The Best Drugstore Moisturizers to Give Your Skin a Youthful Glow This Winter
With results rivaling those of expensive boutique creams, these drugstore moisturizers are a worthy addition to your skincare routine.
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Though some of us may have preemptively put out our spring decorations (it’s me, I’m “some of us”), we can’t deny that we’re still in the beginning of true winter weather. Whether your temperatures are dipping below zero or 50 degrees, a drop in temperature can severely affect your skin leaving you dry, flaky, and crusty, especially if you're running in the winter air.
Drinking enough water and investing in a good humidifier can definitely help keep your skin from becoming desert-like, one of the easiest ways to care for your skin is with an inexpensive drugstore moisturizer. Skincare products often cost a pretty penny, but there are plenty of hidden gems out there that you can find in your local drugstore that give boutique brands a run for their money.
We're saving you a trip to the shop with these recommendations for the best drugstore moisturizers to keep your skin hydrated and glowing all through winter.
Need more winter running essentials? Check out our favorite hats, jackets, and thermal socks for running through the chilly weather.
What to Consider
Skin Type
Not every product works for everyone, especially because we all have different skin. To find the best moisturizer for you, consider your skin texture, oil production, and sensitivity. Those with dry skin can opt for something thicker with more oil to add hydration, whereas folks with oily skin should opt for something lighter weight that will soak in, but not sit on top of the skin. If you suffer from acne, only choose non-comedogenic products, a.k.a. non-pore clogging. A gel moisturizer is also a great option for acne sufferers, as it soaks in quickly and doesn't leave residue.
Mineral Oil
Though mineral oil has been vilified as a skincare ingredient in the past, it's actually completely safe when used correctly—i.e. externally. Mineral oil is non-comedogenic and instead of soaking into the skin, it sits on top to lock in water and lighter products like serums and toners. This is one of the best products to use in winter as it helps create a barrier between the skin and outside air. If you're about to head out for a run, opt for a thin application of your mineral oil products or choose a light moisturizer so you can sweat freely, then lather up with mineral oil products to lock in moisture when you get home.
Seasonal Changes
You don't need to switch out your entire skincare routine in the winter, but the addition of a heavier moisturizer can help keep your skin feeling soft without throwing it for an acne-promoting loop. If you do decide to integrate a new product, make sure to patch test it before fully sending it all over your face. Remember to keep both your skin type and the climate outside in mind when choosing a new product, and don't forget to top it off with SPF even when the snow clouds come out.
How We Selected
As someone that suffers from dry skin and eczema year-round, I consider myself a bit of a moisturizer connoisseur. These are all products I have used and loved over the years for their ability to keep my skin feeling baby-smooth and super hydrated—even in the coldest, driest months. But you don't just have to take it from me—I also researched reviews from experts like the journalists at Byrdie, Allure, and Harper's Bazaar. I considered what real customers had to say about the products and sifted through reviews on sites like Amazon to determine the best drugstore moisturizers of 2023.
Pros
- Incredibly affordable
- Thick and moisturizing but not greasy
Cons
- Some may not care for fragrance
This formula is more than 100 years old and it's stuck around for a reason. With similar ingredients to the famed La Mer cream, it gives your skin an incredibly plump, hydrated, and moisturized look for a fraction of the cost.
It is lightly fragranced with a pleasant rose scent, and is great for day and night—especially for those with super dry skin.
Key Specs
| Active Ingredients | Provitamin B5, mineral oil, petroleum, lanolin |
| Size | 16 oz. |
| Skin Type | Dry to very dry |
Weleda Skin Food Original Ultra-Rich Body Cream
Pros
- Natural ingredients
- Leaves skin dewy and hydrated
Cons
- Feels a bit greasy on face
If you're after natural ingredients and a super glowy look, you will love this Weleda cream. It has a super thick consistency so it works best to warm up in hands and firmly press instead of rub into the face. It's the perfect remedy after a chilly run through biting air.
It's made with natural oils and extracts which help to hydrate and lock moisture into the skin. It also has a fresh, herbal scent that will make you want to reapply.
Key Specs
| Active Ingredients | Sweet almond oil, sunflower oil, chamomile, rosemary, pansy |
| Size | 2.5 oz. |
| Skin Type | Dry to very dry |
CeraVe Body and Face Moisturizer for Dry Skin
Pros
- Lightweight and soaks in quickly
- Fragrance-free for sensitive skin
Cons
- May not be hydrating enough for super dry skin
This cream has all the moisturizing power without the greasy finish. It quickly soaks into skin and doesn't leave behind a residue. The formula helps to not only moisturize, but also repair the skin barrier and prevent further damage.
This drugstore find is fragrance-free, making it a great choice for sensitive skin, and is specifically good for those that struggle with eczema. Since it's so lightweight, this is a good pick if you need quick moisture right before a run.
Key Specs
| Active Ingredients | Ceramides, hyaluronic acid |
| Size | 19 oz. |
| Skin Type | Normal to dry |
Versed Dew Point Moisturizing Gel-Cream
Pros
- Lightweight and absorbs quickly
- Works great as a makeup primer
Cons
- Too lightweight for dry skin
If you already have oily skin, you probably won't do well with a thick, heavy, oil-based cream. This one is a gel-based moisturizer, so it goes on clear and quickly soaks into skin—a great pick if you do your skincare routine right before your workouts.
Ingredients like aloe leaf juice and green tea help to hydrate and brighten without harmful ingredients like parabens, silicones, sulfates, or artificial fragrance. This also makes a great primer since it leaves the face with a slight grip after applying.
Key Specs
| Active Ingredients | Aloe leaf juice, green tea extract |
| Size | 2 oz. |
| Skin Type | Normal to oily |
Vanicream Moisturizing Skin Cream
Pros
- Simple ingredients are gentle on skin
- Very thick and moisturizing
Cons
- Some find the scent off-putting despite no fragrance
If you have particularly sensitive skin it can be difficult to find a cream that will moisturize effectively without irritating it. This one is easy to spread, non-greasy, and non-comedogenic which means it won’t clog pores.
It’s also free of fragrance, dyes, parabens, and other common irritants. The pump on top also keeps this drugstore moisturizer hygienic since you don’t have to stick your fingers into the product.
Key Specs
| Active Ingredients | Ceramides petrolatum |
| Size | 16 oz. |
| Skin Type | Normal to dry |
Before joining Runner's World, Gabrielle Hondorp spent 6 years in running retail (she has tested top gear from shoes, to watches, to rain jackets which has expanded her expertise—and her closets); she specializes in health and wellness, and is an expert on running gear from head-to-toe. Gabi began her journalism career as a Digital Editorial Fellow for Runner’s World and Bicycling Magazine, and has since advanced to a Runner's World Editor specializing in commerce. She has a double degree in English and Media and Communication from Muhlenberg College where she also ran cross country and track.
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