We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Skin & Hair Products The 9 Best Moisturizers for Rosacea, Tested and Approved These top moisturizers provide soothing relief while repairing damaged skin. By Lindsay Modglin Updated on November 06, 2024 Medically reviewed by Susan Bard, MD Fact checked by Rich Scherr Print In This Article View All In This Article Our Top Picks Reviews Ingredients to Look for and Avoid in Moisturizers for Rosacea What Healthcare Providers Want You to Know When to See a Healthcare Provider How We Tested the Moisturizers What to Look for in a Moisturizer for Rosacea Our Experts Why Trust Verywell Health Verywell Health / Amelia Manley Rosacea, a chronic inflammatory condition, often leaves skin sensitive, red, and inflamed. Moisturizing is vital in protecting rosacea-prone skin and promoting a healthy complexion. However, finding the right skincare products can be challenging, as many traditional ingredients only exacerbate symptoms. Samuel Hetz, MD, GPDerm, physician and medical director of Concept Medical, an advanced cosmetic clinic in Ottawa, Canada, recommends using products that contain ceramides and humectants—they have natural fats and water-retaining properties that heal existing skin damage and help prevent new flare-ups. You should also consider products that absorb quickly, maintain skin hydration, and are compatible with SPF for added sun protection. We tested 39 moisturizers by having staffers use the products for one month to evaluate their effectiveness. We rated the products based on factors like absorption, consistency, hydration, and more. Several board-certified skin experts also weighed in with valuable insights to ensure accuracy in the products we recommend for rosacea. Ingredients to Look for and Avoid in Moisturizers for Rosacea Focus on ingredients that soothe and reduce inflammation, such as niacinamide, aloe vera, and squalene. Other beneficial ingredients include hyaluronic acid for hydration, ceramides to restore the skin barrier, and SPF for sun protection. Avoid ingredients that may irritate or exacerbate rosacea, such as lactic and glycolic acids, added fragrances, alcohol, menthol, and essential oils. Retinol, AHAs, and BHAs may also be too harsh for skin prone to rosacea. Also, fragrances often contain additives that can elevate skin sensitivity, potentially triggering inflammation and exacerbating symptoms. A fragrance-free product minimizes the risk of irritation and is ideal for those with sensitive skin or noses. According to Melanie Palm, MD, a dermatologist at Art of Skin MD, the ingredients that could irritate rosacea-prone skin include lactic and glycolic acids, added fragrances, alcohol, and menthol, as well as harsh active ingredients like retinol, AHAs, BHAs, and essential oils. What Healthcare Providers Want You to Know Types: David Li, MD, MBA, a Harvard-trained dermatologist practicing in downtown Boston and chief operator at Boston Derm Advocate, recommends using cream-based products over lotions or gels to provide a better barrier and more hydration for rosacea-prone skin. Usage: Dermatologists recommend moisturizing at least twice daily—once in the morning and once at night. Always apply the moisturizer on clean skin, ideally after bathing when your skin is still slightly damp to help lock in moisture. Causes of rosacea: Rosacea's sudden appearance can often be attributed to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. These can include exposure to extreme temperature changes, stress, consumption of spicy foods or alcohol, or certain types of medication. Some people don't recognize the early signs of rosacea and become aware of the condition only after symptoms worsen. When to See a Healthcare Provider Li recommends seeing a dermatologist to discuss prescription medications such as metronidazole cream, which may help reduce the overall bumpiness of the skin. Our Top Picks Best Overall: SALE Caudalie Premier Cru Moisturizer at Amazon $129 $104 Jump to Review Best for Rosacea and Seborrheic Dermatitis: SALE Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré at Amazon $29 $21 Jump to Review Best for Dry Skin: SALE BYOMA Moisturizing Gel Cream at Amazon $15 $12 Jump to Review Best for Redness: SALE Drunk Elephant Lala Retro Whipped Refillable Moisturizer at Amazon $64 $52 Jump to Review Best for Sensitive Skin: SALE Tatcha The Water Cream at Amazon $72 $58 Jump to Review Best for Acne-Prone Skin: PCA Skin Clearskin at Amazon $59 Jump to Review Best for Mature Skin: SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore at Skinstore.com $155 Jump to Review Best for Nighttime: SALE Tula 24/7 Moisture Intense Ultra Hydrating Day & Night Cream at Amazon $58 $41 Jump to Review Best for Oily Skin: SALE Shani Darden Hydration Peptide Cream at Amazon $60 $48 Jump to Review Best Overall Caudalie Premier Cru Moisturizer PHOTO: Sephora $129 $104 at Amazon $129 at Nordstrom View on Caudalie.com Pros Plumps skin Repairs skin barrier Prevents signs of aging Cons Slightly greasy Not suitable for those sensitive to alcohols Key Specs: Active Ingredients: Bio-ceramides, hyaluronic acid, shea butter | Size: 1.7 ounces | Scented: Yes Why We Recommend It Caudalie Premier Cru Skin Barrier Rich Moisturizer with Bio-Ceramides is an excellent choice for individuals with rosacea, as it is specifically designed to repair the skin barrier and provide ample hydration. Bio-ceramides are vital in retaining moisture and restoring the skin's natural barrier, which combats potential flares. Hyaluronic acid works in tandem to plump the skin and alleviate dryness while smoothing fine lines. During testing, we found this moisturizer deeply nourishing. It left our skin feeling soft and replenished. The shea butter amplified its moisturizing capabilities, as it’s renowned for its ability to soothe and condition the skin. The product also prevents signs of aging for a youthful, healthy glow. Keep In Mind It may not be the best option for those who prefer a non-greasy, matte finish due to its slightly dewy finish. Additionally, it contains cetearyl alcohol. While this type of fatty alcohol is more nourishing than its drying counterparts, some people may still experience sensitivity or breakouts. Another alcohol-free cream we love for rosacea is Paula's Choice Omega+ Complex Moisturizer. It provides immediate nourishment while reinforcing the skin's moisture barrier to help maintain skin health and manage unpleasant symptoms. We were impressed by how quickly and effectively it relieved dry, irritated skin during testing, and after several uses, we noticed a significant decrease in redness and inflammation. It is a heavier moisturizer, so if you prefer a lighter, more airy product, this would be better suited for nighttime use. PHOTO: Verywell Health / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Verywell Health / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Verywell Health / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Verywell Health / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Verywell Health / Jhett Thompson Best for Rosacea and Seborrheic Dermatitis Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré PHOTO: Amazon $29 $21 at Amazon $29 $24 at Walmart $29 at Dermstore Pros Doubles as a primer Minimizes signs of aging Contains fatty acids to repair skin barrier Cons No sun protection Lacks anti-inflammatory ingredients Key Specs: Active Ingredients: Mineral oil, stearic acid, aloe vera, hydrolyzed soy protein | Size: 2.54 ounces | Scented: Yes Why We Recommend It Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré contains active ingredients like mineral oil, stearic acid, aloe vera, and hydrolyzed soy protein. Each of these works collectively to provide intense hydration, repair the skin barrier, and reduce signs of aging. Mineral oil helps lock in moisture and hydrate the skin, while aloe vera soothes and increases collagen production. The fatty acid content also aids in restoring and reinforcing the skin's barrier, which is crucial for managing skin conditions. In testing, we appreciated that this moisturizer doubles as a primer due to its lightweight, velvety texture. It absorbs quickly, leaving behind a silky smooth finish—perfect for concealing skin discoloration. Plus, it's free of parabens and sulfates so it's less likely to irritate your delicate face. Keep In Mind People with rosacea are sensitive to sunlight exposure because it can worsen symptoms. Unfortunately, Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré does not contain UV protection. Best for Dry Skin BYOMA Moisturizing Gel Cream PHOTO: Target $15 $12 at Amazon $15 $10 at Target $16 at Ulta Pros Vegan Oil-free Repairs skin barrier Cons No sun protection Lactic acid may be irritating Key Specs: Active Ingredients: Niacinamide, green tea extract, tri-ceramide complex | Size: 1.6 ounces | Scented: No Why We Recommend It The BYOMA Moisturizing Gel Cream boasts a unique blend of niacinamide, green tea extract, and a tri-ceramide complex that synergize to hydrate and restore the skin barrier. Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, is highly beneficial for those with rosacea, as it reduces inflammation and improves the skin's texture. This helps mitigate the roughness caused by dryness. Green tea extract, rich in antioxidants, provides anti-inflammatory benefits to reduce redness and irritation. This moisturizer impressed us during testing with its oil-free formulation that provides ample hydration. It was light and airy—the product absorbed in roughly ten minutes. It also stood out for being vegan, catering to the growing demand for cruelty-free skincare products. We were pleased that this moisturizer successfully targeted our rough patches while leaving a soft, dewy glow. Keep In Mind This pick also lacks SPF and won’t protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Also, it's worth noting that the lactic acid content can contribute to a burning sensation if your skin barrier is compromised. We also love The Bubble Slam Dunk Hydrating Moisturizer if you want to avoid that burning sensation. Avocado oil, rich in vitamins A, D, and E, helps moisturize the skin and promotes healing to reduce redness and imperfections. However, this product may not be suitable for those sensitive to plant extracts, as it contains potential allergens such as aloe leaf juice and hoya lacunose flower extract. PHOTO: Verywell Health / Joy Kim PHOTO: Verywell Health / Joy Kim Best for Redness Drunk Elephant Lala Retro Whipped Refillable Moisturizer PHOTO: Amazon $64 $52 at Amazon $52 $44 at Walmart View on Drunkelephant.com Pros Balances skin pH Made with clean ingredients Clinically proven to improve hydration Cons Bottle can be wasteful Leaves a slight residue Key Specs: Active Ingredients: Ceramides, African-oil blend, fermented green tea seed extract, sodium hyaluronate crosspolymer | Size: 1.69 ounces | Scented: No Why We Recommend It Drunk Elephant's Lala Retro Whipped Cream's ingredients work harmoniously to deliver intense hydration, balance the skin's pH, and reduce inflammation. The ceramides and blend of African oils reinforce the skin's natural barrier to prevent moisture loss. Fermentoil green tea seed, rich in antioxidants, adds a layer of protection against environmental stressors. This pick also contains hyaluronic acid (sodium hyaluronate crosspolymer) to hydrate the skin by drawing water to the surface from the deeper layers of skin. We noticed an immediate improvement in moisture content within minutes of applying. A small dab is enough to cover your entire face for all-day moisture. Keep In Mind While the packaging of Drunk Elephant's Lala Retro Whipped Cream is visually appealing, it may dispense more product than necessary, leading to potential waste. Also, we recommend pairing it with a high-SPF sunscreen during the day. PHOTO: Verywell Health / Jessica Juliao PHOTO: Verywell Health / Jessica Juliao PHOTO: Verywell Health / Jessica Juliao PHOTO: Verywell Health / Jessica Juliao PHOTO: Verywell Health / Jessica Juliao PHOTO: Verywell Health / Jessica Juliao Best for Sensitive Skin Tatcha The Water Cream PHOTO: Amazon $72 $58 at Amazon $72 at Violet Grey View on Tatcha.com Pros Lightweight Won't clog pores Delivers balanced hydration Cons Not for severely dry skin Scent may be triggering Key Specs Active Ingredients: Spec | Size: 1.7 ounces | Dosage: Scoop a small amount of cream with the included spoon and massage into neck and face | Scented: Yes Why We Recommend It This luxurious yet lightweight cream is free of mineral oil, synthetic fragrances, and parabens to reduce the risk of irritation for sensitive skin. Its water-based formula balances skin texture and tone by infusing it with essential nutrients and vitamins. One of the things we love about The Water Cream is that it provides an instant, healthy glow without making our T-zone oily. It didn't transfer from face to pillow after bedtime application. It absorbed quickly, didn't need to be reapplied during the day, and minimized the dreaded end-of-day shine. And, as the name suggests, its water-like texture is the perfect base for applying makeup. This pick is effective but may be on the pricier side for some. We like this moisturizer by Ren Clean Skincare as a more wallet-friendly option. It's cruelty-free and vegan-friendly, but its recycled packaging also champions sustainability. The secret behind its success lies in the potent bioactive ingredients. Blackcurrant seed oil is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, while sea buckthorn oil packs in nourishing fatty acids, vitamins, and additional antioxidants. We recommend both products for people with mild dryness, as they weren't quite hydrating enough for severely dry skin. Keep In Mind Though this water-based cream is compatible with all skin types, it may be too lightweight to combat severely dry skin. For flakey, exacerbated patches, pair it with a thicker spot treatment. Additionally, the minor floral scent may trigger those with sensitive noses. Verywell Health / Jhett Thompson Best for Acne-Prone Skin PCA Skin Clearskin PHOTO: Dermstore $59 at Amazon $59 at Ecosmetics.com View on Myshopify.com Pros Calms irritated skin Minimizes breakouts Good for sensitive skin Cons Doesn’t control redness Some users may find it pricey Key Specs: Active Ingredients: Niacinamide, bisabolol, vitamin A | Size: 1.7 ounces | Scented: No Why We Recommend It We are big fans of the Clearskin moisturizer from PCA Skin for several reasons. First, it balances complexion and improves texture. Secondly, it helps maintain an optimal hydration level to keep moisture where it belongs—minimizing dry and rough patches. It's perfect for those with rosacea who need an all-day moisturizer that won't feel heavy or exacerbate the condition. The niacinamide content helps reduce inflammation and minimize breakouts, while vitamin A encourages cell turnover for a healthier-looking glow. After trying this product for a month, we think it's best suited for combination-oily skin since the acne-targeting ingredients can be a bit drying. Keep In Mind Though it contains niacinamide—an ingredient for reducing redness—we didn't notice much change to our hyperpigmentation and red-tinged skin. We also found it a bit pricey compared to other moisturizers in the same category. Verywell Health / Jhett Thompson Best for Mature Skin SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore PHOTO: Dermstore $155 at Skinstore.com $155 at Skinceuticals.com $155 at Dermstore Pros No residue Targets uneven texture Restores skin’s lipid content Cons May require adjustment period Pricier than other options Key Specs: Active Ingredients: Ceramide 3, crosspolymer, cholesterol | Size: 1.6 ounces | Scented: Yes Why We Recommend It SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 242 is a powerhouse of skin-revitalizing products. This potent formula contains ceramide 3, cholesterol, and other nourishing elements that work in unison to restore the skin's lipid content, a critical factor in maintaining a healthy skin barrier. A strong skin barrier is essential for managing rosacea symptoms, as it protects against environmental stressors and locks in essential moisture. We noticed improvement in our skin's texture and suppleness over the four-week testing period. The cream absorbs within minutes without leaving behind a residue. It doesn't leave behind the dewy effects, but you can easily combine it with a serum if you prefer that look. Keep In Mind People with sensitive skin may need to adjust to the product by using it every other day for the first week. It also contains fragrances like peppermint oil, rosemary leaf oil, and lavender oil, which some may be sensitive to. PHOTO: Verywell Health / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Verywell Health / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Verywell Health / Jhett Thompson PHOTO: Verywell Health / Joy Kim Best for Nighttime Tula 24/7 Moisture Intense Ultra Hydrating Day & Night Cream PHOTO: Ulta $58 $41 at Amazon $58 $35 at Target $58 at Tula.com Pros Targets fine lines Won’t clog pores Restores moisture content Cons Smaller container than competitors May cause breakouts Key Specs: Active Ingredients: Shea butter, lactic acid, Lactococcus ferment lysate, hyaluronic acid | Size: 1.48 ounces | Scented: Yes Why We Recommend It The Ultra Hydrating Day & Night Cream from TULA contains a blend of prebiotics and probiotic extracts that work together to maintain a healthy balance of microbiomes. Additionally, this cream provides intense hydration and helps smooth the look of fine lines and wrinkles, thanks to nourishing oil blends of camellia seed and argan oils. Beyond its moisturizing capabilities, it's free from potentially irritating ingredients such as parabens, sulfates, phthalates, and mineral oil. After using this product daily for a month, we noticed an improvement in our skin's texture and overall suppleness. Our skin felt super hydrated, and the natural scent was pleasant without being overpowering. Despite its oil content, it never felt greasy and didn't contribute to evening shine. We wouldn't recommend this pick for those with acne-prone skin, as the oil content might trigger breakouts. Keep In Mind The container is slightly smaller than other options and won’t last as long. Best for Oily Skin Shani Darden Hydration Peptide Cream PHOTO: Amazon $60 $48 at Amazon View on Shanidarden.com $60 at Violet Grey Pros Protect skin barrier Targets uneven texture Larger bottle size Cons Leaves a slight residue May be too thick for some Key Specs: Active Ingredients: Squalane, ceramide NG, hydrolyzed sodium hyaluronate, shea butter, niacinamide | Size: 2.5 ounces | Scented: No Why We Recommend It Formulated to deliver sustained hydration for up to 72 hours, we were impressed with Shani Darden’s Hydration Peptide Cream. This gentle yet effective cream draws moisture into the skin without clogging your pores. It incorporates plumping peptides that support healthy collagen production to help maintain skin elasticity and firmness. While the niacinamide minimizes pores and smooths skin texture, it also targets rosacea’s redness and inflammation. We love the creamy texture; it glides on easily without caking or causing makeup to crease. If you're looking for that dewy look, this product may not be the right fit. Otherwise, the active ingredients in this pick complement oily skin while giving it a natural, plump appearance. As a bonus, it’s compatible with other skincare actives like retinol. Keep In Mind We noticed some leftover residue after application, likely due to its rich texture. Opt for a different product if you favor a lightweight base. PHOTO: Verywell Health / Jessica Juliao PHOTO: Verywell Health / Jessica Juliao PHOTO: Verywell Health / Jessica Juliao How We Tested the Moisturizers In our rigorous testing process, we put a strong emphasis on evaluating the key characteristics that define a moisturizer's effectiveness for rosacea-prone skin. A team of credentialed dermatologists and skincare enthusiasts participated in the testing process, where they meticulously evaluated products based on specific attributes. Here are the attributes we evaluated: Feel/Consistency: We examined the texture and consistency of each moisturizer, looking for a balance between lightweight and nourishing. It needed to feel comfortable on the skin without being overly greasy or sticky.Absorption: Our staffers applied each moisturizer and waited 10 minutes to see how quickly it absorbed into the skin without leaving a residue. Rapid absorption was important, especially for users planning to layer other skincare products or makeup on top.Wear: The products were worn throughout the day under different conditions (indoors, outdoors, under makeup, etc.) to evaluate their performance and longevity.Hydration: We used moisture readers to objectively measure the moisturizing effect of each product over specific time intervals. The goal was to identify products that improved hydration levels over the four-week testing period.Appearance: Lastly, we assessed how each moisturizer affected the skin's overall appearance. The ideal product would offer a natural, healthy glow, diminish redness, and improve skin texture. What to Look for in a Moisturizer for Rosacea Here are some important things to consider when shopping for a rosacea-friendly moisturizer: Protection and Coverage: Thicker formulas may hydrate exceptionally dry and irritated skin. However, some prefer a lighter moisturizer that’s seemingly invisible after application. Consider your preferred level of coverage before choosing a product. Price: High-quality ingredients often have a higher price tag, but balancing cost and effectiveness is crucial to ensure consistent use. Consider your budget and look for products with the highest value within that price range. Our Experts We consulted experts at every step of researching and writing this article. Those experts include: Ava Shamban, MD, board-certified dermatologist, researcher, and clinician founder of Ava MD and Skin Five, a skincare clinic and medical spa in Los Angeles Brittaney Trent, licensed esthetician and New York City-based beauty marketing and creative director Jolie De Feis, New York-based licensed esthetician at Ställe Studios, creator, and writer David Li, MD, MBA, a Harvard-trained dermatologist practicing in downtown Boston and chief operator at Boston Derm Advocate Samuel Hetz, MD, GPDerm, physician and medical director of Concept Medical, an advanced cosmetic clinic in Ottawa, Canada Janiene Luke, MD, dermatologist at Loma Linda University Faculty Medical Group Erum Ilyas, MD, FAAD, dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology in Pennsylvania Cynthia Robinson, MD, FAAD, dermatologist at Dermatology Associates of Uptown in Texas Melanie Palm, MD, dermatologist at Art of Skin MD Why Trust Verywell Health Lindsay Modglin has encountered numerous patients with skin conditions like rosacea during her career as a nurse. As a writer, she has published bylines in Insider, Forbes, Healthline, Yahoo, and many more. She holds a professional certificate in scientific writing from Stanford University, further helping her break down complex health concepts into easy-to-understand language. Her number-one priority is ensuring that readers have access to accurate and actionable information so they can make the best decisions for their health. By Lindsay Modglin Lindsay is a nurse-turned professional health and wellness writer with 9+ years of clinical healthcare experience. See Our Editorial Process Meet Our Medical Expert Board Share Feedback Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! What is your feedback? Other Helpful Report an Error Submit