As an editor covering beauty for many years, I have road tested just about every facial moisturizer out there and have come up with my "best of" list. The creams below are top notch, and have some of the best anti-aging properties to keep your skin glowing and looking younger.
1. Shiseido Bio-Performance Revitalizing Cream, $75
My list of the best face creams wouldn’t be complete without Shiseido’s Bio-Performance. This pink hued formula in a tub boasts a patent-pending blend of ingredients which boosts skin elasticity and promotes moisture retention. It feels super luxurious on the skin and also has impeccable firming capabilities. I use it nightly and before I do any outdoor activities like hiking, skiing or running (it’s great for preventing wind burn). This unique cream has a very special texture that is super nourishing on the skin!
2. SK-II Essential Power Moisturizing Cream, $215
SK-II contains a scientifically proven moisturizing ingredient called Pitera, made of a fermented yeast that produces a unique blend of vitamins, amino acids, minerals and organic acids. This “secret key” (SK) ingredient was discovered in Japan at a sake brewery–the older people who worked there had mysteriously beautiful, age defied hands as a result of regularly immersing them in a similar fermented yeast mixture. I have been using this product for over ten years and really believe in it. SK-II has a HUGE celebrity following--Cate Blanchett was a fan long before she became the brand’s ambassador.
3. Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Hydra-Pure Oil Free Moisturizer, $78
New York City dermatologist Dr. Dennis Gross created an impressively effective line of skin care after years of advanced scientific research and technology. The Hydra-Pure Oil Free moisturizer is a perfect choice for daily use if you have combination skin or break out easily. Great for wearing underneath your make-up, this moisturizer is non greasy, fragrance-free and animal cruelty-free. I have dry skin and like to use it after applying the Dr. Dennis Gross Active Vitamin D Serum-Oil on my face– it's amazing!
4. OLAY Regenerist Moisturizer (unscented), $29
I love when I find a drugstore brand product that can compete with the department store brands. For a fraction of the price of luxury skincare, Olay’s Micro-Sculpting Cream works wonders in repairing your skin and is perfect to use day or night. Proven to hydrate better than several luxury creams costing hundreds of dollars, it’s no surprise that it’s America’s #1 selling anti-aging moisturizer. I prefer the fragrance-free version, and like to alternate between this product and some of my more expensive favorites.
5. ESPA Lifestage Stage Release Eye Moisturizer, $100
Made specifically for women 45 and older, this lightweight cream is a great daily moisturizer that also nourishes the eye area, preventing fine lines and signs of aging. One of the key ingredients is Resveratrol, known to help prolong skin cell vitality. Perk: The formula also contains ginseng and golden root so it helps reduce the appearance of dark circles and puffiness. This powerful formula is another one of my skincare must-haves!