The beauty of a balm, be it for cleansing or moisturizing, is that it’s designed with comfort in mind. And the best moisturizing face balms are a prime example of that, whether your skin is naturally sensitive, suffering from winter dryness, or recovering from an in-office procedure.
While face moisturizers can offer TLC in their own right, balms have unique advantages. “Balms are more occlusive on the skin than lightweight moisturizers,” says Arash Akhavan, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. “They seal the surface of the skin and prevent transepidermal water loss—the loss of water through the surface of the skin.” That makes them uniquely beneficial for those with severe dryness or compromised skin, as well as conditions like eczema.
Vogue’s Favorite Moisturizing Face Balms
Best for Compromised SkinSkinCeuticals Hydra Balm Moisturizer OintmentJump to review$25
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Another perk is that balms are often (but not always) anhydrous, meaning they’re formulated without water. Unlike water-based formulas, which naturally create an environment for bacterial growth, “balms may also be better tolerated because they have fewer potentially irritating ingredients like preservatives,” says Heather Woolery-Lloyd, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Miami. As a result, they can be better suited for those with sensitive skin. Intrigued? Scroll ahead for the best face balms worth adding to your moisture-boosting arsenal.
In This Story
- What’s the Difference Between a Face Moisturizer and a Face Balm?
- How to Use Moisturizing Face Balms
- How We Tested
- Meet the Experts
