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10 Best Face Moisturizers in India (2023)

Maintaining good skin can be challenging despite our best efforts - using the best face wash, drinking water regularly and scheduling salon visits timely. However, finding the best face moisturizer for your skin type can make a big difference.

This article is related to an affiliate advertising program, and Outlook journalists were not involved in producing this article.
Please note that the prices may vary.

Experts Recommended Skincare Kit for healthy and Hydrated skin

1. Moisturiser: This is a lightweight and non-comedogenic moisturiser that hydrates and mattifies the skin without clogging pores. It contains niacinamide and hyaluronic acid to improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of blemishes.
Plum Green Tea Oil Free Moisturizer | Contains Niacinamide & Hyaluronic Acid

2. Supplement: Experts recommend these dissolving strips containing vitamins C and E, and hyaluronic acid, which are all beneficial for dry skin. They have been clinically shown to boost collagen production, reduce inflammation, hydrate the skin, and plump it up.
Stronger me - Glowing Skin

3. Cleanser:  Experts recommend employing a hydrating cleanser custom-tailored for dry skin, formulated with constituents like Hyaluronic Acid. 
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Cleanser

4. Serum: This Serum is a lightweight, fast-absorbing essence that contains 96% snail mucin. Snail mucin is a natural ingredient that is rich in hyaluronic acid, glycoproteins, and proteoglycans, which help to hydrate, repair, and protect the skin.
Cosrx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence

5. Sunscreen: This is a lightweight, non-comedogenic sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays, while also hydrating and nourishing the skin. It contains ceramides to strengthen the skin barrier and vitamin C to protect against free radical damage.
Dr. Sheth's Ceramide & Vitamin C Sunscreen SPF 50+ PA+++

Our Top Picks

Fortified with hyaluronic acid, the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Gel Face Moisturizer is a promising formulation that can work well for almost everyone.

If you’re hunting for a powerful moisturizer that won't clog or block the pores on your skin, we recommend trying out the Bioderma Atoderm Creme Ultra-Nourishing Moisturizer.

If you’re looking for a hydrating face cream that’s not at all greasy but very lightweight, the Minimalist 3% Sepicalm With Oats Face Moisturizer Cream is worth picking.

Best for Combination Skin – Olay Complete All Day Moisturizer with SPF 30

The Olay Complete All Day Moisturizer is the best moisturizer for combination skin as it features a non-greasy, lightweight formula and works well for locking in moisture for all skin types.

Table Of Contents

  • How To Test If The Product Is Good Or Not?
  • What Is The Best Skin Care Routine?
  • List Of The 10 Best Moisturisers For Women In India
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • The Bottom Line

How To Test If The Product Is Good Or Not?

If you’ve shortlisted a highly loved face moisturizer but want to know if it will really be worth your hard-earned money or not, here’s how you can test if it is good or not:

  • Check if the formula is meant for your skin type so there are no compatibility issues later.
  • Furthermore, check how hydrating the formula is. Read plenty of verified reviews and watch YouTube videos to know the same. Some moisturizers have a heavy, creamy consistency, whereas others are gel-based, water-based, lightweight, and very runny in formulation.
  • See how quickly the product gets absorbed and how long the hydration actually lasts.
  • Determine the type of texture you are fond of. If you have excessively dry skin, you are likely to prefer oil or cream-based, thick moisturizers as compared to gel or water-based, runny moisturizers.
  • Most importantly, don’t forget to check the list of ingredients mentioned on the pack. Check if there is any ingredient that may not suit your skin. Moreover, make sure to avoid harsh formulations and moisturizers that contain parabens, alcohol, mineral oils, fragrances, etc.
  • Don’t forget to consider the long-term effects offered by the moisturizer to make sure it does no harm in any way.
  • Last but not least, prioritize a formulation that also offers SPF protection.

What Is The Best Skin Care Routine?

Here is the easiest and the best skincare routine you can follow:

  • Cleanse your skin with a face wash that suits your skin type.
  • Use a toner to ensure your skin's pH is balanced and it is totally clean and grime-free.
  • Use serums to give your skin the additional repair or maintenance required depending on your skin condition and age. Some people may use serums like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, alpha arbutin or retinol for acne-free, hydrated skin. Similarly, some may opt for Vitamin C serums if they have hyperpigmentation or acne scars. Furthermore, some people may also opt for anti-ageing serums.
  • Use a good-quality eye cream to hydrate your under-eyes and reduce fine lines, followed by a hydrating lip balm.
  • Lastly, follow up with a face moisturizer suited for your skin type. It is better to opt for one that offers SPF protection – otherwise, have a good-quality, non-comedogenic sunscreen as a final step.
  • You may keep the cleansing, toning and moisturizing routine the same and have different serums for day and night routines depending upon their reactions to sunlight and UV rays.

List of 10 Best Face Moisturizers in India

Here are our top 10 recommendations for the best face moisturizers to help you make the right choice.

If you’re looking for the best moisturizer for sensitive skin that’s lightweight and gives sun protection, the Olay Complete All Day Moisturizer will impress you!

Olay Complete All Day Moisturizer

Extensive Features:

  • Price: ₹ 11,934
  • Key Ingredients: Vitamin E, B3 and Aloe Vera

Positives:

  • SPF 30
  • Fragrance-free
  • Non-greasy, lightweight formula
  • Provides deep yet lightweight hydration

Negatives:

  • Pricey
  • It may not be hydrating enough for drier skin types

User Feedback:

  • From a total of 5,040 verified reviews, this moisturizer has  4.6 out of 5-star ratings.

Our Product Testing Expert's Opinion and Observations:

  • If you want to protect your skin with an immediate surge of active hydration and good sun protection, this hydrating face cream won't disappoint you!

Who Should Buy This?

  • Ideal for people with a combination of oily skin

Helpful User Testimonial:

  • I love using this moisturizer in all seasons without worrying about any side effects!

The Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Gel Face Moisturizer isn't the most budget-friendly moisturizer on our list—it's not the most expensive, either—but it works really well. Thanks to its hyaluronic acid formulation, it not only moisturizes and increases the skin's water content but also targets signs of ageing in the long run.

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Gel Face Moisturizer

Extensive Features:

  • Price: ₹ 800
  • Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid

Positives:

  • Alcohol-free
  • Unscented
  • Gets instantly absorbed
  • Lightweight, gel formulation
  • Provides up to 72 hours of hydration

Negatives:

  • Strong fragrance
  • Unhygienic jar packaging
  • Gets its blue hue from synthetic dyes

User Feedback:

  • From a total of 3,731 verified reviews, this moisturizer has  4.1 out of 5-star ratings.

Our Product Testing Expert's Opinion and Observations:

  • If you’re looking for a promising moisturizer for oily skin, this is the one! It sinks into the skin immediately, doesn't cause any reaction, and leaves the skin feeling supple, smooth, and hydrated.

Who Should Buy This?

  • Suited for all skin types but mainly ideal for females with oily skin

Helpful User Testimonial:

  • Excellent for daily use! Using this moisturizer is like a treat to my oily skin.

The Face Shop Rice & Ceramide Moisturizing Emulsion is a quick-absorbing formulation that replenishes moisture and keeps the skin fresh and hydrated. Packed with rice extracts, rice bran oil and ceramide, this moisturizer for dry skin is beloved by high-end beauty aficionados and drugstore dwellers alike.

The Face Shop Rice & Ceramide Moisturizing Emulsion

Extensive Features:

  • Price: ₹ 775
  • Key Ingredients: Rice, Rice Bran Oil and Ceramide

Positives:

  • Quickly absorbs into the skin
  • Helps in restoring the skin barrier
  • Free from parabens, mineral oils, talc & colourants

Negatives:

  • Pricey
  • Has sulphates in it
  • Poor packaging design

User Feedback:

  • From a total of 7,617 verified reviews, this moisturizer has  4.3 out of 5-star ratings.

Our Product Testing Expert's Opinion and Observations:

  • We love how this moisturizer’s texture provides long-lasting hydration and smooth absorption without any stickiness. The fact that only a little of the product goes a long way makes it a great value.

Who Should Buy This?

  • Suits all skin types but is ideal for dry skin types

Helpful User Testimonial:

  • This moisturizer feels cool on the skin, and I love how it makes my skin feel hydrated and refreshed.

The Bioderma Atoderm Creme Ultra-Nourishing Moisturizer recreates a healthy skin barrier and helps maintain the skin's water reserves. As a result, this moisturizer for sensitive skin makes the skin feel softer and looks more radiant, smooth, and full.

Bioderma Atoderm Creme Ultra-Nourishing Moisturizer

Extensive Features:

  • Price: ₹ 594
  • Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, Niacinamide and Omegas 3, 6 and 9

Positives:

  • Hypoallergenic
  • Paraben free
  • Unfragranced
  • Fast absorption
  • Non-comedogenic

Negatives:

  • Leaves a slight sheen that some people may not like
  • May not be the best choice for oily skin types

User Feedback:

  • From a total of 2,303 verified reviews, this moisturizer has  4.3 out of 5-star ratings.

Our Product Testing Expert's Opinion and Observations:

  • You will love this rich, soothing, yet quick-absorption moisturizer if you have normal skin.

Who Should Buy This?

  • Best suited for normal to sensitive, dry skin

Helpful User Testimonial:

  • This moisturizer is highly nourishing, has a non-tacky formulation and leaves a beautiful finish on my skin.

The Pilgrim Squalane Glow Moisturizer is a lightweight and non-oily formulation that nourishes the skin deeply from within and adds a natural glow from within. In addition to locking in moisture, this moisturizer for dry skin smoothes uneven texture, brightens skin and eventually helps fade dark spots.

Pilgrim Squalane Glow Moisturizer

Extensive Features:

  • Price: ₹ 494
  • Key Ingredients: Squalene, Vitamin C and Niacinamide

Positives:

  • 100% vegan
  • Adds a youthful glow
  • Hydrates and smoothes
  • Dermatologically tested
  • No parabens and sulphates
  • Brightens skin and evens texture

Negatives:

  • Unhygienic jar packaging
  • May not be liked by people with oily skin types

User Feedback:

  • From a total of 371 verified reviews, this moisturizer has  4.2 out of 5-star ratings.

Our Product Testing Expert's Opinion and Observations:

  • The Pilgrim Squalane Glow Moisturizer is one of the best bets for people with dry skin looking for a fairly affordable product to add to their skincare routine.

Who Should Buy This?

  • Best suited for dry skin type

Helpful User Testimonial:

  • I love how this formula has quick absorption and leaves a dewy finish on my skin.

The Plum Green Tea Oil Free Moisturizer has a lightweight, non-sticky texture leaving a matte finish on the skin and keeping the skin hydrated for a long. This moisturizer for oily skin is a 100% vegan formula and almost leaves zero residues without getting sticky or greasy.

Plum Green Tea Oil Free Moisturizer

Extensive Features:

  • Price: ₹ 338
  • Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, Squalene, Green Tea and Kakadu Plum

Positives:

  • Alcohol-free
  • Oil-free formulation
  • Helps reduce acne
  • No parabens, phthalates, silicones, SLS, fragrances, and artificial colours

Negatives:

  • Claims to be a non-fragrant formula but smells of artificial

User Feedback:

  • From a total of 3,782 verified reviews, this moisturizer has  4.2 out of 5-star ratings.

Our Product Testing Expert's Opinion and Observations:

  • If you’re looking for lightweight moisture that doesn't clog pores or look oily or greasy at all, this one will impress you.

Who Should Buy This?

  • People with oily, acne-prone and/or sensitive skin

Helpful User Testimonial:

  • Ever since my dermatologist recommended the Plum Green Tea Oil Free Moisturizer to me, I never looked back, and my skin has never looked any better.

The Minimalist 3% Sepicalm with Oats Face Moisturizer Cream is great for combination and sensitive skin. The formula is super lightweight and doesn’t feel greasy at all. The moisturizer locks hydration and reduces transepidermal water loss from the skin. Moreover, it helps to soothe irritations and calm redness to nourish the skin further and make it glowing.

Minimalist 3% Sepicalm With Oats Face Moisturizer Cream

Extensive Features:

  • Price: ₹ 331
  • Key Ingredients: 3% Sepicalm, Oat Extracts, Squalane, Vitamin B5 and Amino Acids

Positives:

  • Lightweight formula
  • Soothing and calming properties
  • Non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic
  • Free from fragrances, silicones, sulphates, parabens, essential oils, and dyes
  • Enriched with Polyglutamic Acid, which can hold 4 times more water than Hyaluronic Acid

Negatives:

  • Takes a lot of time to absorb
  • Not easily available in drugstores

User Feedback:

  • From a total of 6,211 verified reviews, this moisturizer has  4.1 out of 5-star ratings.

Our Product Testing Expert's Opinion and Observations:

  • The Minimalist 3% Sepicalm with Oats Face Moisturizer Cream is super-hydrating, lightweight, and helps reduce breakouts and inflammation.

Who Should Buy This?

  • Suitable for all skin types but best suited for sensitive skin

Helpful User Testimonial:

  • I love this moisturizing cream for all it does, but I wish the formula absorbed quickly.

The Derma Co 3% Vitamin E Face Moisturizer is a potent blend of nourishing ingredients that lock in moisture and calm and fortify dry and damaged skin. The moisturizer has a gel-based, dermatologist-designed formulation that shows visible results in 3-6 weeks of regular usage.

The Derma Co 3% Vitamin E Face Moisturizer

Extensive Features:

  • Price: ₹ 296
  • Key Ingredients: Vitamin E, Lactic Acid and Argan Oil

Positives:

  • Fragrance-free
  • Calming and nourishing
  • Lightweight formula
  • No greasy or oily finish after application

Negatives:

  • It may get heavy for people with oily skin, especially in the summers

User Feedback:

  • From a total of 1,154 verified reviews, this moisturizer has  4.1 out of 5-star ratings.

Our Product Testing Expert's Opinion and Observations:

  • If you’re hunting for a soothing and nourishing moisturizer that’s not harsh on your pocket as well, The Derma Co 3% Vitamin E Face Moisturizer is a great choice.

Who Should Buy This?

  • Makes an ideal choice for dry & flaky skin

Helpful User Testimonial:

  • Been using this for a year and have no complaints. Would definitely recommend it!

Featuring a super lightweight and non-oily gel-based formula, the Pond's Super Light Gel Oil-Free Face Moisturizer spreads and absorbs into the skin instantly. The formula leaves the skin soft and hydrated and adds a radiant glow with regular usage.

Pond's Super Light Gel Oil Free Face Moisturizer

Extensive Features:

  • Price: ₹ 176
  • Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid & Vitamin E

Positives:

  • Affordably priced
  • Mild, pleasant smell
  • A pea-sized amount is enough
  • Free from parabens and oils
  • Easily available online and at drugstores
  • Absorbs faster than regular moisturizers
  • Lightweight, non-comedogenic, gel formula

Negatives:

  • Unhygienic jar packaging
  • Not fungal acne safe (contains Stearic Acid)
  • Contains fragrance and may not be suitable for sensitive skin types

User Feedback:

  • From a total of 11,542 verified reviews, this moisturizer has  4.4 out of 5-star ratings.

Our Product Testing Expert's Opinion and Observations:

  • We recommend trying out the Pond's Super Light Gel Oil-Free Face Moisturizer if you're looking for a light, gel-based moisturizer at an affordable price.

Who Should Buy This?

  • Suitable for all skin types and all seasons usage but mainly ideal for oily skin types

Helpful User Testimonial:

  • I picked this moisturizer when I read it is a total oil-free formulation, and I haven't found a better one at this price range.

If you're looking for the most affordable moisturizer on the market that does its job perfectly and provides sun protection simultaneously, the Lakme Peach Milk Face Moisturizer is a perfect choice. Backed with SPF 24, the formulation is lightweight, absorbs quickly and keeps skin hydrated for six to eight hours.

Lakme Peach Milk Face Moisturizer

Extensive Features:

  • Price: ₹ 154
  • Key Ingredients: Peach Milk Extract and Vitamin C

Positives:

  • Very affordable
  • Provides sun protection 
  • Goes well under makeup
  • Easily available online and offline

Negatives:

  • Not fragrance-free
  • Mediocre ingredients

User Feedback:

  • From a total of 20,722 verified reviews, this moisturizer has 4.3 out of 5-star ratings.

Our Product Testing Expert's Opinion and Observations:

  • Affordable, lightweight, moisturizing - all with SPF 24! We couldn't ask for more at this price point. But we have to point out that it's not an unscented formula.

Who Should Buy This?

  • Suitable for all skin types, but people with very dry or sensitive skin may not like it much.

Helpful User Testimonial:

  • I bought this moisturizer from a local shop and honestly didn’t expect much from it, but I must say, it works pretty well. But given the price point, there are some cons, such as the need for reapplication and artificial fragrance – but I don’t mind applying it every four to six hours.

Frequently Asked Questions About Purchasing The Best Face Moisturizer

Here are our answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about purchasing the best face moisturizer.

1. How much moisturizer should you use on your face?

A pea-sized amount of moisturizer is an ideal amount to be used on your face.

2. Why is moisturizer important?

Moisturizing the skin every day can maintain its natural oil balance, thereby reducing the chance of extreme dryness or oiliness and, eventually, acne breakouts.

3. Do you also need to use a separate SPF product with your moisturizer?

If your moisturizer already has SPF in it, you don’t need any additional sunscreen.

The Bottom Line

The best face moisturizer is one that hydrates your skin without causing irritation or any other skin concerns. That being said, we hope we helped you choose the right moisturizer for your skin type. Which of these products would you like to try?  

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We will reach out to you within the next 48 business hours.

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