A good moisturiser doesn’t have to be expensive — it has to suit your skin type and contain ingredients that actually do something. Much of what you pay for in beauty is packaging and marketing.
Here’s how to choose by skin type and budget in Australia, and which ingredients are worth looking for.
- How we picked
- Suitability for different skin types
- Evidence-based ingredients over marketing claims
- Value per use, not just sticker price
- Buying from authorised sellers to avoid fakes
Match the moisturiser to your skin
| Skin type | Look for | Texture |
|---|---|---|
| Dry | Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides, shea | Richer cream |
| Oily / combination | Lightweight, non-comedogenic, niacinamide | Gel or light lotion |
| Sensitive | Fragrance-free, ceramides, minimal ingredients | Simple cream |
| Mature | Peptides, antioxidants, hyaluronic acid | Nourishing cream |
Ingredients that earn their place
- Hyaluronic acid & glycerin — draw in and hold moisture; suit almost everyone.
- Ceramides — help repair and strengthen the skin barrier.
- Niacinamide — a well-tolerated all-rounder, good for oily and combination skin.
- SPF — a daytime moisturiser with sun protection is one of the best everyday choices.
Price rarely predicts results here. Affordable formulas with the right ingredients often match or beat luxury names — you’re frequently paying for the jar and the brand.
Buy from authorised sellers
Skincare is a common target for counterfeits and grey-market stock, especially at suspiciously low prices. Buy from the brand or an authorised Australian retailer so you get genuine, in-date product. If a “bargain” on a premium brand looks too good to be true, treat it with caution.
What to avoid
- Paying a premium for packaging rather than proven ingredients.
- Heavy fragrance if your skin is sensitive or reactive.
- Unusually cheap listings from unfamiliar sellers — a classic counterfeit sign.
Our vetted-deals shortlist
We keep a running shortlist of retailers that pass the checks above — clear return policies, real customer service and genuine pricing. It’s how we point readers to offers worth their time.
See the current shortlistFrequently asked questions
Do expensive moisturisers work better?
Not necessarily. Results come from ingredients suited to your skin, and affordable formulas often match luxury ones. Much of a premium price is packaging and brand.
What ingredients should I look for?
Hyaluronic acid and glycerin for hydration, ceramides for the skin barrier, and niacinamide as a gentle all-rounder. A daytime SPF moisturiser is a great everyday pick.
How do I choose for oily skin?
Go for lightweight, non-comedogenic gels or lotions — hydration without heaviness. Niacinamide is a good ingredient to look for.
Why avoid very cheap listings on premium brands?
Skincare is a frequent counterfeit and grey-market target. Buy from the brand or an authorised retailer to ensure genuine, in-date product.
Related reading
Prices and availability are indicative only and change frequently. Always confirm the current price, model and stock on the retailer’s own website before buying. Mr. Best Buy is independent and our comparisons are research-based; see our Editorial Policy.