For Skin That Truly Glows, Try One Of These Illuminating Moisturizers
We’re certain that one of the best compliments you can receive is a simple: “You’re glowing!” Hearing those words gives us an instant confidence boost, but let’s be honest—it’s not that often that they come around, because everything from the weather and stress to our diets and Father Time can contribute to a dry and dull complexion.
Even still, we won’t give up on achieving a radiant complexion, because today’s skincare brands are constantly coming up with new formulas designed to give us our glow back—just see the star-studded lineup of illuminating moisturizers below for proof.
How We Found The Best Illuminating Moisturizers
So, what’s our secret method for finding the best products on the internet? We’ll let you in on it: our algorithm. Powered by data, this tool factors in user reviews, best-seller lists, and editorial mentions in order to rank the best buys in a given category. Today, that category is brightening moisturizers, and we think you’re going to love the 10 that rose to the top.
Next up, check out the 10 Best Vitamin C Serums. Opening image: sephora.com
Words:Sierra Rogers
Product Expert:Georgia Jones
Top 10 Lists serve as unbiased shopping guides to the most trusted product recommendations on the internet. Products are scored and ranked using an algorithm backed by data consumers find most valuable when making a purchase. We are reader-supported and may earn a commission when you shop through our links.
The Rankings
Kora Organics Turmeric Glow Moisturizer
NOTEWORTHY INGREDIENTS: Turmeric is the powerhouse behind this moisturizer from Kora Organics. Known for being an antioxidant, turmeric helps to brighten, calm, and protect the skin.
WHAT IT DOES: In addition to hydrating your skin, this brightening serum helps contribute to a calm and glowing complexion. Bonus: the jar is refillable—all you have to do is purchase a refill pod.
Cruelty Free
Paula’s Choice Defense Essential Glow Moisturizer
WHO IT’S FOR: While everyone can benefit from anti-aging skincare products, Paula’s Choice Defense Essential Glow Moisturizer was formulated to repair and brighten skin so it looks younger and more vibrant. So, if you’re nearing the part of life where your skin isn’t bouncing back from daily stressors like it used to, this is a great option for you.
WHAT IT DOES: This illuminating moisturizer brightens the skin tone while offering daily protection from sun damage, blue light exposure, and pollution.
Made In Usa
Cruelty Free
Dermalogica Biolumin-C Gel Moisturizer
NOTEWORTHY INGREDIENTS: One of the top-billing ingredients in Dermalogica’s Biolumin-C Gel Moisturizer is hyaluronic acid. If you’re not familiar with this popular skincare ingredient, the thing to note is that it’s one of the best substances on earth at retaining moisture.
WHO IT’S FOR: Because of its ultra-hydrating powers, this moisturizer is best for those concerned with fine lines, wrinkles, dullness, and uneven skin texture.
Cruelty Free
Charlotte Tilbury Unisex Healthy Glow Tinted Moisturizer
WHAT IT DOES: You know that fresh-from-the-beach-vacation glow? This moisturizer delivers that—no travel required. But it’s not just applying a sheer tone to your face, because it’s formulated with a mix of bronze, black, and terracotta pigments that meld together to create a stunning tan tone as you massage it in.
WHO IT’S FOR: Marketed as a unisex product, this moisturizer is a great option for anyone and everyone.
Cruelty Free
Fresh Vitamin C Glow Moisturizer
NOTEWORTHY INGREDIENTS: There’s a good chance you’ve seen Fresh’s Vitamin C Glow Moisturizer before, because its simple combination of vitamins C, E, and B5 from lemon and orange extracts makes it a fan favorite amongst skincare enthusiasts.
WHO IT’S FOR: Those with normal, oily, combination, or sensitive skin will see the best results from this product.
Glow Recipe Watermelon Pink Juice Oil-Free Moisturizer
WHAT IT DOES: According to one user, this moisturizer helped their skin clear up and gave them a glowing complexion. They also mention it made their face “extremely soft like a baby’s butt.” You can’t ask for much more from a lightweight gel moisturizer.
WHO IT’S FOR: Oil-free with a long list of natural ingredients, this serum is approved for those with normal, dry, combination, and oily skin.
Eco Friendly
Cruelty Free
Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Glow Moisturizer
NOTEWORTHY INGREDIENTS: While the ExfoliKate Glow Moisturizer is one of the pricier products on our list, its clinic-inspired formula makes it worth every penny. It includes a combo of glycolic and lactic acids (which help exfoliate away dead skin), in addition to pineapple, pumpkin, and papaya enzymes.
WHO IT’S FOR: While it’s approved for all skin types, this moisturizer is heavy on the exfoliants, so it’s best for those who are looking to address fine lines, wrinkles, and dullness.
Cruelty Free
Tata Harper Illuminating Moisturizer
NOTEWORTHY INGREDIENTS: We’ll just cut right to it: there is actual diamond dust in this moisturizer. That’s why it imparts a soft but noticeable all-over glow.
WHO IT’S FOR: All skin types can benefit from the age-defying, illuminating properties of this moisturizer. However, the price is pretty steep, so unless you’re absolutely obsessed, this may be more of a treat-yourself product than a repeat purchase.
Made In Usa
Cruelty Free
Elemis Superfood Glow Priming Moisturiser
WHAT IT DOES: Like every other product on this list, this moisturizer is meant to hydrate and illuminate your skin. But unlike all the rest, it doubles as a primer.
WHO IT’S FOR: Because the Superfood Glow Priming Moisturiser’s formula contains oil, those with dry or combination skin will see the best results.
GlamGlow GlowStarter Mega Illuminating Moisturizer
WHAT IT DOES: You probably guessed this from the name, but this is an ultra-illuminating moisturizer. It has hyaluronic acid, green tea, and highlighting pearl particles to leave you with an energized (and super moisturized) complexion.
WHO IT’S FOR: While Sephora recommends this product for those with normal, dry, or combination skin, we did some digging through the reviews and found that even those with oily skin have seen success with the GlowStarter Mega Illuminating Moisturizer.
Cruelty Free