Are expensive moisturisers actually better?

Not automatically. Many drugstore options hydrate just as well. Higher price can buy nicer textures, added actives, and better packaging, but check the INCI list—not the logo.

What should I pay for and what should I skip?

Pay for: ceramides/urea/niacinamide blends, airless or pump packaging (stability), and proven soothing agents. Skip: heavy fragrance if sensitive, jars for antioxidant-rich formulas, and vague “complexes”.

Do cheap moisturisers clog pores more?

Not by default. Look for non-comedogenic claims and lighter emollients if you’re oily/acne-prone. Patch test either way.

Why do luxury creams feel better?

Often due to silicones, esters, and thickeners that improve slip and finish—cosmetic elegance. That doesn’t always mean better hydration, just a nicer user experience.

Jar vs pump: does packaging matter?

For formulas with antioxidants or unstable actives, pumps/airless help reduce oxidation and contamination. For simple bland moisturisers, jar vs pump matters less.

Cheap vs Expensive Face Moisturisers: What’s Worth Paying For?

When it comes to skincare, one question often arises: Are expensive moisturizers worth the splurge, or can cheaper alternatives do the job just as effectively? Redditors have shared a wealth of opinions and experiences on this topic, and here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision.

The Basics of Moisturizers

Moisturizers primarily serve one crucial function: to prevent transepidermal water loss (TEWL), which is the evaporation of water from the skin’s surface. Both cheap and expensive moisturizers can achieve this, but the key lies in the additional benefits and ingredients they offer.

Cost vs. Effectiveness

Cheap Moisturizers

Many Redditors believe that cheap moisturizers can be just as effective as their expensive counterparts, especially when it comes to basic hydration. For example, CeraVe and Vanicream are frequently recommended for their simple yet effective formulations.

See rankings guide here.

"I have found that there is no reason to buy super expensive products... Cleanser is always cetaphil. daytime moisturizer is old school Clinique moisture gel, La Roche sunscreen. night time is tret, ponds cold cream or cerave" - u/[deleted] (2024, 49 upvotes)

Expensive Moisturizers

While some Redditors find expensive moisturizers unnecessary, others believe they can be worth the investment due to superior formulations, additional ingredients, and overall quality.

"Expensive moisturizers are not necessary or needed... That being said, there's nothing wrong with paying more for moisturizers that contain other, beneficial ingredients if one chooses to incorporate them into their routine." - u/abellavita1985 (2019, 26 upvotes)

"In my personal experience, yes, the more expensive moisturizers I've used really have been of much superior quality, and it showed." - u/[deleted] (2018, 6 upvotes)

"I swear by skincueticals. I use Cerave and it doesn’t produce the same results as the Metacel Renewal." -u/Splendidmuffin (2022, 92 upvotes)

Key Considerations

Ingredients

The effectiveness of a moisturizer often depends on its ingredients. Some expensive brands may boast unique or high-quality ingredients, but many affordable brands also offer effective formulations.

"Ingredients matter the most, according to me. I'll always turn it back and read and only pay the price if it is worth it." -u/PriyaSR26 (2021, 16 upvotes)

"For me - Expensive products are often more elegantly formulated, feel nicer on the skin and look prettier on the counter." u/JPwhatever (2024, 8 upvotes)

Personal Experience

Skin types and preferences vary widely, so what works for one person may not work for another. Trying samples or reading reviews can help you decide if a particular moisturizer is right for you.

"If you can get samples at Sephora, try it out yourself. Skin is so individual so it might or might not work better for you." -u/C_Chrono (2019, 6 upvotes)

"I spent a stupid amount on La Mer over the course of three years, only to discover I like Ponds more." -u/[deleted] (2022, 211 upvotes)

Marketing and Branding

Some luxury brands are more about the experience and prestige than actual superior quality. Be mindful of this when making your decision.

"A lot of 'high-end' skincare is fragrance and marketing. There are exceptions (Skinceuticals vitamin C serum) but by and large brand name and price are poor indicators of performance." u/PeterDaou (2021, 11 upvotes)

Conclusion

Ultimately, whether you choose a cheap or expensive moisturizer depends on your personal needs, preferences, and budget. Many Redditors believe that affordable options can be just as effective, while others prefer the luxurious feel and additional benefits of high-end products.

Subreddits for Further Questions

Face Moisturizer Rankings

If you are looking to find a new face moisturizer, do check out our meticulously compiled rankings based on reviews from Reddit!

Cheap vs Expensive Face Moisturisers