Every product on this page was chosen by a Harper's BAZAAR editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
The 10 Best Ceramide Moisturizers for Baby-Soft Skin
From Dieux to CeraVe, we review the top-rated ceramide moisturizers at every price point.
There are some ingredients you just want in a moisturizer, regardless of your skin type or concerns, and ceramides fall in that category. "Ceramides are lipids that function as emollients: They soften the skin and fill in gaps between skin cells to strengthen the skin's moisture barrier," explains board-certified dermatologist Courtney Rubin. Generally speaking, you need your moisturizer to contain ceramides—and not all of them do.
Shop the Best Ceramide Moisturizers
To help uncover the best ceramide-rich moisturizers, we asked our roster of expert dermatologists to break down their favorite, most efficacious formulas. Then we ranked and reviewed them across different skin types and price points so you can find the best moisturizer for your routine. Find the 10 best ceramide moisturizers, ahead.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Designed to be used on face and body
- Non-comedogenic formula
Cons
- Some may prefer a pump of squeeze-tube component
The CeraVe brand is centered around ceramides—every single formula is ceramide-rich. This basic moisturizing cream specifically is an easy addition to any routine. It's a fragrance-free formula designed for normal to dry skin and comes at an affordable price point.
One reviewer says: "It is a thick consistency and makes my skin feel plump in a good way. I had really dry skin and didn't like the way a lot of moisturizers sat on my face. This one is versatile and I use it everywhere. My husband even prefers this over his lotion." -Mari P.
EADEM Cloud Cushion Plush Moisturizer with Ceramides + Peptides
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Recyclable packaging
- Developed with skin of color in mind
Cons
- Over $50
Developed with Eadem's patented Smart Melanin™ Technology, the Cloud Cushion Moisturizer is infused with pigment-blocking peptides (to treat dark spots and hyperpigmentation) and ceramides to restore the skin barrier and prevent dehydration and dullness.
One reviewer says: "They promised cloud-like cushioning and they delivered! I love this as the last layer in my nighttime skincare routine because it sinks beautifully into my oily skin and locks my serums in place. It feels so comfortable and leaves me feeling dewy. My skin is so soft in the morning, too!" -Carmen F.
Pros
- Award-winning formula
- Recyclable aluminum packaging with squeeze key
Cons
- Nearly $50
For softer skin, Dieux's Instant Angel Moisturizer is a foolproof pick. It's rich in texture due to its lipid ceramide complex, but melts into your skin instantly, adding hydration and softening skin over time. Not for nothing, the aluminum tube is chic and eco-friendly.
One reviewer says: "I am in love with this moisturizer. My face gets so irritated if I run out and don't have a backup on hand. I won't be making that mistake again! -Leah B.
Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Cream
Pros
- Contains 5 forms of complex ceramides
- Dermatologist-tested formula
Cons
- Nearly $50
This is a thicker cream, ideal for serious skin barrier support (for example, it may be an effective treatment for eczema or psoriasis), or a great option for preventing dry, chapped skin come colder weather.
One reviewer says: "I have psoriasis [that] flared on my face for a year. I have tried everything you can imagine and this is the only thing that has actually cleared me. It's magic." -Charlotte
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Fragrance-free
- Paraben-free formula
Cons
- Plastic tube and cap are not recyclable
If you have dry, reactive skin and you're looking for a moisturizer, chances are your dermatologist will recommend Vanicream. It's a simple daily moisturizer made with ceramides and hyaluronic acid, free of fragrance, dyes, and parabens, ideal for very sensitive or eczema-prone skin.
One reviewer says: "This has been a lifesaver for me. I have super reactive clog-prone skin, and can never find a moisturizer that hydrates well enough. This is the perfect formula (no clogging ingredients or coconut as far as I can tell) and it has worked so well to help my parched skin." -Grace
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Award-winning formula
Cons
- Over $50
Dermatologists love the SkinFix brand for its clinical-grade skin barrier benefits. This cream specifically contains a robust blend of ceramides, vitamins, peptides, and hydrating glycerin to strengthen the skin barrier, making it soft and plump.
One reviewer says: "I love that this product keeps my skin well-hydrated and protected. I love the pump, so I don't overuse the product. It is smooth and goes on easily while absorbing quickly. The scent is minimal which I love. I will be repurchasing. -Lauryn R.
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Award-winning formula
Cons
- Over $150
This souped-up moisturizer does it all: It restores fats and lipids in the skin barrier and improves texture, fullness, and radiance.
One reviewer says: "This moisturizer is like nothing else I’ve ever used! It brings life back to my face keeping it hydrated and looking and feeling wonderful. [It's an] amazing product for my 71-year-old skin. Nothing compares. -Taylor
Pros
- Offers 24-hour hydration
- Dermatologist-developed formula
- Refillable
Cons
- Fragrance-free but does contain a natural scent
This lightweight ceramide lotion hydrates skin for 24 hours and absorbs quickly, making it great for layering under sunscreen and makeup.
One reviewer says: "Obsessed with this moisturizer. It’s lightweight and perfect for underneath my makeup. It’s hydration that lasts and absolutely a new staple in my routine." -Giliann
Pros
- Clinically proven to improve skin hydration for 72 hours
- Rich texture with fast absorbtion
Cons
- Over $100
While most of these ceramide moisturizers can be used morning and night, you might be after a heavier cream to slather on before bed. This one by Lancôme is great for restoring the skin's moisture barrier by locking in hydration, making skin softer.
One reviewer says: "Génifique is a beautiful overnight cream! It makes your skin smooth and soft! You wake up feeling pretty. I just love it!" -Tishy
Pros
- Phthalate-free formula
- Plastic neutral packaging
Cons
- Over $60
One of the top-rated ceramide moisturizers at Sephora, Sunday Riley's Moisturizing Cream is rich but lightweight, ideal for normal to dry skin. Ceramides and vitamin F help strengthen the skin barrier, while beetroot and coconut address dehydration and moisturization. Many reviewers agree that the cream leaves their skin "baby-soft."
One reviewer says: "I have combination skin, but it gets very dry in certain areas and this cream is thick and very moisturizing. It leaves my skin feeling so hydrated — a little goes a long way. This is my new go-to moisturizer. I also love the way it smells!" -Hanna M.
Meet the Experts
• Courtney Rubin, M.D., F.A.A.D., is a board-certified dermatologist and the co-founder and chief medical officer of Fig.1 Beauty.
• Loretta Ciraldo, M.D., F.A.A.D., is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Dr. Loretta Skincare.
• Melissa Doft, M.D., is a board-certified plastic surgeon based in New York.
What is a ceramide moisturizer?
A ceramide moisturizer, simply put, is a moisturizer with ceramides in it. "Ceramides are a class of naturally-occurring healthy skin oils that trap in moisture and give skin its supple, smooth texture and lustrous glow," explains Ciraldo. While ceramides act as a key component in some moisturizers, many don't have them. "Not all moisturizers are formulated with ceramides, so it's important to read the ingredients listed on the label," adds Doft.
Which is better, ceramides or hyaluronic acid ?
Ceramides and hyaluronic acid serve different functions in a moisturizer. While ceramides function as emollients, strengthening the skin's barrier and buffering it from damage, "hyaluronic acid functions as a humectant, binding water and hydrating the surface of the skin," explains Rubin. "A well-formulated moisturizer will have a combination of humectants and emollients."
Another key benefit of ceramides is that they combine well with all other skincare ingredients.
Why trust Harper's Bazaar?
For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion and beauty resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in beauty by working with the world’s leading authorities in dermatology, plastic surgery, cosmetics, skincare, haircare, and fragrance. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of beauty editors and industry experts.
Megan Decker is a beauty and lifestyle writer and editor, and the former beauty editor at Refinery29, where she oversaw the site’s beauty trend coverage. In addition to regularly contributing to Harper's Bazaar, she also writes for Refinery29, Byrdie, PS, various newsletters, and other publications. She lives on the Upper East Side and you can often find her reading, picnicking, or strolling in Central Park.
Acne or Fine Lines? You Need a Retinol Cream
The Best Spring 2025 Makeup Trends
The 12 Best Retinol Eye Creams
The 10 Best Pedicure Colors of 2024
