As a skin care-obsessed shopping writer who’s constantly hunting for the best products, my bathroom cabinets are overflowing with every kind of moisturizer, serum, lotion and cream — you name it. And because I have exceptionally dry, sensitive skin, I’m particular about which products I’ll actually use, let alone repurchase.

That said, there’s one staple my collection will never be without: Vanicream. A few years ago, my dermatologist recommended this unassuming moisturizer, and I haven’t looked back. Not only is it the sole product I can apply to my face and body without fear of getting a rash, but it also costs a mere $14 for a whopping one-pound tub. Keep reading for my “glowing” review.

Looks can be deceiving

I’ll be the first to admit that Vanicream doesn’t have the sexiest packaging. But while it might not come in a sleek tube or have a trendy pastel design, it works — and when your skin’s as flaky and red as mine, especially during the winter, that’s what matters. Plus, it has a nifty pump that keeps the product from getting under your nails, and the massive tub will last for-ev-er.

A sensitive-skin savior

As I mentioned, my skin (especially my face) is parched and prone to redness, itching and flaking — I was even diagnosed with mild psoriasis last year. Because of that, I have to be careful about what I slather on to avoid flare-ups.

Vanicream was specifically formulated for sensitive skin. It’s free of irritants, including dyes, fragrances, lanolin and parabens, and in spite of its rich texture, it’s noncomedogenic, meaning it’s unlikely to clog pores. Its short list of ingredients includes sorbitol, which is like a moisture magnet that transfers water from the air to your face; Cetearyl alcohol, a milder alcohol that helps soften and soothe; and propylene glycol for boosting moisture retention. It even has the National Eczema Association’s Seal of Acceptance, which is only awarded to products that have been thoroughly tested.

Because Vanicream is so gentle, I can apply it all over my body and face with abandon. The first time I used it, I was worried it would be too thick. I usually prefer more lightweight skin care products because I hate feeling greasy, but I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly it was absorbed. A little goes a long way — a dime-size dab is sufficient for my face. When I apply it while my skin is still wet after a shower, there’s barely any hint of it after I’ve dried off — just refreshed, hydrated skin that feels softer and plumper.

I find it especially effective for targeting rough skin on my knees, elbows, feet and hands, and I’ve experienced far less flaking and cracking since I started using it. If your skin isn’t as dry as mine (lucky), you might find it a bit heavy during the warmer months, but I use it all year long. Come winter, it’s an absolute must.

5-star reviews galore

Seeing as it has over 34,000 perfect ratings from Amazon customers, I’m far from being Vanicream’s only fan.

“Recommended by my Dermatologist at the best hospital in the U.S.,” wrote one happy shopper. “I was surprised that such a simple product was a part of the recommendation, but I have not been disappointed. My spouse complimented how smooth my legs were looking, and I too have been noticing skin texture changes for the better with use of this line. I put the lotion on before I dry off after a shower (prevents clogged pores and is just easier). This is also the first year I haven’t gotten that winter itch from dry skin. I enthusiastically pass on this recommendation.”

“I have tried so many products for my neck and face, and this is the only one that worked,” shared another impressed user. “My neck started to get really ‘crepey’ and I was at my wit’s end. … Then I tried Vanicream and it changed my life!! I know that sounds cliche but it really did bring my skin back to where it used to be. The redness, itching, scaling, crepe-like appearance are all GONE and it looks and feels normal again. … It tightened everything up too and made my 58-year-old neck look much younger. Or at least not like I’m 98.”

“Miracle in a Jar,” shared yet another fan. “My skin LOVES this cream. I have purchased creams and moisturizers from high-end brands and spent hundreds of dollars. None of those products compare to Vanicream. I have combination skin and am prone to the occasional eczema flare up.”

A final fan shared: “Great gentle moisturizer for sensitive skin. This moisturizer is a very nice, gentle, and thick moisturizer that seals in moisture and all the good hydrating products underneath. Only downside since It’s very thick is that sometimes, maybe on a particularly hot day, you definitely feel the weight of this on your skin.”

(Pro tip: Applying this cream to wet skin helps it absorb better, and I don’t see any white cast when I do this. Regarding clothing, you’ll just want to be careful, as you would be when applying any skin care product.)

Another cost-effective skin care product I’m loving? These reusable under-eye masks:

Read my full Dieux Forever Eye Mask review for more.

If you have Amazon Prime, you’ll get free shipping, of course. Not yet a member? No problem. You can sign up for your free 30-day trial here. (And by the way, those without Prime still get free shipping on orders of $35 or more.)

The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.