Find face creams for back to school season with formulas suited to daily skincare routines and a range of hydration needs. Explore thoughtfully selected moisturizers designed to help support soft, comfortable, well-cared-for skin as schedules become busier.

Read More
Perfect Cream main image.
M-61
Perfect Cream
$88
Ultra Facial Cream main image.
Kiehl's Since 1851
Ultra Facial Cream
$39
Crème de La Mer Face Cream main image.
Ultra Facial Cream Refill main image.
Kiehl's Since 1851
Ultra Facial Cream Refill
$72
The Hydrating Infused Emulsion main image.
Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 main image.
SkinCeuticals
Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2
$155
The Moisturizing Soft Cream main image.
The Moisturizing Fresh Cream main image.
Superscreen Hydrating Daily Cream SPF 40 main image.
BeautyPrep Face Moisturizer main image.
Jane Iredale
BeautyPrep Face Moisturizer
$48
Atmosphere Protection® Cream main image.
Calendula Serum-Infused Water Cream main image.
Kiehl's Since 1851
Calendula Serum-Infused Water Cream
$96
Advanced Protection Cream main image.
Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel Cream main image.
Kiehl's Since 1851
Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel Cream
$39
Ultra Facial Cream SPF 30 main image.
Kiehl's Since 1851
Ultra Facial Cream SPF 30
$39
Skin Smoothing Cream main image.
Dermalogica
Skin Smoothing Cream
$49
The Cream main image.
Augustinus Bader
The Cream
$565
The Light Cream main image.
Augustinus Bader
The Light Cream
$195

Face Creams for Back to School Season offer a considered way to refresh a daily skincare routine as schedules become fuller and mornings move at a faster pace. A well-chosen face cream can help maintain comfortable, hydrated-looking skin through long days in classrooms, commutes, campus walks and changing indoor temperatures. Look for a texture that suits the complexion and the season: lightweight lotions and gel creams feel comfortable on combination or oil-prone skin, while richer formulas can be especially appealing for dry skin or cooler weather. Ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides, squalane and botanical oils can support a soft, supple feel and help skin appear smooth and replenished.

The best face cream is one that fits naturally into an existing routine and feels easy to use consistently. Apply a small amount to clean skin after cleansing, allowing the formula to settle before makeup or other complexion products. A lighter cream may work well in the morning, while a more nourishing texture can bring comfort at night after a demanding day. Those with sensitive-feeling skin may prefer formulas with a short, thoughtfully selected ingredient list and a low-fragrance option or a formula designed without added fragrance. For daytime wear, pair a face cream with broad-spectrum sun protection to help care for skin during time spent outdoors.

These face creams also make thoughtful gifts for a student, a recent graduate, a roommate or anyone beginning a new academic season. A polished skincare essential can add a quiet moment of comfort to a busy morning, much like the familiar ritual of smoothing cream onto the face before heading out with a packed bag and a full calendar. Consider the recipient’s preferred texture, skin feel and routine when choosing, and look for packaging that travels easily between a bathroom shelf, overnight bag and dorm room. With the right formula, daily hydration becomes a simple, reassuring part of returning to rhythm.

Read More