Top 10 Drugstore Face Moisturizers
We Found the Best Face Moisturizers at the Drugstore—Here’s the List
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When it comes to skincare staples, face moisturizer is non-negotiable—right up there with SPF and a solid cleanser. Our skin goes through a lot, from seasonal weather shifts and environmental stressors to hormones, diet, and the occasional late night. Whether your complexion leans oily, dry, sensitive, or somewhere in between, a good moisturizer can help balance things out and support a healthy, hydrated glow.
But here's the best part: you don’t need to spend a fortune to get one that works. In fact, some of the best face moisturizers come from the drugstore aisle—backed by dermatologists, beauty editors, and thousands of five-star reviews. These formulas deliver real results (think long-lasting hydration, lightweight wear, and barrier-boosting ingredients) without the luxury price tag. And because sticking to a skincare routine starts with finding something affordable and effective, we made it our mission to track down the best of the best.
So, What Should You Look For in a Drugstore Moisturizer?
It all starts with your skin type. Dry skin? Look for formulas rich in ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or squalane. Oily or acne-prone? Reach for lightweight, oil-free options that won’t clog pores. Sensitive skin? Choose fragrance-free products made with calming ingredients like niacinamide or aloe. Bonus points if it comes with SPF for daily protection. And of course, texture matters too—gel creams, rich balms, or classic lotions all have their moment depending on your preference and the season.
How We Found the Best Drugstore Face Moisturizers
At Rank & Style, we don’t rely on guesswork. Our Top 10 lists are powered by an algorithm that analyzes tons of data points—from user reviews and social media buzz to dermatologist recommendations and beauty editor picks. The result? A definitive, data-backed guide to the best drugstore face moisturizers that actually deliver on their promises.
Ahead, discover the formulas that shoppers (and our editors) can’t stop repurchasing. Because when it comes to budget-friendly skincare, you shouldn’t have to compromise on results.
Next up, check out the 10 Best Drugstore Body Lotions.
All products and deals are sourced by the Rank & Style team using data and expert insights. If you shop through our links, we may earn a commission—at no extra cost to you.
Jump To ProductsThe Rankings
L'Oreal Paris Skincare Collagen Face Moisturizer
Overall Score
4.7
10
L'Oreal Paris Skincare Collagen Face Moisturizer
4.5
67784 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Collagen Drugstore Face Moisturizer
WHAT IT DOES
Moisture, or lack thereof, is a top concern for many. L’Oreal’s Collagen Face Moisturizer addresses this concern with a daily dose of natural collagen that not only hydrates but also helps fill in lines and wrinkles.
WHO IT’S FOR
Regular use of this fragrance-free moisturizer will increase elasticity in sensitive, aging skin.
The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
Overall Score
4.7
09
The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
4.35
12912 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Drugstore Face Moisturizer for Oily Skin
WHAT IT DOES
One of the best oil-free drugstore moisturizers, The Ordinary's Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA offers non-greasy hydration for parched skin. At $14 for just over three ounces, this moisturizer is a steal, especially considering it contains a heavy dose of hyaluronic acid.
WHO IT'S FOR
All skin types can benefit from this affordable, everyday moisturizer.
Cruelty Free
Cetaphil Hydrating Oil-Free Face Lotion
Overall Score
4.75
08
Cetaphil Hydrating Oil-Free Face Lotion
4.6
2643 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Lightweight Drugstore Face Moisturizer
WHAT IT DOES
When it comes to budget-friendly face creams, Cetaphil always delivers. The brand's Hydrating Oil-Free Face Lotion is no exception, offering lightweight moisturization that lasts up to 24 hours.
PROMISING REVIEW
"Almost everything irritates my skin and makes it break out. Cetaphil has been a savior for my skin. It has a nice, light scent and really cleans my skin well from dirt and oil. I didn't know there was a moisturizer until I found this and now, I will never go back! The moisturizer is light and feels great on my skin!"
La Roche Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer
Overall Score
4.8
07
La Roche Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer
4.57
67274 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Drugstore Moisturizer for Dry Skin
WHAT IT DOES
Meet Amazon's #1 best-selling moisturizer: La Roche-Posay's Toleriane Double Repair Moisturizer. Perhaps the best drugstore anti-aging moisturizer out there, this product uses ceramides, niacinamide, and prebiotic thermal water to deliver up to 48 hours of hydration without clogging pores.
WHO IT'S FOR
This product is ideal for those with dry, sensitive skin.
Clean Beauty
Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Night Facial Moisturizer
Overall Score
4.8
06
Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Night Facial Moisturizer
4.59
21441 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Drugstore Night Moisturizer
WHAT IT DOES
On its own, retinol can wreak havoc on the skin. However, when combined with a nourishing moisturizer, it can exfoliate and smooth the skin with minimal irritation. That’s why people love the blend of retinol, glycerin, vitamin B3, and other standout ingredients in Olay’s nighttime moisturizer.
WHO IT’S FOR
The form of vitamin B3 in this moisturizer is niacinamide, a water-soluble ingredient known for its brightening properties, a beneficial boost for those with uneven skin tone or texture.
Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer For Sensitive Skin
Overall Score
4.8
05
Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer For Sensitive Skin
4.6
18472 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Drugstore Moisturizer for Sensitive Skin
WHAT IT DOES
Free of fragrances, dyes, lanolin, and other ingredients that can cause irritation, the Daily Facial Moisturizer from Vanicream is a favorite among dermatologists and estheticians. Use it day and night for a non-greasy layer of hydration.
PROMISING REVIEW
"The Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer is a fantastic option for anyone with sensitive or reactive skin. It's lightweight, non-greasy, and absorbs quickly, leaving my skin feeling soft and hydrated without any irritation. The formula is free from common irritants like fragrance and parabens, which is a huge plus for me and my eczema."
Cruelty Free
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Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel-Cream Face Moisturizer
Overall Score
4.85
04
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel-Cream Face Moisturizer
4.58
101496 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Drugstore Gel Moisturizer
WHAT IT DOES
Neutrogena’s Hydro-Boost moisturizer is the equivalent of a tall glass of water for the complexion. The cooling gel-cream absorbs quickly into the skin, delivering moisture and restoring the skin’s barrier to keep it there.
WHO IT’S FOR
The hyaluronic acid-rich formula is an instant fix for ultra-dry skin.
Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream
Overall Score
4.9
03
Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream
4.6
31009 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
5
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Anti-Aging Drugstore Moisturizer
WHAT IT DOES
Olay’s highly coveted red jar houses a moisturizer designed to deeply penetrate the skin with nourishing ingredients that hydrate and improve elasticity. With over 20,000 5-star reviews on Amazon, this is definitely one of the most popular budget-friendly face creams.
WHO IT’S FOR
Those concerned with signs of aging (fine lines and wrinkles) will appreciate the anti-aging formula that includes vitamin B3, an ingredient known for boosting cell turnover and removing dead skin.
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream
Overall Score
4.9
02
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream
4.7
198428 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Drugstore Moisturizer for Dehydrated Skin
WHAT IT DOES
What’s better than a twofer? A threefer, of course! CeraVe’s best-selling product is this multitasker that can be used as a face moisturizer, body cream, or hand lotion. In addition to ceramides and barrier-strengthening hyaluronic acid, the formula also features patented MVE Technology, which gradually and continually releases ingredients throughout the day.
WHO IT’S FOR
With a co-sign from the National Eczema Association and input from dermatologists, this is a must-have for all skin types.
E.l.f. Cosmetics Holy Hydration Face Cream
Overall Score
4.95
01
E.l.f. Cosmetics Holy Hydration Face Cream
4.63
20949 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
5
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Drugstore Moisturizer Overall
WHAT IT DOES
According to our algorithm, e.l.f.'s Holy Hydration Face Cream is the best drugstore face moisturizer on the market. Good-for-you ingredients like squalane, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and vitamin b5 work together in this moisturizer to deliver glow-inducing hydration.
PROMISING REVIEW
"I find the Holy Hydration cream to be very thick and rich. It goes on nicely and absorbs easily but does not leave me feeling greasy. I use the unscented one, day and night, as I actually like this better than their night cream. My skin looks supple and smooth, and I have not had any issues with breakouts or irritation. Reasonably priced too, I have it on auto delivery!"
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