With a cost-of-living crisis in session and holiday gifting season approaching we're all looking for ways to save, so in true every-little-helps-style spirit, we bring you Grazia's edit of the best cheap moisturisers to shop now. Yes, it's tempting to splurge on a glitzy new launch - and there are plenty best moisturisers out there that are worth the spend - but we're here to tell you it is possible to cut back without compromising your skin.
While moisturisers are a key part of our skincare routine, your serum should be the hardest working product in your skincare routine. Whether you use a hyaluronic acid serum to hydrate, a vitamin C serum to brighten or a retinol serum to smooth and firm, if your serum is grafting, your moisturiser can all but kick back and relax. The real key is finding a moisturiser that makes your skin feel comfortable. There's no one-suits-all in the moisturiser world, and it can take time to hit on 'the one' for you.
Grazia's Best Cheap Moisturisers At A Glance:
Editor's Choice: The Ordinary Natural Moisturising Factors , + HA, £9.90 on LookFantastic
Best cheap moisturiser for dry skin: Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré Multi-Purpose Moisturiser, £11.89. on LookFantastic
Best cheap night-time moisturiser: CeraVe PM Facial Moisturising Cream, £13 on Cult Beauty
If your skin is sensitive, you'll likely be on the lookout for something that's fragrance-free and soothing. If your skin is on the naturally dewy side you'll be looking out for 'lightweight' on the label, and if your skin is dry, thick, creamy formulas are the order of the day. For something with a little bit of coverage, tinted moisturisers are here to help provide hydration, as well as that extra it of glow. And the good news is that you can shop all of the above on a budget.
Need a steer? Read through the Grazia beauty team's favourite cheap moisturiser recommendations, the ones they actually use. From the sensitive-skin-friendly lotion to the lightweight mini must-have, you can shop them all below:
SHOP: The Grazia Beauty Team's Favourite Cheap Moisturisers
Editor's Choice
www.lookfantastic.com
Description
If you're a skincare fanatic, chances are you will know - and love - The Ordinary's moisturiser.
Pros
- Lightweight, non-greasy texture
- Fragrance-free
- Great for wearing under make-up
Cons
- Not ideal for very dry skin
Best cheap moisturiser for sensitive skin
www.lookfantastic.com
Description
The pop star of cheap moisturisers, the Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré has amassed quite the
Pros
- Doubles as a primer
- Great for all skin types
- Non-greasy
Cons
- Fragrance slightly too strong
Best vegan cheap moisturiser
www.boots.com
Description
The Weleda Skin Food is another beauty hall of fame product we can't get enough of. Filled to the
Pros
- Great for super dry skin
- Not sticky or greasy
- Lovely consistency
Cons
- Fragrance a little too strong
Best cheap moisturiser for night-time
www.cultbeauty.co.uk
Description
CeraVe is the brand constantly reminding us that effective skincare does not need to be pricey.
Pros
- Lightweight formula
- Contains SPF30
- Oil-free
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Not great for dry skin
Best cheap moisturiser for dry skin
www.boots.com
Description
If you're looking for an affordable moisturiser for dry skin, look no further than Avène's
Pros
- Great for super dry, sensitive skin
- Lovely consistency
- Ultra hydrating
Cons
- Added fragrance is a little strong
Best cheap moisturiser for daytime
www.lookfantastic.com
Description
If you haven't heard, Super Facialist is one of our go-to brands for all things affordable
Pros
- Great for sensitive skin
- Smells amazing
Cons
- SPF could be higher
Best cheap moisturiser from the high-street
www.boots.com
Description
One you can even pick up from your local Sainsbury's, Nivea's soft moisturising cream is as
Pros
- Can be used for whole body
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Lightweight
Cons
- Not the best for oily skin
Best cheap moisturiser for acne-prone skin
www.lookfantastic.com
Description
This refreshing non-greasy cream is ideal for oily, blemish-prone skin, thanks to its
Pros
- Contains SPF
- Great for acne-prone skin
Cons
- Super lightweight texture may not appeal to all
Why is it important to wear moisturiser daily?
Daily moisturiser use is crucial to maintain skin health as it helps to replenish the skin's natural moisture barrier, which acts as a protective shield against environmental factors like pollution and UV rays. Moisturisers lock in hydration, preventing water loss from the skin, which can lead to dryness, flakiness, and even skin conditions. Regular use of a moisturiser keeps your skin soft, supple, and better able to withstand daily stressors.
How do I choose the right moisturiser for my skin type?
Selecting the right moisturiser depends on your skin type:
For dry skin, look for rich, cream-based moisturisers with ingredients like shea butter, hyaluronic acid, or glycerin.
Oily or acne-prone skin benefits from oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizers that won't clog pores. Ingredients like salicylic acid or niacinamide can help control excess oil.
Sensitive skin should opt for fragrance-free and hypoallergenic moisturizers to minimize the risk of irritation.
Combination skin may require a lightweight, oil-free moisturiser for the T-zone and a richer one for dry areas.
Always perform a patch test when trying a new product to ensure it suits your skin.
You can also shop our selection of the best cruelty-free moisturisers if you're looking to go vegan in the beauty department.