4 Dupes For La Mer's cult-favourite Face cream

Within the realm of facial moisturizers, there's one skin-nourishing elixir that has maintained its long-standing reputation as one of the most luxurious options available: the Crème de la Mer. However, if you're eyeing a La Mer moisturizer but hoping for similar results at a more affordable price point, you're in luck.

Celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Kate Hudson swear by La Mer cream, and for good reason — it lives up to the hype. This renowned facial moisturizer comes with a hefty price tag of $ per ounce, thanks in part to its blend of science-backed hydration-boosting ingredients.

The star ingredient in Crème de la Mer is algae, also known as seaweed extract, which offers numerous benefits for the skin. According to Dr. Rachel Maiman, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist, seaweed is rich in vitamins and minerals, helping to regulate oil production, combat acne-causing bacteria, smooth fine lines and wrinkles, soothe irritation, hydrate, and reduce hyperpigmentation.

Additionally, the cream contains two key hydrating ingredients: petroleum and glycerin. Dr. Morgan Rabach, M.D., explains that glycerin acts as a humectant, drawing moisture into the skin, while petroleum functions as an emollient, preventing moisture loss. These ingredients, along with mineral oil, further lock in hydration and fortify the skin's protective barrier.

Lime tea extract, another ingredient in the La Mer formula, boasts antioxidant-rich properties that protect the skin from free radical damage and support its renewal and repair processes.

When searching for a dupe for La Mer cream, focus on finding products with similar moisturizing agents. Glycerin, petrolatum, and mineral oil are staple ingredients found in most facial moisturizers and are key components of the Crème de la Mer formula.

For a budget-friendly alternative, consider CeraVe moisturizer, which contains ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin — essential hydrating elements similar to those found in La Mer. Another option is the Tatcha Dewy Skin Cream, enriched with glycerin, dimethicone, squalane, and antioxidant-rich Japanese red rice.

Despite its $ price tag, the Tatcha cream offers comparable benefits to La Mer at a lower cost. It contains humectants, including glycerin and dimethicone, as well as alguronic acid, which has been clinically proven to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

For a no-fuss moisturizing cream that gets the job done, Dr. Rabach recommends Aveeno's Positively Radiant Overnight Hydrating Facial, which is thick, glycerin-filled, and gentle on the skin. Priced at under $, it restores elasticity and calms the complexion without breaking the bank.