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We all desire our skin to remain calm, hydrated, and content. However, as we head into winter, it often feels like the moisture is being drained from our skin if we stay still for too long.

From braving the crisp winter air during morning commutes to alternating between heated offices and apartments (if you're fortunate enough to have heating), and indulging in scalding hot showers, our skin is truly being tested. That is, unless you've already discovered your must-have face moisturiser.

If you haven't yet found your hydration saviour, we're here to assist. We've consulted dermatologists to identify the best winter face moisturisers available online, ensuring your skin doesn't have to endure unnecessary hardship.

While establishing a solid winter skincare routine is vital, it's equally important to continue using SPF, as UV rays persist even on the chilliest, cloudiest days.

Our winter skin aspirations. (Image: Hailey Bieber)

So, what should we be searching for in a winter moisturiser?

As the temperature drops, it can start to cause havoc on your skin barrier, leading to quicker skin dehydration. Consider replacing your usual moisturiser with one packed with potent hydrating ingredients.

“Investing in a moisturiser containing hyaluronic acid is wise because it can hold nearly 1000 times its weight in water within the skin,” advises Dr Shyamalar Gunatheesan, an Australian dermatologist.

If you suffer from skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or broken capillaries, symptoms can worsen during colder months, making it crucial to find the right moisturiser for your skin type.

And what should we steer clear of in a winter moisturiser?

Dr Gunatheesan suggests that while opting for a heavier face moisturiser as the weather cools is fine, you should avoid selecting something overly heavy (e.g., moisturisers with occlusive ingredients like petroleum jelly, mineral oil, silicone, lanolin, and waxes) unless you have severe eczema or a barrier dysfunction, as these can clog pores.

So, shall we dive into it?

The best daily moisturisers for winter

Best moisturiser for all skin types: Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream

This iconic moisturiser is specially formulated for all skin types — even sensitive ones. According to the brand, with every application (day or night), the skin is left twice as hydrated, even in the driest areas. Those pesky dry patches that ruin your look will disappear quickly!

Shop Kiehl’s, $72

Best moisturiser for dry skin: Avène Hydrance Rich Hydrating Cream

We appreciate something we can find at trusty Priceline or Adore Beauty. Not only does this Avène face moisturiser have soothing properties to alleviate stubborn dryness, but it's also incredibly hydrating without being greasy and thick.

Shop Adore Beauty, $57.99

Best moisturiser for oily skin: Glossier Priming Moisturizer Balance Oil-Control Gel-Cream

Designed specifically for oily and combination skin, Glossier’s Priming Moisturizer Balance is a fast-absorbing, lightweight gel-cream that balances oil without stripping your skin's vitality.

Shop Glossier, $43

Best moisturiser for sensitive skin: La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5+

Dr Gunatheesan highly rates La Roche Posay’s range of moisturisers (another pharmacy brand, FTW), so if you're seeking something reasonably priced that doubles as a primer for under makeup (IYKYK), grab this one quickly, besties.

Shop Adore Beauty, $42.95

The best luxury moisturiser: Rationale #5 The Gel Crème

While Rationale is more of a premium brand (as evident by the price), it becomes somewhat cost-effective because a little goes a long way. Thanks to its gel creme texture, it's also very lightweight, but don't be fooled – Dr Gunatheesan assures us it's excellent for promoting skin renewal and optimal hydration.

Shop Rationale, $202

The best affordable moisturiser: Cetaphil Moisture Cream

Cetaphil not only offers excellent skincare but also at reasonable prices. This Moisturising Cream remains one of the best we've discovered, and it's under $10.

Shop Cetaphil, $6.99

The best moisturiser for anti-ageing: Triple Lipid Restore 242 Anti-Ageing Moisturiser

Aging is a natural process we all experience, but the better you care for your skin while you're young (wear your SPF, seriously!), the better off your skin will be in the long run. If your skin is already appearing dull, dry, and lifeless, it might be time to invest in a moisturiser like Skinceuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2.

We say investing because it is pricey. But it serves a purpose. Suitable for all skin types, it helps replenish the lipids in our skin, keeping it healthy, hydrated, and resilient while restoring the skin barrier.

Shop SkinCeuticals, $214

Best moisturiser for acne-prone skin: TBH Skincare Thirst Trap Face Moisturiser

Aussie brand tbh Skincare has quickly become a favorite for those with acne-prone skin. This specific formula is designed for those with oily skin, but it's suitable for all skin types. It's a lightweight, daily formula that offers barrier support and deep hydration all year round.

Shop tbh Skincare, $27.95 (usually $34.95)

Best moisturiser if you want to look like a glazed doughnut: CeraVe Advanced Repair Balm

Skin so glazed Hailey Bieber would give her approval. Although this might not be ideal for oilier, combination skin due to its petrolatum content, it's perfect for those who have subjected their skin barrier to stress over the past few months.

It was developed to repair, restore, and protect dry, damaged skin. It can be used on the face, body, lips, hands, elbows, knees, feet, and heels. All the good spots.

Shop CeraVe, $17.99

What about serums? Exfoliants? Should we incorporate any of these into the routine?

Adding a few extra serums during the winter chill can be beneficial. Dr Gunatheesan personally recommends increasing the use of your vitamin B3 serum or niacinamide serum both morning and night to assist with barrier impairment. 

“These should be applied first since serums are technically lighter, and then you would seal them in with a face moisturiser by gently tapping it on,” she explains. 

Regarding exfoliants, since your skin is quite sensitive this time of year, we suggest opting for a chemical exfoliant over a physical one to avoid stripping your barrier and causing further irritation.

A chemical exfoliant works more deeply by breaking down the bonds between skin cells and penetrating deeper than a physical exfoliant can, allowing for better absorption of serums and moisturisers.

And with that, happy moisturising! We wish you a flake-free winter. If you need more assistance with dry skin, however, check here for additional tips.

Image Credit: Hailey Bieber / @sweetchutney / @dominiquelissa / Cetaphil