Facial flaking, itching, irritation and dry patches are how I know winter is truly here. After months of a healthy summer glow (thank you, moisture-retaining humidity), the crisp cold air has settled in and I find myself with reliably dry skin. To nourish and strengthen the skin barrier, now’s the time I switch out gel- or water-based moisturizers for a richly hydrating formula. Luckily, hundreds of NewBeauty readers* currently recommend one: Obagi Hydrate Facial Moisturizer ($58).
The Obagi Hydrate Facial Moisturizer focuses on reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL). “Transepidermal water loss is simply when water from the deeper dermis layer of your skin passes through the epidermis and evaporates into thin air,” Omaha, NE dermatologist Joel Schlessinger, MD, previously explained to NewBeauty. TEWL is a “natural process that helps to regulate your own water content in the body and skin” (think sweating). But, Dr. Schlessinger elaborates that when TEWL occurs without exertion, it can lead to unwanted skin conditions. “Signs of transepidermal water loss include dry, tight or flaky skin,” says Coral Gables, FL dermatologist Anna Chacon, MD. “You might also experience redness, sensitivity and increased incidence of skin irritation and inflammation.”
To prevent TEWL, the Obagi Hydrate Facial Moisturizer utilizes tara seed extract, an antioxidant known for soothing and strengthening the skin barrier. The tara seed extract holds in moisture, alongside rich and nourishing shea butter and mango butter to further combat skin dryness and dehydration. The combination results in long-lasting hydration and a healthier, clearer, smoother and calmer complexion.
NewBeauty Readers Review the Obagi Hydrate Facial Moisturizer
More than 800 NewBeauty readers reviewed the Obagi Hydrate Facial Moisturizer. An overwhelming majority gave it four- or five-star ratings, noting it keeps their skin hydrated, absorbs quickly and never leaves a greasy sheen. “I was so happy with this product,” raves Louise B, who further called it a “dream to restore hydration.” Tiffany S. says her skin “looks healthier than it has in [a] long time” and is “more hydrated, plump and smooth.” Theresa A. says it leaves their skin “feeling soft, supple, moisturized and looking light and bright.”
Based on reviews, the Obagi Hydrate Facial Moisturizer works wonders on all skin types. Margaret B. calls it “a keeper for those looking to have a more heavy-duty moisturizer.” They continue, “This moisturizer is a game changer for those with dry skin or post-procedure skin. It’s also really effective as an overnight mask in my routine when I’m using heavy retinols.” Amber K. also said it’s “perfect after using retinol” before adding “[it’s] deeply hydrating, silky & emollient! Perfect for dehydrated or dry skin as well as sensitive or irritated skin.”
Inger B. has combination skin and says “It was hydrating enough for [their] dry [areas] and not too thick and greasy for [their] oily [areas].” Rondi B. also comments it’s “great for combination skin or skin on the oily side” because it “absorbs quickly” without a “sticky feel.” Panhia V. concurs the daily moisturizer “has a nice emollient feel without feeling greasy.”
Several reviewers noted that Obagi’s gentle, fragrance-free formula is a big highlight for sensitive skin types. Mirna S. says the Obagi Hydrate Facial Moisturizer “gives [them] the moisture [they] need… and it has not broken me out or given me a bad reaction.” “I have very sensitive skin, so I’m always concerned about trying anything new on it,” explains Holly S. “This product was lightweight, didn’t leave any kind of a film and made my skin feel so soft.”
Other notable reviews express it “blends well with any serum,” “doesn’t pill” and “preps skin perfectly for makeup.” And finally, Vicky A. shares “I have already recommended the product to my mother and mother-in-law.”
*Source: BeautyEngine Advanced Research, 2024
