Wellbeing-guide

Nothing feels better than having skin that is moisturized and sports a healthy glow. There's nothing quite like having moisturized skin that sports a healthy glow. However, we know that there are many options available promising those benefits, and sometimes, they don’t deliver. So we did the hard work and parsed through some old favorites and new launches to find the best products that support various skin types. Whether you have dry, sensitive, acne-prone, oily, mature, or combination skin, these top picks delivered results we wanted to share with you.

How We Chose the Winners

To narrow our list, we relied on the insights and expertise of the Health editorial team and medical professionals. Their recommendations are based on years of experience, the advice they give their patients and personal preferences. Our editors conducted extensive research and fact-checking throughout the selection process to ensure we picked quality items at various price points that wouldNothing feels better than having skin that is moisturized and sports a healthy glow. There's nothing quite like having moisturized skin that sports a healthy glow. However, we know that there are many options available promising those benefits, and sometimes, they don’t deliver. So we did the hard work and parsed through some old favorites and new launches to find the best products that support various skin types. Whether you have dry, sensitive, acne-prone, oily, mature, or combination skin, these top picks delivered results we wanted to share with you.

Here are the winners of Health's 2024 Skin Awards.

Face Moisturizers

Tula Skincare 24-7 Weightless Moisture Day & Night Gel Cream

Image courtesy of Tula Skincare.

This moisturizer is the perfect day-to-night companion for the skin, formulated with hydrating hyaluronic acid, skin-nourishing collagen, and peptides. It controls shine while soothing irritation.

SHOP

SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2

Image courtesy of Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2.

Dry skin can be caused by various factors, including age-related thinning skin, which can lead to increased transepidermal water loss, environmental factors such as cold, dry air, smoking, sun damage, and certain medications, said Ryan Turner, MD, a board-certified NYC dermatologist and co-founder of TRNR Skin. He recommends this lipid-rich cream to patients to help nourish dry skin.

SHOP

Versed Dew Point Moisturizing Gel-Cream

Image courtesy of Versed.

My skin is oily and acne-prone, so I really must watch what I use on it and stay away from oils and heavy creams, said board-certified dermatologist Dr. Corey L. Hartman, founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, AL. Hartman includes this lightweight jelly-like cream as one of his morning skincare regimen products. It's easy to see why, as this budget-friendly product contains soothing aloe-leaf tea juice.

SHOP

Paula’s Choice Barrier Repair Advanced Moisturizer

Image courtesy of Paula's Choice.

Dr. Turner advises those with dry skin to seek out hydrating ingredients like “ceramides, squalane, hyaluronic acid, jojoba oil, and glycerin.” These ingredients help lock in and retain moisture. This barrier repair cream is another one of his choices for dehydrated skin.

SHOP

Dr. Med. Christine Schrammek Hydra Maximum Day Cream

Image courtesy od Dr. med. Christine Schrammek.

If your face feels tight and thirsty, this rich night cream is like a mini spa treatment. It is free from mineral oil, parabens, PEG-containing emulsifiers, and silicon but enriched with brightening, regenerating, moisture-retaining ingredients such as shea butter, niacinamide, and macadamia nut oil.

SHOP

Eminence Organic Skincare Arctic Berry Peptide Radiance Cream

Image courtesy of Eminence.

This peptide-based organic cream is described as dewy, lightweight, and with great texture and smell. Use it as part of the brand’s three-step system or alone. Customize your experience by diluting it with water for a lightweight application, or apply a thick layer when your skin needs extra love.

SHOP

No7 Lift & Luminate Triple Action Day Cream

Image courtesy of No7.

Nicole Lee, board-certified dermatologist, MD MPH FAAD, and owner of Epoch Dermatology in Garden City, NY, counts this sunscreen-containing cream as a go-to for her normal skin type and for those with mature skin. It features vitamin C to brighten the skin and can even out skin tone, along with SPF, which protects against skin damage.

SHOP

SkinMedica Even & Correct Dark Spot Cream

Image courtesy of SkinMedica.

Before Dr. Hartman applies sunscreen, he treats dark spots with SkinMedica Even & Correct Dark Spot Cream. "This combination of products works well to address any active acne, prevent future breakouts, and help to even out discoloration left behind by previous acne."

SHOP

ROC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Night Cream

Image courtesy of RoC.

Retinols-based products accelerate skin turnover, promoting vibrant skin and reducing sun damage. This night cream is another favorite of Dr. Turner's.

shop

L'Oreal Collagen Moisture Filler Day/Night Cream

Image courtesy of L'Oréal.

If you are looking for a product that keeps you hydrated and adds bounce to your skin day and night this Dr. Lee recommended moisturizer for mature skin is an excellent option. It absorbs quickly without a greasy finish.

SHOP

Womaness Overnight Magic

Image courtesy of Womaness.

Retinol can cause sensitivity in some people. A good alternative is plant-based Bakuchiol, a form of hyaluronic acid in this nighttime repair cream. However, after using this product, you should apply SPF before heading outdoors to avoid skin irritation.

SHOP

Facial Mists

Meaningful Beauty by Cindy Crawford Hydrating and Soothing Facial Mist

Image courtesy of Cindy Crawford.

If your skin feels stressed or taut as the day goes on, a quick spritz from the supermodel-founded brand is just the hydration boost you need. For a cooling treat for the skin, pop this niacinamide spray in the fridge before application.

SHOP

Grace & Stella Spray All Day Rose Spray

Image courtesy of Grace & Stella.

Enjoy the anti-inflammatory properties of rose water with this spray that contains hydrating castor and olive oil. Its light mist can reduce redness.

SHOP

Lip and Eye Care

Laneige Berry Lip Sleeping Mask

Image courtesy of Laneige.

Say goodbye to cracked lips by applying this mask before bedtime. It is rich in moisturizing coconut oil, shea butter, and murumuru seed butter. Plus, it smells yummy.

SHOP

SkinMedica TNS Eye Repair

Image courtesy of SkinMedica.

The eye area needs special care, and Mona Foad, board-certified dermatologist and owner of MONA Dermatology uses this eye repair and brightening product. It boasts ingredients like retinol and vitamins E and C. Apply it prior to your moisturizer.

SHOP

Face Serums and Oils

Darphin Intral Serum Inner Youth Rescue

Courtesy of Darphin

Apply this fast-absorbing serum before your moisturizer in the morning and evening to visibly reduce redness and irritation. This luxe-feeling editor's pick with salicylic acid staves off acne while calming the skin. It's a must-have for mature skin.

SHOP

Weleda Plumping Facial Oil

Image courtesy of Weleda.

If you're hesitant about using facial oil, this one will squash your fears. It isn't thick or overwhelming and melts into the skin, leaving a glow.

SHOP

Nassif MD Dermaceuticals Hydro-Screen Serum

Image of courtesy of Nassif MD Dermaceuticals.

Our tester gushed about the noticeable improvement in her skin after using this serum. Apply it after cleansing and toning alone or mixed into your moisturizer to enjoy its skin-smoothing benefits.

SHOP

Laneige Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Serum

Image courtesy of Laneige.

Hyaluronic acid, sea algae, peptides, and green tea enzymes unite in this serum to hydrate and smooth the skin. To maximize its benefits, use it before your face cream.

SHOP

SkinMedica Even and Correct Advanced Brightening Treatment

Image courtesy of SkinMedica.

This brightening treatment is a staple in Dr. Hartman's morning skincare regimen. It's formulated to prevent hyperpigmentation as well as stave off any new discolorations.

SHOP

Olay Super Serum Night Repair

Image courtesy of Olay.

This hardworking and affordable serum comes from the brand that told us to "love the skin you're in" over two decades ago. Packing a punch with ingredients such as niacinamide, vitamins C and E, ceramides, and salicylic acid, this pick is a worthy buy.

SHOP

SkinCeuticals Silymarin CF

Image courtesy of SkinCeuticals.

"I like to recommend SkinCeuticals Silymarin CF to my more oily acne-prone patients to help brighten skin," said Dr. Foad regarding this oil-free serum.

SHOP

Kate Somerville Kateceuticals SuperCell Rejuvenation Serum

Image courtesy of Kate Somerville.

While your décolletage might not always be a priority in your skincare routine, it should be, especially since it can be damaged by the sun. This rejuvenating simplifies pampering that area as it comes fully equipped with a roller ball. Start by applying it from the face and working down to your neck, followed by your décolletage.

SHOP

Good Molecules Ultra Hydrating Facial Oil

Image courtesy of Good Molecules.

Formulated with camellia oil and sea buckthorn oil, this facial oil gives your skin a dewy glow without putting a dent in your budget.

SHOP

Youth to the People Superfood Skin Drip Smooth + Glow Barrier Serum

Image courtesy of Youth To The People.

While kale and broccoli are often touted as essential veggies for a nutritious diet, these ingredients can also play a part in your skincare routine. This superfood serum can diminish dark spots and improve the texture of your skin.

SHOP

Retinols and Retinoids

Avène RetrinAL Advanced Correcting Serum

Images courtesy of Avène.

Dr. Foad favors Avene products "because they are great for sensitive and dry skin." She applies this serum containing plant-derived bakuchiol at night as "an alternative retinol for my more sensitive skin."

SHOP

Mother Science Retinol Synergist

Image courtesy of Mother Science.

Dr. Hartman suggests this serum for patients with sensitive skin. Its vegan-friendly formula targets hyperpigmentation and improving the skin barrier.

SHOP

Elizabeth Arden New York Retinol + HPR Ceramide

Image courtesy of Elizabeth Arden.

This water cream-based retinol boasts a gentle yet effective formula for addressing lines and wrinkles.

SHOP

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment

Image courtesy of La Roche-Posay.

If you experience pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, and clogged pores, a topical retinoid can prevent and clear them up. Dr. Lee recommends this prescription-strength formula for patients with acne-prone skin.

SHOP

Toners

Eminence Kombucha Microbiome Balance Essence

Image courtesy of Eminence.

Free from propylene glycol, sodium lauryl sulfate, phthalates, and parabens, this hydrating essence features prebiotic and probiotic properties to balance your skin.

SHOP

Goodal Vegan Rice Milk Moisturizing Toner

Image courtesy of Goodal.

Toners can exfoliate, hydrate, and balance your skin. This lightweight, milky version leaves your skin feeling soft and supple.

SHOP

Tula SkinCare Clarifying Tonic Alcohol-Free Daily Toner

Image courtesy of Tula Skincare.

Incorporate this tonic into your skincare routine, as its non-alcohol formula creates the perfect canvas for your lotion and makeup.

SHOP

Exfoliators and Scrubs

ZO Skin Health Exfoliating Polish

Image courtesy of Zo Skin Health.

Our tester loved this product, praising how it "exfoliated and renewed her skin without scratching it and boosted moisture."

YSE Beauty Your Favorite Ex Exfoliating Pads

Image courtesy of YSE.

“Certain ingredients including glycolic acid can help manage and prevent breakouts on acne-prone skin while keeping it balanced and healthy,” said Dr. Foad. These pads include those ingredients and also PHA, which can draw out impurities, leaving behind a refreshed complexion.

SHOP

The Shop Face Wash Daily Exfoliating Cleanser

Image courtesy of The Shop.

Created from the inspiration of The Shop on HBO, this men's line features an exfoliating face wash that removes dead skin and debris ensuring a smooth canvas for shaving or grooming."

SHOP

Odele Scalp + Body Scrub

Image courtesy of Odele.

Your scalp needs as much TLC as the rest of you. Odele's scrub removes flaky skin and is a great addition to your self-care routine.

SHOP

Fresh by Houston White Clarifying Face Scrub

Image courtesy of Fresh Houston White.

Soothe your face with cooling cucumbers, one of the hero ingredients in this scrub. Then, enjoy the waft of peppermint, tea tree oil, and fresh-cut grass.

SHOP

Shave Products

Gillette Venus Pubic Hair & Skin Smoothing Exfoliant

Image courtesy of Gillette.

Shaving your bikini line requires precision, a steady hand, and a product that allows your razor to glide easily. This scrub provides a close shave and exfoliates the area, reducing the chance of ingrown hair.

SHOP

Gillette Skinguard Skin Protect Shave Gel

Image courtesy of Gillette.

Dealing with razor bumps can be frustrating, so it's essential to find a product that cushions your skin and the razor for a frictionless shave. This gel has a lubricating layer with ingredients such as shea butter and vitamin E for an ouchless shave.

SHOP

Sunscreens

Shiseido Ultimate Skin Protection Lotion SPF 60+

Image courtesy of Shiseido.

By now, we should all understand the importance of sunscreen. This oxybenzone and octinoxate-free product goes on clear and contains algae for hydration. The brand touts its synchroshieldrepair technology, which is said to offer more protection to the user when exposed to heat, water, and sweat.

SHOP

Paula’s Choice 5% Vitamin C Sheer Moisturizer SPF 50

Image courtesy of Paula's Choice.

Brighten your skin while shielding it from the sun's harmful rays with this vitamin C-infused SPF. Its lightweight formula works well on most skin types.

SHOP

Colorescience No Show Mineral SPF 50

Image courtesy of Colorescience.

The final step in your morning skin routine before heading outdoors should be applying sun protection. A mineral SPF-like sunscreen is a good option for those with sensitive skin.

SHOP

La Roche-Posay Anthelios UV Hydra Hydrating Sunscreen SPF 50

Image courtesy of La Roche-Posay.

For patients with sensitive skin, Dr. Hartman frequently recommends La Roche-Posay Anthelios UV Hydra Hydrating Sunscreen SPF 50. It's also his choice for his oil and acne-prone skin.

SHOP

Seaweed Bath Co. Hydrating Serum Stick SPF 50

Image courtesy of Seaweed Bath Co.

Ensure you're always protected from the sun by keeping this stick in your bag. Each swipe provides sustainably harvested Atlantic seaweed, 10% Zinc Oxide, and a blend of vitamins and minerals to nourish your skin.

SHOP

Body Lotions and Oils

Borghese Tono Body Creme

Image courtesy of Borghese.

Lock in moisture and improve your skin's appearance with this indulgent body cream. Its thick texture is a luxurious treat for your elbows, knees, and heels.

SHOP

Naturopathica Vitamin C & Neroli Dry Body Oil

Image courtesy of Naturopathica.

Rich in vitamin C, which brightens skin and shields it from environmental stressors, this body oil also features babassu seed oil, which boasts anti-inflammatory properties, making it ideal for easily irritated skin.

SHOP

Jergens Hand and Body Lotion, Melanin Glow Illuminating Moisturizer

Image courtesy of Jergens.

Enhance your skin's natural glow with this budget-friendly moisturizer. It allows the skin to look sun kissed without the risk of damage from UVA and UVB rays.

SHOP

Face Washes

Byroe New York Chamomile Tea Face Cleanser

Image courtesy of Byroe.

Cleanse away the dust and dirt your face encounters during the day with Byroe’s vegan cleanser. It contains vitamin C, sea buckthorn, and ginger to remove grit and grime and calming chamomile tea to soothe your skin.

SHOP

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser

Image courtesy of Kiehl's.

"A good skincare routine for dry skin consists of gentle cleansers and [moisturizers] to maintain the skin barrier,” said Dr. Turner. One of his picks for doing so is this pH-balanced option from Kiehl’s, formulated with squalane, avocado oil, and glycerin; it removes debris without stripping your skin of moisture.

SHOP

Lumene Oat Milk Oil Cleanser

Image courtesy of Lumene.

This milky oil-based cleanser effectively and gently removes makeup and impurities from all skin types, but its emulsive formula works particularly well for sensitive and dry skin.

SHOP

Luma & Leaf Hydraglow Cleansing Gel

Image courtesy of Luma & Leaf.

Brighten and lightly exfoliate your skin with this silky gel enriched with pineapple and grape enzymes, Vitamin C, and AHA. It cleanses thoroughly without leaving behind a filmy residue.

SHOP

CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser

Image courtesy of Cerave.

Dr. Turner uses this foaming face wash in his skincare regimen because of its oil-control formula. It contains ceramides that protect the skin’s barrier and niacinamide to maintain moisture.

SHOP

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Gel Cleanser Fragrance-Free

Image courtesy of Neutrogena.

“At night, I cleanse my face with Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Facial Cleansing Gel,” said Dr. Hartman. This formula, rich hyaluronic and free of soap and alcohol, removes dirt, grime, and makeup without leaving the skin feeling taut or tight.

SHOP

Prequel Gleanser Non-Drying Glycerin Cleanser

Image courtesy of Prequel.

Enjoy the benefits of hydrating glycerin with this cleanser, suitable for the face and body. It removes dirt and grime and leaves behind supple-feeling skin.

SHOP

Olay Cleansing Melts + Vitamin C

Image courtesy of Olay.

Bring these convenient cleansing squares on your next getaway. They travel well and gently remove SPF residue from your skin, makeup, and other impurities.

Cleansing Balms

Elemis Pro-Collagen Green Fig Cleansing Balm

Image Courtesy of Elemis.

If you frequently double cleanse, you'll love this product, especially if you have mature and/or dry skin. It gently removes even waterproof mascara and leaves your skin supple, smooth, and hydrated. Only one step is required; no follow-up cleanser is needed.

SHOP

Verso Cleansing Balm with Jojoba Beads

Image courtesy of Verso Skincare.

Effortlessly exfoliate and cleanse with this soothing formula, which is effective on very dry and sensitive skin. Infused with jojoba beads, it removes impurities while sealing in moisture.

SHOP

Cerave Acne Foaming Cream Wash

Image courtesy of Cerave

If you get face or back acne, this foaming cream cleanser formulated with 4% benzoyl peroxide can help. It also contains hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, which ensure your skin stays hydrated and balanced, preventing dryness and flakiness.

SHOP

Body Washes and Cleansers

Youth to the People Superfood Niacinamide Body Cleanser

Image courtesy of Youth To The People.

Niacinamide kale and green tea combine in this lather to reveal smooth skin. Its fragrances of cedarwood and black pepper create a pleasurable sensory experience.

SHOP

Oui the People Lactic Acid Body Wash

Image courtesy of Oui the People.

Improve skin texture and reduce hyperpigmentation with this AHA-infused body wash. It gently exfoliates to unclog pores but doesn't negatively impact the skin's barrier.

SHOP

Lubriderm Advanced Therapy Body Wash

Image courtesy of Lubriderm.

This fragrance-free body wash features key ingredients like pro-ceramide, vitamin E, and pro-vitamin B5, which make it ideal for sensitive skin.

SHOP

Eucerin Eczema Relief Cream and Body Wash

Image courtesy of Eucerin.

Skin prone to eczema requires TLC, and this soap-free formula with a low pH and ​​2% colloidal oatmeal cleanses as it soothes itchy skin.

SHOP

Scalp Care

Matrix A Curl Can Dream Shampoo

Image courtesy of Matrix.

An important area of the skin that you might overlook is the scalp. If you have wavy or curly hair, you know it's prone to frizz and dryness. A good way to combat that is to have a product that coats from root to tip. This creamy formula does just that. It comes in two iterations: one for wavy hair and another for curly hair.

SHOP

Head & Shoulders Bare Pure Clean Dandruff Shampoo

Image courtesy of Head & Shoulders.

Flaky scalps can be hard to manage, and you want to avoid aggravating it with irritating ingredients. Enter this dandruff shampoo containing minimal ingredients and Pyrithione zinc 1% to eliminate flakes.

SHOP

Pantene Miracle Rescue Deep Repair Conditioner

Image courtesy of Pantene.

No scalp care routine is complete without a proper conditioner. This Pantene product left its testers' curly hair bouncing, behaving, and thoroughly hydrated while soothing their scalp post-permanent color application.

SHOP

Meet Our Skin Awards 2024 Expert Panel

Ryan Turner, MD, a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist and co-founder of TRNR Skin, Dr. Ryan Turner. Dr. Turner is a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology, the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, and the American College of Mohs Surgery. He has published over 20 peer-reviewed articles.

Corey L. Hartman, MD, FAAD, an Alabama-based board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology. He is assistant clinical professor of dermatology at the University of Alabama School of Medicine.

Nicole Lee, MD MPH FAAD, a New York-based board-certified dermatologist and owner of Epoch Dermatology, has advanced fellowship training in cosmetic and procedural dermatology.

Mona Foad, MD, MHS, FAAD, Ohio based board-certified dermatologist and owner at MONA Dermatology.

Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why!