the skin. Low humidity and cold temperatures can make skin dry and dull, or worse, flaky. You also might find that your skin becomes more sensitive than usual as temperatures drop. However, you can avoid all of this unpleasantness with the help of a quality moisturizer. I’ve rounded up the best moisturizers to protect your skin this winter, so let’s get into it. 

Best for Dry Skin – First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream 

Let’s be honest, winter is a nightmare when you have dry skin. At this time of year, you need a product that’s rich, hydrating and free from any irritating ingredients, such as fragrance. I’ve recommended the First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream so many times because it really does work wonders when you’re suffering from dry skin. 

Ingredients such as shea butter and oatmeal help to soothe irritated skin, whilst antioxidants protect against free radical damage. Meanwhile, the cream also contains ceramides to strengthen your skin barrier, which is very important in preventing dryness and dehydration. The Ultra Repair Cream is truly one of the big guns when it comes to winter moisturizers; so much so that it can even help those suffering with eczema and psoriasis.

Best for Oily Skin – Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hyaluronic Acid Cloud Cream 

The oily-skinned among us are not exempt from the damaging effects of cold weather. Winter weather can strip the skin of its natural oils. This is bad news for your complexion, because it can cause excess sebum production as your skin tries to compensate for this loss. It’s important to keep moisturizing to help your skin stay balanced.

The Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hyaluronic Acid Cloud Cream is light and gentle, but intensely hydrating. Ceramides and antioxidants help brighten your skin, which is perfect as cold weather can make your complexion look dull. 

Best for Acne-Prone Skin – Barbara Sturm Clarifying Face Cream 

It can be difficult to find a good moisturizer for acne-prone skin, but it’s important to do so. Cold weather irritates the skin and causes dead skin cells to build up, which can trigger breakouts. The Barbara Sturm Clarifying Face Cream helps to hydrate and rebalance skin whilst restoring the protective barrier. It was designed for blemish-prone skin and contains zinc to remove excess sebum, resulting in an even complexion. 

Best for Anti-Ageing (and Best Overall) – Skinceuticals Triple Lipid Fix 

Skinceuticals is a true pioneer of the skincare world, constantly researching and developing new high-quality products. The Triple Lipid Fix Cream is a perfect example of this. It’s an anti-ageing moisturizer packed with lipids that will ensure your skin stays healthy, nourished and balanced this winter. This cream also boosts radiance and helps skin to appear smoother and fuller (and, therefore, younger.) It’s suitable for all skin types, but especially those who are looking to wind back the clock a little. 

Best Budget Buy – Elf Happy Hydration 

The Elf Happy Hydration Cream punches well above its $12 price point. This moisturizer contains a high concentration of hemp seed oil, which does an amazing job of nourishing and hydrating the skin, as well as other hydration heroes such as niacinamide and hyaluronic acid. Although this cream delivers some serious moisture, it’s very light on the skin and absorbs quickly, so it’s suitable for most skin types. It’s also fragrance free, cruelty-free and vegan. What’s not to love? 

For more on how to protect your skin this winter, why not check out this article on slugging, this year’s kookiest beauty trend?