Best Moisturisers for Dry Skin UK (2025 Update)
Dry skin can be frustrating it feels tight, flaky, and uncomfortable no matter how much cream you use. The key to fixing it is finding a moisturiser that not only hydrates but also strengthens your skin’s barrier.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up the best moisturisers for dry skin available in the UK for 2025. Whether you want something affordable and effective, dermatologist-approved, or made from natural ingredients, these creams will help restore comfort and long-lasting hydration.
⭐ Product Review 1: CeraVe Moisturising Cream
Best for: Everyday use and long-lasting hydration
CeraVe has become one of the UK’s most trusted skincare brands, and their Moisturising Cream is a go-to option for dry and sensitive skin.
Why It Works
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Hyaluronic Acid → helps the skin retain water and stay hydrated.
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Ceramides (1, 3 & 6-II) → restore the skin’s natural barrier and protect against moisture loss.
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Non-comedogenic & fragrance-free → safe for sensitive and eczema-prone skin.
Verdict
If you want a reliable, dermatologist-approved cream that delivers long-lasting hydration, CeraVe Moisturising Cream is hard to beat. It’s simple, effective, and recommended by skincare professionals worldwide.
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⭐ 2. Aveeno Daily Moisturising Lotion
Best for: Sensitive skin and everyday relief
Aveeno’s Daily Moisturising Lotion is a classic go-to for anyone with dry or sensitive skin. Its key ingredient, colloidal oatmeal, helps to soothe irritation and restore the skin’s natural balance.
Why It Works
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Formulated with prebiotic oat to support the skin’s microbiome.
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Fragrance-free and gentle enough for daily use.
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Lightweight texture that absorbs quickly.
Verdict
Perfect if you want a reliable, non-greasy moisturiser that keeps dry skin soft all day.
⭐ 3. La Roche-Posay Lipikar Balm AP+M
Best for: Very dry or eczema-prone skin
If your dryness borders on eczema, this is one of the best moisturisers for dry skin recommended by dermatologists. It’s enriched with shea butter, niacinamide, and prebiotic Aqua Posae Filiformis, which help restore and maintain the skin barrier.
Why It Works
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Clinically tested for sensitive and eczema-prone skin.
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Instantly soothes tightness and irritation.
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Suitable for both adults and children.
Verdict
A powerful, fragrance-free formula that delivers serious hydration and relief for very dry skin.
⭐ 4. E45 Cream
Best for: Budget-friendly hydration
A trusted British brand for generations, E45 Cream remains one of the most popular and affordable options on the market. It’s simple, fragrance-free, and dermatologist-tested.
Why It Works
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Rich emollient base helps soften rough, flaky skin.
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Quickly absorbed without greasiness.
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Suitable for face and body.
Verdict
If you want an inexpensive moisturiser that gets the job done, E45 is one of the best moisturisers for dry skin you can find in the UK.
⭐ 5. Clinique Moisture Surge 100H Auto-Replenishing Hydrator
Best for: Lightweight luxury and deep hydration
Clinique’s Moisture Surge is perfect for those who want luxury skincare without heaviness. It provides 100 hours of hydration thanks to its aloe bio-ferment and hyaluronic acid complex.
Why It Works
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Lightweight gel-cream texture absorbs fast.
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Provides long-lasting hydration for up to 100 hours.
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Oil-free and suitable for sensitive skin.
Verdict
An excellent choice if you want a lightweight moisturiser that still delivers serious hydration ideal for layering under makeup or during summer months.
💧 Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Moisturiser for Dry Skin
1. Look for Barrier-Repair Ingredients
Ceramides, glycerin, and shea butter help strengthen your skin’s natural barrier, keeping moisture locked in.
2. Avoid Harsh Fragrances and Alcohol
These can irritate and dry out your skin further. Choose fragrance-free and hypoallergenic options whenever possible.
3. Consider Your Skin Type
If your skin is very dry, go for thicker creams or balms. If it’s dry but acne-prone, a lightweight gel-cream is better.
4. Don’t Forget Seasonal Changes
You may need a richer moisturiser in winter and a lighter one in summer.
❓ FAQ: Moisturisers for Dry Skin
Q: Can I use the same moisturiser for my face and body?
Yes, many of the best moisturisers for dry skin are suitable for both. However, facial skin is more delicate, so if you’re prone to breakouts, choose a non-comedogenic option.
Q: How often should I apply moisturiser?
Ideally twice daily after cleansing in the morning and at night. Reapply to problem areas as needed.
Q: Are natural moisturisers better?
Not necessarily. What matters most are the ingredients look for nourishing oils and barrier-strengthening elements like ceramides and glycerin.
✅ Conclusion
When it comes to finding the best moisturisers for dry skin, the right choice depends on your needs whether that’s a dermatologist-tested formula like La Roche-Posay Lipikar, a budget-friendly staple like E45, or a luxurious option like Clinique Moisture Surge.
All of these products are effective, widely available in the UK, and proven to relieve dryness and restore comfort.
👉 Want more skincare advice? Explore our Skincare Routine for Dry Skin guide to see how to use your moisturiser for the best results.
