The best moisturiser for dry skin to instantly hydrate

A deeply penetrating and replenishing skin repair cream that will save your dry skin. Weleda's Skin Food is just that: skin food. This lotion can be used on your entire body: elbows, feet, hands, face, legs... yep, you name it. Jam-packed with tonnes of rejuvenating ingredients, this cream will be your dry skin saviour. It's a well-respected cream in the world of film, TV, and fashion shows; it's loved by make-up artists and is perfect for a pre-make-up hydrating base, as well as a long-lasting skin protector.

Stand-out ingredients: Extracts of gentle viola tricolour, calendula and chamomile sit in an all-natural base of oils and beeswax.

Customer review: "I use this as a primer under foundation as my skin is prone to dryness. It's a rich cream, but you only need a pea-sized amount, and it blends in well. Great for dry patches anywhere and there's a lighter version if you find this too rich. I wouldn't be without it, and for the price, it's great value for money. Lots of natural ingredients, too."

Wave goodbye to tight and flaky skin with this extra-rich cream. This moisturiser's main focus is to soothe irritated skin whilst promising to eliminate the sensation of tightness and discomfort. Packed with a base of soothing thermal water and a heavy dose of glycerine, this is a go-to if you want a moisturiser that truly locks in moisture for as long as you need.

Stand-out ingredients: Glycerin and shea butter.

Customer review: "This is a really good price for how much you get, you only need a tiny amount as it’s a thick consistency. Skin feels a lot more hydrated and works well as a base under make up."

This is easily one of the best moisturisers for hydrating skin on a budget. This rich and simple moisturiser hydrates whilst avoiding congestion or irritation. It's perfect for nourishing dry patches whilst completely absorbing into the skin without leaving it greasy.

Stand-out ingredients: Amino acids, ceramides, fatty acids, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin.

Customer review: "I used this moisturiser on my face during winter months when my skin was dry and it really helped. Non-greasy and absorbs very quickly, a good base for make-up."

When it comes to caring for your main skin concerns, Ole Henriksen is the go-to brand. The range of moisturisers is tailored to care and treat your personal skin issues. The Strength Trainer Peptide Boost Moisturiser is one of the best barrier creams to strengthen and condition the skin and double the skin's natural moisture levels.

Stand-out ingredients: Vegan peptides, hyaluronic acid, vitamins E and B12, niacinamide, collagen and amino acids.

Our review: "This moisturiser works perfectly for my dry skin to instantly moisturise, leaving it looking super plump. I love to exfoliate my skin with acid so this moisturiser works to repair the natural barrier with ceramides which I've noticed has made a huge difference to my dryness. It sits beautifully under make-up but works harder at night to repair the skin as you sleep - would highly recommend!"

A personal favourite of ours (we swear by it.) This moisturiser from e.l.f is super nourishing and perfect for thirsty skin. This vegan and cruelty-free moisturiser intensely nourishes as it delves into every layer of the skin, leaving you feeling refreshed and truly cared for.

Stand-out ingredients: Aloe vera, jojoba oil, shea butter, cucumber antioxidants, grape, bilberry, and even vitamin E.

Customer review: "The best daily moisturiser for under makeup. Keeps my skin hydrated and does not ball up with other products. It's also great for my combination skin and keeps my oils at bay."

This is another super budget-friendly moisturiser, consisting of a nurturing formula that provides a vital hydration boost for dry and sensitive skin. It poses no risks of that greasy, oily feeling as this moisturiser is truly absorbent and very protective.

Stand-out ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, patented MVE technology, three essential ceramides.

Customer review: "I’m not sure if it’s meant for face or body but I’ve been using this on my face a love it. Very moisturising without being heavy or stick like some others, and a great price!"

This intensely hydrating cream has been featured on the likes of Khloe Kardashian's Instagram, so we know it's the real deal! If your skin is at its wits' end and is in need of rescuing, then this is the product for you. This unique cream has taken ceramides and blended with six African oils, whipping them up into a creamed soufflé, creating an airy lotion that ensures nourishing without feeling suffocated.

Stand-out ingredients: Marula oil, antioxidants and omegas, mongongo, vitamin C oils, baobab, Kalahari melon, and passion fruit.

Customer review: "This moisturiser is so rich and feels very hydrating on the skin. The packaging is so fun to use and easy to mix other products in with the moisturiser."