25+ Best Moisturizers For Black Skin in 2023 (for a glowing face and body)
Our skin is beautiful, and it’s important that we take care of our black skin (because who wants to be ashy?! #Ewww). In this blog post, I’ll be discussing the best moisturizers for black skin. I’ll be talking about both face and body moisturizers so that everyone and anyone can find the perfect one for them. Stay tuned!
The Best Facial Moisturizers For Black Skin
The best facial moisturizer for dry skin
First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair® Cream Intense Hydration
This is powerful, yet lightweight cream provides instant hydration and lasting relief for even the most dry and distressed skin. This cream is formulated with First Aid Beauty’s antioxidant-rich Ultra Repair® Complex, this cream helps restore skin’s barrier function while delivering intense hydration. A unique blend of ceramides, colloidal oatmeal, and shea butter work together to soothe, comfort, and protect skin from head-to-toe.
The best overnight facial moisturizer
Butttah Shea Butter Moisturizer
[This is a black-owned company]
Butttah Shea Butter Moisturizer is an all-natural, handmade shea butter-based moisturizer that for people with dark skin, as it helps to even out skin tone and give the skin a healthy glow.
Butttah Shea Butter Moisturizer is made with 100% pure, unrefined shea butter, which is rich in vitamins A and E. It also contains jojoba oil, avocado oil, and beeswax, which help to hydrate and protect the skin. It’s a great moisturizer to apply at night to restore moisture and replenish skin. If you’re looking for the best natural moisturizer for black skin this is a great option.
Get this at Nordstroms
The best facial moisturizer for oily skin
Tatcha Water Cream Oil-Free Pore Minimizing Moisturizer
This is an excellent choice for those with dark skin who are looking to minimize the appearance of pores. This oil-free moisturizer contains Japanese Wild Rose, which helps to tighten pores, and H thanaka, a plant extract that has been used for centuries in Japan to smooth the skin. The Water Cream is also non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores, and is dermatologist-tested.
The best facial moisturizer for normal skin
Palmer’s Coconut Oil Formula Coconut Water Face Moisturizer
Palmer’s Coconut Oil Formula Coconut Water Face Moisturizer is an ultra-hydrating, lightweight gel-cream that instantly refreshes and brightens the skin.
Formulated with coconut water, hyaluronic acid, and natural plant extracts, this quick-absorbing moisturizer quenches parched skin for a healthy, dewy glow, and it’s great for normal skin types.
The best facial moisturizer for combination skin
Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream Moisturizer with Hyaluronic Acid
The hyaluronic acid in this cream helps to hydrate and plump the skin, while the vitamin C brightens and evens out the skin tone. This cream is great for dark skin tones, as it helps to brighten and even out the complexion. Overall, this cream leaves the skin looking healthy and radiant, and it works great for those with combination skin types.
Get this at Sephora | Nordstrom
The best anti-aging facial moisturizer for black skin
ROSE Ingleton MD Signature Moisturizer
[This is a black-owned company]
ROSE Ingleton MD Signature Moisturizer is an excellent option for those with dark skin looking for anti-aging benefits.
This moisturizer is packed with antioxidants and nutrients that are essential for keeping dark skin healthy, youthful, and hydrated. Rosehip seed oil, argan oil, and jojoba oil help to nourish and protect the skin, while vitamin E and aloe vera help to soothe and heal.
Get this at: Sephora | Saks Fifth Avenue
The best facial moisturizer for eczema-prone skin
Topicals Like Butter Mask for Dry, Sensitive & Eczema-Prone Skin
[This is a black-owned company]
If you suffer from eczema, you know how frustrating it can be to find a treatment that works. You’ve probably tried a lot of different creams and ointments, but nothing seems to give you the relief you need. Topicals Like Butter Mask is a fast-absorbing lotion that is great for Dry, Sensitive & Eczema-Prone Skin.
The best facial moisturizer with SPF for black skin
Fenty Moisturizer
[This is a black-owned company]
SPF 30 sunscreen is great for dark skin because it provides SPF protection while being invisible on the skin. This makes it an ideal choice for those with dark skin who want to protect their skin from the sun without any white cast.
If you’re looking for a new daily moisturizer that provides SPF protection and won’t leave a white cast on your dark skin, Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor Invisible Moisturizer is a great option. It’s lightweight and absorbs quickly, leaving the skin feeling hydrated and looking healthy.
The best facial moisturizer for Black Skin (men)
Bevel men’s facial moisturizer
[This is a black-owned company]
Bevel was created by a black man and was created for black men. This moisturizer is an oil-free, non-greasy lotion that is quickly absorbed by the skin. It is specifically designed to hydrate and nourish black men’s skin without clogging pores. The light, non-greasy formula is ideal for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
The best facial moisturizer for Black Skin (women)
BeautyStat Universal Moisture Essence
[This is a black-owned company]
BeautyStat Universal Moisture Essence is an ultra-hydrating, lightweight gel cream that is specifically designed to quench and nourish the skin. This unique formula contains a blend of powerful ingredients that work together to lock in moisture while also providing intense hydration. The result is softer, smoother, and more radiant skin.
This gel cream is perfect for all skin types.
The best facial moisturizer for sensitive skin
Aveeno Calm + Restore Oat Gel Facial Moisturizer for Sensitive Skin
Do you have sensitive skin that breaks out from heavy moisturizers?
Aveeno Calm + Restore Oat Gel Facial Moisturizer for Sensitive Skin is an unique, lightweight gel moisturizer that helps calm and restores your skin’s natural barrier. This facial gel is formulated with prebiotic oat and botanicals, like feverfew and allantoin. It helps visibly rebalance your skin’s microbiome for a more radiant and healthy-looking complexion and was created specifically for sensitive skin.
The best luxury facial moisturizer for black skin
Epara Skincare
[This is a black-owned company]
Epara Skincare is a luxury skincare line that caters to the needs of women with dark skin. The brand was founded by Nigerian-born entrepreneur Titi Adetumbi in 2014.
Epara Skincare products are designed to address the specific skincare concerns of women with dark skin, such as hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and uneven skin tone. The products are made with natural ingredients and are free of harmful chemicals.
Epara Moisturizing Face Cream is a good choice for those who are looking for a natural face cream that will help to moisturize and nourish their skin. It is made with all natural ingredients that help to keep your skin healthy and hydrated. This face cream is also free of parabens, sulfates, and phthalates, which makes it a good choice when it comes to the best moisturizer for black women’s face.
Get this at Saks Fifth Ave | Amazon
The best drugstore facial moisturizer for black skin
Ceravee Facial Moisturizer
Ceravee Facial Moisturizer is a great drugstore foundation for dark skin. It’s packed with ceramides and hyaluronic acid, both of which help to hydrate and plump the skin, giving you a youthful appearance.
It also has niacinamide, which is an ingredient that helps to even out the skin tone and gives you a bright, healthy-looking complexion. If you’re looking for the best drugstore lotion for black skin, this is great option.
Get this on Amazon
The best body moisturizers For Black Skin
The best body moisturizer for sensitive skin
The Honest Company Sensitive Face + Body Lotion
This moisturizer is designed to moisturize and protect sensitive skin. This lotion is made with natural ingredients and is free of harsh chemicals. It is also hypoallergenic and non-irritating.
This lotion is ideal for people with sensitive skin who are looking for a natural and gentle option.
Get this on Amazon
The best body moisturizer for dry skin
Beurre Shea Butter Skincare Shea Butter Body Cream
[This is a black-owned company]
This is a luxurious body cream that is perfect for those with dry, sensitive skin. Made with shea butter, this cream provides intense hydration and nourishment to the skin, leaving it feeling soft and silky smooth. The Beurre Shea Butter Skincare Shea Butter Body Cream is also infused with a blend of essential oils and botanical extracts to soothe and protect the skin.
Get this at Verishop
The best body moisturizer for oily skin
SheaMoisture Daily Hydration Body Lotion Moisturizer
SheaMoisture Daily Hydration Body Lotion Moisturizer for All Skin Types is a lightweight, non-greasy lotion that quickly absorbs into the skin to help lock in moisture all day long. Made with organic shea butter, this lotion leaves skin feeling soft, smooth, and healthy-looking. It is ideal for those with oily skin.
The best body moisturizer for normal skin
Lubriderm Daily Moisture Hydrating Body Lotion
This is a light, daily lotion that is perfect for normal to dry skin. This lotion contains vitamin B5 and moisturizers to help lock in moisture and leave skin feeling soft, smooth, and healthy-looking. It is non-greasy, fast-absorbing, and can be used every day to help provide essential moisture to your skin.
The best body moisturizer for uneven skin
London Grant Co Cocoa & Jojoba Body Soufflé
[This is a black-owned company]
This is an all-natural, African-inspired body soufflé that deeply moisturizes and repairs dry, damaged skin. Formulated with cocoa butter, jojoba oil, and vitamin E, this soufflé melts into skin, providing long-lasting hydration and nourishment.
The best anti-aging body moisturizer for black skin
Biossance Squalane + Caffeine Toning Body Cream
Biossance Squalane + Caffeine Toning Body Cream is a lightweight, oil-free body cream that is perfect for dark skin. It is enriched with squalane, caffeine, and vitamin C to help brighten, tighten, and even out the skin tone, as well as provide anti-aging benefits. The unique blend of ingredients in this body cream helps to diminish the appearance of dark spots and uneven skin tone. It also helps to reduce the appearance of cellulite, wrinkles, and stretch marks.
The best body moisturizer for eczema-prone skin
54 thrones African beauty butter
[This is a black-owned company]
54 thrones African beauty butter is a natural, handmade skincare product that is perfect for those with eczema. Made with shea butter, cocoa butter, and vitamin E, this butter will leave your skin feeling soft, smooth, and hydrated. It can be used as a body butter, face cream, or even as a hair pomade.
Get this at Sephora | Nordstrom
The best drugstore body facial moisturizer for black skin
Nivea lotion
Nivea lotion is a great choice for those with dark skin. It is a light, non-greasy lotion that is quickly absorbed by the skin. Nivea lotion leaves the skin feeling soft and smooth.
Get this on Amazon
The best luxury body moisturizer for black skin
Epara Skincare
[This is a black-owned company]
Epara Skincare is a luxury skincare line that caters to the needs of women with dark skin. The brand was founded by Nigerian-born entrepreneur Titi Adetumbi in 2014.
Epara Skincare products are designed to address the specific skincare concerns of women with dark skin, such as hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and uneven skin tone. The products are made with natural ingredients and are free of harmful chemicals.
Epara Skincare Comforting Body Cream is a luxurious and hydrating cream that helps to soothe and nourish dry, irritated skin. The shea butter and jojoba oil in the formula help to lock in moisture, while the aloe vera and chamomile extracts help to calm and reduce inflammation. This cream is ideal for those with dry, sensitive, or dark skin. It is free of parabens, sulfates, and phthalates.
Get this at Saks Fifth Ave | Amazon
The best illuminating moisturizer for Black Skin (women)
SheaMoisture Coconut Oil and Hibiscus Illuminating Body Lotion
This is a natural, hydrating lotion that is perfect for dark skin. The coconut oil and hibiscus extract help to brighten and illuminate the skin while the shea butter and aloe vera provide long-lasting hydration.
Get this at Ulta
The best body moisturizer for Black Skin (men)
Gold Bond Ultimate Men’s Essentials Hydrating Lotion
is a light, non-greasy lotion that is quickly absorbed by the skin. It is specially formulated with seven moisturizers and three vitamins to hydrate and nourish the skin. It is also fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, making it also ideal for black men with sensitive skin.
So here are some of my favorite and top-rated lotions for black skin. Do you have a favorite or recommendation? Let us know below!
Now that we’ve discussed the best moisturizers for black skin this year, let’s talk about how to can you find the best moisturizer for you and how to apply it so you can get the best results!
Why moisturizing your beautiful black skin is important
You’re reading this article which means you know (or perhaps kinda sure?) that moisturizing your melanated skin is super important. But why is it so important (besides not being ashy and dull) to moisturize?
Well, without proper hydration, your skin can become dry, cracked, and even painful. That’s why it’s so important to use a facial moisturizer every day and to apply lotion to your body as well.
Here are a few additional reasons:
Moisturized skin is healthy skin.
When your skin is properly hydrated, it’s better able to protect itself from the elements and fight off infection.
Moisturized skin looks better.
Dry, flaky, and ashy skin is unflattering, but moisturized skin looks and feels soft and supple. It’s the glow you want!
Moisturized skin is less likely to develop wrinkles.
Because moisturized skin is plump and hydrated, it’s less likely to develop fine lines and wrinkles than dry skin, and YES, BLACK PEOPLE GET WRINKLES! No, we don’t tend to get wrinkles as quickly as our less melanated sisters and brothers. However, black does crack if you don’t take care of your skin.
Black does crack if you don’t take care of your skin.
So, as you can see, there are plenty of good reasons to make sure you’re moisturizing your skin on a daily basis. Your skin will thank you for it!
Now let’s move on to the best moisturizers for black skin (based on your skin needs!)
How to Choose the Right Moisturizer For Your Skin Type?
When it comes to finding the best moisturizers for black skin, it is important to consider what type of skin you have. Black skin can be dry, oily, or a combination. Depending on your skin type, you will want to choose a different kind of moisturizer.
If you have dry black skin, you will want to look for a moisturizer that is oil-based. This type of moisturizer will help to add hydration to your skin and make it softer and smoother.
If you have oily black skin, you will want to look for a moisturizer that is water-based. This type of moisturizer will help to control the oil production in your skin and make it less shiny.
If you have combination black skin, you will want to look for a moisturizer that is somewhere in between oil-based and water-based. This type of moisturizer will help to balance the moisture in your skin and make it healthy and hydrated.
When it comes to finding the best moisturizers for black skin, it is important to consider what type of skin you have. Black skin can be dry, oily, or combination.
Why is it important to know your skin type when deciding on a lotion?
There are many reasons why knowing your skin type is important. For starters, it can help you choose the right products for your skin. If you use products that are too harsh for your skin type, you could end up causing irritation or other problems. Conversely, if you use products that are too gentle for your skin type, they may not be effective.
In addition, knowing your skin type can help you better understand how your skin responds to various treatments and products. If you know that you have sensitive skin, for example, you may be more careful about using certain products or ingredients.
Similarly, if you have oily skin, you may need to pay closer attention to your skincare routine to ensure that you’re not overloading your skin with products.
The different skin types (oily, dry, combination, sensitive, aging)
There are four main types of skin: oily, dry, combination, and aging.
Oily skin is characterized by an excess of sebum, which can lead to clogged pores and breakouts. Dry skin lacks moisture and can appear flaky or dull. Combination skin is a mix of the two, with both oiliness and dryness present. Aging skin is more susceptible to wrinkles and other signs of aging. Sensitive skin is easily irritated and can be This type of skin is prone to allergies, rashes, and other skin conditions.
A breakdown of skin types:
What is oily skin?
Oily skin is characterized by an excess of sebum, which can lead to clogged pores and breakouts. Oily skin is more likely to develop acne, as the excess sebum can clog pores and provide a breeding ground for bacteria. People with oily skin may need to wash more frequently than those with other skin types, as oil can build up on the surface of the skin.
Those with oily skin should avoid products that are heavy or greasy, as they can further clog the pores. Instead, opt for light, oil-free products that will help to control shine and keep the pores clear.
What is dry skin?
Dry skin lacks moisture and can appear flaky or dull. People with dry skin may need to moisturize more frequently than those with other skin types, as the skin can become dry and irritated easily.
Those with dry skin should avoid products that are harsh or drying, as they can further strip the skin of moisture. Instead, opt for products that are hydrating and nourishing to help keep the skin healthy and hydrated.
What is combination skin?
Combination skin is a mix of the two, with both oiliness and dryness present. People with combination skin may need to use different products on different areas of the face, as some areas may be more oily or dry than others.
Those with combination skin should avoid products that are heavy or greasy, as they can clog pores in the oily areas. Instead, opt for products that are light and oil-free in the oily areas, and hydrating and nourishing in the dry areas.
What is aging skin?
Aging skin is more susceptible to wrinkles and other signs of aging. As we age, our skin produces less collagen and elastin, which can lead to sagging skin and wrinkles.
People with aging skin may need to use products that are more hydrating and nourishing to help keep the skin healthy and prevent the signs of aging.
What is sensitive skin?
Sensitive skin is easily irritated. This type of skin is prone to allergies, rashes, and other skin conditions. People with sensitive skin should avoid products that are harsh or drying, as they can further irritate the skin. Instead, opt for products that are gentle and soothing to help calm the skin.
How to tell your skin type:
Look at your pores
If your pores are large and visible, you likely have oily skin. If your pores are small and barely visible, you likely have dry skin. If your pores fall somewhere in the middle, you likely have combination skin.
Look at your T-zone
If your forehead, nose and chin are shiny or oily, but the rest of your face is dry or normal, you have combination skin.
Examine your skin after washing
If your skin feels tight, you have dry skin. If it feels oily or greasy, you have oily skin.
Check your skin throughout the day
If your skin gets shiny and feels oily by midday, you likely have oily skin.
If you’re still not sure what skin type you have, consult a dermatologist or skincare professional. Once you know your skin type, you can better tailor your skincare routine to meet your needs.
How to apply moisturizer
Unsure how to correctly apply moisturizer? It’s not as simple as smacking some cream on your body or face and expecting it to work. There is a better way to apply your moisturizer to ensure it absorbs into your skin. Here are my tips:
How to apply facial moisturizer
It’s important to moisturize your face every day to keep your skin healthy and hydrated but how do you properly apply facial moisturizer?
Here are a few tips:
1. First, clean your face with a gentle cleanser.
2. Next, apply the moisturizer to your damp skin.
3. Gently massage the moisturizer into your skin in a circular motion.
4. Make sure to avoid the delicate area around your eyes.
5. Allow the moisturizer to absorb into your skin for a few minutes before applying makeup or sunscreen.
Following these simple tips, you can ensure that your facial moisturizer is properly absorbed into your skin to keep it healthy and hydrated.
How to apply body moisturizer
When it comes to keeping your skin hydrated, body lotion is key. But what’s the best way to apply it? We turned to the experts to find out.
“Always apply body lotion immediately after showering or bathing,” says dermatologist Dr. Joshua Zeichner. “This will help lock in moisture while your skin is still damp.”
Not sure how much lotion to use? A good rule of thumb is to take a quarter-sized amount and apply it to your body in long, smooth strokes. Start with your legs and work your way up to your arms and torso.
Please note the heat from your hands slathering on your lotion will also help the lotion to absorb into your skin.
And there you have it! Applying body lotion doesn’t have to be complicated. Just remember to do it right after showering or bathing, and you’ll be on your way to hydrated, happy skin.
What to look for in a moisturizer
When it comes to finding the right moisturizer, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. Depending on your skin type, you’ll want to look for different ingredients that will help hydrate and protect your skin.
Here are a few things to look for in a body or facial moisturizer:
- If you have dry skin, look for a moisturizer that contains hyaluronic acid or glycerin. These ingredients will help attract and lock in moisture.
- If you have oily skin, look for a light, oil-free moisturizer that won’t clog your pores.
- If you have sensitive skin, look for a hypoallergenic moisturizer that won’t irritate your skin.
- If you have combination skin, look for a moisturizer that contains both hyaluronic acid and glycerin to help hydrate both your dry and oily areas.
Whatever your skin type, it’s important to find a moisturizer that works for you!
Check out my YouTube video where I share my skincare routine:
Frequently Asked Questions: Best Moisturizers For Black Skin
Is shea butter good for black skin?
Yes, shea butter is good for black skin. It is a natural product that has been used for centuries by people in Africa to moisturize and protect their skin.
Shea butter is rich in vitamins A and E, which are essential for healthy skin. It also contains fatty acids that help to nourish and repair the skin. Shea butter is an excellent moisturizer and can also help to keep the skin hydrated.
Check out my article on DIY whipped shea body lotion!
Which is better cocoa or shea butter?
Which is better cocoa or shea butter? Both have their benefits, but it really depends on your needs!
If you need something that is more moisturizing, then shea butter is the better option. However, if you need something that is more protective, then cocoa butter is the better choice.
Ultimately, it is up to you to decide which one is better for you depending on your skin needs.
Which is better for the skin coconut oil or shea butter?
Coconut oil has been shown to be effective in moisturizing the skin and providing a barrier against environmental damage. Shea butter, on the other hand, is richer in vitamins and essential fatty acids, making it more nourishing for the skin.
Both coconut oil and shea butter can be used to effectively moisturize and protect the skin. However, depending on your individual skin needs, one may be better suited for you than the other.
Both coconut oil and shea butter can be used to effectively moisturize and protect the skin.
How do black girls get clear skin?
Some tips to get clear skin include:
- Cleanse your face twice a day. Once in the morning and once at night before bed
- Exfoliate your skin at least twice a week to remove old and dull skin cells
- Drink plenty of water. Seriously, your body is mostly water and needs it
Check out my article for ALL the tips on how to get beautiful glowing brown skin!
Is Aveeno good for African American skin?
Aveeno is a popular choice for skin care among people of all races, and it can be beneficial for African American skin. The main reason why Aveeno is so good for African American skin is because it contains oatmeal. Oatmeal has many benefits for the skin, including soothing irritation, reducing inflammation, and cleansing the pores.
African American skin is especially prone to inflammation and irritation, so using a product like Aveeno can help to keep the skin healthy and free from These benefits make Aveeno an excellent choice for people who are looking for a gentle, yet effective, skin care option.
Does black skin need more Moisturiser?
Absolutely… who wants to be ashy?
It’s a common misconception that black skin does not need moisturizer. In fact, black skin can be prone to dryness, just like any other skin type. The key is to choose a moisturizer that is suitable for your skin type and to use it regularly.
If you have dry black skin, look for a moisturizer that is rich in hydration, and that will help to lock in moisture. If you have oily black skin, you may think that you don’t need to use a moisturizer. However, it’s important to choose a light, oil-free moisturizer that will help to control excess sebum production.
Whatever your skin type, it’s important to use a moisturizer every day to keep the skin hydrated and healthy. Black skin is no different! Choose a moisturizer that suits your skin type and use it regularly for best results.
Dark skin needs moistruzer
Is Cetaphil good for black skin?
Cetaphil is a skincare brand that is used by a lot of people with different skin types but does Cetaphil work for black skin?
While Cetaphil is not specifically designed for black skin, it can be used to cleanse and moisturize the skin on your face.
Cetaphil is best known for its gentle, non-irritating, and fragrance-free formula, so it’s generally considered to be good for all skin types, including sensitive skin, dry skin, oily skin, and black skin.
Is CeraVe good for black skin?
There are a lot of products in their lineup, and they all have different purposes. So, is CeraVe good for black skin?
Some people might think that CeraVe is not good for black skin because it does not have specific products for black skin. But, this doesn’t mean that it will not work on black skin.
The company has products that are good for all kinds of skin, and they are dermatologist tested and approved. In fact, the company’s moisturizer is popular among people with dry or sensitive skin.
If you have oily skin, then CeraVe products might not be the best choice for you because they are more suitable for people with dry and normal skin types. However, if you have dry and sensitive skin, then this product line is perfect for you!
The next thing to consider is the ingredients that are used in the product. This will help us determine whether it is safe to use on your skin or not.
Whether you’re looking for a moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated in the winter or one that will help with hyperpigmentation, I’ve got you covered. Do you have a favorite moisturizer that wasn’t mentioned on my list? Let us know in the comments below!
