Oily skin is characterized by excess sebum production which leaves the skin looking greasy and shiny. The overactive sebaceous glands and enlarged pores often lead to clogged pores, blackheads and acne breakouts. Choosing the right skin care products for oily, acne-prone skin is crucial to manage excess oil while providing much needed hydration.
Finding an effective face cream that moisturises without aggravating greasiness can be quite tricky. Heavy, thick creams further clog pores while extremely lightweight gels fail to hydrate sufficiently. The ideal textures for oily skin include gel creams, water creams and sorbet textured moisturizers which balance both concerns.
In this blog, we review the 15 best face creams in India specially targeted at oily, acne-prone skin. All these moisturizers effectively control sebum production while delivering intense hydration for healthy, clear skin. They rely on skin-friendly ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5, green tea, niacinamide etc. to restore moisture barrier function. The oil-free formulas also minimize pores, fade acne marks and make the skin smooth.
So ditch your current heavy moisturizer and try one of these lightweight gels instead to manage oily skin better while keeping it well hydrated for a clear, blemish-free glow. Read further to know more about the best face creams for oily skin available in the Indian market.
This oil-free gel moisturizer from Minimalist is specially formulated for oily and acne-prone skin. It contains 10% vitamin B5 (panthenol) which helps repair the skin barrier, retain moisture and reduce excess oil production. The lightweight gel gets quickly absorbed without leaving any stickiness or grease. It’s free of fragrance making it suitable for sensitive skin too.
The Minimalist Vitamin B5 Gel Cream checks all the boxes for being the best face moisturizer for oily and acne-prone skin. It is lightweight yet effective in hydrating the skin without clogging pores or making the skin look greasy. The high concentration of panthenol repairs the moisture barrier, which is often compromised in oily skin. Reduced trans-epidermal water loss ensures the skin stays properly hydrated. The oil-free formula also suits those with fungal acne or malassezia. For its simple yet skin-friendly formulation, good hydration and affordable pricing, we highly recommend this as the best gel cream for oily skin.
Ustraa’s oil-free moisturizing cream is specifically targeted at men with oily skin types. It provides hydration while controlling excess sebum production, thus leaving a non-greasy matte finish. The cream has a quick absorbing gel-like texture. Key ingredients include East Indian Globe Thistle extract and lemon grass oil.
Ustraa is one of the best men’s grooming brands in India and their oil control moisturizer cream ticks all boxes for oily skin management. Unlike other products that completely strip the skin of oils, this one focuses more on sebum regulation. This makes it safe for daily use while keeping shine and grease at bay. The lemon grass oil helps inhibit bacterial overgrowth which prevents acne. For oily skinned men looking for a lightweight daily moisturizer that controls oiliness without making the skin dry or tight, this Ustraa cream is a reliable choice.
Bajaj Nomarks Anti-marks cream has an Ayurvedic oil-free formulation specially created for oily, acne-prone skin. Key ingredients are Neem, Tulsi, Aloe Vera and other herbs that control excess oil, reduce blemishes and prevent recurrence of pimples. The antimicrobial ingredients keep acne-causing bacteria away.
For people looking for an Ayurvedic solution to manage their oily, acne-prone skin, Bajaj Nomarks Anti-marks Cream is a good option. The herb-powered formulation controls sebum production, heals active zits faster and prevents further breakouts. Neem and Tulsi keep the skin clean and infection-free. Unlike harsh fairness creams, this one focuses more on reducing acne spots, dark spots rather than skin lightening. So if you have a pimply, oily skin with blemishes, do give this Ayurvedic anti-marks cream a try.
This spot targeting moisturizer from Dot & Key contains Centella Asiatica (Cica) and Niacinamide which are excellent ingredients for acne-prone skin. The lightweight, oil-free cream deeply hydrates without clogging pores. Key actions include repairing acne spots and marks, reducing redness & inflammation and prevention of new breakouts. Skin appears clearer, calmer and more even-toned with regular use.
The Dot & Key Cica + Niacinamide Spot Reduction Moisturizer ticks all boxes for being the best cream for oily, acne-prone skin. Cica extract calms down existing zits, reduces redness and accelerates healing of marks. Niacinamide is excellent for controlling sebum production and keeping the pores clear. Unlike other spot creams loaded with harsh chemicals, this one relies on skin-friendly botanical actives to restore skin health. The lightweight gel gets quickly absorbed without any stickiness. For its effective acne-healing powers, we rank this as one of the best moisturizing creams for oily acne-prone skin.
This plant-based face cream from Blue Nectar contains a powerful antioxidant complex of 19 Ayurvedic herbs including vitamin C rich ingredients like Amla. The oil-free gel formula provides hydration and nourishment while controlling excess oil production in acne-prone skin. Grapeseed oil further tones the skin. Skin looks clearer, brighter and more youthful.
Infused with the goodness of botanical ingredients like Amla, Neem, Gotu Kola etc. this Ayurvedic face cream delivers visible results for oily, acne-prone skin. The herb powered formulation effectively controls sebum production, heals acne faster and reduces marks & spots. Skin looks bright and clear with even toned complexion. What makes this different is that unlike other creams relying on chemicals, this one uses nature’s healing power to restore skin health. The oil-free gel texture is also suitable for daily use without blocking pores. For crystal clear skin, do try this herbal vitamin C cream.
Lotus WhiteGlow Brightening Gel Cream contains nourishing botanical extracts of Liquorice, Mulberry, Saxifrage blended in a smooth gel base. It provides multiple benefits like oil control, skin brightening, fading dark spots and protecting from sun damage. Skin appears visibly fairer, clearer and more radiant.
Lotus Herbals WhiteGlow range is one of the best-selling and most trusted skin whitening creams in India. This Brightening Gel Cream delivers oil control, spot reduction along with brightness and glow for the skin. The botanical complex of Mulberry, Saxifrage, Liquorice reduces melanin production causing the skin to appear fairer over time. It also prevents UV damage with SPF 25. The smooth gel texture doesn’t feel heavy on oily skin. For a budget-friendly skin lightening day cream this Lotus Herbals gel cream is surely worth trying.
This lightweight, oil-free gel cream from Minimalist helps strengthen the skin’s protective barrier with the power of ceramides. The 0.3% triple-pressed ceramide complex replicates the skin’s NMF (natural moisturizing factors) to provide intense hydration without aggravating acne or oiliness. Skin stays moisturized for longer with reduced trans-epidermal water loss.
An impaired skin barrier with insufficient ceramide levels often leads to dehydrated and sensitive skin. The Minimalist Ceramide Moisturizer with its 0.3% clinically effective ceramide concentrate restores this barrier, allowing the skin to retain moisture better. The oil-free gel formula is quickly absorbed, making it suitable for daily use even for extremely oily skin types. Overall, this moisturizer does exactly what it claims by repairing the skin’s moisture barrier in the most simplistic yet effective manner. A must-try!
This Korean face cream from Pilgrim blends the antioxidant goodness of White Lotus extract in an advanced formula suitable for all skin types. The rich yet non-greasy cream provides intense moisturization along with broad spectrum SPF 50 sun protection. Visible skin brightening effects are seen with regular usage.
K-beauty creams are globally renowned for their advanced formulations combining high-tech ingredients with botanical goodness. This Pilgrim face cream brings the potent antioxidants of White Lotus that improve skin tone and texture. The formula is designed to suit combination and oily skin too unlike other heavy creams. It spreads smoothly without clogging pores or making the skin look oily. With SPF 50, it doubles up as a potent sunblock as well. The quantity is also super-economical making it our top pick as the best face cream for oily skin suitable for all seasons.
Plum Green Tea Mattifying Moisturizer is specially formulated for oily and acne-prone skin. Powered by green tea, it regulates oil production leaving a shine-free matte finish. Skin imperfections appear minimized with regular usage. The water-based formula gets easily absorbed without feeling heavy.
Plum products have achieved a cult status with their skin-friendly botanical formulas catering to Indian skin needs. This mattifying face moisturizer controls oil and shine effectively with green tea extracts. Unlike other creams that try to deeply hydrate oily skin, this one focuses on sebum regulation. The pore-minimizing effect also helps the skin look clearer and brighter. The light gel texture spreads smoothly without aggravating acne or making the skin feel greasy. Overall, this makes for the perfect day moisturizer to prep oily skin before makeup application.
This dermatologist-developed face moisturizer is powered by a botanical complex of ceramides, vitamin C and Ashwagandha. The lightweight cream provides intense hydration while getting quickly absorbed by oily skin. Skin appears visibly brighter and more youthful with regular usage.
Dr. Sheth’s products are well-known for their science-based formulas combining safe synthetics with botanical goodness. This vitamin C moisturizing cream relies on the same approach to deliver visible results for oily acne-prone skin. The ceramide complex strengthens the moisture barrier allowing better sebum regulation. Vitamin C and Ashwagandha provide antioxidant benefits to delay signs of aging. The lightweight texture doesn’t feel heavy even on the oiliest skin. For its multi-benefit formulation, we rank this as one of the best oil-free creams for oily skin suitable for both women and men.
This overnight skin renewal gel from Dot & Key infuses the skin with a calming botanical complex. The lightweight formula with Centella Asiatica extract repairs damaged skin, reduces inflammation and stimulates collagen production. Skin looks fresher and clearer in the morning.
Dot & Key’s Cica Calming Night Gel relies solely on botanical extracts like Centella, green tea, bamboo water and hyaluronic acid to renew damaged skin overnight. Unlike harsh creams, it uses a gentle approach to repair acne spots, improve skin tone and texture with continued usage. Waking up to clear and calm skin without dryness or irritation becomes a reality with this skin-loving gel formula. It takes care of all major skin concerns for oily, sensitive, acne-prone skin types. For visible skin health improvement overnight, this Dot & Key night gel is certainly worth investing in.
Brinton AcMist Gel Cream provides lightweight hydration to oily, acne-prone skin while controlling sebum production. The oil-free formula contains vitamin E and aloe vera to soothe inflammation, repair acne marks and prevent further breakouts. Skin texture appears refined and pores minimized with regular usage.
The Brinton AcMist Vitamin E & Aloe Gel Cream relies on the healing powers of nature to restore oily acne-prone skin. Vitamin E strengthens the skin barrier, reduces scarring and hyperpigmentation. Aloe vera provides intense cooling hydration without aggravating acne or oiliness. The lightweight cream-gel hybrid texture feels featherlight on the skin. For its simple yet effective botanical formulation this moisturizing gel cream surely deserves a spot amongst the best face creams for oily skin available in India.
The Olay Total Effects Day Cream provides broad-spectrum sun protection with antioxidant benefits to delay aging signs. The oil-free formula with niacinamide evens out skin tone, improves elasticity and texture with Vitamin Complex (B3 + E + B5 + C). It visibly reduces the appearance of spots, fine lines, dullness etc. Skin looks younger and radiant with daily use.
Olay is a prestige skincare brand relied on by millions of women globally for visibly youthful skin. As the name suggests the Total Effects day cream combats multiple aging signs like dullness, uneven tone, dryness, fine lines etc. with its niacinamide and antioxidant-powered formula. The oil-free texture also suits oily skin without causing breakouts or greasiness. It makes for the ideal day moisturizer to fight aging factors like pigmentation and environmental damage while providing sufficient hydration for youthful, glowing skin. With continued use, you can expect improved overall skin quality along with protection from photo-aging. For its dermatologist-approved formulation and reliable results, the Olay Total Effects Cream remains unmatched as a multitasking anti-ageing cream for all skin types including oily skin.
This affordably priced daily moisturizer from Olay keeps the skin hydrated without feeling heavy or greasy. The water-based gel formula with vitamin E and green tea suits all skin types including acne-prone skin. Skin feels soft and supple with continued usage.
Olay products are globally renowned for their safe, dermatologically-tested formulas catering to all skin types. This budget-buy daily moisturizer relies on the same legacy with its lightweight water-based gel that hydrates without aggravating acne or greasiness. The vitamin E nourishes and protects while green tea antioxidants prevent premature aging. Despite having a very basic ingredients list, this Olay cream delivers exactly what it claims – intense hydration for up to 24 hours that too at a very reasonable price point. The quantity is also super-economical making it the perfect moisturizer for everyday use including oily, acne-prone skin types.
This dermatologically tested face cream from Hyphen helps repair and reinforce the skin’s protective barrier with advanced ceramides, patented peptides complex and botanical oils. Dry skin feels relief while oily skin sees reduced greasiness and shine. Skin tone and texture appears visibly improved with daily usage.
An impaired moisture barrier with depleted lipids is often the reason behind several skin issues like dryness, irritation, enhanced oiliness etc. This Barrier Repair face cream from Hyphen strengthens this protective shield with advanced ceramides and barrier-restoring patented ingredients. The lightweight texture specifically suits oily and acne-prone skin by balancing sebum levels. Skin feels hydrated yet not greasy. Both men and women can safely use this dermatologically tested cream for healthy, resilient skin that can withstand environmental damage better.
Product | Key Ingredients | Texture |
---|---|---|
Minimalist 10% Vitamin B5 Gel | Vitamin B5, Botanical oils | Gel cream |
Ustraa Oil Free Cream | Globe thistle, Lemongrass oil | Gel cream |
Bajaj Nomarks Ayurvedic Cream | Neem, Tulsi, Aloe vera | Cream |
Dot & Key Cica + Niacinamide Cream | Centella, Niacinamide | Gel cream |
Blue Nectar Vitamin C Cream | Amla, Gotu kola, Grapeseed oil | Gel cream |
Lotus Herbals WhiteGlow Gel | Liquorice, Mulberry, SPF 25 | Gel |
Minimalist 0.3% Ceramide Cream | 0.3% Ceramides | Gel cream |
Pilgrim Korean White Lotus Cream | White lotus, SPF 50 | Cream |
Plum Green Tea Mattifying Cream | Green tea | Gel cream |
Dr Sheths Ceramide + Vit C Cream | Ceramides, Vitamin C | Gel cream |
Dot & Key Cica Night Gel | Centella, Niacinamide | Gel |
Brinton Vit E & Aloe Vera Gel | Vitamin E, Aloe vera | Gel cream |
Olay Total Effects Cream | Niacinamide, Vitamin E | Cream |
Olay Light Moisturising Cream | Vitamin E, Green tea | Gel cream |
Hyphen Ceramide Face Cream | Ceramides, Peptides | Cream |
When choosing a face cream for oily skin, go for gel-based formulas that provide hydration without feeling heavy or greasy. Opt for oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizers enriched with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5, green tea, aloe vera etc. Avoid heavy creams with mineral oils, lanolin or thick butters that may clog pores. Always check the product label before buying.
There are three main types of moisturizing creams suitable for oily, acne-prone skin:
The best daily use face creams for oily skin include:
These lightweight, oil-free gel creams provide hydration while controlling shine and oiliness. They can be used safely on a daily basis without clogging pores or causing acne breakouts.
Some of the best face creams specially formulated for oily skin management include:
These non-greasy moisturizers relying on ceramides, niacinamide, vitamin C etc. provide intense hydration while regulating sebum production in oily, acne-prone skin.
CC creams or color correction creams even out skin tone while providing lightweight coverage ideal for oily skin. Some good options are:
These have a creamy gel-like texture that blends easily to cover imperfections without feeling heavy or greasy on oily skin.
BB or blemish balm creams provide light coverage with skincare benefits for oily acne-prone skin. Some suitable options include:
These oil-free BB creams minimize pores, control oiliness and reduce acne while evening out skin tone.
The Pilgrim Korean White Lotus Face Cream, Plum Green Tea Mattifying Moisturizer, Minimalist 10% Vitamin B5 Gel Cream, Dot & Key Cica + Niacinamide Spot Reduction Cream and Bajaj Nomarks Ayurvedic Anti-Marks Cream are some of the best face creams in India specifically formulated for oily, acne-prone skin. Their oil-free formulas provide intense hydration while controlling sebum production for clear, blemish-free skin.
Look for oil-free moisturizers containing hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5 (panthenol), vitamin E, ceramides, niacinamide, green tea, aloe vera etc. These ingredients provide hydration while regulating sebum production.
Yes, even oily skin needs hydration to stay healthy. Skipping moisturizer can trigger more oiliness. Opt for hydrating yet non-greasy water-based gels that won’t block pores or worsen acne. Apply just a small amount to avoid looking shiny.
On very oily skin, take only a pea-sized amount of gel-cream and first dot it all over. Then gently dab it in till fully absorbed. Avoid massaging vigorously. Always apply on cleansed, toned skin for better absorption.
Yes, pure aloe vera gel provides intense hydration while cooling and soothing acne-prone skin. It gets quickly absorbed without clogging pores. Ensure the product has at least 90% aloe vera content for effectiveness.
Lightweight lotions may not provide sufficient moisturization while thick creams can aggravate acne. Gel creams which are neither too thick nor too watery are ideal for properly hydrating oily, acne-prone skin without causing more oiliness or breakouts.
Oily, acne-prone skin needs specialized care to balance sebum production and keep breakouts at bay. Using a targeted face cream that provides oil control along with hydrating ingredients can make a significant difference in the overall health and appearance of your skin.
As seen in our detailed reviews, there are plenty of good moisturizer options available for oily skin. The products we have covered include skincare brands like Minimalist, Dot & Key, DermaCo etc. that are extremely popular for their effective formulations. Similarly, you can also try pharmacy brands like Olay, Lotus Herbals and more which are quite reliably and affordably priced.
When selecting any new skincare item, first check if the formula is oil-free and non-comedogenic which is unlikely to block your pores. Also see if some proven oily-skin friendly active ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin B3 or E, niacinamide etc. are used alongside sebum-controlling botanical components like green tea, aloe etc. A gel-cream texture is generally the most suitable for oily, sensitive skin.
Make it a habit to always use a gentle cleanser, lightweight moisturizer and affordable sunscreen formulated specifically for acne and oily-prone skin every day. Avoid heavy bases or thick creams that feel too rich or greasy post application. With some trial and error, you can definitely find your perfect match from among the best face creams for oily skin discussed above. This will ensure your skin stays hydrated and healthy without increased greasiness, shine or breakouts!
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