The best Avène moisturiser for dry skin

1 in 4 people are likely to have dry skin, a common skin type that is caused by a lack of sebum (oil) in the skin. Some of the most common characteristics of dry skin are, tightness, flakiness, itchiness, fine lines and wrinkles, and a dull appearance.

Avène is a skincare brand that particularly caters to dry and sensitive skin types with multiple products formulated alongside trusted dermatologists. They are the founders of Laboratories Pierre Fabre foundation, which is entirely dedicated to eczema, highlighting their commitment to provide valuable skin care products to ease dry skin conditions.

Why are Avène’s moisturisers good for dry skin?

A key contributor to the effectiveness of Avène is the ingredient at the heart of their formulations, Avène Thermal Spring Water. Avène Thermal Spring water is unlike other types of water because of the special environment it is sourced from. The water goes through a journey for more than 50 years, deep through the heart of the Dolomites, a mountain range in northeastern Italy, where Avène thermal spring water emerges as the result.

Through this journey the water naturally sustains a balanced, high mineral content including calcium, magnesium, and silica. Not only is it mineralised, but this process allows for the creation of a unique microorganism called Aquaphilus dolomiae, which only exists in the Dolomites region.

The other star ingredient in their Hydrance range formulations is Cohederm, a patented complex of active ingredients, designed to provide intense hydration to dry and dehydrated skin types.

Combining the minerals and unique microflora contained in Avène thermal spring water with the power of Cohederm’s active ingredients, these key ingredients work together to effectively penetrate the epidermis (top layer of the skin) and soothe the skin and provide long-lasting hydration.

What is the best Avène moisturiser for dry skin?

If you have dry or very dry skin and are looking for something suitable for daily use both day and night, then we recommend considering the Avène Hydrance range to instantly restore your skin’s hydration. However, as an all-rounder for dry skin, the top spot goes to:

Avène Hydrance Rich Hydrating Cream

This formulation has a rich and creamy consistency that benefits dry to very dry, and sensitive skin types. It contains both Avène thermal spring water and Cohederm to provide up to 24 hours of hydration and unlike other rich formulations, it easily glides onto the skin without leaving a sticky and heavy residue on the surface.

More importantly, the pH of Avène Hydrance rich hydrating cream is 5.5, the ideal goal for dry skin. This pH level is slightly acidic, helping to maintain the skin's natural acidity, reduce moisture loss, and minimise irritation. Alkaline skincare products tend to strip away natural oils which would worsen dryness, so it is important to always consider pH levels.

This moisturiser can be used both day and night, and it is perfect for those who prefer a minimal, yet effective dry skincare routine. Avène Hydrance rich hydrating cream is also available with SPF 30 protection for the day.

FAQ’s

Can Avène Hydrance Rich Hydrating Cream be used for dehydrated skin?

Yes, this formulation caters to both dry and dehydrated skin types. To boost the effectiveness of this moisturiser, you can combine it with the Avène Hydrance Boost Concentrated Hydrating 

Serum because it contains high molecular weight hyaluronic acid which creates a film over the skin to prevent moisture loss and damage from external stressors, the two key causes of dehydrated skin.

I have combination skin; can I still use the Avène Hydrance range?

We recommend using the Avène Hydrance Aqua-gel moisturiser if you have combination skin because of its clever lightweight refreshing formulation that can hydrate, protect, and mattify the skin all-in-one.

How is the Avène Hydrance range different from their other skincare products?

Avène caters to all types of skin, including sensitive and dehydrated skin. Avène Hydrance contains the Cohederm complex to improve dry to very dry skin types, whereas other ranges are formulated with other patented ingredients more suited to other skin types. For example, Avène Cleanance is a range catered to acne-prone skin, formulated with their Comedoclastin patent and Thermal Spring Water to reduce and limit acne.

By Rhysa Phommachanh, BA (hons) Specialist Hair and Media Make-Up, Head of Digital