The 16 Best Face Moisturizers for Men

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Whether they’re diligent about applying eye cream and scheduling monthly facials or opt for a minimal product rotation, men run the gamut with their daily grooming routines. One thing that never changes? The magic of an effective hydrator, which goes a long way to keep skin healthy. Some of the best face moisturizers for men contain ingredients to smooth and even out skin, which also seamlessly keep dryness at bay.

Experts note that a few key factors help distinguish a regular daily moisturizer from one specifically formulated for men’s skin. “Generally, men’s skin is thicker and less sensitive to irritation by fragrances and can handle stronger ingredients,” board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon Jeremy Brauer tells Bazaar. He adds that males also generally produce higher levels of sebum than women, and often have oilier, thicker skin with more hair follicles: “Higher levels of testosterone are largely responsible for these differences, and therefore men are often able to tolerate different or greater amounts of various ingredients.”

One could argue that hydrating with just about any face cream is better than wearing nothing at all, but each of the following best face moisturizers for men has earned top marks from professionals, editors, and shoppers. Read on for the staples that are not only Bazaar-approved, but have also gotten gold stars from board-certified dermatologists.

Related: The Best Skincare Products for Men That Make Excellent Gifts

Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer

Brauer notes that men with deeper skin tones may naturally possess lower ceramide levels, which can lead to increased dryness. This hydrating but oil-free formula from La Roche-Posay uses glycerin for supreme moisture, along with ceramides to seal it in and protect the skin barrier.

One satisfied customer writes: “I think this is the third review I’ve written on anything in my life, but I thought this review would be of help.If you have any kind of facial skin irritation, dryness, scrapes, or just general tiredness, this is the stuff you want. The price looks insane, but after using just a dime size amount, your problems are gone the next morning.” —JustAGuy

7D Mystifying Moisturizer

This facial gel uses 7D hyaluronic acid to provide moisture to both the inner and outer layers of the skin, which means a little goes a long way. All you’ll need are two to three pumps of the formula for maximum hydration.

One satisfied customer writes: “The first time I used it, I thought something was wrong. Everywhere I went people were staring at me. My face had this glow and felt like velvet to the touch. This is the best moisturizer I’ve ever used.” —Rose C.

Age Defender Moisturizer

Pore-clearing salicylic acid and firming caffeine make Kiehl’s Age Defender Moisturizer another of Brauer’s favorites to recommend. Oil-rich linseed extract, to smooth rough skin and reduce fine lines, completes its skincare trifecta.

One satisfied customer writes: “You can feel how quickly it firms up but moisturizes skin to feel fresh right away. I use it on mornings when I feel my skin is dry even after washing my face.” —JamesLS

Face Lotion Daily Hydrator

At under $10, you’ll get lots of bang for your buck with this lightweight moisturizer. The lotion keeps skin hydrated and, for bearded men, even helps calm irritation and itch once it’s applied.

The Cream

Here’s a moisturizer skincare enthusiasts and wine lovers alike are raving about. Created by Brad Pitt, this face cream aims to minimize signs of aging and tiredness, with a stopper made of oak cut from the scraps of Famille Perrin wine barrels.

Daily Oil-Free Facial Moisturizer

Cetaphil’s Daily Oil-Free Facial Moisturizer is a great entry point for those new to using a regular face cream. Along with UV-blocking SPF 35, it also uses edelweiss flower extract to help retain skin moisture.

One satisfied customer writes: “From the moment I tried this moisturizer, I was impressed by its lightweight texture and non-greasy formula. Unlike other moisturizers that leave a heavy, oily residue on the skin, this one absorbs quickly and effortlessly, leaving behind a smooth, matte finish.” —Rachel C.

Daily Moisture Boost

You don’t have to shave on a regular basis to use this top-rated moisturizer, but its combination of Polynesian green tamanu oil, cactus cereus flower extract, chestnut, and bamboo milk certainly feels soothing on the skin if you do. Plus, a pea-size amount is enough to cover both your face and neck.

One satisfied customer writes: “I have very dry skin and was not very optimistic. However, it works great. Applied twice a day it has completely relieved my dry skin. Most ‘moisture’ products just leave my skin looking greasy. This one leaves it looking and feeling soft with no dryness.” —B

Maximum Hydrator 72-Hour Auto-Replenishing Hydrator

Double board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon Michael Bassiri-Tehrani often suggests this long-lasting hydrator from Clinique to clients in need. Hyaluronic acid fragments and activated aloe water go deep into the skin to replenish its moisture, while humectants ensure it stays put for up to 72 hours per wear. As a bonus, the cooling effect of its gel-cream formula feels extra nice post-shave.

One satisfied customer writes: “I use this daily after showering. It leaves my skin very hydrated and soft. Very clean and very light scented.” —Bobby

Vitamin E Face Moisturizer

Consider your skin soothed, hydrated, and balanced after using this vitamin E-, B5-, and chamomile-powered moisturizer from Malin+Goetz. The versatile product works for just about any skin type and even helps reduce epidermal irritation.

One satisfied customer writes: “This moisturizer is perfect. It is light, does not make my skin oily, yet definitely makes my face feel hydrated. I have sensitive skin and regularly visit the dermatologist. No breakouts or issues from using this lotion. Perfect daily use face lotion for after serum.” —Yorki

Trio Rebalancing Moisture Treatment

Bassiri-Tehrani also recommends this pick from Skinbetter Science for its deep hydration and rejuvenation benefits. The lightweight cream delivers a hefty dose of hydrating and plumping ingredients for super smooth skin, including hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and squalane.

One satisfied customer writes: “I use this every night—it is suitable for my fluctuating daily skin needs. I use it when my face is dry and irritated, on days when I’m feeling somewhat oily, and it is my go-to after in-office cosmetic procedures. It lasts forever—the bottle contains over 200 pumps of product!” —Cadye M.

Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA

You won’t have to layer on multiple products to get the effect this one hydrator delivers. Moisture-enhancing ingredients like amino acids, dermal lipids, and hyaluronic acid work overtime to replenish lost moisture and reinforce your skin barrier.

One satisfied customer writes: “I have very dry skin, rough to the touch. just one use of this lotion and no joke my skin is baby soft! the next morning and my face is still feeling nice and smooth. amazing. never had a face cream this good. don’t need much, goes on smooth, doesn’t feel greasy.” —Mana8

PC4 Men Daytime Protect

Unlike some moisturizers with SPF, this one from Paula’s Choice won’t leave a gritty or sticky feeling on your face. Its matte finish also happens to be ideal for combination and oily skin types and contains colloidal oatmeal to calm irritation and redness.

One satisfied customer writes: “I have tried numerous products and this is now my go-to daily sunscreen. I love the matte non-greasy finish as my skin tends to be oily as well as the consistency which is lightweight and easy to apply. That this product contains anti-oxidants in addition to sun protection is an added plus.” — Rick

Dew Point Moisturizing Gel-Cream

This weightless gel-cream practically melts into the skin, which is just one of its many fine qualities. Its formula also contains aloe leaf juice, which comes in handy to soothe skin before and after you spend time in the sun.

One satisfied customer writes: “This is a great daily moisturizing cream. I have sensitive, oily skin and love how it feels after its use. The gel texture makes it easy to spread, and the skin absorbs it just in time for me to do a daily facial massage. It has no smell as well. I’m glad I did my brief research and found out about this product. Great value!” —Ery

Daily Greens Oil-Free Gel Moisturizer

The duo of galacturonic acid and niacinamide helps balance the skin’s natural oils, so you’ll never appear overly shiny. Plus, ingredients like moringa and papaya extracts and hyaluronic acid remove impurities while replenishing skin with just the right amount of all-day moisture.

One satisfied customer writes: “I love this product. I’m not a fan of heavy moisturizers and strong fragrances, and this one fits the bill perfectly. It has a light texture, is easy to apply, and doesn’t leave a greasy feeling.” —Alya1987

Universal Pro-Bio Moisture Boost Cream

Created by a professional cosmetic chemist, this moisturizer’s blend of ceramides, pomegranate sterols, bio-fermented mushroom complex, bifida extract, and hyaluronic acid aims to boost hydration while minimizing fine lines. Make sure to apply it to your face and neck to reap its maximum skin barrier-strengthening benefits.

One satisfied customer writes: “I had never heard of or seen this product before. Very pleased with it. Nongreasy and no heavy scent. Started seeing a welcome difference in my skin within a week! Will definitely buy again!” —John E.

Essential Face Moisturizer

If you’re always on the move, you won’t have to wait long for this popular hydrator to sink in, since it’s nicely fast-absorbing. “It’s lightweight yet deeply hydrating, so great for everyday use,” Bassiri-Tehrani says. A moisturizing blend of jojoba oil, vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, and green tea deeply nourishes and protects the skin against free radical damage that can cause aging.

One satisfied customer writes: “I’ve been using the Daily Face Moisturizer for several years, and I really enjoy how plump and full my skin feels after using it. The lotion is very light, and absorbs well into the skin without making it look greasy. It lasts all day, so I typically apply in the mornings after a shower.” —Patrick R.

Meet the Experts

• Dr. Jeremy Brauer is a board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon in New York City.

• Dr. Michael Bassiri-Tehrani, also known as Dr. MBT, is a double board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon in New York City.

What’s the difference between men’s skin needs and women’s?

Board-certified dermatologist Corey L. Hartman previously told Bazaar that men’s skin is typically thicker and oilier than women’s. And according to the Cleveland Clinic, people designated male at birth often have a thicker and tougher dermis layer than people designated female. This skin difference often causes deeper, more furrowed wrinkles from repeated muscle movement, with increased testosterone contributing to oilier skin.

Why trust Harper’s Bazaar?

For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion and beauty resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in beauty by working with the world’s leading authorities in dermatology, plastic surgery, cosmetics, skincare, haircare, and fragrance. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of beauty editors and industry experts.

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