The 10 Best Men's Moisturizers in 2026: Hydration That Actually Works

Most men ignore skincare until something goes wrong—dry patches in winter, oily breakouts in summer, or that moment you catch your reflection and wonder when your face started looking so tired. A good moisturizer fixes all of that, and it takes about 30 seconds a day.

The men's skincare market has exploded with options, which makes choosing harder. Do you need SPF? Anti-aging ingredients? Something for oily skin or dry? We've tested dozens of moisturizers across skin types, climates, and price points to find the ones that actually deliver.

Here are our picks for the best men's moisturizers you can buy right now.

Quick Picks at a Glance

1. CeraVe Moisturizing Cream — Best Overall Value

Price: $19 | Size: 19 oz | Skin Type: All, especially dry

Dermatologists recommend CeraVe more than any other drugstore brand, and the Moisturizing Cream demonstrates why. This is the moisturizer that does everything well at a price that makes daily use painless.

What makes it stand out:

The formula centers on three essential ceramides—the lipids that form your skin's natural barrier. Most moisturizers just sit on top of skin; CeraVe actually helps repair the barrier that keeps moisture in and irritants out. If your face feels tight after washing or gets dry and flaky, compromised barrier function is likely the culprit.

Hyaluronic acid pulls moisture from the air into your skin, providing immediate hydration that the ceramides then help retain. The combination means both instant relief and lasting results. MVE Technology releases these ingredients slowly over 24 hours rather than dumping everything at once.

The texture is rich without being greasy. It absorbs within a minute or two, leaving skin feeling soft rather than coated. The fragrance-free formula won't compete with cologne or irritate sensitive skin.

At 19 ounces for $19, you're paying roughly $1 per ounce—a fraction of what premium brands charge. A tub lasts 4-6 months with daily face and neck application.

The downsides:

The tub packaging requires dipping fingers in, which is less hygienic than pump bottles (CeraVe offers a pump version at higher cost). No SPF means you'll need separate sun protection. The plain packaging and drugstore availability don't feel luxurious—this is function over form.

Who should buy it:

Anyone who wants effective, no-nonsense hydration without overthinking it. Particularly valuable for men with dry or sensitive skin, those prone to irritation from shaving, or anyone new to skincare who wants a reliable starting point.

The verdict:

CeraVe Moisturizing Cream is boring in the best way. It works, it's affordable, and dermatologists trust it. Build the rest of your routine around this foundation.

Rating: 9.5/10

2. Kiehl's Facial Fuel Energizing Moisture Treatment — Best Daily Energizer

Price: $38 | Size: 4.2 oz | Skin Type: Normal to oily

Kiehl's practically invented the premium men's skincare category, and Facial Fuel remains their flagship for good reason. This is the moisturizer for men who want their face to look awake even when they're not.

What makes it stand out:

The energizing claim isn't just marketing. Caffeine constricts blood vessels, reducing puffiness and the tired look that accumulates around eyes and cheeks. Vitamin C brightens dull skin over time. Menthol provides an immediate cooling sensation that genuinely wakes you up during morning application.

The texture is gel-cream—lighter than traditional moisturizers but more substantive than pure gels. It absorbs almost instantly, leaves zero shine, and works beautifully under sunscreen or as a primer before events where you want to look sharp. Oily skin types will appreciate that it hydrates without adding slickness.

The subtle citrus scent is pleasant without being overpowering. It fades within minutes rather than lingering to compete with other products.

Kiehl's offers samples generously, so you can test before committing to a full-size purchase. Their stores also provide basic skin consultations at no charge.

The downsides:

At $9 per ounce, Facial Fuel costs significantly more than drugstore options offering similar hydration. The menthol that energizes some may irritate others—patch test first if you have reactive skin. No SPF protection included.

Who should buy it:

Men who want skincare that feels like an upgrade from basic options. Ideal for normal to oily skin types who find heavier creams too much. Perfect for pre-meeting mornings when looking alert matters.

The verdict:

Facial Fuel turns moisturizing from obligation into something approaching ritual. The sensory experience justifies the premium for many users. It's what converts men from "I don't need skincare" to actually caring about their routine.

Rating: 9/10

3. La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer — Best for Sensitive Skin

Price: $23 | Size: 2.5 oz | Skin Type: Sensitive, all types

If your skin reacts to everything—redness after shaving, irritation from fragrance, breakouts from heavy products—Toleriane was formulated specifically for you.

What makes it stand out:

La Roche-Posay built this formula around prebiotic thermal water from French springs, which research suggests helps balance skin microbiome and reduce reactivity. Combined with ceramides and niacinamide, the formula strengthens skin barrier while actively calming inflammation.

The ingredient list is mercifully short. No fragrance, no parabens, no alcohol, no common irritants that sneak into other products. What's included serves a purpose; what's excluded was excluded deliberately.

Texture is lightweight and absorbs quickly without residue. It layers well under other products or works alone. The formula is oil-free, making it suitable for acne-prone skin that still needs hydration.

Clinical testing for sensitive skin tolerance means this passed muster with dermatologists before reaching shelves. If other moisturizers have burned, stung, or broken you out, Toleriane is worth trying.

The downsides:

The minimalist formula means no added benefits like anti-aging or brightening—you'll need additional products for those concerns. The small tube empties faster than you'd expect. No SPF protection.

Who should buy it:

Men with sensitive, reactive, or easily irritated skin. Those who've tried multiple moisturizers and found them all problematic. Post-procedure care (after facials, peels, or laser treatments) where gentle hydration is essential.

The verdict:

Toleriane is the moisturizer recommended when everything else fails. It won't transform your skin dramatically—but it won't hurt it either, which for sensitive skin types is exactly the point.

Rating: 9/10

4. Clinique For Men Maximum Hydrator Activated Water-Gel Concentrate — Best for Dry Skin

Price: $44 | Size: 1.7 oz | Skin Type: Dry to very dry

Clinique's Maximum Hydrator lives up to its name. When winter destroys your moisture barrier or your skin drinks up regular moisturizers within hours, this brings heavy artillery.

What makes it stand out:

The water-gel texture is deceptive—it feels light during application but delivers intense, lasting hydration. Clinique's "Auto-Replenishing Technology" uses aloe-derived compounds that bind water to skin more effectively than standard humectants. Hydration lasts measurably longer than competing products in our testing.

Caffeine and antioxidants address dullness and fatigue alongside hydration. Your face looks healthier, not just less dry. The formula absorbs completely rather than leaving the greasy film that heavy moisturizers often do.

Clinique's allergy-tested, fragrance-free approach means minimal irritation risk. The brand's dermatologist heritage shows in formulations that prioritize efficacy over sensory bells and whistles.

The pump packaging is hygienic and dispenses consistent amounts. A little goes far—two pumps covers face and neck.

The downsides:

Price per ounce is steep at roughly $26. The small bottle depletes quickly with twice-daily use. Some users find the intense hydration too much for summer or humid climates.

Who should buy it:

Men with chronically dry skin that other moisturizers can't satisfy. Excellent for harsh winter climates, post-shave recovery, or skin stressed by travel and air conditioning. Those willing to invest in solving a persistent problem.

The verdict:

Maximum Hydrator is premium-priced because it solves premium problems. If dry skin genuinely bothers you and drugstore options aren't cutting it, Clinique delivers.

Rating: 8.5/10

5. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel — Best for Oily Skin

Price: $19 | Size: 1.7 oz | Skin Type: Oily, combination

Oily skin still needs moisture—skipping moisturizer actually makes oiliness worse as skin overcompensates. Hydro Boost provides hydration without adding a drop of unwanted shine.

What makes it stand out:

The formula is 100% oil-free and built around hyaluronic acid, which hydrates by pulling water into skin rather than coating it with emollients. The result is plump, hydrated skin that doesn't look or feel greasy. Your natural oils remain balanced rather than amplified.

The gel texture is genuinely weightless. It absorbs in seconds, leaves a matte finish, and layers invisibly under sunscreen or makeup. For men who hate "feeling" product on their face, this is as close to nothing as effective hydration gets.

Neutrogena managed to make hyaluronic acid—an ingredient usually found in premium products—accessible at drugstore prices. The formula punches above its weight compared to competitors charging twice as much.

The downsides:

The lightweight formula won't satisfy very dry skin types—it hydrates but doesn't provide the occlusive barrier dry skin needs. Contains fragrance, which some sensitive users may want to avoid (a fragrance-free version exists). Small jar empties faster than you'd like at this price.

Who should buy it:

Men with oily or combination skin who've avoided moisturizers because they made shine worse. Hot climate residents who need hydration without heaviness. Anyone who wants skincare that disappears after application.

The verdict:

Hydro Boost proves that oily skin and moisturizer aren't incompatible—you just need the right formula. This is it.

Rating: 8.5/10

6. Jack Black Double-Duty Face Moisturizer SPF 20 — Best SPF Protection

Price: $30 | Size: 3.3 oz | Skin Type: All types

Sunscreen is non-negotiable for preventing aging and skin cancer, but layering products is annoying. Jack Black combines moisturizer and SPF into one step that actually works.

What makes it stand out:

SPF 20 provides meaningful daily protection for commutes, lunch walks, and incidental exposure—the kind that accumulates into real damage over years. Blue algae extract and sea parsley add antioxidants that complement UV protection by neutralizing free radicals.

Unlike many SPF moisturizers that feel thick or leave white cast, Double-Duty absorbs cleanly. The formula is lightweight enough for oily skin yet moisturizing enough for normal to dry. It wears well under beard areas without causing breakouts along the hair line.

The vitamin E and green tea provide anti-aging benefits beyond sun protection. The fragrance is subtle and disappears quickly—important for a product worn all day.

Jack Black's brand appeals to men who want quality without fussiness. The packaging is straightforward, the product does what it claims, and you don't need a skincare degree to use it.

The downsides:

SPF 20 isn't enough for extended outdoor exposure—beach days and golf rounds still need dedicated sunscreen. The price per ounce is higher than buying moisturizer and SPF separately. Some users prefer higher SPF for daily use.

Who should buy it:

Men who won't apply separate sunscreen but recognize they should have some protection. Ideal for office workers, urban commuters, and anyone whose sun exposure is measured in minutes rather than hours.

The verdict:

The best SPF is the one you'll actually use. Double-Duty removes the friction of separate products, making daily protection achievable for men who'd otherwise skip it entirely.

Rating: 8.5/10

7. Brickell Daily Essential Face Moisturizer — Best Natural Ingredients

Price: $35 | Size: 4 oz | Skin Type: All types

For men skeptical of synthetic ingredients or prioritizing natural formulations, Brickell offers premium performance from plant-based sources.

What makes it stand out:

The formula is 97% natural and 83% organic, built around jojoba oil (which mimics skin's natural sebum), green tea extract (antioxidant protection), and hyaluronic acid (deep hydration). No parabens, sulfates, petrochemicals, or synthetic fragrances.

Despite the natural positioning, Brickell doesn't compromise on texture. The cream absorbs well, doesn't leave residue, and performs comparably to synthetic alternatives. It proves that natural and effective aren't mutually exclusive.

The light eucalyptus and green tea scent is refreshing without being perfume-like—masculine and clean. MSRP includes a satisfaction guarantee; if you don't like it, Brickell refunds your purchase.

The brand focuses exclusively on men's skincare, understanding the specific concerns (shaving irritation, thicker skin, simpler routines) that differentiate men's needs from general formulations.

The downsides:

Natural ingredients have shorter shelf life—use within 6-8 months of opening. The price premium for organic sourcing adds up over time. Results may be subtler than aggressive synthetic formulations targeting specific concerns.

Who should buy it:

Men who read ingredient labels and prefer knowing what's going on their skin. Those with sensitivities to synthetic fragrances or preservatives. Anyone whose values include supporting natural and sustainable products.

The verdict:

Brickell delivers on the promise of natural skincare that actually works. If ingredient sourcing matters to you, this is the option that doesn't require compromise.

Rating: 8/10

8. Lab Series Daily Rescue Energizing Face Lotion — Best Anti-Aging

Price: $52 | Size: 1.7 oz | Skin Type: All types, mature skin

Lab Series built their brand on research-driven formulations for men's specific concerns, and Daily Rescue represents their answer to aging—without looking like you're trying too hard.

What makes it stand out:

The formula targets the visible signs of fatigue and age: fine lines, dullness, uneven texture. Ginseng energizes tired-looking skin. Caffeine reduces puffiness. Peptides signal collagen production. The combination addresses multiple aging concerns simultaneously rather than focusing on just one.

Absorption is fast, finish is natural—not shiny, not matte, just healthy-looking skin. The formula works as well on 30-year-olds starting prevention as 50-year-olds addressing existing concerns. You won't look "done" or artificial; you'll look like you take care of yourself.

Lab Series reformulates regularly based on new research, meaning the brand evolves with dermatological science rather than resting on legacy formulas. The latest Daily Rescue iteration represents current best practices in anti-aging for men.

The downsides:

At $30+ per ounce, this is a significant investment. Results take 4-6 weeks of consistent use to become visible—don't expect overnight transformation. No SPF means you'll need additional sun protection.

Who should buy it:

Men noticing the early signs of aging who want to address them proactively. Those in their 30s starting prevention or 40s and beyond seeking improvement. Anyone willing to invest in long-term skin health.

The verdict:

Lab Series Daily Rescue is skincare for men who've realized that looking good requires some effort—and who are willing to put it in. The results justify the price for those committed to consistency.

Rating: 8.5/10

9. Bulldog Original Moisturizer — Best Budget Pick

Price: $9 | Size: 3.3 oz | Skin Type: Normal to dry

Bulldog proves that effective skincare doesn't require a premium price. At $9, there's no excuse not to moisturize.

What makes it stand out:

The formula includes eight essential oils plus aloe vera, camelina oil, and green tea—legitimately good ingredients typically found in products three times the price. Bulldog achieved this through efficient operations and minimal marketing spend rather than cutting ingredient quality.

Texture is straightforward: cream that absorbs, hydrates, and doesn't leave grease. Nothing fancy, everything functional. The light, clean scent disappears quickly.

Bulldog's commitment to being "cruelty-free" and "man-tested" resonates with buyers who want ethical basics without activist pricing. The brand earned B Corp certification, verifying their social and environmental claims.

Available everywhere—Target, Walmart, CVS, Amazon—makes Bulldog accessible without hunting through specialty retailers.

The downsides:

The formula is basic. No ceramides, no advanced peptides, no cutting-edge technology. Adequate for normal skin; those with specific concerns may need more targeted products. Packaging feels appropriately cheap.

Who should buy it:

Men starting a skincare routine who want minimal investment. Budget-conscious buyers who need effective basics. Anyone who'll actually use a $9 product daily versus a $40 product sitting untouched.

The verdict:

Bulldog won't transform your skin dramatically, but it'll keep it healthy at a price that removes all barriers to entry. Perfect starter moisturizer.

Rating: 8/10

10. Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream — Best Premium Splurge

Price: $68 | Size: 1.69 oz | Skin Type: All types

Drunk Elephant built a cult following with their "clean-clinical" philosophy, and Protini represents their most comprehensive face cream. This is skincare for men who want the best regardless of cost.

What makes it stand out:

The peptide complex is serious—signal peptides, carrier peptides, and growth factors that research links to collagen production and skin repair. Nine peptides work in concert rather than the single peptide most products feature. Amino acids provide building blocks; pygmy waterlily supports barrier function.

The texture is lush without heaviness—it melts into skin and leaves a subtle glow that looks like health rather than product. Morning application creates a perfect canvas; evening application supports overnight repair.

Drunk Elephant excludes what they call the "Suspicious 6"—silicones, fragrance, drying alcohols, SLS, chemical sunscreens, and essential oils—based on research suggesting these cause issues for many users. Whether or not you're concerned about these ingredients, the formula performs regardless.

The results are visible: plumper skin, reduced fine lines, improved texture. This is the moisturizer that converts skeptics into skincare believers.

The downsides:

At $40 per ounce, Protini is expensive even by premium standards. The sophisticated formula may be overkill for younger users without visible aging concerns. The brand's trendy status puts off some buyers.

Who should buy it:

Men who want demonstrable results and have budget to invest in their skin. Those who've worked through starter products and want to level up. Anyone whose mirror time has started involving concern about visible aging.

The verdict:

Protini is the moisturizer you graduate to when you're serious about skincare. The price is justified by formulation sophistication and visible results. If you can afford it and want the best, this is it.

Rating: 9/10

How to Choose the Right Moisturizer

Selecting from this list requires understanding your skin's specific needs:

Identify your skin type first. Oily skin needs lightweight, oil-free formulas that hydrate without adding shine. Dry skin needs richer creams with occlusive ingredients that lock moisture in. Combination skin (oily T-zone, dry cheeks) can go either direction depending on which concern bothers you more. Sensitive skin needs fragrance-free, minimal-ingredient formulas.

Consider your climate. Humid environments let you get away with lighter products; dry or cold climates require heavier hydration. Air conditioning and heating both strip moisture, making indoor workers' needs similar to cold climate residents.

Factor in your other products. If you're using retinol (which dries skin), choose a richer moisturizer. If you're wearing SPF separately, you don't need it in your moisturizer. If you're applying multiple products, lighter textures layer better.

Match investment to commitment. A $68 moisturizer you use inconsistently helps less than a $9 moisturizer you use daily. Be honest about what you'll actually do, then choose accordingly.

Start simple, then refine. If you're new to skincare, begin with an affordable all-purpose option like CeraVe or Bulldog. Learn what you like and don't like. Upgrade once you understand your needs.

How to Apply Moisturizer Properly

Most men apply moisturizer incorrectly—or at least sub-optimally. Here's the right approach:

Timing matters. Apply to slightly damp skin, ideally within 60 seconds of washing your face. Damp skin absorbs better, and moisturizer helps seal in the water already present.

Amount matters. A nickel-sized amount covers face and neck. More isn't better—excess product sits on skin rather than absorbing, looking greasy and wasting money.

Technique matters. Don't rub aggressively. Gentle upward motions avoid pulling skin downward. Pat around the eye area rather than rubbing—eye skin is thinner and more delicate.

Consistency matters most. Daily application beats occasional application of expensive products. Morning and night is ideal; once daily is the minimum for results.

Don't forget your neck. Neck skin ages just like face skin—maybe faster, since most men ignore it entirely. Extend moisturizer from jawline to collarbone.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should men start using moisturizer?

Now, regardless of age. Hydrated skin ages better than dehydrated skin. Starting in your 20s establishes habits that pay dividends later. Starting in your 40s or beyond still helps—it's never too late.

Should I use different moisturizers morning and night?

You can, but it's not necessary for most men. If you want to optimize: lighter formulas with SPF for morning, richer formulas without SPF for evening. But one good moisturizer used twice daily beats a complicated routine you won't follow.

Can moisturizer cause acne?

The wrong moisturizer can. Heavy, comedogenic (pore-clogging) formulas contribute to breakouts. If you're acne-prone, choose products labeled "non-comedogenic" or "oil-free." Proper moisturizing actually helps acne by maintaining barrier function.

How long until I see results?

Basic hydration improves within days. Anti-aging or restorative benefits take 4-8 weeks of consistent use. Don't expect overnight transformation—skin cell turnover takes time.

Is expensive moisturizer worth it?

Sometimes. Premium products often contain higher concentrations of active ingredients, more sophisticated formulations, and better textures. But the best moisturizer is one you'll actually use. A $19 CeraVe used daily outperforms $68 Drunk Elephant gathering dust.

Do I need moisturizer if I have oily skin?

Yes. Oily skin is about sebum production, not hydration. Skipping moisturizer can actually increase oiliness as skin compensates for dehydration. Choose lightweight, oil-free formulas designed for oily skin.

What's the difference between moisturizer and lotion?

Mostly semantics. "Lotion" typically indicates thinner consistency; "cream" indicates thicker. Choose based on your skin's needs rather than terminology.

Final Thoughts

Moisturizer is the foundational step in any skincare routine—more important than fancy serums, targeted treatments, or expensive devices. Get hydration right, and everything else works better.

Our overall recommendation is CeraVe Moisturizing Cream for its unbeatable combination of dermatologist-trusted ingredients, effective results, and accessible pricing. But every product on this list solves specific problems for specific skin types.

Start today. Your future face will thank you.