Ever feel like a detective trying to crack a code when you walk down the skincare aisle at Ulta? You’re not alone! Choosing the perfect face moisturizer can feel like a mission, especially with shelves packed with so many promises and fancy bottles. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the ingredients, different skin types, and what seems like a never-ending selection.
We all want that healthy, glowing skin, right? But finding the right moisturizer that won’t cause breakouts or leave your skin feeling too dry or oily can be a real challenge. That’s where this guide comes in. We’re here to cut through the confusion and make your Ulta shopping trip a breeze.
By reading on, you’ll learn how to spot the best moisturizers for your specific skin needs, discover popular brands you might have overlooked, and get tips on how to make your money go further. Get ready to find your new holy grail moisturizer and say goodbye to skincare guesswork!
Top Face Moisturizer At Ulta Recommendations
- DAILY HYDRATING MOISTURIZER: Our #1 face cream provides 72-hour hydration for all skin types. This formula helps to replenish moisture loss, repair skin barrier, and deeply hydrate skin. Tested in extreme conditions and safe for ezcema-prone skin.
- EFFECTIVE FORMULA: Formulated with Pro-Ceramides and Squalene, this formula is proven to reinforce skin's barrier strength and absorb easily into skin. These ingredients are shown to hydrate, smooth, and soften skin while strengthing the skin.
- PROVEN RESULTS: Our #1 Ultra Facial Cream is clinically proven to provide deep, lasting hydration. This product hydrates skin 15 layers deep, repairs skin barrier in 1 hour, and provides 72-hour hydration. **Results based on an instrumental study.
- ALL-DAY WEAR: Use twice daily, both day and night as the ultimate compliment to your skincare routine. Wear under makeup, or mix our hydrating face cream with your favorite foundation for sheer, glowy coverage.
- FOR ALL SKIN TYPES: This face moisturizer is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin (100% tested on sensitive skin in an instrumental study). Ultra Facial Cream has received the National Eczema Association's Seal of Acceptance.
- LIGHTWEIGHT, CREAMY FORMULA: This creamy yet lightweight daily moisturizer is enriched with vitamins and antioxidants to renew your skin, lock in essential moisture, and reveal a naturally radiant complexion.
- INFUSED WITH HYDRATING INGREDIENTS: This rich formula is infused with aloe vera to soothe and provide calming effects, jojoba oil to lock in moisture, and shea butter to nourish the skin, leaving it with a smooth finish.
- WHEN TO USE: Ideal for daily use, the formula absorbs easily to promote smoother, more supple skin that glows from within. Great for all skin types.
- BEAUTY TIP: Ideal for wearing under makeup to lock in moisture.
- VEGAN & CRUELTY-FREE: e.l.f. stands with every eye, lip, face, paw and fin. Proudly vegan, e.l.f. is double-certified cruelty-free by Leaping Bunny & PETA.
- RESTORES SKIN’S NATURAL MOISTURE BARRIER: EltaMD AM Restore Face Moisturizer helps restore your skin’s natural moisture levels and smoothes, hydrates, brightens, and tones while reducing signs of dry, damaged skin
- FOR DRY, SENSITIVE AND ACNE-PRONE SKIN: Ideal for sensitive, dry, or acne-prone skin, this daily face moisturizer is oil-free, fragrance-free, paraben-free, dye-free, hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, and won’t clog pores
- MADE WITH HYALURONIC ACID AND NIACINAMIDE: A targeted blend of Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), and Willow Bark Extract helps improve moisture absorption and retention, enhancing long-lasting hydration for visibly smoother, more supple skin
- GREAT DAILY FACE MOISTURIZER: Apply this lightweight moisturizer in the morning to clean skin before your daily sunscreen; it layers comfortably under SPF and makeup, helping keep skin hydrated, soft, and balanced throughout the day without feeling greasy
- TRAVEL FRIENDLY SIZE: The 1.7 oz pump bottle is TSA-approved and designed for easy travel; it fits seamlessly into handbags, crossbody bags, and carry-ons so you can maintain consistent, dermatologist-trusted hydration on-the-go
- RESTORES MOISTURE OVERNIGHT: EltaMD PM Restore Night Face Moisturizer works overnight to replenish skin's moisture levels for a smooth and hydrated feel in the morning
- ENHANCE SKIN ELASTICITY: The vitamins and minerals in this face moisturizers formula stimulate the skin’s natural moisture barrier, improving hydration and elasticity for a smoother appearance
- SOOTHE DRY, DAMAGED SKIN: The overnight facial moisturizer uses ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide to help improve the appearance of dry skin overnight, resulting in smoother, more supple skin by morning
- SAFE FOR ALL SKIN TYPES: This nighttime moisturizer for face is oil-free, fragrance-free, and non-comedogenic, making it suitable for normal, dry, and sensitive skin types without clogging pores
- CONVENIENT NIGHTLY APPLICATION: Apply this face moisturizer every evening after applying serums to help your skin stay moisturized while you sleep
- Lightweight formula glides on easily with a silky feel.
- Helps to restore and hydrate skin while preserving the skin’s natural barrier while soothing irritation.
- TriHex Technology helps to support the production of new, healthy elastin and collagen with Tripeptide-1 and Hexapeptide-12 to promote smoother, more even skin.
- Helps restore and promote an optimal environment to improve the appearance of skin following a cosmetic treatment.
- May be used on sensitive or compromised skin - non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic.
- EVERYDAY BASIC FACE MOISTURIZER: This face cream helps keep skin moisturized with 24-hour hydration. This daily moisturizer helps leave skin nourished with all-day hydration, and helps to soften and moisturize skin.
- CLINICAL EXPERTISE: This everyday face moisturizer is paraben-free and fragrance-free.
- EFFECTIVE INGREDIENTS: This basic & lightweight daily facial moisturizer is formulated with Squalene & Glycerin. Squalene is known to help replenish skin barrier, & Glycerin, which is naturally occurring within skin, is known to help retain moisture.
- FOR ALL SKIN TYPES: This product is suitable for all skin types.
- HOW TO USE: After cleansing and toning, massage a small amount of daily facial moisturizer onto skin, avoiding the immediate eye area. Can be used morning and night and throughout the day as needed.
- This unique facial moisturizer absorbs easily into skin to help protect skin from sun damage which can cause early signs of aging.
- Hydrates skin while helping defend against skin-damaging UVA and UVB rays. Readily absorbs into skin leaving it soft, smooth and nurtured.
- HOW TO USE: Massage a small amount of Kiehl's facial moisturizer with SPF 30 onto skin. For sunscreen use: Apply liberally 15 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply at least every 2 hours. Use a water-resistant sunscreen if swimming or sweating.
- Infused with Squalane, a highly-refined botanical lipid derived from olives. With an exceptional affinity to skin, Squalane absorbs easily and is known to help replenish skin’s barrier keeping it soft, supple and moisturized.
- For all skin types.
- HYDRATION BOOST: This hydrating face moisturizer delivers essential moisture to dry, flaky, dehydrated skin. The oil-free facial moisturizer leaves skin silky smooth without greasy residue.
- REDNESS RELIEF: Soothe sensitive skin with this sensitive skin face moisturizer. It reduces redness using hydrating and anti-inflammatory ingredients like Squalane, providing a facial moisturizer for sensitive skin.
- AGE-DEFYING FORMULA: Minimize signs of aging with our facial creams & moisturizers. This face cream locks in moisture, offering softer skin and a more supple look.
- PATENTED SKIN REPAIR: The EltaMD AAComplex formula in this facial lotion includes a patented combination of three amino acids that help repair the skin barrier, promotes skin repair, and protects sensitive skin.
- NIGHT AND DAY USE: Use this face moisturizer for dry skin both day and night. This dry skin face moisturizer offers pH-balanced moisture, rehydrating and repairing skin barrier damage.
Your Guide to Finding the Best Face Moisturizer at Ulta
Choosing the right face moisturizer can make a big difference in how your skin looks and feels. Ulta has a huge selection, so knowing what to look for helps you find your perfect match. This guide will help you navigate the aisles and online shelves to pick a moisturizer that makes your skin happy.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re browsing for a moisturizer, keep these important things in mind:
1. Skin Type Suitability
This is the most important feature. Does the moisturizer say it’s for oily, dry, combination, sensitive, or normal skin? Using the wrong type can make your skin worse.
2. Hydration Level
Some moisturizers offer light hydration for oily skin, while others provide deep moisture for dry skin. Look for terms like “lightweight,” “rich,” “hydrating,” or “intense moisture.”
3. Added Benefits
Many moisturizers do more than just hydrate. Some fight acne, reduce redness, provide sun protection (SPF), or have anti-aging ingredients. Decide what extra help your skin needs.
4. Texture and Finish
Do you like a dewy glow or a matte finish? Do you prefer a gel, cream, or lotion texture? This is often a matter of personal preference.
Important Ingredients to Know
The ingredients list tells you what’s inside your moisturizer. Here are some common and beneficial ones:
1. Hyaluronic Acid
This ingredient is like a sponge for your skin. It holds a lot of water, making your skin plump and hydrated. It’s good for almost all skin types.
2. Ceramides
These are natural fats that help your skin’s barrier stay strong. A strong barrier keeps moisture in and irritants out. They are great for dry and sensitive skin.
3. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
This multi-tasker helps reduce redness, improve skin texture, and control oil. It’s a good choice for many skin concerns.
4. Antioxidants (like Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Green Tea Extract)
These ingredients help protect your skin from damage caused by the sun and pollution. They can also brighten your complexion.
5. Sunscreen (SPF)
If your moisturizer has SPF, it protects your skin from harmful UV rays. This is a crucial step in preventing premature aging and skin cancer.
Factors That Affect Quality
Not all moisturizers are created equal. Here’s what can make a difference:
1. Formulation and Stability
A well-formulated moisturizer will have ingredients that work well together and stay effective. Good brands spend time making sure their products are stable.
2. Packaging
Airless pumps or tubes are often better than jars. They keep ingredients like antioxidants from degrading when exposed to air and light. This helps maintain the product’s quality.
3. Brand Reputation and Reviews
Trusted brands often have higher quality control. Reading reviews from other users can give you an idea of how well a product works in real life.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use your moisturizer and what you expect from it matters.
1. Morning vs. Night
You might use a lighter, SPF-included moisturizer in the morning and a richer one at night to help your skin repair itself while you sleep.
2. Layering Products
Moisturizer is usually the last step in your skincare routine, after serums and treatments. This locks in all the goodness.
3. Dealing with Specific Issues
If you have acne, look for oil-free and non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores) formulas. For sensitivity, choose fragrance-free and hypoallergenic options.
Frequently Asked Questions about Face Moisturizers at Ulta
Q: What is the best face moisturizer for oily skin at Ulta?
A: Look for oil-free, gel-based, or lightweight lotions. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide are great. Brands like Neutrogena, CeraVe, and La Roche-Posay often have good options.
Q: I have very dry skin. What should I look for?
A: Choose rich creams with ingredients like ceramides, shea butter, and fatty acids. These will provide deep hydration and help repair your skin barrier.
Q: Can I use a moisturizer with SPF every day?
A: Yes, it’s highly recommended! Using SPF daily protects your skin from sun damage, which is a major cause of aging and skin cancer.
Q: What does “non-comedogenic” mean?
A: It means the product is formulated not to clog your pores. This is important for people prone to acne.
Q: How often should I apply face moisturizer?
A: Most people apply moisturizer twice a day, once in the morning and once at night, after cleansing their face.
Q: Are expensive moisturizers always better?
A: Not necessarily. Many affordable brands at Ulta offer excellent formulations with effective ingredients. It’s more about the ingredients and how they work for your skin.
Q: What’s the difference between a lotion and a cream?
A: Lotions are lighter and contain more water, making them good for normal to oily skin. Creams are thicker and contain more oil, providing richer hydration for dry skin.
Q: How do I know if a moisturizer is right for my sensitive skin?
A: Look for “fragrance-free,” “hypoallergenic,” and “for sensitive skin” on the label. Avoid harsh chemicals and artificial dyes.
Q: Can I use a moisturizer designed for another skin type?
A: It’s best to stick to moisturizers designed for your specific skin type. Using the wrong one can cause issues like breakouts or dryness.
Q: Where can I find the ingredients list for a moisturizer at Ulta?
A: The ingredients list is usually found on the back of the product packaging or on the product’s page on Ulta’s website.