10 Best Ceramide Moisturizers in 2024 for Baby-Soft Skin
<p>To help uncover the best ceramide-rich moisturizers, we asked our roster of expert dermatologists to break down their favorite, most efficacious formulas. Then we ranked and reviewed them across different skin types and price points so you can find the best moisturizer for your routine. Find the 10 best ceramide moisturizers, ahead.</p>”/>
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Every product on this page was chosen by a Harper’s BAZAAR editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
For softer skin, Dieux’s Instant Angel Moisturizer is a foolproof pick. It’s rich in texture due to its lipid ceramide complex, but melts into your skin instantly, adding hydration and softening skin over time. Not for nothing, the aluminum tube is chic and eco-friendly.
One reviewer says: “I am in love with this moisturizer. My face gets so irritated if I run out and don’t have a backup on hand. I won’t be making that mistake again! –Leah B.
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Best For Dry Skin
Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Cream
Pros
Contains 5 forms of complex ceramides
Dermatologist-tested formula
Cons
Nearly $50
This is a thicker cream, ideal for serious skin barrier support (for example, it may be an effective treatment for eczema or psoriasis), or a great option for preventing dry, chapped skin come colder weather.
One reviewer says: “I have psoriasis [that] flared on my face for a year. I have tried everything you can imagine and this is the only thing that has actually cleared me. It’s magic.” –Charlotte
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Best For Mature Skin
SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2
Pros
Paraben-free
Award-winning formula
Cons
Over $150
This souped-up moisturizer does it all: It restores fats and lipids in the skin barrier and improves texture, fullness, and radiance.
One reviewer says: “This moisturizer is like nothing else I’ve ever used! It brings life back to my face keeping it hydrated and looking and feeling wonderful. [It’s an] amazing product for my 71-year-old skin. Nothing compares. –Taylor
Best Night Cream
Lancôme Advanced Génifique Night Cream with Triple Ceramide Complex
Pros
Clinically proven to improve skin hydration for 72 hours
Rich texture with fast absorbtion
Cons
Over $100
While most of these ceramide moisturizers can be used morning and night, you might be after a heavier cream to slather on before bed. This one by Lancôme is great for restoring the skin’s moisture barrier by locking in hydration, making skin softer.
One reviewer says: “Génifique is a beautiful overnight cream! It makes your skin smooth and soft! You wake up feeling pretty. I just love it!” –Tishy
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Best For Normal to Dry Skin
Sunday Riley ICE Ceramide Moisturizing Cream
Pros
Phthalate-free formula
Plastic neutral packaging
Cons
Over $60
One of the top-rated ceramide moisturizers at Sephora, Sunday Riley’s Moisturizing Cream is rich but lightweight, ideal for normal to dry skin. Ceramides and vitamin F help strengthen the skin barrier, while beetroot and coconut address dehydration and moisturization. Many reviewers agree that the cream leaves their skin “baby-soft.”
One reviewer says: “I have combination skin, but it gets very dry in certain areas and this cream is thick and very moisturizing. It leaves my skin feeling so hydrated — a little goes a long way. This is my new go-to moisturizer. I also love the way it smells!” –Hanna M.
Meet the Experts
• Courtney Rubin, M.D., F.A.A.D., is a board-certified dermatologist and the co-founder and chief medical officer of Fig.1 Beauty.
• Loretta Ciraldo, M.D., F.A.A.D., is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Dr. Loretta Skincare.
• Melissa Doft, M.D., is a board-certified plastic surgeon based in New York.
What is a ceramide moisturizer?
A ceramide moisturizer, simply put, is a moisturizer with ceramides in it. “Ceramides are a class of naturally-occurring healthy skin oils that trap in moisture and give skin its supple, smooth texture and lustrous glow,” explains Ciraldo. While ceramides act as a key component in some moisturizers, many don’t have them. “Not all moisturizers are formulated with ceramides, so it’s important to read the ingredients listed on the label,” adds Doft.
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Which is better, ceramides or hyaluronic acid ?
Ceramides and hyaluronic acid serve different functions in a moisturizer. While ceramides function as emollients, strengthening the skin’s barrier and buffering it from damage, “hyaluronic acid functions as a humectant, binding water and hydrating the surface of the skin,” explains Rubin. “A well-formulated moisturizer will have a combination of humectants and emollients.”
Another key benefit of ceramides is that they combine well with all other skincare ingredients.
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