Byrdie / Kevin Liang
Moisturizers are an underrated way to supply your complexion with various skin-loving ingredients in just one product, often containing even more than targeted serums and treatments. A moisturizer ingredient with many benefits that we love is ceramides, which are lipids naturally found in the skin that help it retain moisture, according to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marisa Garshick. “Ceramides serve as the glue that helps keep the skin cells together, which helps protect the skin from outside stressors as well as prevent water loss,” she says. “As we age, our ceramide levels decrease, and our skin barrier weakens—so it can help to look for products that contain ceramides and other ingredients to support and strengthen the skin barrier.” A damaged skin barrier can often show up as dehydration, dullness, and consistent skin irritation—and it can be made worse by the environment and other external factors. Integrating a ceramide moisturizer into your routine is the best way to keep your barrier (and skin) healthy.
We conducted hours of research to find the best ceramide moisturizers, selecting from dozens of products. We evaluated each pick based on its formula, consistency, and feel on the skin and tested out a couple for ourselves to provide accurate insights. After consulting two experts, including Dr. Garshick and dermatologist Dr. Nazanin Saedi, we landed on these top selections.
What to Look for in a Ceramide Moisturizer
- Skin type: When it comes to purchasing any moisturizer, you’ll want to find one that works for your skin type. According to Dr. Saedi, dry and mature skin types can benefit the most from ceramide moisturizers, but all skin types with a compromised barrier should add one to their routine. Dr. Saedi recommends picking a lighter, noncomedogenic formula if you have oily or acne-prone skin, and fragrance and dye-free formulas if you have sensitive or eczema-prone skin.
- Other ingredients: Ceramides are only a small part of each moisturizer, so you’ll want to check the other key ingredients to ensure they’re beneficial for your skin type and skincare goals. Dr. Garshick says that emollients (such as squalane and shea butter) and humectants (such as hyaluronic acid and glycerin) are found in a lot of ceramide moisturizer formulas and can enhance the effects of the ingredient—working to draw in moisture, calm inflammation, and keep the skin healthy.
- Packaging: The majority of moisturizers come in a pot, and it can be easily contaminated if your fingers aren’t clean when using the product. We recommend ones that come with a little spatula or applicator or ones that come in a squeeze tube to limit any bacteria from growing. For options that are neither, just make sure you’re washing your hands before scooping out the product.
Best Overall
Eadem Cloud Cushion Plush Moisturizer
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/eadem-cloud-cushion-plush-moisturizer-682a93388cc24f64a738b88bac096064.jpg)
Sephora
Comes with a separate applicator for hygienic application
Feels lightweight on the skin but deeply hydrates
Boosts radiance and treats dark spots
Might not be rich enough for super dry skin types
Key Ingredients: Plant ceramides, peptides, niacinamide | Size: 1.69 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Formulated with three types of ceramides, this lush moisturizer from Eadem can do a little bit of everything—heal a damaged skin barrier, quench dry skin, soothe irritation, and even lift dark marks. It’s packed with some of our favorite ingredients for all skin types—including niacinamide (to even the skin tone), peptides (to treat signs of aging), squalane (to hydrate), and more for an overall healthy complexion. The whipped, creamy texture makes it easy to spread across the face and sinks in easily without any stickiness. While it seems heavy at first, it’s pretty much unnoticeable on the skin seconds after applying.
When testing this product, I loved that my skin would look glowy and smooth upon waking, and that the cream would immediately soothe my skin that gets very dry after taking a shower. I found that my skin also felt more hydrated overall—even before I had applied my skincare. I also love that it comes with a little golden spatula to apply the cream, making the experience even more luxurious.
Best for Eczema
First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/First-Aid-Beauty-Ultra-Repair-Cream-Intense-Hydration-d82e725d0b8c4c389ce74c096654347b.jpg)
Sephora
Soothes and hydrates dry, flaky skin
Strengthens the skin barrier
Can be used on the face and body
Can cause breakouts in acne-prone skin
Key Ingredients: Ceramide NP, colloidal oatmeal, shea butter, allantoin | Size: 6 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes
This deeply hydrating cream is the perfect pick for those dealing with eczema or rosacea—it contains everything recommended by dermatologists to soothe irritated skin, including colloidal oatmeal, shea butter—and ceramides, of course. “Not only does this cream help with hydration, but it also helps to protect the skin and offers a barrier effect, protecting the skin against irritation and sensitivity,” says Dr. Garshick, who personally recommends this if you’re looking for softer—and stronger—skin. It has a rich consistency that’s able to quickly calm inflamed skin without feeling heavy or leaving a residue. We love that the hydration it provides lasts long (for 24 hours, according to the brand) and can nourish dry, chapped skin without causing burning or stinging.
Adelaide Giesey, tester with dry/sensitive skin: "I’ve gone through countless jars of the Ultra Repair Cream because of how much my eczema-prone skin loves the formula—it soothes my irritated skin and helps calm stubborn redness. The formula is extremely hydrating yet still holds a lightweight texture, which is why it is my go-to prep before any complexion products. Keeping this cream in my daily routine has become a no-brainer."
Best for Acne-Prone Skin
COSRX Balancium Comfort Ceramide Cream
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/cosrx-balancium-comfort-ceramide-cream-6632948634504d018526a9e6a3d2a278.jpg)
Amazon
Hydrates without making the skin feel greasy
Rich consistency that absorbs quickly
Heals irritated skin
Contains essential oils, which could potentially irritate sensitive skin
Key Ingredients: Ceramide NP, centella asiatica, glycerin | Size: 2.82 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes
This moisturizer from Cosrx has a rich balm texture, but acne-prone skin types will be pleased to find that it can deeply hydrate the skin without triggering breakouts. I’ve used this formula for years, and it became the first thick moisturizer that I could use that didn’t result in little whiteheads across my complexion. While it is rich, it spreads easily, instantly absorbs and doesn’t feel sticky on the skin after application. It’s formulated with ceramides, centella, and beeswax—meaning it can soothe and moisturize without causing irritation to the skin.
If you deal with consistent acne but still lean on the dry side, this is a great pick if you’re looking for a nourishing cream to apply before bed.
Best for Barrier Support
Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Cream
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/dr-jart--ceramidin-skin-barrier-moisturizing-cream-7e4e9b40a3934bd888bc6c3e1f50fc3e.jpg)
Sephora
Contains multiple ingredients to reinforce the skin barrier
Boosts elasticity in the skin
Adds long-lasting hydration
Can feel heavy on the skin upon initial application
Key Ingredients: Ceramides, panthenol, glycerin | Size: 1.69 oz | Cruelty-Free: No
If a compromised barrier is your biggest skin concern, a formula packed with ceramides and panthenol (a humectant that’s great for wound healing and strengthening) like this one is exactly what you need to get your complexion back in tip-top shape. Dr. Garshick is a big fan, and she loves that it contains five different ceramides to keep the skin healthy and hydrated. It has a silky consistency that can feel a bit heavy when you first apply it, but it does absorb into the skin quickly. Aside from keeping the barrier supported, it also has glycerin, shea butter, and vitamin E to add moisture back into the skin.
Best for Dry Skin
belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb
Amazon
Greatly increases the moisture levels in the skin
Plumps and leaves the complexion smooth
Absorbs quickly and doesn’t leave a residue
Slightly strong smell, which isn't for everyone
Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, ceramide NP | Size: 1.69 oz | Cruelty-Free: No
Belif’s Aqua Bomb has been popular with beauty editors and fanatics alike for its light-as-air gel-cream formula that’s able to efficiently hydrate the driest skin types. According to the brand, it can increase the skin’s hydration levels by 231.4% in just 10 seconds after application, which they found in a clinical study with 30 test subjects. Alongside ceramide NP, the powerhouse formula contains squalane, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide to keep dry skin moisturized and soothed for hours. We love that it’s lightweight enough to be used in the morning and nourishing enough to be applied before bed—and that it’s able to plump up the skin to reduce the appearance of fine lines with continued use.
Alyssa Kaplan, commerce writer with oily skin: "The weightless gel texture of this moisturizer is perfect for my oily skin during the warm seasons. It provides a boost of moisture without ever feeling heavy or greasy, and I love that it layers seamlessly underneath whatever SPF or foundation I apply on top."
Best Budget
The Inkey List Bio-Active Moisturizer
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/The-Inkey-List-Bio-Active-Ceramide-Repairing-and-Plumping-Moisturizer-2df6e525372a43f8929b9efe9f3008c0.jpg)
Sephora
Works to smooth fine lines and wrinkles
Soft, luxurious consistency
Gives the skin a luminous glow
Unhygienic container
Key Ingredients: Ceramides, shea butter | Size: 1.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Finding a high-quality moisturizer under $30 can be a tough feat, but this ceramide cream from affordable brand The Inkey List works just as well as many high-end picks. It has a rich texture that feels luxurious but sinks into the skin quickly and doesn’t leave a greasy residue. Shea butter and ceramides also work together to add bounce to the complexion, so that wrinkles and other signs of aging look visibly lifted. The end result is skin that looks dewy and smooth, with a skin barrier that’s strong and supported.
Best K-Beauty
Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/illiyoon-ceramide-ato-concentrate-cream-0294517a04364ea398e5bbaccb15b9d4.jpg)
Amazon
Formulated with a variety of ceramides
Reduces skin discomfort and irritation
Leaves the skin soft and hydrated without feeling sticky
Great value for the price
May be too rich for oily skin types
Key Ingredients: Ceramides, panax ginseng, glycerin | Size: 2.45, 6.8 oz | Cruelty-Free: No
If you’re a fan of Korean skincare, you’ve most likely tried (or at least heard of) this ceramide moisturizer from Illiyoon. It has a rich texture that absorbs quickly and still feels light on the skin, and is filled with ingredients to soothe and hydrate all skin types—such as ginseng, glycerin, and probiotics. This is a great pick for those who are dealing with dry patches and itchy skin, as it’s able to heal irritation—so you’ll wake up with a smooth, moisturized complexion. Another plus is that it’s seven-free, meaning it’s free of common potential skin irritants and fragrances (so perfect for sensitive skin types).
Best Splurge
SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/skinceuticals-e79819acdd3f4562a7a63ac678d4fa44.jpg)
Dermstore
Promotes an even, smooth skin texture
Formulated with 2% ceramides and fatty acids to balance the complexion
Antioxidant-rich to protect against free radicals
Has essential oils, which can potentially irritate sensitive skin types
Key Ingredients: Vitamin E, ceramides, rosemary leaf oil | Size: 1.6 oz | Cruelty-Free: No
Spending $150 on a moisturizer is obviously not ideal for everyone, but if you want a formula that checks all of your boxes, this one from SkinCeuticals has you covered. It’s packed with vitamins and antioxidants to keep the skin protected from free radical damage, boost elasticity, and smooth fine lines and wrinkles. It’s formulated with ingredients that your skin needs more of as you age—such as ceramides, cholesterol, and fatty acids—to keep the complexion looking youthful and radiant. It has a thick texture (perfect for applying before bed), but it feels soothing and doesn’t make the skin oily. We especially love this formula for those who are using strong actives or retinol consistently, as it keeps the skin feeling ultra-nourished and comfortable.
Hallie Gould, editor in chief with combination skin: "Skinceuticals's Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 is the holy grail moisturizer, and it's up there on the list of my absolute favorite skincare products of all time. It's fast-absorbing, full of antioxidants, and really visibly quenches my skin. It feels velvety and moisturizing, and it plumps my skin on contact. It also smells faintly of lavender—which is a delight before bedtime."
Best for Body
La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP+M Triple Repair Body Cream
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/la-roche-posay-lipikar-ap-m-triple-repair-moisturizing-body-cream-c32a3d632ee444039b655149da1c2542.jpg)
Amazon
Hydrating without leaving the skin feeling sticky
Suitable for all skin types, even very sensitive
Can be also used on the face
Product can be hard to pump out of the bottle
Key Ingredients: Prebiotic thermal water, ceramide 3, shea butter, niacinamide | Size: 6.7, 13.5 oz | Cruelty-Free: No
Ceramides aren’t only beneficial for the skin on your face but are also a great ingredient to utilize if you deal with dry body skin. This lotion from La Roche-Posay contains the ingredient alongside prebiotic thermal water and shea butter to provide long-lasting hydration. Our favorite thing about this formula is that it effectively moisturizes parched skin and softens scaly dry patches but doesn’t feel sticky once applied. This makes it a great choice for applying right before bed or before getting dressed in the morning; you won’t have to worry about it sticking to your sheets or clothes.
Best for Rough Skin
Drunk Elephant Lala Retro Whipped Refillable Moisturizer
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/drunk-elephant-lala-retro-whipped-cream-replenishing-moisturizer-for-skin-protection-and-rejuvenation-169-ounce---lala-whipped-cream-50-milliliters--62f116ddd79848a28d97899b0cd3a0f0.jpg)
Amazon
Maintains moisture levels in the skin
pH-balanced formula
Free of artificial fragrances and dyes
Too rich for acne-prone skin types
Key Ingredients: Plant ceramides, phytosphingosine, African oil blend | Size: 1.69 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Another recommendation by Dr. Garshick, this cream from Drunk Elephant is great for all skin types—but especially beneficial for those with rough, dry skin. It has three types of ceramides, a hydrating African oil blend, and a phytosphingosine, which is “a plant-derived fatty molecule to help replenish moisture,” according to Dr. Garshick. She also loves that it’s nongreasy without compromising on hydrating power. It comes in a hygienic pump-top tub, with a rich, whipped texture that provides the skin with long-lasting moisture and keeps the complexion smooth and line-free.
Abby Dupes, associate editor with dry/flaky skin: "I always enjoy just how plump, hydrated, and smooth my skin feels after just a couple of uses, which is why I always keep a tub on hand. It's so lightweight and airy—a true feat considering how heavy and mask-like some overnight creams can feel."
Best Lightweight
Paula’s Choice Barrier Repair Advanced Moisturizer
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/paulas-choice-barrier-repair-advanced-moisturizer-cde72023aad046ab8ff538f620988f99.jpg)
Sephora
Won’t irritate acne-prone or sensitive skin types
Promotes firm and plump skin
Strengthens the skin barrier
May not be hydrating enough for super dry skin
Key Ingredients: Ceramides, tripeptide-5, watermelon seed oil, squalane | Size: 1.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes
If thick creams tend to cause irritation or trigger breakouts for you, this lightweight ceramide moisturizer will still boost hydration and barrier strength without feeling heavy on the skin. Coming in a convenient pump bottle, this formula contains multiple types of ceramides and peptides to keep the skin protected and reduce signs of aging in the complexion. Because it also has shea butter, vitamin E, and squalane, we think it’s a great pick for combination skin types who have both dry and oily spots—it keeps the skin moisturized without becoming greasy.
Best Soothing
Dieux Instant Angel
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/dieux-instant-angel-lipid-rich-barrier-repair-cream-with-ceramides-aa27b913c1494e11bd47561c5d409577.jpg)
Sephora
Soothes and nourishes dry skin
Works to lift wrinkles and fine lines
Leaves the skin plump and glowy
Unpleasant smell
Key Ingredients: Ceramide NG, squalane, meadowfoam estolide | Size: 1.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Dealing with bouts of sensitive skin and irritation? This rich formula will soothe while supporting the barrier—so you’ll have less instances of sensitivity in the future. It has a combination of peptides, lipids, and plant-based ceramides to heal and condition the skin from the inside out. Also included in the formula is squalane, sodium hyaluronate, and vitamin E to moisturize and keep the skin looking glowy and radiant. My favorite thing about this cream is that absorbs quickly, immediately making the skin feel soft and smooth. While it's rich, it feels lightweight and comfortable on the skin. It also never caused irritation or acne, which is common for me, and I loved that my skin still felt hydrated in the morning. Another plus—it can be used day and night and is gentle enough for all skin types.
Best for Anti-Aging
Medik8 Advanced Night Ceramide
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/medik8-advanced-night-ceramide-5329e80031af4d979bffc47100b5d511.jpg)
Medik8
Softens skin texture
Promotes a smooth and firm complexion
Clinically tested formula
Doesn’t come with a spatula for hygienic application
Key Ingredients: Multi-ceramide complex, vitamin E, glycerin | Size: 1.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: No
When it comes to treating fine lines and wrinkles, it’s best to have a routine where every step has anti-aging benefits. If you’re looking for a moisturizer to do just that, we recommend this one from Medik8. Formulated with superfood antioxidants and a ceramide complex, it works to firm, nourish, and add a glow for skin that looks ageless and bouncy. The brand designed the cream specifically to be used after retinol (which you’re probably already using if anti-aging is your routine) to soothe any irritation caused by the ingredient and provide a boost of hydration. We also love that it has a creamy, whipped texture that feels luxurious when applying, and it’s made without artificial fragrance or dyes.
Why Trust Byrdie
Shannon Stubbs is an experienced beauty commerce writer with over six years of experience. She has been a staff writer at Byrdie since 2022, where she covers skincare, makeup, and haircare. To write this article, she researched dozens of options, analyzing formulations to find the best on the market to recommend to readers. She also tested a couple of the picks, taking note of their consistency, hydrating effects, and long-term benefits. Shannon received a bachelor’s degree in magazine journalism from Syracuse University and has written beauty articles for multiple outlets.
To write this article, she consulted the following experts:
- Dr. Marisa Garshick is a board-certified dermatologist with offices in Manhattan and Englewood. She completed her residency at Cornell’s New York Presbyterian Hospital and specializes in skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and wrinkles.
- Dr. Nazanin Saedi is a board-certified, fellowship-trained dermatologist who specializes in cosmetic dermatology and laser surgery. She is based in Philadelphia, where she practices at the Dermatology Associates of Plymouth Meeting Skin & Laser Center.
