5 Moisturizing Balms for Dry, Sensitive Skin

If you have very dry skin, there comes a time in the winter when a regular moisturizer or body lotion may no longer cut it — no matter how much you slather on, rough, dehydrated skin remains. Sound familiar? We recommend swapping out your cream or gel formulas for a balm instead. Balms are often rich and formulated to target severely dry skin and everything that comes along with it. Here, we’ve rounded up our favorite balm formulas, from a moisturizing cleansing balm to a soothing face and body balm that can be used on sensitive skin.

Thayers Radiance Boosting Facial Balm

For a lightweight moisturizer that packs a punch, reach for this balm. The formula is a blend of hyaluronic acid, rose water, rosehip, vitamin E, witch hazel and aloe vera to hydrate, soothe redness and promote a more even complexion. The rich balm smooths onto skin, giving you a non-greasy glow. 

La Roche Posay Lipikar Balm AP+ Moisturizer for Dry Skin

Give the dry skin on your face and body 48 hours of hydrating relief with this rich lotion. It contains shea butter, thermal water, niacinamide and glycerin to transform rough, dehydrated skin. The comforting formula is fragrance-free and allergy-tested. 

SkinCeuticals Hydra Balm

This balm soothes and hydrates skin and then locks all that goodness in with an occlusive barrier. It’s perfect for very dry and sensitive skin and can be used post-procedure. Editor’s tip: Nourish dry feet and hands overnight by applying a light coating and covering with soft socks or gloves while you sleep.

CeraVe Healing Ointment

Formulated to be used on the face and body, this occlusive balm helps soothe cracked, chafed skin, as well as moisturize and protect. The non-irritating formula also boasts the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance. 

Then I Met You Cleansing Balm

Cleansing balms are oil-based cleansers with a thick emollient texture. When massaged into wet skin, they dissolve and help remove impurities like makeup, sunscreen and excess sebum. For dry skin, look for a moisturizing formula like this one from Then I Met You for an extra hydration boost at the start of your routine. It contains fatty acids, vitamin E, persimmon extract and grapeseed and olive oils, so you can say goodbye to a drying cleansing experience. 

Photo: Chaunte Vaughn

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