Skin Care Reviews in Nigeria: Your Complete Guide to the Best Face Washes, Lotions & Body Soaps for Dry Skin

Introduction

If you’ve ever felt tightness, flaking, or persistent “dry patches” on your face and body—even when you moisturize—then you know how frustrating having dry skin in Nigeria can be. The heat, humidity, frequent washing, and use of harsh soaps can strip the skin’s barrier over time. Yet with so many products available—some imported, some local, and many questionable sellers—it’s hard to know what’s genuinely effective.

That’s where “Skin Care Reviews in Nigeria” comes in. In this guide, we’ll:

Walk through the best face washes, moisturisers, body soaps, and creams suitable for dry skin in Nigeria and West Africa.
Explain what ingredients to prioritize (and avoid).
Show you how to build a 3-step daily routine that actually works in a humid climate.
Share tips to spot fake skincare, navigate prices, and safely shop in Nigeria.

We’ll also compare what you see on big marketplaces like Jumia or Konga, and help you decide what’s really worth your naira. By the end, you’ll feel confident choosing skincare that hydrates, nourishes, and protects—without burning your skin or your money.

Quick Snapshot: Our Top Product Picks

Here’s a handy look at 6 standout picks for dry skin—each one links to its product page on creams.ng

Product Type	Recommended Product	Why It’s Great	Approx Price*
Face Wash	CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser	Non-foaming, rich in ceramides + hyaluronic acid, gentle on dry skin	₦4,000–₦7,000
Face Wash	Dang 5% Mandelic Acid Foaming Face Wash	Mild exfoliation + hydrating formula	₦10,000–₦13,000
Moisturiser (Day & Night)	CeraVe Moisturizing Cream / Lotion	Deep hydration, barrier repair	₦6,000–₦10,000
Moisturiser (Budget / Local)	Local / Nigerian brand option (e.g. Franemm facial cream)	More accessible pricing, local supply	Varies
Body Soap / Cleanser	Syndet / Glycerin-based gentle soap or African black soap (carefully used)	Gentle cleansing, less stripping	₦1,000–₦4,000
Body Lotion / Cream	Rich body lotion with shea butter, glycerin or urea	Locks in moisture after shower	₦3,000–₦8,000

* Price ranges are approximate, based on marketplace listings at time of writing (October 2025).

These are meant as a starting point. In the sections that follow, we’ll dig deeper into each category, review multiple options, and help you choose based on your budget, skin sensitivities, and availability.

How We Review & What You Should Trust

To give you recommendations you can trust, here’s our approach:

1. Ingredient & efficacy check
We look for hydrating and barrier-supporting ingredients (ceramides, hyaluronic acid, urea, glycerin, niacinamide) and avoid known irritants (harsh sulfates like SLS/SLES, unnecessary fragrance, drying alcohols). We also cross-check with dermatologist sources and patch test data.

2. User reviews in Nigeria / West Africa
We examine reviews from Nigerian users (e.g. on Jumia, Konga, Buybetter) to see how these products behave in our climate. Many product pages list user feedback, so we incorporate those insights.

3. Local availability & authenticity
A great product is useless if you can’t buy it safely in Nigeria. We compare what’s listed on major platforms, check seller ratings, and look at packaging/expiry consistency.

4. Price vs value
We weigh the cost per ml or per use to see which products give you real value in the Nigerian market.

5. Comparative benchmarking vs marketplaces
We look at how Jumia, Konga, and Buybetter present and rank products, see which ones are trending, and try to fill gaps—especially around routines, comparisons, and evidence-based advice.

We invite you to patch test everything, especially if your skin is ultra-sensitive or you’ve had reactions before. What works wonderfully for one person may not for another.

Best Face Washes for Dry Skin

What dry skin needs in a cleanser

Dry skin requires a cleanser that cleanses without stripping. Instead of foamy, harsh surfactants (like SLS), the ideal cleanser uses gentle surfactants plus humectants or barrier-supporting agents. You want:

Mild surfactants (coco-betaine, decyl glucoside, etc.)
Humectants (glycerin, HA)
Ceramides or lipid components (if possible)
A pH close to 5.0–5.5
Fragrance-free or minimal fragrance

Here are several good options to consider, along with pros/cons and local observations:

Review 1: CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser

Why it works: This is a classic for dry/sensitive skin. It’s a non-foaming cleanser, enriched with ceramides and hyaluronic acid, which help preserve moisture while cleansing.
In Nigerian context: Frequently listed on Jumia and other skincare stores; many users mention that it doesn’t leave the tight feeling that many “deep-clean” washes do.
Pros: gentle, well-known, widely available (imported but well-stocked)
Cons: cost can be high due to importation; fake variants exist, so buy from trusted sellers
Usage tip: apply on damp skin, massage for ~30 seconds, rinse lukewarm, pat dry gently
Verdict: a reliable go-to if it’s within your budget

Review 2: Dang 5% Mandelic Acid 3-in-1 Foaming Face Wash

Why it works: Combines mild chemical exfoliation with moisturising effects. Dang is a Nigerian skincare brand, so availability locally is a plus.
User feedback: In a review by Pulse Nigeria, the cleanser “leaves skin feeling soft, not stripped or dry.” Pulse Nigeria
Pros: local brand (import burden lower), gently exfoliates + hydrates
Cons: as a foaming wash, may still overdo it for very dry or reactive skin
Usage tip: use once daily (preferably at night) to avoid over-exfoliation
Verdict: a good option for someone wanting a mild exfoliating wash, provided your skin tolerates it

Review 3: FaceFacts Ceramide Hydrating Gentle Cleanser (from Buybetter listings)

From the Buybetter “Affordable Face Wash in Nigeria” lineup, FaceFacts Ceramide Hydrating Gentle Cleanser (400 ml) is listed at about ₦6,998. Buy Better
Why it works: It’s ceramide-based, likely gentle on barrier skin, and a more local or regionally imported option with lower markup.
Pros: more affordable, decent size, accessible in local stores
Cons: less global brand recognition; packaging or authenticity needs careful checking
Verdict: worth trying if you’re price-sensitive but still want barrier-friendly ingredients

Review 4: Local Nigerian / African Face Cleanser (e.g., Franemm or Trad-derived alternatives)

Franemm markets a “gentle face wash / cleanser” for sensitive skin in Nigeria. Franemm Industries+1
Some niche brands in Nigeria also craft facial cleansers with more natural ingredients suited to our climate (using aloe, hibiscus, shea, etc.).
Pros: often better priced, may match local skin/climate conditions
Cons: varying quality, formulation transparency is sometimes lower
Usage tip: check the ingredient list; if alcohol or harsh surfactants are present, be cautious
Verdict: good as a budget or local-supply option, if you trust the brand

Budget alternatives & hacks

If budget is tight:

Use glycerin + minimal surfactant base washes (diluted)
Use micellar waters (if available, gentle)
Rotate with a “cream cleanser” (oil + emollient) 2–3 times a week to reduce stress on the barrier

What to avoid in cleansers for dry skin

Harsh sulfates (SLS, SLES)
High fragrance / essential oils (they may irritate)
High alcohol content
Overuse of exfoliating acids (AHAs/BHAs) if skin is already compromised

Best Face Lotions & Moisturisers for Dry Skin

Understanding moisturisers: lotion vs cream vs balm

Lotions: lighter, more water-based, good for daytime in humid climates
Creams / ointments / balms: thicker, richer, better for nighttime or very dry skin
Emollients + occlusives: oils, butters, petrolatum-like ingredients prevent moisture loss
Humectants: glycerin, urea, hyaluronic acid

Your ideal moisturiser combines these elements, suitably balanced for your skin sensitivity.

Review 1: CeraVe Moisturizing Cream / Lotion

A widely trusted hydrator; often paired with their cleanser.
Why it works: Contains ceramides, hyaluronic acid; good for restoring the lipid barrier.
In Nigeria, many users consider it a “standard benchmark” imported product.
Pros: clinically recognized, well-documented formula
Cons: can be greasy in hot weather, expensive as import
Usage tip: use on slightly damp skin; spread thinly in the daytime, more thickly at night

Review 2: Niacinamide + Ceramide moisturiser (midrange / niche brand)

Aim for something combining niacinamide + ceramide for barrier repair and hydration.
These formulations help reduce transepidermal water loss and soothe redness.
Check for versions with SPF if you can find them.

Review 3: Budget / local moisturiser / cream

Many Nigerian or West African brands produce facial creams or lotions targeted to “dry / collagen boosting / repair.”
These may not always list full actives or percentages, but can be good if you have limited import access.
Use caution with claims (skin whitening, instant glow, etc.).
Try to choose formulations that are non-comedogenic and fragrance-light.

Layering & application tips

Always apply on damp (not wet) skin to lock in water
Use “thin to thick” rule — watery serums first, richer creams last
Patch test on your jawline or inner arm for 3 days
In very dry weather (e.g. harmattan), consider applying a facial oil or occlusive (like squalane, jojoba) over your moisturizer

Best Body Soaps / Body Washes & Moisturising Body Lotions

Challenges of body dryness in Nigeria / West Africa context

Our climate, frequent showers, sample water quality (hard water), and common use of strong soap bars often lead to body dryness. The key is cleanse gently + lock in moisture quickly.

Review 1: Gentle Syndet / Glycerin-based Cleansing Bar or Body Wash

Instead of traditional soap (alkaline, harsh), use a syndet (synthetic detergent) bar or glycerin-based body wash.
Many skincare articles caution against frequent use of African black soap on dry or sensitive skin because it can be too harsh if overused. Real Simple
Some syndet bars combine oatmeal, shea, coconut derivatives for gentleness.

Review 2: African Black Soap – with caution

African black soap (ose dudu) is beloved in Nigeria for its cleansing and clarifying properties. But it’s strong, so use slowly and sparingly if your skin is dry or reactive.
Dermatologist advice: moisturize immediately after use, limit to 2–3 times per week if used. Real Simple
Use a variant or formula with added oils or glycerin to mitigate stripping.

Review 3: Rich body lotion / cream with humectants + emollients

Look for body lotions / creams that contain glycerin, urea, shea butter, ceramides or panthenol.
After a bath or shower, pat skin slightly dry (leaving moisture), then apply lotion immediately to lock hydration.
Use thicker creams overnight in drier seasons or for particularly rough areas (knees, elbows).

Review 4: Lightweight daily body lotion for daytime

For daytime wear, a lighter lotion that’s fast-absorbing but still hydrating is ideal.
Avoid heavy greasier oils if you’ll be sweating; better to use them at night.

DIY / hack tip

You can boost a simple lotion by mixing in a few drops of plant-based oil (like jojoba, argan, or squalane) right before applying for extra occlusion—just mix in your palm.

A Simple 3-Step Daily Routine for Dry Skin

Here’s a practical routine you can adapt (morning + night):

Time	Step	What to Use	Why
AM	1. Gentle cleanse	Use one of the recommended face washes	Remove overnight buildup
	2. Hydrating / lightweight moisturiser + SPF	Seal in moisture and protect from UV	UV damage worsens dryness
PM	1. Gentle cleanse	Remove dirt, pollutants, sunscreen	Avoid over-cleansing—stick to ~30 sec massage
	2. Hydrating serum / humectant	Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, niacinamide	Restores water content inside the skin
	3. Richer cream / occlusive	Apply thick layer or use occlusive (oil) on top	Prevent moisture loss overnight
Weekly / Optional	Gentle exfoliation (e.g., lactic acid 5 %)	Use 1–2× per week	Helps shed dead skin so moisturisers penetrate better
	Hydrating mask / overnight mask	Use maybe once a week for a boost	Especially useful in dry weather

Local tips:

Use lukewarm, not hot water—hot water strips lipids.
Limit showers to 5–10 minutes maximum.
If tap water is hard, use a filtered or boiled-cool water rinse.
Avoid products with heavy perfume, especially under heat/sun.
Keep a small travel-size hydrator or mist (e.g., “water + glycerin + niacinamide”) for midday refresh.

Price, Availability & Smart Buying in Nigeria

Typical price ranges (as of October 2025)

Face wash (imported, 200–400 ml): ₦4,000–₦15,000
Moisturiser / cream: ₦5,000–₦12,000
Body lotion / cream: ₦3,000–₦10,000
Local creams / lotions: ₦1,500–₦6,000

These ranges draw from Jumia, TOS, Buybetter, and local stores. For example, TOS Nigeria lists CeraVe Foaming Cleanser and many imported cleansers. TOS Nigeria, You can also browse our list at creams.ng

Authenticity & seller checks

Always check seller rating, reviews, and how many units sold.
Inspect expiry date / batch codes and packaging quality (cleaning, seals).
Prefer official brand stores or trusted resellers.
Watch out for “too good to be true” pricing on popular products—they may be fake or diluted.

Import / customs costs

Imported skincare can attract shipping and import charges, pushing cost higher.
Local or regional brands often avoid those markups, making them more cost-effective if quality is acceptable.

Creams.ng advantage

We Encourage readers and shoppers alike to compare creams.ng prices vs big marketplaces
Offer bundled deals or “dry-skin kits” to reduce per-item shipping cost
Guarantee authenticity and local delivery
Provide alerts / back-in-stock notices for sold-out items

FAQs

Here are common questions and clear answers:

Q: What is the best type of cleanser for dry skin?
A: A gentle, non-foaming or low-foam formula with humectants and mild surfactants. Avoid harsh sulfates, heavy perfumes, or alkaline soaps.

Q: How often should I exfoliate if I have dry skin?
A: No more than 1–2 times per week. Use mild acids (e.g. lactic acid) or soft physical exfoliants. Over-exfoliation can damage your skin’s barrier.

Q: Can I use facial oils along with moisturiser when I have dry skin?
A: Yes. Use the “moisturiser first, then oil” order. The oil acts as occlusive to lock in moisture. But if oil clogs your skin, skip it.

Q: Are imported skincare brands better than local brands in Nigeria?
A: Not necessarily. Imported brands often provide more product transparency, but local brands may suit regional climate and cost less. The quality and authenticity matter more than origin.

Q: How can I spot a fake skincare product on Nigerian marketplaces?
A: Check for inconsistent packaging, missing batch or expiry codes, low price compared to market norms, poor seller reviews, and always request a real photo before purchase.

Face Washes for Dry Skin

Product	Best For	Key Ingredients	Price Range	Link
CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser	Sensitive / dry skin	Ceramides, hyaluronic acid	₦4,000–₦7,000	creams.ng
Dang 5% Mandelic Acid Foaming Wash	Mild exfoliation + hydration	Mandelic acid, humectants	₦10,000–₦13,000	creams.ng
FaceFacts Ceramide Gentle Cleanser	Value barrier-friendly wash	Ceramides, glycerin	₦6,000–₦8,000	creams.ng
Franemm or local cleanser	Local alternative	(Check ingredient list)	₦2,000–₦6,000	creams.ng

Moisturisers for Dry Skin

Product	Skin Concern	Key Actives	Price Range	Link
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream/Lotion	Deep hydration & barrier repair	Ceramides, HA	₦5,000–₦12,000	creams.ng
Niacinamide + ceramide cream	Redness / barrier repair	Niacinamide, ceramides	Mid-range	creams.ng
Local / Nigerian brand cream	Budget option	(Depends on brand)	₦2,000–₦6,000	creams.ng

Body Lotions & Soaps

Type	Best For	Key Ingredients	Price Range	Link
Syndet / glycerin-based cleansing bar	Gentle cleansing	Glycerin, mild surfactants	₦1,000–₦4,000	creams.ng
African black soap (limited use)	Clarifying / natural option	Ashes, shea, palm oil	₦500–₦2,000	creams.ng
Rich body cream / lotion	Post-shower lock-in	Shea, urea, glycerin	₦3,000–₦8,000	creams.ng
Lightweight body lotion	Daytime hydration	Panthenol, squalane, light oils	₦2,000–₦6,000	creams.ng

(You can make these tables filterable or clickable in your CMS for better UX.)

Why Creams.ng Can Be Your Go-To & CTAs

At creams.ng, you’ll find:

Authenticity guaranteed — we vet sellers and verify brands.
Local delivery — fast shipping across Nigeria, no long wait times.
Dry skin kits & bundles — e.g. cleanser + moisturiser + body lotion bundles for lower per-item shipping.
Price comparison — see our “market match” prices against big marketplaces.
Alerts & restock notifications — never miss when your favourite product is back.
Content & support — blog guides, video demos, and FAQs help you choose wisely.

CTAs you can embed:

“Shop our Dry Skin Kit →”
“Compare our price vs Jumia / Konga →”
“Get a free dry-skin routine PDF when you subscribe”
“See all face washes for dry skin” (link to your category page)

Final Thoughts

Dry skin doesn’t have to mean constant discomfort, flaking, or wasted money on ineffective products. With the right cleanser, moisturiser, and body care—backed by knowledge—you can rebuild your skin’s barrier and glow confidently.

This guide is based on ingredient science + local user feedback in Nigeria / West Africa. But every skin is unique. Do patch tests, adjust to your climate, and monitor how your skin responds. If something causes irritation, stop immediately.

We’d love to hear about your journey: drop your questions or experiences in the comments. Which product did your skin love? Which didn’t work? Come explore more skincare guides, product updates, and deals at creams.ng.

Skin Care Reviews in Nigeria