Drugstore moisturizer is more affordable, but that doesn’t mean it has to feel cheap. When it comes to shopping for face creams, you’ll see that many drugstore products have similar ingredients to the high-end stuff anyway. That’s why we set out to find the best drugstore moisturizers and assembled four Underscored editors to add them to their current skin care routines. After re-testing previous winners and trying out dermatologist-backed formulas, we narrowed it down to two standout moisturizers.
Now re-tested by our team three times, this drugstore face cream remains our all-around favorite moisturizer. Suitable for all skin types, it has a formula that is pleasant to apply, absorbs well and keeps skin hydrated.
This moisturizer feels like a far more expensive product, but that’s not the only reason we love it. It provides a gentle dose of retinol for line-smoothing without the irritation that can come with other retinol use. The cream also provides a nice base for makeup and feels equally great as a nighttime moisturizer.
Whether tested against other drugstore products or a $200 moisturizer, Olay’s classic red jar has won us over time after time. Senior testing editor Rick Stella, who has dry and sensitive skin, tried it out for this article and found that the lightweight formula kept his skin hydrated exceptionally well for the price.
Stella said the face cream applied easily and absorbed well, without any residue left behind — this aligns with other editors’ experiences in past testing too. The cream is geared for anti-aging, with niacinamide (vitamin B3) and antioxidants to help smooth fine lines and plump the skin with regular use. It also features hyaluronic acid and glycerin, which provide immediate hydration. According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Alexis Stephens, this combination of moisturizing and firming ingredients makes it a great choice for mature skin.
“This has a noticeable moisturizing effect on my skin that seemed to last most of the day,” Stella said. “Between applications, my skin felt hydrated and didn’t seem overly dry like it tends to get during the colder months in winter.” He also found the formula compatible with his sensitive skin, not causing any irritation. For those particular about fragrance, it comes in a scented and fragrance-free version.
With a reliable formula, hydrating results and an under-$30 price point, the Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream continues to prove why it’s an all-time classic.
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