16 best moisturisers for dry skin that soothe and smooth

A moisturiser is the most classic skincare buy of all, whether you prefer lavish or lightweight formulas, and it’s often the priming layer beneath a make-up base, too. Although seemingly a simple purchase, it can be tricky to find the best moisturiser to suit your skin, with many of us still seeking the holy grail of this beauty must-have.

Available as a cream, gel, balm or lotion, shopping for moisturiser is influenced by skin type – normal, dry, oily or combination – and it’s important you get the balance right.

If your skin is dry, you’ll be looking for a moisturiser that offers soothing relief. Signs of dry skin include tightness and flaking – it can also present as a visible lack of elasticity. A moisturiser for dry skin will help address those skincare concerns by adding nourishment to dry patches and plumping up areas that feel parched.

It’s important not to confuse dry skin with dehydrated skin. The former differs in that it’s a skin type that’s prone to dehydration, which can be caused by environmental factors such as the weather, air conditioning and central heating, as well as certain health conditions or deficiencies. Meanwhile, dehydrated skin is due to a lack of water and may present alongside oiliness.

Dry skin needs extra , so that’s something to look for