In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleOur Top PicksReviewsThe Benefits of Using Ceramide MoisturizersIngredients to Look for in Ceramide MoisturizersWhat Healthcare Providers Want You to KnowWhen to See a Healthcare ProviderHow We Tested the Best Ceramide MoisturizersOur ExpertsFrequently Asked QuestionsWhy Trust Verywell Health
In This ArticleView All
In This Article
View All
Our Top Picks
Reviews
The Benefits of Using Ceramide Moisturizers
Ingredients to Look for in Ceramide Moisturizers
What Healthcare Providers Want You to Know
When to See a Healthcare Provider
How We Tested the Best Ceramide Moisturizers
Our Experts
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Trust Verywell Health
Verywell Health / Kevin Liang
Ceramides naturally occur in the skin and mimic its natural components, making them super effective. There are a few different types of ceramides, but they work pretty much the same torestore lipid (moisture) levels and support healthy skin barrier function. Since skin barrier function is universally important,ceramides in skin care can benefit all skin types and conditions, saysRhonda Klein, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist and co-founder of Modern Dermatology in Westport, Connecticut.
We consulted board-certified dermatologists to find the best ceramide moisturizers and tested their recommendations inThe Verywell Testing Laband at home for up to four weeks. We reviewed our picks based on theirconsistency, absorption, hydration, appearance, and value. Lastly, we had an expert from ourMedical Expert Boardreview this article for medical accuracy.
Ceramide-based moisturizers support skin barrier health, which is beneficial for everyone, regardless of skin type. Theyhelp retain moisture, giving skin a firmer, plumper appearance(especially in mature skin), and since they’reskin-replenishing ingredients,they can helpreduce redness and irritation in sensitive skin. Since they mimic components found naturally in the skin, ceramides are good for all types of skin.
While ceramide moisturizers are suitable for most skin types and even gentle enough for kids, it’s advised to administer a patch test if you have sensitive skin to rule out any irritation or adverse reactions.Performing a patch test at home is relatively easy. Apply the moisturizer to a small area of skin twice a day for 10 days and allow it to sit on your face as you usually would. If you don’t notice the following reactions after seven to 10 days, you’re safe using the product:
If you do notice an allergic reaction, we suggest stopping use and consulting a dermatologist. They can help rule out any skin conditions or assist with personalized product recommendations.
Our Top PicksBest for Acne-Prone Skin:BeautyStat Cosmetics Universal Moisture Boost Cream at Nordstrom$32Jump to ReviewBest for Sensitive Skin:La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer UV at Amazon$25Jump to ReviewBest for Combination Skin:AESTURA ATOBARRIER365 Lotion at Amazon$32Jump to ReviewBest for Glowy Skin:Shani Darden Hydration Peptide Cream at Shanidarden.comJump to ReviewBest Lightweight:belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb at Sephora$22Jump to ReviewBest for Melanin-Rich Skin:Eadem Cloud Cushion Plush Moisturizer at Eadem.coJump to Review
Best for Acne-Prone Skin:BeautyStat Cosmetics Universal Moisture Boost Cream at Nordstrom$32Jump to ReviewBest for Sensitive Skin:La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer UV at Amazon$25Jump to ReviewBest for Combination Skin:AESTURA ATOBARRIER365 Lotion at Amazon$32Jump to ReviewBest for Glowy Skin:Shani Darden Hydration Peptide Cream at Shanidarden.comJump to ReviewBest Lightweight:belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb at Sephora$22Jump to ReviewBest for Melanin-Rich Skin:Eadem Cloud Cushion Plush Moisturizer at Eadem.coJump to Review
Best for Acne-Prone Skin:BeautyStat Cosmetics Universal Moisture Boost Cream at Nordstrom$32Jump to Review
Best for Acne-Prone Skin:BeautyStat Cosmetics Universal Moisture Boost Cream at Nordstrom$32
Best for Acne-Prone Skin:
Best for Sensitive Skin:La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer UV at Amazon$25Jump to Review
Best for Sensitive Skin:La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer UV at Amazon$25
Best for Sensitive Skin:
Best for Combination Skin:AESTURA ATOBARRIER365 Lotion at Amazon$32Jump to Review
Best for Combination Skin:AESTURA ATOBARRIER365 Lotion at Amazon$32
Best for Combination Skin:
Best for Glowy Skin:Shani Darden Hydration Peptide Cream at Shanidarden.comJump to Review
Best for Glowy Skin:Shani Darden Hydration Peptide Cream at Shanidarden.com
Best for Glowy Skin:
Best Lightweight:belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb at Sephora$22Jump to Review
Best Lightweight:belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb at Sephora$22
Best Lightweight:
Best for Melanin-Rich Skin:Eadem Cloud Cushion Plush Moisturizer at Eadem.coJump to Review
Best for Melanin-Rich Skin:Eadem Cloud Cushion Plush Moisturizer at Eadem.co
Best for Melanin-Rich Skin:
Best for Acne-Prone SkinBeautyStat Cosmetics Universal Moisture Boost CreamPHOTO: Ulta$32 at NordstromView on Spacenk.comView on Shopbop.com
Best for Acne-Prone SkinBeautyStat Cosmetics Universal Moisture Boost Cream
Best for Acne-Prone Skin
BeautyStat Cosmetics Universal Moisture Boost Cream
PHOTO: Ulta
$32 at NordstromView on Spacenk.comView on Shopbop.com
ProsFragrance-freeGel-cream textureAbsorbs quicklyConsFeels slightly greasy at firstMay pill when used with other products
ProsFragrance-freeGel-cream textureAbsorbs quickly
Fragrance-free
Gel-cream texture
Absorbs quickly
ConsFeels slightly greasy at firstMay pill when used with other products
Feels slightly greasy at first
May pill when used with other products
Key Specs:
Size:1.7 oz |Ceramide Type:Ceramide 2 |Key Ingredients:Ceramide 2, hyaluronic acid, probiotics, reishi mushroom extract |Skin Type:All skin types
Why We Recommend It
Our editor with combination skin noticed an immediate increase inskin hydrationandfewer breakoutsand rough patches over time. Itabsorbs quicklyand doesn’t take long to rub in. Once it’sabsorbed, it feels comfortable on the skin.
Keep in Mind
We found that it goes on thick and a little greasy, and it may pill when layered with other products.
Best for Sensitive SkinLa Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer UVPHOTO: Walgreens$25 at Amazon$24 at Target$25 at Skinstore.comProsLayers well under makeupFragrance-freeContains SPFConsHas a slight sunscreen smellCan leave skin looking shinyKey Specs:Size:3.38 oz |Ceramide Type:Ceramide NP |Key Ingredients:Ceramide NP, niacinamide, glycerin |Skin Type:All skin typesWhy We Recommend ItDaily sunscreen is a must, but if you want to simplify your morning routine, look for a ceramide moisturizer with added SPF like this one from La Roche-Posay. Klein likes this for morning routines, adding that theSPF 30is great foreveryday use. The light sunscreen smell didn’t linger throughout the day either.Compared to other ceramide moisturizers, this one has a lighter consistency, which makes for anice base layerunder makeup. But the lightweight texture didn’t translate to less hydration. The blend of ceramideNP, niacinamide, andglycerinincreases skin hydration and left our editor’s dry skin feeling noticeably smoother and more supple. It’s suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin and isfree of oils, parabens, and added fragrances. Our editor with sensitive skin didn’t experience any negative reactions after using this moisturizer.Keep in MindIt is a sunscreen product, so it does have the sunscreen smell and can leave skin looking shinier than some would prefer.
Best for Sensitive SkinLa Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer UVPHOTO: Walgreens$25 at Amazon$24 at Target$25 at Skinstore.com
Best for Sensitive SkinLa Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer UV
Best for Sensitive Skin
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer UV
PHOTO: Walgreens
$25 at Amazon$24 at Target$25 at Skinstore.com
ProsLayers well under makeupFragrance-freeContains SPFConsHas a slight sunscreen smellCan leave skin looking shiny
ProsLayers well under makeupFragrance-freeContains SPF
Layers well under makeup
Contains SPF
ConsHas a slight sunscreen smellCan leave skin looking shiny
Has a slight sunscreen smell
Can leave skin looking shiny
Size:3.38 oz |Ceramide Type:Ceramide NP |Key Ingredients:Ceramide NP, niacinamide, glycerin |Skin Type:All skin types
Daily sunscreen is a must, but if you want to simplify your morning routine, look for a ceramide moisturizer with added SPF like this one from La Roche-Posay. Klein likes this for morning routines, adding that theSPF 30is great foreveryday use. The light sunscreen smell didn’t linger throughout the day either.
Compared to other ceramide moisturizers, this one has a lighter consistency, which makes for anice base layerunder makeup. But the lightweight texture didn’t translate to less hydration. The blend of ceramideNP, niacinamide, andglycerinincreases skin hydration and left our editor’s dry skin feeling noticeably smoother and more supple. It’s suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin and isfree of oils, parabens, and added fragrances. Our editor with sensitive skin didn’t experience any negative reactions after using this moisturizer.
It is a sunscreen product, so it does have the sunscreen smell and can leave skin looking shinier than some would prefer.
Best for Combination SkinAESTURA ATOBARRIER365 LotionPHOTO: Amazon$32 at AmazonProsBudget-friendlySpreads easilyLightweightConsIt’s a lotion, not a creamSlightly runnyKey Specs:Size:5.07 fl. oz |Ceramide Type:Not listed |Key Ingredients:Ceramides, squalane, glycerin |Skin Type:Dry, sensitive, combinationWhy We Recommend ItCeramide moisturizers tend to have athicker, richer consistency, anddry skin typessoak it up. But for those with oily or combination skin, a lighter lotion does the trick without feeling greasy or heavy.Gabriela Soza, MD, FAAD, a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist, recommends this moisturizer for many skin types since it containsceramides, cholesterol, andfatty acidsto help skin repair itself.Our editor with combination and eczema-prone skin gave this ceramide lotion a nearly perfect rating. Itspreads easily, absorbs quickly, and leaves skin feeling more hydrated and nourished. It also helped soothe and soften our eczema-prone editor’s dry patches.Keep in MindSince it’s a lotion, it won’t moisturize as intensely as a cream, but depending on your skin type, that might be what’s right for you. We also found the texture slightly runny, but it left our editor’s skin looking like glass, so we can’t complain too much.PHOTO: Verywell Health / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: Verywell Health / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: Verywell Health / Jessica Juliao
Best for Combination SkinAESTURA ATOBARRIER365 LotionPHOTO: Amazon$32 at Amazon
Best for Combination SkinAESTURA ATOBARRIER365 Lotion
Best for Combination Skin
AESTURA ATOBARRIER365 Lotion
PHOTO: Amazon
$32 at Amazon
ProsBudget-friendlySpreads easilyLightweightConsIt’s a lotion, not a creamSlightly runny
ProsBudget-friendlySpreads easilyLightweight
Budget-friendly
Spreads easily
Lightweight
ConsIt’s a lotion, not a creamSlightly runny
It’s a lotion, not a cream
Slightly runny
Size:5.07 fl. oz |Ceramide Type:Not listed |Key Ingredients:Ceramides, squalane, glycerin |Skin Type:Dry, sensitive, combination
Ceramide moisturizers tend to have athicker, richer consistency, anddry skin typessoak it up. But for those with oily or combination skin, a lighter lotion does the trick without feeling greasy or heavy.Gabriela Soza, MD, FAAD, a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist, recommends this moisturizer for many skin types since it containsceramides, cholesterol, andfatty acidsto help skin repair itself.
Our editor with combination and eczema-prone skin gave this ceramide lotion a nearly perfect rating. Itspreads easily, absorbs quickly, and leaves skin feeling more hydrated and nourished. It also helped soothe and soften our eczema-prone editor’s dry patches.
Since it’s a lotion, it won’t moisturize as intensely as a cream, but depending on your skin type, that might be what’s right for you. We also found the texture slightly runny, but it left our editor’s skin looking like glass, so we can’t complain too much.
PHOTO: Verywell Health / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: Verywell Health / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: Verywell Health / Jessica Juliao
Best for Glowy SkinShani Darden Hydration Peptide CreamPHOTO: AmazonView on Shanidarden.com$60 at Violet Grey$60 at SephoraProsFeels weightless on skinOil-free formulaIncreases firmnessConsMay not be suitable for sensitive skinPriceyKey Specs:Size:2.5 oz |Ceramide Type:Ceramide NG |Key Ingredients:Ceramide NG, peptides, squalane |Skin Type:Normal, dry, combination, oilyWhy We Recommend ItWhen we asked dermatologists for their top picks, this peptide cream from Shani Darden came up multiple times. It contains a nice blend ofactives, humectants, and emollientsthat pull water into the skin and maintain its moisture levels, explains Yadav.Its consistency is somewhere between thick and lightweight, and our editor with dry, dehydrated skin was pleasantly surprised at this cream’s performance. Once applied, itfeels weightless, so it should make for a smooth base layer under makeup. Skin drinks it up immediately, and after weeks of testing, it left our editor’s dry skin feeling hydrated and looking glowy.Keep in MindActive ingredients like niacinamide and lactic acid, which appear in this cream, tend to cause irritation in some skin types. If you have sensitive skin, performing a patch test first is always a good idea.PHOTO: Verywell Health / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: Verywell Health / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: Verywell Health / Jessica Juliao
Best for Glowy SkinShani Darden Hydration Peptide CreamPHOTO: AmazonView on Shanidarden.com$60 at Violet Grey$60 at Sephora
Best for Glowy SkinShani Darden Hydration Peptide Cream
Best for Glowy Skin
Shani Darden Hydration Peptide Cream
View on Shanidarden.com$60 at Violet Grey$60 at Sephora
ProsFeels weightless on skinOil-free formulaIncreases firmnessConsMay not be suitable for sensitive skinPricey
ProsFeels weightless on skinOil-free formulaIncreases firmness
Feels weightless on skin
Oil-free formula
Increases firmness
ConsMay not be suitable for sensitive skinPricey
May not be suitable for sensitive skin
Pricey
Size:2.5 oz |Ceramide Type:Ceramide NG |Key Ingredients:Ceramide NG, peptides, squalane |Skin Type:Normal, dry, combination, oily
When we asked dermatologists for their top picks, this peptide cream from Shani Darden came up multiple times. It contains a nice blend ofactives, humectants, and emollientsthat pull water into the skin and maintain its moisture levels, explains Yadav.
Its consistency is somewhere between thick and lightweight, and our editor with dry, dehydrated skin was pleasantly surprised at this cream’s performance. Once applied, itfeels weightless, so it should make for a smooth base layer under makeup. Skin drinks it up immediately, and after weeks of testing, it left our editor’s dry skin feeling hydrated and looking glowy.
Active ingredients like niacinamide and lactic acid, which appear in this cream, tend to cause irritation in some skin types. If you have sensitive skin, performing a patch test first is always a good idea.
Best Lightweightbelif The True Cream Aqua BombPHOTO: Amazon$22 at Sephora$38 at Macy’s$38$16 at Kohls.comProsFeels cool on the skinDoesn’t leave a greasy sheenAbsorbs quicklyConsContains naturally derived fragranceLeaves a slight residueKey Specs:Size:1.68 oz |Ceramide Type:Ceramide 3 |Key Ingredients:Ceramide 3, glycerin, lady’s mantle |Skin Type:Normal, dry, combination, oilyWhy We Recommend ItA gel cream like this one is ideal for those with oily skin or for times that call for alightweight moisturizer, such as during summer days, explains Yadav. Despite itslighter consistency, it still packs amoisturizing punchwith powerhouse ingredients likeceramidesandsqualane, which help prevent moisture loss, she adds.When we put it to the test, we noticed animmediate differencein skin hydration. It goes on smoothly and we liked that it feltcoolingon the skin. While it left a slight residue, it was worth it for the uptick in hydration.Keep in MindOur only gripe is that it contains fragrance and even has an unnatural blue color, which was a turn-off for our editor, who prefers more natural formulas.PHOTO: Verywell Health / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: Verywell Health / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: Verywell Health / Jessica Juliao
Best Lightweightbelif The True Cream Aqua BombPHOTO: Amazon$22 at Sephora$38 at Macy’s$38$16 at Kohls.com
Best Lightweightbelif The True Cream Aqua Bomb
Best Lightweight
belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb
$22 at Sephora$38 at Macy’s$38$16 at Kohls.com
ProsFeels cool on the skinDoesn’t leave a greasy sheenAbsorbs quicklyConsContains naturally derived fragranceLeaves a slight residue
ProsFeels cool on the skinDoesn’t leave a greasy sheenAbsorbs quickly
Feels cool on the skin
Doesn’t leave a greasy sheen
ConsContains naturally derived fragranceLeaves a slight residue
Contains naturally derived fragrance
Leaves a slight residue
Size:1.68 oz |Ceramide Type:Ceramide 3 |Key Ingredients:Ceramide 3, glycerin, lady’s mantle |Skin Type:Normal, dry, combination, oily
A gel cream like this one is ideal for those with oily skin or for times that call for alightweight moisturizer, such as during summer days, explains Yadav. Despite itslighter consistency, it still packs amoisturizing punchwith powerhouse ingredients likeceramidesandsqualane, which help prevent moisture loss, she adds.
When we put it to the test, we noticed animmediate differencein skin hydration. It goes on smoothly and we liked that it feltcoolingon the skin. While it left a slight residue, it was worth it for the uptick in hydration.
Our only gripe is that it contains fragrance and even has an unnatural blue color, which was a turn-off for our editor, who prefers more natural formulas.
Best for Melanin-Rich SkinEadem Cloud Cushion Plush MoisturizerPHOTO: SephoraView on Eadem.co$58 at Sephora
Best for Melanin-Rich SkinEadem Cloud Cushion Plush Moisturizer
Best for Melanin-Rich Skin
Eadem Cloud Cushion Plush Moisturizer
PHOTO: Sephora
View on Eadem.co$58 at Sephora
ProsTailored to melanin-rich skinContains antioxidants for brightnessIncreases firmnessConsCan leave skin looking shinySlightly tacky
ProsTailored to melanin-rich skinContains antioxidants for brightnessIncreases firmness
Tailored to melanin-rich skin
Contains antioxidants for brightness
ConsCan leave skin looking shinySlightly tacky
Slightly tacky
Size:1.69 oz |Ceramide Type:Ceramides AP, EOP, NP |Key Ingredients:Ceramides, peptides, niacinamide |Skin Type:Normal, dry, combination, oily
We found that most ceramide moisturizers contain one or two types of ceramides, but this onecontains three—ceramidesAP, EOP, and NP (the same trio as our top pick). These three ceramides work together synergistically in this thick cream tomoisturizeand protect the skin barrier, says Oliver.
This product can leave skin looking fairly shiny and may feel tacky to the touch.
PHOTO: Verywell Health / Jessica JuliaoPHOTO: Verywell Health / Jessica Juliao
We spoke to the following experts:
Frequently Asked QuestionsCeraVe famously uses ceramides in its skin care products, but ceramides aren’t exclusive to the brand. Many brands also use ceramides in their formulas to increase moisture in the skin and support skin barrier function.
CeraVe famously uses ceramides in its skin care products, but ceramides aren’t exclusive to the brand. Many brands also use ceramides in their formulas to increase moisture in the skin and support skin barrier function.
Lacey Muinosis a wellness writer who specializes in skin care and skin health. After interviewing dozens of dermatologists throughout her career, she has based her personal skin care routine around moisturizing ingredients that support skin barrier function. Along with niacinamide, vitamin C, and squalane, ceramides are one of her favorite active ingredients. Her favorite serum and moisturizer both contain ceramides, which she attributes to keeping her combination skin balanced.
3 SourcesVerywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Crowther JM. Understanding humectant behaviour through their water-holding properties.Int J Cosmet Sci. 2021;43(5):601-609.Ho, V. P. Y., Ma, E., Liew, H. M., Ng, M. S. Y., & Koh, M. J. A. (2020). Comparing the potential for irritation of a ceramide-based moisturizer with a urea-based moisturizer for pediatric atopic dermatitis.Dermatology and Therapy,10(4), 807. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13555-020-00388-6How to test skin care products. (n.d.). Retrieved November 13, 2024, from https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/prevent-skin-problems/test-skin-care-products
3 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Crowther JM. Understanding humectant behaviour through their water-holding properties.Int J Cosmet Sci. 2021;43(5):601-609.Ho, V. P. Y., Ma, E., Liew, H. M., Ng, M. S. Y., & Koh, M. J. A. (2020). Comparing the potential for irritation of a ceramide-based moisturizer with a urea-based moisturizer for pediatric atopic dermatitis.Dermatology and Therapy,10(4), 807. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13555-020-00388-6How to test skin care products. (n.d.). Retrieved November 13, 2024, from https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/prevent-skin-problems/test-skin-care-products
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
Crowther JM. Understanding humectant behaviour through their water-holding properties.Int J Cosmet Sci. 2021;43(5):601-609.Ho, V. P. Y., Ma, E., Liew, H. M., Ng, M. S. Y., & Koh, M. J. A. (2020). Comparing the potential for irritation of a ceramide-based moisturizer with a urea-based moisturizer for pediatric atopic dermatitis.Dermatology and Therapy,10(4), 807. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13555-020-00388-6How to test skin care products. (n.d.). Retrieved November 13, 2024, from https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/prevent-skin-problems/test-skin-care-products
Crowther JM. Understanding humectant behaviour through their water-holding properties.Int J Cosmet Sci. 2021;43(5):601-609.
Ho, V. P. Y., Ma, E., Liew, H. M., Ng, M. S. Y., & Koh, M. J. A. (2020). Comparing the potential for irritation of a ceramide-based moisturizer with a urea-based moisturizer for pediatric atopic dermatitis.Dermatology and Therapy,10(4), 807. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13555-020-00388-6
How to test skin care products. (n.d.). Retrieved November 13, 2024, from https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/prevent-skin-problems/test-skin-care-products
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