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  4. 10 Best Moisturisers for Men 2024 | UK Dermatologist Reviewed
  • 10 Best Moisturisers for Men 2024 | UK Dermatologist Reviewed 1
  • 10 Best Moisturisers for Men 2024 | UK Dermatologist Reviewed 2
  • 10 Best Moisturisers for Men 2024 | UK Dermatologist Reviewed 3
  • 10 Best Moisturisers for Men 2024 | UK Dermatologist Reviewed 4
  • 10 Best Moisturisers for Men 2024 | UK Dermatologist Reviewed 5

10 Best Moisturisers for Men 2024 | UK Dermatologist Reviewed

The best moisturisers for men can do more than just hydrate – they can also soothe razor burn after shaving, minimise wrinkles, protect like a sunscreen with added SPF, and give you an energy boost to push you through the day. No matter if the skin on your face is dry, oily, acne-prone or a combination, there's a moisturiser for you out there, but we get it, the variety is pretty overwhelming nowadays!


Before you buy your facial moisturiser, ask yourself why you want one in the first place. Perhaps you're looking to soothe dry, rough skin, or maybe you'd like to keep your complexion looking young and healthy. Either way, whether you want a top-trending hydro-cream or a simple drugstore lotion for on-the-go, you'll find a favourite from our top 10 recommendations to buy on John Lewis and Amazon.

Last updated 21/03/2024
Felipe Partarrieu
Expert
Dermatologist
Felipe Partarrieu

Felipe Partarrieu is a dermatologist, who is GMC registered with a full licence to practise in the UK. Specialising in cosmeceuticals, facial skin care, and hair disorders, we worked with Felipe to bring you top quality information to help you make informed buying decisions and understand more about what goes onto your skin.

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Table of Contents

With Specialist Consultation From Dermatologist Felipe Partarrieu

With Specialist Consultation From Dermatologist Felipe Partarrieu

Felipe Partarrieu is a final year dermatology resident, who is GMC registered with a full licence to practise in the UK. Specialising in cosmeceuticals, facial skin care, and hair disorders, we worked with Felipe to bring you top quality information to help you make informed buying decisions and understand more about what goes onto your skin.

How to Choose a Moisturiser in the UK

Key Points to Consider
  1. Creams Hydrate Dry Skin, Mattifying Gels Prevent Excess Oils
  2. Apply Moisturiser With Vitamin C in the Morning, or One With Retinol at Night
  3. A Moisturiser with SPF 5 or Higher Will Help Protect Against Sun Damage and Premature Ageing
1

Choose a Moisturiser for Your Skin Type : Creams Hydrate Dry Skin, Mattifying Gels Prevent Excess Oils

Choose a Moisturiser for Your Skin Type : Creams Hydrate Dry Skin, Mattifying Gels Prevent Excess Oils

Pick an Oil-Free Moisturiser or Gel for Oily Skin

If you have oily skin and you're prone to acne and shine, it's best to opt for oil-free products as they are much lighter, and won't clog up your pores as much. Additionally, oil-targeting moisturisers can usually mattify too, so not only will they nourish your skin, but they'll combat any shine while they're at it!

For Dry Skin, Use a Moisturising Cream to Prevent Itching and Flakes

If you suffer from dry, tight or even itchy skin around your face, take a look at some of the heavier, creamier moisturisers on our list. When you feel like your skin is drying up in the cold weather, a thick layer of soothing cream will work wonders.

Lightweight Moisturising Lotions Are a Great Place to Start for Beginners With Combination Skin

If you feel like you don't fit into either of those two skin types and you're still not sure what to buy, don't panic! You probably have combination skin, so we'd recommend that you choose a lighter moisturiser and then dot a heavier cream on the dryer areas of the face.

A Cream, Gel, or Lotion? Consider What Formula Is Best for Your Skin Type

Generally, the most common types (or formulas) of moisturiser you'll come across are creams and gels. Gels are actually better for oily skin as they're more lightweight and provide gentle hydration. They're also good to wear in summer or for the gym, as any sweat won't become trapped in your pores.


Creamy moisturisers or lotions are nourishing, protective, and they usually include fatty, vitamin-rich butters, and oils. Cream-based moisturisers are perfect if you have normal to dry skin, or you like to lather up with a strong layer as opposed to a light coating of hydro-gel.

Felipe Partarrieu
Dermatologist
Felipe Partarrieu

Even though all skin types need some kind of moisturising, not all moisturisers suit everyone; so it's very important to remember your skin type when choosing a formulation. 


It should also be kept in mind that, given the physical-chemical properties of the different vehicles used in hydrating products, some presentations are intrinsically more moisturising than others. For example, a serum that brands itself as 'hydrating' will not have the same humectant and emollient capacity as a cream or a lotion, given the former has little oil content.

2

Moisturiser Can Be Used Day and Night: Apply Moisturiser With Vitamin C in the Morning, or One With Retinol at Night

Moisturiser Can Be Used Day and Night: Apply Moisturiser With Vitamin C in the Morning, or One With Retinol at Night

It's recommended to moisturise first thing in the morning. However, it's also a good idea to nourish your skin before bed, as this is when your skin does most of its repairing and replenishing, allowing you to wake up feeling fresh-faced. For this, make sure your moisturiser has the right ingredients. 


Day creams tend to stay away from ingredients that can cause photosensitivity such as retinol but are perfect ways to make sure that a hot summer's day or windy winter morning doesn't leave your skin suffering from external stressors. 


Night creams are usually much richer and will feel too greasy if applied as a day cream. Additionally, night creams may contain retinol, the key ingredient in anti-ageing creams, or glycolic acid. Though, if all this seems like too much hassle, there are products designed for both day and night use.


For post-shave facial care, check out these Perfumes for Men here.

Felipe Partarrieu
Dermatologist
Felipe Partarrieu

The key to moisturising is consistency. Making it a part of a daily routine and sticking to it before your skin turns red and flakey is paramount to keeping your skin healthy. However, there are times of the day when moisturising would be more appropriate and useful.


For example, it is recommended to use moisturiser within the first 3 minutes of leaving the shower as the skin and the surrounding air is still moist, allowing the product to seal in more water into the skin. Also, no matter the time of day, always apply moisturiser after cleansing the face.

3

Look For a Moisturiser That’s SPF 5 or Higher to Help Protect Against Sun Damage and Premature Ageing

Look For a Moisturiser That’s SPF 5 or Higher to Help Protect Against Sun Damage and Premature Ageing

In order to properly care for your skin, consider a moisturiser with sun protectionMost products have some element of SPF, but it's good to take note of exactly how much. This can be especially helpful if you don't always remember to apply sun cream, or don't like the feeling of several layers of product on your face. 


In case you didn't know, SPF stands for 'sun protection factor', whereby the higher the number, the fewer UV rays can get to your skin. We'd recommend looking for a moisturiser with an SPF of at least 5, (although the more the merrier!), which will be an essential ally in preventing both skin cancers and premature ageing.


For a good quality body care routine, check out our Men's Shower Gels here. 

Felipe Partarrieu
Dermatologist
Felipe Partarrieu

Sun protection should be an essential part of any skincare (and especially anti-ageing) routine. Many products, including moisturisers, include some ingredients that offer UV protection. 


It is preferable to use a separate sunscreen product as part of a skincare routine, especially for people with light or sensitive skin, as the level of UV protection a moisturiser might offer will never be as high as the one offered by a purposedly-formulated sunscreen cream or lotion.

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10 Best Moisturisers for Men in the UK

mybest UK product recommendations are reviewed and curated by our writers in-house. We focus on in-depth research and analysis of product reviews to carefully select the best products available for the best prices.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
1

Clinique

Super Energizer Hydrating Concentrate Moisturiser48 ml

Clinique Super Energizer Hydrating Concentrate Moisturiser 1

£40.00

High Mid

SPF 40 Gel Moisturiser for Outdoor Enthusiasts

2

Kiehl's

Facial Fuel Energizing Moisture Treatment125 ml

Kiehl's Facial Fuel Energizing Moisture Treatment 1

£33.00

Mid

Best-Selling Men’s Moisturiser to Shield Skin Against Environmental Stress

3

Clinique

Anti-Age Moisturiser for Men100 ml

Clinique Anti-Age Moisturiser for Men 1

£33.50

Mid

Anti-ageing Moisturiser for Dry Skin

4

Clinique

Maximum Hydrator Activated Water-Gel50 ml

Clinique  Maximum Hydrator Activated Water-Gel 1

£27.95

Mid

Cooling 24 Hour Hydrating Gel for Oily Skin

5

Kiehl's

Age Defender Moisturiser for Men75 ml

Kiehl's Age Defender Moisturiser for Men 1

£44.50

High Mid

Specially Formulated to Tone and Firm Men’s Skin

6

Brickell

Revitalising Anti-Ageing Cream for Men59 ml

Brickell Revitalising Anti-Ageing Cream for Men 1

£37.44

Mid

Natural Anti-ageing Night Cream

7

Shiseido

Total Revitalizer Cream for Men50 ml

Shiseido  Total Revitalizer Cream for Men 1

£53.00

High

Luxury Moisturising Cream for Day and Night

8

L'Oréal Paris

Expert Hydra Energetic Moisturiser for Men50 ml

L'Oréal Paris Expert Hydra Energetic Moisturiser for Men 1

£5.00

Low

Vitamin C Rich Formula for Dull and Tired Skin

9

Liz Earle

After-Shaving Moisturiser for Men 50 ml

Liz Earle  After-Shaving Moisturiser for Men  1

£22.00

Low Mid

A Silky Moisturiser to Soothe and Prevent Razor Burn

10

Nivea

All Purpose Cream for Men150 ml

Nivea  All Purpose Cream for Men 1

£3.75

Low

Fast-Absorbing Daily Moisturiser for Men

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

CliniqueSuper Energizer Hydrating Concentrate Moisturiser48 ml

Super Energizer Hydrating Concentrate Moisturiser 1
Source:johnlewis.com
Reference price
£40.00
High Mid
Reference price
£40.00
High Mid

SPF 40 Gel Moisturiser for Outdoor Enthusiasts

With a strong SPF 40, this bold winner takes first place, of course! Its easy-to-apply gel substance protects skin in harsh environments throughout the day, so you can stay refreshed, energised, and safe from the sun in one fell swoop.


Along with the sweat-resistant technology that makes it ideal for any sport-lovers or outdoor enthusiasts, this moisturiser can also shield you from pollution, pollen, and even dust, all while delivering rejuvenating hydration. 

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No.2

Kiehl'sFacial Fuel Energizing Moisture Treatment125 ml

Reference price
£33.00
Mid

Best-Selling Men’s Moisturiser to Shield Skin Against Environmental Stress

Designed to revive and invigorate men's skin for a healthier-looking appearance, this moisturiser is great for protecting your face from environmental stresses. Boosted with chestnut seed extract and caffeine, you'll also notice that this moisturiser has vitamin C and E properties to energise your complexion. 


An extremely popular best-selling product from a trusted skincare brand, Kiehl's Facial Fuel is made for all skin types –  no need to stress if you're constantly changing from oily to dry, because this moisturiser won't let you down. There's also a SPF version available too for day time use. 

No.3

CliniqueAnti-Age Moisturiser for Men100 ml

Anti-Age Moisturiser for Men 1
Source:boots.com
Reference price
£33.50
Mid
Reference price
£33.50
Mid

Anti-ageing Moisturiser for Dry Skin

With a lightweight formula, you can combat wrinkles and dullness to give a younger appearance and feel! Hydrate your skin with this SPF-inclusive moisturiser, which can be applied twice a day for the best results. 


This great quality cream melts into the skin with ease, and its energising effects really are noticeable within a matter of minutes. As an extra bonus, the well-sealed plastic tube packaging makes it great for travelling or heading to the gym or pool, plus its 100 ml volume falls under airport regulations. 

No.4

Clinique Maximum Hydrator Activated Water-Gel50 ml

Reference price
£27.95
Mid

Cooling 24 Hour Hydrating Gel for Oily Skin

You can use this product day and night, but this water-based gel formula is ideal for giving your skin an energising boost in the mornings and it will last up to a total of 24 hours. 


The innovative Liquid-Sphere technology creates a combination of water-binding ingredients and encapsulated antioxidants to eliminate dryness in the skin, plus it's oil-free and non-comedogenic so it won't block the pores or exacerbate acne. And to top it off, there aren't any harsh fragrances that could cause irritation, so it's super helpful for people with sensitive skin, too. 

No.5

Kiehl'sAge Defender Moisturiser for Men75 ml

Age Defender Moisturiser for Men 1
Source:johnlewis.com
Reference price
£44.50
High Mid
Reference price
£44.50
High Mid

Specially Formulated to Tone and Firm Men’s Skin

Firm, lift, and tone your skin with this caffeine-based moisturiser that's been specially formulated for men's thicker, coarser skin. This incredible cream gently exfoliates whilst providing a protective layer to rejuvenate tired skin, and is suitable for all skin types, too. 


Target rough patches and strengthen your skin with this miracle pot of age-defying moisturiser, which can be used both day and night. Not to mention, its nicely-branded packaging makes it a trendy addition to any bathroom cabinet! 

No.6

BrickellRevitalising Anti-Ageing Cream for Men59 ml

Revitalising Anti-Ageing Cream for Men 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£37.44
Mid
Reference price
£37.44
Mid

Natural Anti-ageing Night Cream

Looking for a night cream with anti-ageing properties? This moisturiser has been scientifically formulated to help firm, smooth and tighten your skin. Made with natural ingredients, it energises the skin removing even the deepest wrinkles and lines. 


It can be used on all skin types and is scented with a refreshing essential oil blend of peppermint, eucalyptus and lemongrass. You'll also be pleased to know that it contains zero sulfates, parabens and silicones. However, it is a shame it isn't as available as some of the other products on our list. 

No.7

Shiseido Total Revitalizer Cream for Men50 ml

Reference price
£53.00
High

Luxury Moisturising Cream for Day and Night

Powerful and practical, this moisturising cream will maintain a smooth, defined complexion, giving you a healthy glow, and is rapidly absorbed yet also perfect for revitalising dry skin. You can use this light cream in both the morning and evening to energise and refresh your face, without the need for more than one product. 


Although the brand are known for producing only the best quality skincare with the finest ingredients, there's no denying it's a fairly pricey investment for such a small pot. Definitely one for those with a penchant for luxury grooming! 

No.8

L'Oréal ParisExpert Hydra Energetic Moisturiser for Men50 ml

Reference price
£5.00
Low

Vitamin C Rich Formula for Dull and Tired Skin

This product is mainly aimed at skin that's looking a little tired and dry, to give it a surge of Vitamin C and help fight dullness and sagging skin. Providing 24hr hydration, this cream can keep your face looking refreshed and vibrant all day with its hydra-energetic elements.

The light, serum-like cream is absorbed into your skin on application, making sure that it doesn't feel greasy or sticky. It's just a shame that L'Oréal didn't include any SPF in this moisturiser, which is why it's a little lower in our ranking.

No.9

Liz Earle After-Shaving Moisturiser for Men 50 ml

Reference price
£22.00
Low Mid

A Silky Moisturiser to Soothe and Prevent Razor Burn

This moisturiser is perfect for smoothing onto freshly-shaved skin due to its light texture and active self-healing elements. You can give your skin a boost and help to heal any nicks where the razor may have slipped, all with the squeeze of a tube.


This product is also quite basic in the sense that it doesn't match a skin type, so while it can help to soothe razor burns, it doesn't have any long-term benefits. If you feel like you're going to need more from your moisturiser, you may have to look elsewhere for one that'll better provide for your specific skin concerns.

No.10

Nivea All Purpose Cream for Men150 ml

Reference price
£3.75
Low

Fast-Absorbing Daily Moisturiser for Men

This creamy formula is non-sticky and absorbs super quickly – so you don't need to worry about feeling like you have a greasy film on when you use it. It's ideal for keeping your face feeling fresh, but you can use this it all over your body on any other dry bits, too! 


Although it's good value, this cream is pretty basic and also quite thick, so if you have oily skin you may notice that it increases the risk of a breakout. We have other products on this top 10 countdown that you might love more if this is the case!

Tips on How and When to Apply Moisturiser as Part of a Skincare Routine

Tips on How and When to Apply Moisturiser as Part of a Skincare Routine
  1. Always apply moisturiser when your skin is damp, this will help lock in hydration
  2. Your skin goes into repair mode when you sleep, so layer products pre-bedtime
  3. Squeeze a pea sized amount into your hands
  4. Warm between your hands
  5. Apply to cheeks in a gentle circular motion
  6. Then apply to forehead, and rest of face
  7. Use light upward strokes, particularly on the neck
  8. Always lift the skin, as opposed to dragging it down

Written and researched by Annie Speight

Top 5 Moisturisers for Men

No. 1: CliniqueSuper Energizer Hydrating Concentrate Moisturiser48 ml

No. 2: Kiehl'sFacial Fuel Energizing Moisture Treatment125 ml

No. 3: CliniqueAnti-Age Moisturiser for Men100 ml

No. 4: Clinique Maximum Hydrator Activated Water-Gel50 ml

No. 5: Kiehl'sAge Defender Moisturiser for Men75 ml

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The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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