Moisturizers are an underrated way to nourish your complexion, often containing a range of skin-loving ingredients in one product, and are more effective 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. “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,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marisa Garshick, M.D. “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 present as dehydration, dullness, and consistent skin irritation. Integrating a ceramide moisturizer into your routine is the best way to keep your barrier (and skin) healthy.
We researched the best ceramide moisturizers, selecting from hundreds of products. We evaluated each pick based on its formula, consistency, and feel on the skin, and tested a few products ourselves to provide firsthand insights. After consulting two dermatologists, we landed on these top moisturizers below.
What We Like
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Comes with a separate applicator for hygienic application
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Feels lightweight on the skin but deeply hydrates
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Boosts radiance and treats dark spots
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, which gets very dry after showering. 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.
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Credit: Byrdie
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Credit: Byrdie
What We Like
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Smooths fine lines and wrinkles at a wallet-friendly price
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Soft, luxurious consistency
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Gives the skin a luminous glow
Key Ingredients: Ceramides, shea butter | Size: 1.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Finding a high-quality moisturizer under $20 can be challenging, but this ceramide cream from affordable brand The Inkey List performs just as well as many high-end options. It has a rich, luxurious texture but sinks into the skin quickly and doesn’t leave a greasy residue. Shea butter and ceramides work together to add bounce to the complexion so that wrinkles and other signs of aging look visibly lifted. The result is skin that looks dewy and smooth.
What We Like
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Soothes and hydrates dry, flaky skin
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Strengthens the skin barrier
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Can be used on the face and body
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 can quickly calm inflamed skin without feeling heavy or leaving a residue.
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Credit: Byrdie
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Credit: Byrdie
Adelaide Giesey, beauty editor with dry/sensitive skin (not shown): “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, so it is my go-to prep before any complexion products. Keeping this cream in my daily routine has become a no-brainer.”
Key Ingredients: Ceramide NP, centella asiatica, glycerin | Size: 2.82 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes
This moisturizer from Cosrx has a rich balm-like 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 I could use that didn’t result in little whiteheads across my complexion. While 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 the skin without irritation.
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.
What We Like
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Contains multiple ingredients to reinforce the skin barrier
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Boosts elasticity in the skin
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Adds long-lasting hydration
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 slightly heavy when first applied, but it absorbs into the skin quickly. Aside from supporting the barrier, it also has glycerin, shea butter, and vitamin E to add moisture to the skin.
What We Like
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Greatly increases the moisture levels in the skin
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Plumps and leaves the complexion smooth
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Absorbs quickly and doesn’t leave a residue
Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, ceramide NP | Size: 1.69 oz | Cruelty-Free: No
Belif’s Aqua Bomb has been popular among beauty editors and enthusiasts alike for its light-as-air gel-cream formula, which efficiently hydrates even 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 can plump up the skin to reduce the appearance of fine lines with continued use.
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Alyssa Kaplan, editor with oily skin: “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.”
What We Like
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Formulated with a variety of ceramides
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Reduces skin discomfort and irritation
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Leaves the skin soft and hydrated without feeling sticky
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Great value for the price
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. It contains ingredients that soothe and hydrate all skin types, including ginseng, glycerin, and probiotics. This is a great pick for those dealing with dry patches and itchy skin, as it can 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).
What We Like
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Promotes an even, smooth skin texture
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Formulated with 2% ceramides and fatty acids to balance the complexion
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Antioxidant-rich to protect against free radicals
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 (including anti-aging ones), this one from SkinCeuticals has you covered. It’s packed with vitamins and antioxidants to protect the skin from free radical damage, boost elasticity, and reduce the appearance of 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 feels soothing and doesn’t make the skin oily. We especially love this formula for those consistently using strong actives or retinol, as it keeps the skin feeling ultra-nourished and comfortable.
Hallie Gould, editor in chief (not shown): “This is my holy grail moisturizer, and it’s up there on the list of my absolute favorite skincare products of all time. It feels velvety and moisturizing and plumps my skin on contact. It also smells faintly of lavender—which is a delight before bedtime.”
What We Like
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Hydrating without leaving the skin feeling sticky
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Suitable for all skin types, even very sensitive
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Can be also used on the face
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 without feeling sticky once applied. That 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.
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 kinds 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.
What We Like
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Won’t irritate acne-prone or sensitive skin types
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Promotes firm and plump skin
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Strengthens the skin barrier
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 strengthen your skin’s barrier without feeling heavy. Coming in a convenient pump bottle, this formula contains multiple types of ceramides and peptides to protect the skin 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.
What We Like
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Soothes and nourishes dry skin
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Works to lift wrinkles and fine lines
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Leaves the skin plump and glowy
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 skin barrier—so you’ll have fewer instances of sensitivity in the future. It combines peptides, lipids, and plant-based ceramides to heal and condition the skin from the inside out. Also included in the formula are squalane, sodium hyaluronate, and vitamin E to moisturize and keep the skin looking glowy and radiant.
My favorite thing about this cream is that it absorbs quickly, making the skin feel soft and smooth immediately. While it’s rich, it feels lightweight and comfortable on the skin. It 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.
What to Look for in a Ceramide Moisturizer
- Skin Type: According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Nazanin Saedi, M.D., FAAD, 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 choosing a lighter, noncomedogenic formula if you have oily or acne-prone skin, as well as 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 benefit your skin type and skincare goals. Dr. Garshick notes that emollients (such as squalane and shea butter) and humectants (such as hyaluronic acid and glycerin) are commonly found in many ceramide moisturizer formulas, which can enhance the effects of the ingredient by drawing in moisture, calming inflammation, and maintaining skin health.
- Packaging: Most moisturizers come in a pot, which can be easily contaminated if your fingers aren’t clean when using the product. We recommend ones with a little spatula or applicator, or ones that come in a squeeze tube, to prevent bacteria from growing.
FAQ
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According to Dr. Garshick, the majority of formulas contain ceramides that closely mimic those present in the skin, such as ceramide NP, ceramide EOP, and ceramide AP.
These are different classifications of ceramides that are naturally found in the outer layers of the skin. Still, they all have the same effect—they work to reinforce the skin barrier and maintain a healthy and hydrated complexion.
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Yes, and you should use one every day if you have a compromised skin barrier. Consistent use can help protect the skin from external aggressors, preventing irritation and dryness that can occur frequently. If that sounds like you, you definitely should add a ceramide moisturizer to your routine.
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Dr. Garshick says that ceramides can be mixed with any ingredient. Still, they’re especially beneficial when paired with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and anti-inflammatory ingredients like niacinamide, as they have similar effects and can work stronger together. It can also be used in conjunction with strong actives, such as retinol and exfoliating acids, to help keep irritation at bay.
Meet Our Experts
To write this article, we 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, including 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.
Why Trust Byrdie
Shannon Stubbs is an experienced beauty writer with over six years of experience in the field. 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 identify the best recommendations for her 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.
