In my previous post on the Best facewashes for oily or Acne prone skin, a lot of you also asked me about the best Moisturizers for oily skin. But before we go onto that… let us first answer a common question.
Why do we need to moisturize in summer?
It is a myth that we do not need moisturization in summer or monsoons. Skin that is dehydrated will not look bouncy and or glowing.
Oily skin is not always hydrated skin and that is why we need to moisturize our skin ( more so because of using air conditioners that can strip the skin of its moisture) or certain beauty products like retinol, salicylic acid or Vitamin c serums /facewashes also exfoliate and dehydrate the skin.
Now that we are convinced that we need to moisturize in all weathers, the next question is which is the best moisturizer for oily skin and here is my detailed well researched answer for you:
10 Best Moisturizers for Oily skin
Here is my list of some of the best moisturizers for oily skin in India. There is one of every budget and most of these are time tested and available in India:
1 . Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Gel
Price – Rs 450/2 for 15 gms
A lightweight, oil-free gel formulation that provides hydration without clogging pores.It promises (and delivres) 5X hydration and refreshing plump skin.( you might also like to check out my review of Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunblock SPF 50+)
P.S.- I swear by it!
2 . Cetaphil PRO Oil Control Moisturising Lotion
Price – Rs 1250/- for 120 ml
Non-greasy and suitable for sensitive skin. Not only does this moisturizer helps control oil and shine it comes with SPF 30 for added sun protection. Talk about multitasking!
Also read my review of Cetaphil Moisturising Lotion
3 . La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat Daily Moisturizer
Price – Rs 5477/- for 40 ml
Specifically designed for oily skin, it mattifies the skin and reduces excess oil. As a bonus it also contains zinc and vitamins that are good for the skin. Active ingredient inlcude LHA ( a mild exfoliant) , Glycerin and Antioxidants like Selenium.
4 . Lotus Herbals Alphamoist Alpha Hydroxy Skin Renewal Oil-Free Moisturizer
Price – Rs 335/- for 80 ml
Contains Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) to gently exfoliate and hydrate oily skin. Further check out Lotus Herbals Rosetone Rose Petals Facial Skin Toner
5 . Biotique Bio Morning Nectar Flawless Skin Moisturizer
Price – Rs 220/- for 120 ml
A budget-friendly option with a light texture that moisturizes without making the skin greasy, also contains Vitamin E
6 . Plum Green Tea Mattifying Moisturizer
Price – Rs 470/- for 50 ml
Infused with green tea extracts known for its anti -inflammatory properties, it helps control sebum production and provides a matte finish. It works really well if your skin breaks out into acne easily.
7 . Avene Cleanance Mat Mattifying Emulsion
Price – Rs 5500/- for 40 ml
The French skin care brand Avene Cleanance Mat Mattifying Emulsion offers long-lasting mattification while keeping the skin hydrated. It is specially suitable for excess oil, visible shine, uneven skin texture with blemishes and enlarged pores.
Check out another favourite –Avene Tricneal Expert Soin Emulsion
8 . Lacto Calamine Skin Lotion – Skin Balance Oil Control
Price – Rs 140/- for 60 ml
A classic product known for its oil-absorbing properties thanks to Kaolin clay as an active ingredient, this is good for gentle hydration. This brand has been around for years and is time tested which makes it a good budget moisturizer for oily skin.
9 . Kaya Skin Clinic Acne Free Purifying Nourisher
Price – Rs 690/- for 50 ml
Formulated to hydrate acne-prone oily skin without aggravating breakouts. I have used it and I find it quite light textured and perfect to keep skin hydrated without giving that greasy shine. Also read my review of Kaya Soothing Cleansing Gel
10 . Forest Essentials Light Hydrating Facial Gel Pure Aloe Vera
Price – Rs 1550/- for 50 gms
A pure aloe vera gel-based moisturizer that cools and soothes oily skin while providing the necessary hydration.This is purely herbal product and you pay for the purity. Having used it, I honestly did not feel that this did any more wonders than your cheap aloe vera products. But if you are a hard core fan of Ayurvedic or herbal products and won’t mind paying a premium price for purity than this one is for you. It has no added color or fragrance.
Coming now to the end of this list of the 10 best moisturizers for oily skin in India , I must underline the fact that each individual’s skin is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. The choice of moisturizer also depends on what other skin care products you are currently using. While I have taken care to list only the products that are for sensitive skin and well tolerated, it’s essential to do a patch test and consider your specific skin concerns before choosing a moisturizer. Furthermore , you may need more intense hydration if you are using Retinol, Vitamin C or Salicylic acid in skin care.
Consult a dermatologist for personalized recommendations or you may leave your query in the comments below and I shall answer it to the best of my knowledge.
This blog post is part of the blog challenge ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla.
I don’t have oily skin but my sister has and she was looking for a good skincare moisturizer. Thanks for sharing this list will share it with her.
Among you list, Lotus herbal is my favorite brand. I have used many products of this brand and always have good experience. Neutrogena and Cetaphil are another popular brands here in USA and my girls’ used both of them often.
I have sensitive skin. And would like to try Cetaphil. I use Lacto Calamine sunscreen, so I think I will try that as well. Though, I do prefer gels most of the time, they don’t creat any abrasions.
Your post on best moisturizers for oily skin is a lifesaver. I always thought summer meant skipping moisturizers, but your detailed explanations changed my mind. The variety of options for every budget is awesome. Thanks a bunch for keeping our skin happy and hydrated! 🌞🧴🙌
I would swear by Lacto Calamine. It has been a constant since I was a kid and that was 50 years ago. The others seem like great suggestions for different skin types.
Thank you for sharing your feedback, Harjeet!
Thanks for recommending such an exhaustive list of moisturizer. And I do agree that moisturizer is must in all the seasons as your skin requires hydration by apply moisture that suits your skin type.
You have rightly pointed out that most of us consider Oily skin as Hydrated skin which is actually a myth. The aloe vera one from Forest Essential is my go-to product all the time.
Would you believe it, if I said that this is my next post to publish? I have it saved in drafts as half-written. I have oily skin and the right face washes makes a huge difference. I use Sebamed or Cetaphil.
I do use moisturizer in the summer months and I found that it keeps my skin soft, supple and glowing. I have a mixed skin type and I m using the Lotus botanicals moisturizer and its giving me good result. Few of the above products you mentioned I used earlier and yes they are good too.
Can it be applied for combination skin too?
Loved all the known brands and the products as suggested by you.
Yes combination skin too will benefit, I have tried to include only the safe ones, but every skin is different , so it’s always better to choose carefully.
Hyaluronic acid serums and moisturisers are the most sought-after for oily skin. This seems to be an affordable list of moisturizers. no
I love your list buddy, I use Neutrogena hydroboost for a long time and am happy to see it tops your list. Also this is my goto brand for a lot of my skin needs.
Hahaha I was planning on such a post with all the moisturizers I have used and I like. But now I think I’ll skip it as you have mentioned some really good ones that even my friends use. I have used none of the above by the way.
I always look for oil free products as I have oily skin and your list have given me ample choices to pamper my skin. Thanks for sharing.
Happy to share, this list was compiled after a lot of experimentation on self and others and checking reviews, so I am sure you can find one that feels right.
Happy to see Lactocalamine in your approved list. I had mixed skin and choosing a moisturizer is bit tidious. Your list solve my problem. Thanks for giving so much options.
I know women who aviod using moisturisess if they have oily skin thinking that they don’t need it. This is one helpful post for such women Preeti.
My skin is dry and I use Cetaphil. Would love your recommendations for dry skin as well… will look forward to it.
Mangalore side weather does make your get a lot of moisturising however I don’t have an oily skin but I love using Biotique it really makes my skin feel good.
I have mixed type of skin which most of the time confuses me what to us and what not on my face. Well it is even true that skin problems are minimal in my case and all thanks to my no makeup practice most of the times. Lotus botanicals Vitamin C skin brightening moisturizer I am using and the result is pretty good in my case.
I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect moisturizer for my combination skin. I’ve been using the Re’equil moisturizer for a while now, and I’m genuinely impressed. The variety of options you’ve covered is impressive, from budget-friendly to premium choices. It’s refreshing to see someone prioritize individual needs rather than just pushing expensive products.
Your comprehensive moisturizer guide is insightful, offering options for various budgets and skin types. The inclusion of pros and cons is helpful. Remember, individual reactions vary, and seeking expert advice for unique concerns is wise. Your dedication to reader queries is admirable.
I have a dry skin irrespective of the season ha ha.. but a great post and products you have mentioned indeed are good ones.. one of my favourite is Lotus Herbal.
I love Lotus Herbal which I mostly use. I have a dry skin irrespective of the season but I do know many with oily skin especially the struggle in summers they go through. Definitely will recommend.
Great products listed. I have a dry skin irrespective of the season. However I do know people who struggle with oily skin especially during summers. Definitely recommend them these products. One of my favourite is Lotus Herbal.
What an incredibly timely post! Even though my skin isn’t oily, it’s super sensitive, and navigating the changing seasons can be a real challenge. I can practically feel the relief of those lightweight, non-greasy formulas on my skin, knowing they won’t trigger any sensitivity. Your selection of products tailored for this transitional weather is absolute gold. Heard a lot about forest essential, will try it for sure now.
I have a combination skin and these days I am using Korean skin care routine. I would love to check these products for sure. Thank you
Fortunately, I don’t have oily skin. But my skin is dry, so there are other issues. 🙂
I have dry skin and I usually use lactocalamine. I have been using it for a long time. It has helped keep my skin good even at this age.
Hyaluronic acid serums and moisturisers are the most sought-after for oily skin. This seems to be an affordable list of moisturizers.
I can vouch for Hydraboost Nd Cetaphil. I have had the best results from both
I use cetaphil. and have been using it since ages. i so love it. and monsoons are such season that skin needs extra care.
I use cetaphil. and have been using it since ages. i so love it. and monsoons are such season that skin needs extra care. and thanks for recommending some good one’s
I have dry skin and am allergic to glycerin. It does make it tough to choose a quality product. For now, natural ingredients suit me well but sunscreen is a toughie.
I have normal skin but i like to use a non scented moisturizer and one that can protects skin barrier
I always look forward to such “sin ply pretty” posts. Listicles are always intriguing. They impart so much info! Personally I love the Neutrogena and Cetaphil products for myself.
Having lived my whole life in the south, I could never use any moisturizer. The humidity and sweat keeps the skin supple. I can use only one Lotus sunscreen which doesn’t drip away like the others. I use natural products from my kitchen.
I might try Cetaphil as I have heard a lot about it and I have oily skin and because of that easily get pimple when I apply moisturizer. Thank you for the recs
I am definitely trying one of these as I have oily skin
Great listing! There might be no monsoon here in Singapore but having travelled to different countries where weather gets severely different, I can attest that having a great moisturiser is a life saver.
All great options… I particularly like the Kaya one and Lacto Calamine is everyone’s failsafe option.