The 11 Best Moisturizers for Combination Skin of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Best Overall

Estee Lauder Soft Creme/Mask Moisturizer

$48 at Amazon $48 at Ulta View on Esteelauder.com

Why We Like It

Estée Lauder's Nutritious Melting Soft Creme/Mask Moisturizer is a skin savior, ideal for sensitive, acne-prone, or moody skin. Packed with nourishing ingredients like sweet kelp and red algae, it's free of skin irritants like parabens, phthalates, and sulfites.

In our tests, it struck the perfect balance, offering deep hydration without feeling too heavy or light. The water-based texture seamlessly melted into the skin, leaving a soft, silky feel. Though a bit more product might be needed for intense hydration, the quick absorption and refreshing sensation were noteworthy.

The moisturizer felt cool and light during application, with a delightful coconut and rose water scent. It blended flawlessly with makeup, delivering a natural, skin-like finish without greasiness or pilling. Our four-week trial demonstrated a modest improvement in skin hydration, and it didn't cause breakouts or red spots on sensitive, acne-prone skin. We loved this moisturizer for daily use, especially for those seeking lightweight, hydrating, and virtually invisible skincare.

It's Worth Noting

• The only minor drawback is the relatively higher price for the quantity, potentially necessitating more frequent repurchases.

Product Details: 

• Bottle Size: 1.7 fl. oz.
• Ingredients: Niacinamide, pomegranate extract, sweet kelp
• Benefits: Lightweight, soothing hydration

Best Budget

BYOMA Moisturizing Gel Cream

$15 at Amazon $15 at Target $16 at Ulta

Why We Like It

The UK-born sensation now making waves in the US, BYOMA Moisturizing Gel Cream, is a game-changer for combination skin. This oil-free marvel strikes the perfect balance, providing a lightweight, moisturizing touch that combo skin craves.

Upon application, we loved the way its silky texture smoothly glided despite its slightly viscous consistency. The gel-like feel was just right—neither too thick nor too loose—with a light and airy sensation that pleased the senses. Although there was a momentary stickiness, it vanished, leaving our skin smooth and ready for makeup application. Within a mere 10 minutes, this cream seamlessly absorbed, imparting a dewy finish without a greasy residue. Makeup layered effortlessly on top, showcasing its potential as a great base.

It effectively combated breakouts, leaving us with clear skin. This is a great pick for those seeking a lightweight option, but it may not be ideal for very dry skin.

It's Worth Noting

• The initial stickiness might inconvenience those who prefer an immediate, non-sticky feel when applying the moisturizer.

Product Details: 

• Bottle Size: 1.69 fl. oz.
• Ingredients: Tri-Ceramide Complex, niacinamide, green tea
• Benefits: Hydrating, soothing
  

Best Anti-Aging

SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore

$155 at Dermstore $155 at Skinstore.com $155 at Skinceuticals.com

Why We Like It

After trying out the SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 242, we were impressed by how quickly it gets absorbed and how a little goes a long way. Despite looking thick at first, it actually feels light and cool when applied without making our skin greasy, leaving any residue, or feeling heavy. Within 10 minutes, we noticed our skin felt more hydrated and smoother. It left our skin feeling soft, not tight, and we saw better moisture levels across different parts of our face and we liked its subtle scent.

We found it to work consistently in different settings, sinking into our skin well without any transfer onto clothes. It keeps our skin hydrated throughout the day. It's easy to remove and doesn't cause any irritation to our eyes or skin. We found it was good for daily use, especially for those who like lighter moisturizers, and its matte effect might be helpful for oily skin. Although it's effective, it doesn't provide an intense boost of moisture, but it does leave our skin feeling soft and hydrated.

It’s Worth Noting

• Considering its price, it might not be the best option for those looking for an everyday moisturizer.

Product Details:

• Bottle Size: 1.6 fl. oz.
• Ingredients: Natural Cholesterol, Pure Ceramides, Fatty Acids, Vitamin E, Sunflower Seed Oil, 
• Benefits: Hydration, anti-aging

Best Lightweight

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel with Hyaluronic Acid

$20 at Amazon $20 at Target $26 at CVS

Why We Like It

The Neutrogena Hydro Boost Face Moisturizer is an award-winning, feather-light gel-cream delivering effective hydration. It's oil-free, non-comedogenic, and enriched with skin-loving hyaluronic acid for a revitalizing moisture boost.

Applying the moisturizer was a delight—not too heavy or light with a pleasing, cooling sensation. Occasionally, a second layer was needed for added hydration, but generally, it absorbed seamlessly into the skin. The product features a subtle, clean fragrance and a viscous yet easily spreadable texture. It's a wonderful serum and moisturizer hybrid, striking a perfect balance between gel and cream.

Within 10 minutes, the moisturizer is absorbed, leaving the skin smoother and well-hydrated. While slight residue was observed in some areas, it didn't pose an issue. Although there were mixed feelings about dryness in some areas and oiliness in others, the product effectively reduced end-of-day oiliness on the forehead without necessitating frequent makeup setting. Despite occasional dryness, the overall experience of using this moisturizer was good from the first use.

It's Worth Noting

• It can make some parts of your skin feel dry while leaving other areas a bit oily, not giving a consistent hydrating effect.

Product Details: 

• Bottle Size: 1.7 fl. oz.
• Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid
• Benefits: Lightweight hydration

Best for Day

REN Clean Skincare Evercalm Global Protection Day Cream

$45 at Amazon $52 at Dermstore View on Renskincare.com

Why We Like It

The REN Evercalm Global Protection Day Cream stood out for its dryness-preventing quality when worn all day and its smooth, even spreadability. We were immediately impressed by the enhanced moisturization and relief from dryness without any tightness. The cream's texture, while rich, remained on the lighter side and wasn't overly thick, ensuring easy application. We appreciated how this product catered to our dry and sensitive skin, delivering hydration and soothing benefits. Even during a flare-up of eczema, we experienced no stinging or irritation, unlike other moisturizers. Within about 10 minutes, the cream was effectively absorbed into our skin without any greasy residue. Upon touch, our skin felt smoother, softer, and well-moisturized without any unwanted oiliness.

This moisturizer noticeably improved the texture of rough patches caused by eczema, although they weren't completely resolved. The product's pleasant scent, akin to a sweet green candy, was subtle and delightful. This is a great option for those with combination sensitive skin looking for a slightly more premium choice, especially for those seeking an eco-conscious, vegan, and cruelty-free brand. 

It's Worth Noting

• The pump dispenses a relatively small amount of cream, which may require multiple pumps to achieve the desired coverage.

Product Details:

• Bottle Size: 1.7 fl. oz.
• Ingredients: Blackcurrent Seed Oil, Seabuckthorn Berry Oil, Camellia Oil
• Benefits: Calming, Hydrating

Best for Night

JOSIE MARAN Face Butter Moisturizer

View on Amazon

Why We Like It

The JOSIE MARAN Whipped Argan Oil Face Butter Moisturizer perfectly balances being rich and not too oily. While absorption took a bit longer than expected, the moisturizer provided instant hydration and protection. We primarily used it at night due to its weight, and although we were initially worried it might feel heavy, it actually settled onto the skin without any greasiness.

We did think a milder scent could have been nice, but we appreciate its neutral nature. It had a slightly heavier feeling during humid evenings, but it absorbed effectively and left our skin soft and supple in the mornings. Despite some transfer, it didn't soil pillowcases or pajamas. Over time, our skin's condition improved, becoming smoother with reduced fine lines. Due to its richness and hydrating effects, we think it's a solid pick for those seeking a substantial, creamy moisturizer for a night cream.

It's Worth Noting

• The richness of argan oil might not be suitable for those with oily or acne-prone skin, potentially causing breakouts.

Product Details:

• Bottle Size: 1.7 fl. oz.
• Ingredients: Argan Oil, Watermelon Seed Oil, and Aloe Nectar
• Benefits: Lightweight yet effective hydration overnight

Best for Sensitive Skin

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Ultra-Sensitive Skin Face Moisturizer

$32 at Amazon $32 at Target $31 at Dermstore

Why We Like It

The Toleriane Dermallegro Ultra Sensitive Skin Repair Face Moisturizer from La Roche-Posay, a dermatologist-favored skincare brand, is great for sensitive, combination skin because it’s not too heavy and features soothing ingredients ideal for easily-irritated skin.   

We loved its gel-cream texture and consistency, which spread smoothly on application, providing a satisfying weight and a cooling effect. Surprisingly, despite initially seeming thicker and dewy, it absorbed quickly, leaving the skin with a matte finish but still retaining hydration without plumping fine lines. However, there might be a chance of pilling under your foundation if it is not fully absorbed. We appreciate its user-friendly squeeze tube packaging, making product application quick and convenient. Also, the price seemed reasonable for the product's quantity and ingredients.

It's Worth Noting

• For those with sensitive skin, it's important to do a patch test before full application to prevent irritation.

Product Details:

• Bottle Size: 1.35 fl. oz.
• Ingredients: Shea butter, glycerin, thermal spring water
• Benefits: Hydration, irritation-free

Best for Dry Skin

SK-II Skinpower Cream

$235 $184 at Amazon $255 at Sephora $255 at Dermstore

Why We Like It

We found the SK II SKINPOWER Cream to be great for dry, combination skin because the texture was remarkably creamy without feeling heavy or greasy on the skin. Its consistency was smooth, thick, and luxurious, yet light upon application, which is ideal for easily dry skin.

The moisturizer fully absorbed within 10 minutes, leaving no residue on the skin. It delivers instant hydration, making the skin smoother and treating dry patches. The moisturizer layered well, and it remained pleasant even with the faint fragrance. Our skin felt consistently soft throughout the day, without any stinging or heavy sensation. Additionally, it blended seamlessly with other products in our routine. Over time, our skin became notably softer and more radiant. Despite its steep price, we still recommend it for its hydrating properties and positive effects on our complexion and dry skin.

It’s Worth Noting

• It contains certain preservatives and potential allergens that may cause irritation or adverse reactions in individuals with sensitive skin.

Product Details:

• Bottle Size: 2.7 fl. oz.
• Ingredients: Pitera, Calla Lily Extract, Dokudami Extract, Peony Extract, and Niacinimide
• Benefits: Advanced hydration, less visible fine lines & wrinkles

Best for Oil-Free

Tatcha The Water Cream

$72 at Amazon $23 at Sephora $72 at Violet Grey

Why We Like It

Tatcha The Water Cream Moisturizer is a luxurious, lightweight moisturizer that delivers intense hydration to the skin. Infused with nourishing Japanese botanicals, it's the perfect choice for those seeking a non-greasy, hydrating moisturizer that creates a smooth and radiant complexion.

The moisturizer's pleasant scent and seamless layering with other skincare products impressed us. It was soothing and hydrating and positively changed our opinion after a month of testing. It effectively moisturizes without clogging pores or causing breakouts. The lightweight formula quickly sinks in and doesn't transfer to clothes or silk pillowcases, even during sweaty moments. Though the moisturizer had a thin and watery consistency, we were pleased to find that it still provided adequate hydration and a healthy glow after application. It's an excellent everyday choice for an oil-free moisturizer that reduces t-zone shine by day's end.

It's Worth Noting

• The fragrance may not be suitable for individuals with sensitivities or those preferring fragrance-free skincare.

Product Details:

• Bottle Size: 1.3 fl. oz.
• Ingredients: Japanese wild rose, Japanese leopard lily, Tatcha's Signature Hadasei-3
• Benefits: Clarifies and refines 

Best Splurge

La Mer Crème de la Mer

$570 $100 at Sephora $2,860 at Nordstrom $190 at Bloomingdales

Why We Like It

The La Mer The Moisturizing Soft Cream is exceptionally beneficial for combination skin, addressing varied skincare needs with its unique formulation. Its proprietary "Miracle Broth," made from fermented sea kelp, is a central component known for its purported rejuvenating and moisturizing properties. It exudes luxury with its creamy texture that spreads effortlessly onto the skin. While initially feeling lightweight and slightly oily, it dries to a remarkably smooth and soft finish, although it requires patience during absorption.

La Mer had a pleasant scent and layered well with other products. Over time, it enhanced our skin texture, provided a radiant look, and helped reduce the signs of aging. Despite its steep price, its premium ingredients, biofermentation processing, and significant moisturizing results make it a fair choice for a luxury skincare product.

It's Worth Noting

• The premium pricing may deter those looking for effective skincare solutions at a more affordable price.

Product Details:

• Bottle Size: 2 fl. oz.
• Ingredients: Proprietary Miracle Broth, Lime Tea, Moisturizing Spheres, Sesame Seed Oil, Shea Butter
• Benefits: Smoothing, restoring hydration

Best for Acne-Prone Skin

Tata Harper Clarifying Moisturizer

$78 at Amazon $78 at Sephora $78 at Nordstrom

Why We Like It

Tata Harper Clarifying Moisturizer is a skincare gem enriched with natural botanicals like willow bark extract, salicylic acid, and aloe vera, making it a perfect choice for acne-prone skin. These ingredients work harmoniously to provide hydration while combating blemishes and promoting a clearer complexion, making it an excellent addition to any acne-fighting skincare regimen.

Upon application, it initially felt smooth and slightly thick but later hydrated our skin without any heaviness or dryness. The texture was easy to apply and didn't cause discomfort or a burning sensation. Although it took a few minutes to absorb fully, it felt lightweight and left no residue once absorbed. The moisturizer effectively cleared our skin and had a pleasant botanical fragrance during application. It also layered well with other products and maintained hydration, reducing redness and blemishes throughout the day. While it doesn't address fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation, or acne scarring, this moisturizer is one of the best moisturizers for acne-prone skin, reducing breakouts and leaving the skin feeling refreshed without pore blockage.

It's Worth Noting

• Some users may find the botanical fragrance a bit strong, especially if they prefer fragrance-free skincare products.

Product Details:

• Bottle Size: 1.7 fl. oz.
• Ingredients: Salicylic acid, Saw Palmetto, BHA Botanical Blend, Tazman Pepper Berry
• Benefits: Acne and Blemishes, Pores, and Dryness