Plumper Skin Achieved with Moisturizers Priced at $13 and $54, According to Shoppers

Back when I first started writing about beauty, the ingredients lists on the back of products looked like a foreign language to me. I made a commitment to myself to learn all there was to know about beauty ingredients, starting with the ones that appeared most frequently. At the time, dewy, plump skin was all the rage, so I went deep into the world of moisturizers and serums, learning everything I could about skin-softening emollients and water-retaining molecules that provided endless benefits not only for dry and mature complexions, but for oily and combination skin types as well.

As with most beauty trends, not all moisturizers labeled as "hydrating" are created equal, and even the best ones aren't always suitable for every skin type. Of course, price is also a factor to consider. For instance, the Tula 24/7 Moisture Hydrating Day and Night Cream is a favorite among shoppers and editors alike, costing $54. However, the CeraVe Daily Moisturizer, which retails for $13, has over 77,000 positive reviews on Amazon and speaks for itself. We compared these two popular moisturizers side by side to help you decide whether to save or splurge.

Main Ingredient: According to studies, hyaluronic acid is a tiny molecule that can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. When applied topically, it has an immediate plumping effect on the skin, minimizing wrinkles and sagging.

Other Ingredients: Ceramides help the skin retain moisture by strengthening its barrier, which comprises flattened cells that protect it from irritants and bacteria. Glycerin, another hydrating ingredient, softens the skin by drawing moisture from the air.

Best for: Suitable for all skin types. It's especially ideal for those with oily, acne-prone skin, as all of the ingredients are non-comedogenic, meaning they won't clog your pores.

CeraVe products came highly recommended to me for acne as I grew up, and their reputation (particularly for this best-selling moisturizer) has stood the test of time. The ingredients in this lightweight cream are simple and common, yet still highly effective at achieving soft, healthy, and youthful-looking skin. "I tan a lot, and this keeps my wrinkles at bay," wrote one reviewer. Another shopper in their 70s described it as "fabulous" for brightening their complexion. While the anti-aging effects are a significant plus, the cream's biggest appeal is that it is free of oils and fragrances, making it perfect for those with blemish-prone and sensitive complexions.

Anyone incorporating hyaluronic acid into their skincare routine should note that, if applied to a completely dry face, the molecule may have the opposite effect of what is desired by pulling water out of the skin and into the atmosphere, leaving it drier than before. To avoid this, apply this cream while your face is slightly damp, such as right after a shower.

Main Ingredient: Squalane is a moisturizing ingredient that softens and seals moisture into the skin. It also contains antioxidant properties that combat dullness and dryness.

Other Ingredients: Topically applying probiotics can revitalize your skin barrier and defend against acne and dehydration. Peptides are a powerful ingredient that provide your skin with a smoother texture and a firmer appearance.

Best for: Shoppers with dry and maturing skin looking to manage fine lines and wrinkles.

This cream has been Tula's best-seller for years for a good reason. Probiotics and prebiotics, increasingly common components in skincare, provide a host of benefits, such as brighter skin, better water retention, and reduced acne. Furthermore, squalane, the primary ingredient, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and is also non-comedogenic, according to dermatologist Dhaval Bhanusali, M.D. As per a lot of shoppers, this moisturizer is fulfilling all its promises. "I am so happy with this face cream," said a shopper over 45, who felt they looked "10 years younger" and "no longer had to wear makeup." Another agreed it was "smoothing, firming, and plumping."

This cream contains fragrance, which may be irritating to individuals with sensitive skin.