13 Best Moisturizers Under Makeup to Keep Your Skin Nourished

Written by Anoushka Sinha, Skincare Coach & Writer
Updated on Mar 27, 2024
Best Moisturizers
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Keeping your skin healthy, refreshed, and moisturized under makeup can be a difficult task. Not only does it require time and effort but also an investment in the right moisturizer to be used under makeup. Fortunately, our team of experts has done the research and brought to you the best moisturizers under makeup to keep your skin’s nourishment. 

Dr. Sravya C Tipirneni, our medical panelist and renowned dermatologist, says, “Lack of nourishment can also affect the appearance of your makeup. If the skin is not moisturized properly, it appears dry and flaky and then the foundation too flakes off. A caky appearance can be prevented by nourishing the face well before the makeup is applied.” For that a good quality moisturizer is required. We have listed here our top choices. Try out these products and grab the best one suited for you. After all, skin care is sooner the better!

13 Best Moisturizers

Pamper your skin with this Jack Black Double-Duty moisturizer that comes with SPF 20. Apart from shielding your skin from the harmful UVA/UVB rays, it also hydrates and nourishes your epidermis. Made with blue algae extract and sea parsley, this moisturizer boasts of a soft peppermint fragrance. The lightweight formula can be donned in the summer as well as winter months without clogging your pores. This face moisturizer also prevents premature aging, and sunspots.

Pros
  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Infused with Vitamin E
  • Doesn’t clog pores
Cons
  • Inconvenient packaging
  • Editor’s Pick

    Bobbi Brown Vitamin Enriched Face Base

    Bobbi Brown Vitamin Enriched Face Base
  • Elevate your skincare routine with the Bobbi Brown Vitamin Face base. It is an impeccable choice in the category of the best moisturizers because it has natural ingredients like carrot seed oil that has anti-aging properties, along with shea butter that prevents transepidermal water loss from the epidermal layers of the skin cells(1)(2). Moreover, it contains vitamin C that helps to combat oxidative damage and vitamin E that helps to maintain the water concentration within the skin cells and prevents over drying(3)(4). Addedly, this product has remained a constant favorite of makeup professionals because it has an insanely easy absorbent texture, conceals harsh freckles, combats skin flaking and provides an even toned luminous complexion. 

    Pros
    • Combats dullness
    • Reverses sun damage
    • Improves skin’s laxity
    • Imparts shine
    Cons
    • May cause itching
  • Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream

    Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream
  • Carrying a primer and moisturizer is a real effort for many makeup enthusiasts and beauty aficionados. To put an end to their discomfort, the Bobbi Brown face base is here! It is one of the best moisturizers that is compatible with all skin types and works efficiently as both a primer and moisturizer. Besides, the product contains active ingredients like hyaluronic acid that has unique water retention capacity and prevents shrinking of skin cells due to excessive exposure to environmental aggressors and UV rays(5).

    Pros
    • Eases fine lines
    • Lightens freckles
    • Combats sun damage
    • Seals in moisture
    Cons
    • Size is too small
  • Best for Oily Skin

    Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel

    Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel
  • Though moisturizing your skin every time before makeup may seem a tad tedious, with Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel you can get the job done in seconds. Infused with hyaluronic acid, this gel moisturizer nourishes the skin deeply and maintains hydration all day long. Hyaluronic acid is known for its moisture lock-in ability that helps seal in the moisture and keep dryness at bay. Rely on this cult-favorite product to quench your skin’s thirst before applying makeup. Being lightweight, it gets easily absorbed, preventing a creasy makeup base.

    Pros
    • Oil-free
    • Dye-free
    • Non-comedogenic
    Cons
    • May not suit sensitive skin
  • Best for Dry Skin

    LilyAna Naturals Face Cream

    LilyAna Naturals Face Cream
  • Applying a face cream under makeup that locks in moisture, creates a smooth base, and nourishes the skin is a wise thing to do. Especially for people who have dry skin, owning hydrating formulas like this face cream from LilyAna Naturals is a necessity. The cream has an amazing creamy texture that penetrates easily into the skin without fondling the makeup to be applied. Enriched with skin loving ingredients like rose distillate, vitamins A, C, and E, lemon, aloe vera juice, and orange extract, this face cream is a dose of natural goodness.

    Pros
    • No SLES/ SLS
    • Doesn’t clog pores
    • Vegan ingredients
    • Free of gluten, parabens, and phthalates
    Cons
    • Poor packaging
  • Best for Sensitive Skin

    La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat Mattifying Moisturizer

    La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat Mattifying Moisturizer
  • Effaclar Mat is an incredible face moisturizer option that works like a charm on oily skin. Whether you wish to apply makeup or not, this moisturizer can provide superior care to your skin. Also, mattifying in texture, it serves as a great makeup base. With Sebulyse technology, the formula targets extra shine and large pores,  leaving your skin looking soft and supple. Use it as a daily face moisturizer or as a makeup base before applying makeup.

    Pros
    • Allergy-tested
    • Paraben-free
    • Non-comedogenic
    • Suitable for sensitive skin
    Cons
    • Not long-lasting
  • Best Lightweight Formula

    ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Marine Cream SPF 30

    ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Marine Cream SPF 30
  • Made with Capric triglyceride, glycerin, and glyceryl stearate, this face cream by ELEMIS is pure perfection. With a soft collagen marine fragrance, this moisturizer comes with SPF 30 that doubles up as sun protection. Suitable for all skin types and textures, this anti-wrinkle cream is fast absorbent that allows makeup to easily glide on it. The lightweight formula doesn't clog pores and works perfectly on oily and acne-prone skin. When in doubt, always opt for this face cream that should be an integral part of your AM routine. 

    Pros
    • Suitable for all skin types
    • Doesn’t clog oily skin pores
    • Absorbent texture
    Cons
    • Fragrance can be strong for some
  • Best for All Skin Types

    InstaNatural Vitamin C Moisturizer

    InstaNatural Vitamin C Moisturizer
  • InstaNatural Vitamin C Moisturizer is a renowned formula that works exceptionally well at reducing the signs of aging. Infused with vitamin C, the face moisturizer is super effective at enhancing the skin tone and elasticity. It also contains aloe vera and niacinamide that serve as a skin barrier against discoloration and redness. Suitable for all skin types, the face moisturizer can be used to ace your skin texture before applying makeup. With regular use, you can expect soft, hydrated skin that feels lovely to touch.

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • Lightweight texture
    • Free from parabens, sulfates
    • Supports collagen production
    Cons
    • Some may not like the scent
  • Glossier Priming Moisturizer

    Glossier Priming Moisturizer
  • A featherweight moisturizer that helps to even out skin tone and provide an ideal base for makeup application is the Glossier priming moisturizer. The product is one of the best moisturizers for all age groups as it has robust hydrating properties that helps to seal in moisture for up to 12 hours. Besides, the product has a breathable texture beneficial in combating redness, itchiness, inflammation, and rashes. Overall, the product is an ideal choice for oily, normal, and combination skin as it doesn’t clog pores and imparts a natural seamless finish. 

    Pros
    • Boosts radiance
    • Tightens pores
    • Evens out skin tone
    • Breathable texture
    Cons
    • Not suitable for sensitive skin
  • Best Sweat-resistant Formula

    Supergoop! PLAY Everyday Lotion

    Supergoop! PLAY Everyday Lotion
  • Looking for a multi-faceted product that hydrates and softens your skin, protects it from the sun, and preps it for makeup? Well, fret not! Your search has come to an end with this versatile product. This hydrating broad spectrum sunscreen is your everyday lotion that provides sun protection along with keeping the skin supple. It has sunflower & rosemary leaf extracts that contribute to making it a nourishing  skin protectant. As per our contributor Ollie Wertheim, Founder and Chief Formulator at SENSITIVE SKIN, LLC, sunflower and rosemary leaf extracts are valuable ingredients due to their antioxidant-rich, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, enhancing product efficacy, and promoting healthy skin. Unlike other sunscreens, it leaves no white cast. Wear it before makeup to keep your skin sun-safe.

    Pros
    • Easy to use
    • Lightweight
    • Water and sweat-resistant
    Cons
    • Slightly greasy
  • Editor's Pick

    ETUDE Moistfull Collagen Special Set

    ETUDE Moistfull Collagen Special Set
  • ETUDE Moistfull Collagen Special Set comes with two phenomenal skincare products, a collagen cream, and cleansing foam. While the cleanser helps deep cleanse your face,  the cream can be used to nourish, moisturize, and prep the skin for long hours. Formulated to provide 100 hours of lasting moisture, the cream is a must-have product in your skincare regimen. The brand claims to have included extracts of a plant protein called Lupinus albus, known for its skin-transforming effect. It also contains collagen water for that instant refreshing feel. The soft texture of the cream gets easily absorbed leaving the skin nourished and revived.

    Pros
    • Non-sticky finish
    • Hypoallergenic
    • Dermatological Test
    Cons
    • Slightly strong scent
  • Best for Combination Skin

    First Aid Beauty Hello FAB Coconut Skin Smoothie Priming Moisturizer

    First Aid Beauty Hello FAB Coconut Skin Smoothie Priming Moisturizer
  • First Aid Beauty Hello FAB Coconut Skin Smoothie Priming Moisturizer is a wonderful skin care product with versatile benefits. It has the potential to moisturize the skin deeply while adding radiance to it. Also, it helps in preparing the skin for makeup, making it an astounding skin primer. Loaded with nature’s goodness like coconut water, quinoa protein, and minerals, it helps with repairing, revitalizing, and nourishing the skin. With micro-pearls, this unique moisturizer is effective at blurring pores and imperfections. As per our contributor Ollie Wertheim, micro-pearls are used in moisturizers to provide a smooth texture, enhance product spreadability, and deliver active ingredients effectively for better skin hydration and nourishment.

    Pros
    • Nut-free
    • Non-comedogenic
    • Soy-free
    • Hydrates skin
    • Oil-free
    Cons
    • Too light texture
  • Garnier SkinActive Clearly Brighter Even Tone Daily Moisturizer

    Garnier SkinActive Clearly Brighter Even Tone Daily Moisturizer
  • Garnier SkinActive Clearly Brighter Even Tone Daily Moisturizer is infused with vitamin C and LHA for superior skin protection from damage and aging. To provide better skin protection, it is loaded with SPF30 and hyaluronic acid. From preventing signs of sun damage to keeping the skin replenished with moisture, this moisturizer does it all. Try using it under makeup and get all-rounded benefits of a primer, SPF, moisturizer, and anti-aging cream.

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • Non-greasy
    • Brightens skin
    Cons
    • Strong smell

    User's Guide

    Why Do You Need a Moisturizer under Your Makeup?

    A moisturizer keeps the skin soft and nourished. It is an important part of the skincare regimen that must not be skipped at any cost. When applied under makeup, moisturizer can serve as a barrier for skin protection, while also being an excellent makeup base. Here are some other important roles that a moisturizer plays under makeup-

    • Helps regulate oil production which keeps dryness at bay and gives apt nourishment to the skin.
    • With good regulation of skin oils, your skin can be made smoother and more supple. 
    • Moisturizers with anti-aging natural ingredients may help combat signs of aging.
    • If your moisturizer contains skin covering pigments, covering blemishes can become simple.
    • Some moisturizers may contain SPF which makes them great for skin care and sun protection

    The best moisturizer under makeup is one that lasts long, protects skin, and keeps up  the skin’s nourishment all day long. This article contains all such products that you can try to keep your skin comfortable and healthy under makeup. If you are still not using a moisturizer under makeup, it can be a hell of a mistake. So, grab one now and your skin will thank you forever. 

    Contributor: 

    Ollie Wertheim, Founder and Chief Formulator, SENSITIVE SKIN LLC.

    Disclaimer: This article contains sponsored links and the content is created by Pinkvilla. We, at Pinkvilla, curate products only after detailed research based on shopping trends, product ratings, and honest customer reviews. Our aim is to make your shopping experience convenient and worth every penny. Happy shopping!

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Anoushka is a skincare coach and writer who most certainly believes in the cut-and-try process for creating this narrowed-down list. After actively trying 15 moisturizers, she found solace in the eight moisturizers listed above on the basis of their skin care benefits and more. She also hints at getting smooth skin even after applying generous amounts of makeup after regularly using any of these products, to which we say huzzah! The moisturizers are indeed a hit.

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Anoushka Sinha
    Skincare Coach & Writer

    Anoushka is certified in Professional Skincare and is a Mass Media (Journalism) graduate from Mumbai University. As a More