15 Best Moisturizers for Face in India [December, 2023]

Taking care of your facial skin is extremely important, as the face is the most exposed part of your body. Using a quality moisturizer tailored to your skin type is one of the best ways to keep your facial skin looking healthy, glowing and youthful.

With so many options available, choosing the right moisturizer for your face can be overwhelming. To help make your search easier, we have curated this list of the 15 best moisturizers for face available in India as of 2023.

How to Choose the Best Moisturizer for Face in India

Here are some tips on how to select the ideal facial moisturizer for your specific needs:

Consider Your Skin Type

• Dry skin – Look for moisturizers with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, shea butter etc. Go for creams rather than gel formulas.
• Oily skin – Choose oil-free, lightweight gels or lotions that contain mattifying ingredients. Avoid heavy creams.
• Combination skin – Use a light gel or lotion for oily areas and a richer cream for any dry zones.
• Sensitive skin – Avoid fragranced products and harsh ingredients. Seek out soothing formulas with minimal chemicals.

Check the Ingredients

• Hyaluronic acid – Attracts and retains moisture to hydrate skin.
• Ceramides – Help strengthen skin’s protective barrier.
• Niacinamide – Helps control excess oil and sebum.
• Vitamin C – Brightens dull skin and boosts collagen production.
• SPF – Necessary to protect skin from sun damage.

Consider Added Skin Benefits

• Anti-aging formulas contain retinol, peptides and antioxidants.
• Products for acne-prone skin feature salicylic acid, tea tree oil or benzoyl peroxide.
• Brightening moisturizers include vitamin C, licorice root extract or niacinamide.
• Tinted moisturizers provide sheer coverage to even out skin tone.

Choose the Right Texture

• Lotions are lightweight and fast-absorbing. Great for oily skin.
• Creams are richer but still absorb well. Better for dry skin.
• Gels are refreshing, hydrating and oil-free. Ideal for combination or acne-prone skin.
• Balms and butters provide intense nourishment for very dry skin.

15 Best Moisturizer for Face in India

1. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel

Shop Now

Shop Now

Key Features: Oil-free, water-based gel formula with hyaluronic acid

Skin Types: All skin types, especially oily or combination skin

Sizes Available: 50g

Price: ₹780 for 50g

The light gel texture of the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel makes it one of the best moisturizers for oily and acne-prone skin. It provides intense hydration without leaving any greasy residue behind. The formula contains hyaluronic acid that can hold up to 1000x its weight in water. It absorbs quickly to quench dehydrated skin. The oil-free and non-comedogenic properties also make it suitable for breakout-prone skin.

Our Product Tester Says: “This moisturizer feels so refreshing and hydrating on my oily skin. A little goes a long way and it layers well under makeup too. My skin looks plump and dewy, not greasy.”

2. St.Botanica Bulgarian Rose Otto Glow Moisturizer

Shop Now

Shop Now

Key Features: Rosehip oil, wheatgerm oil, aloe vera

Skin Types: Dry, normal, combination, mature skin

Sizes Available: 50g

Price: ₹399 for 50g

The St.Botanica Bulgarian Rose Otto Glow moisturizer is a nourishing, anti-aging formula powered by rosehip oil, wheatgerm oil and aloe vera extracts. It provides intense hydration to replenish dry, dull skin while combating the signs of aging. The rich texture absorbs well without feeling greasy. With regular use, skin looks youthfully radiant and smooth. It is free of parabens, sulfates and artificial fragrances.

Our Product Tester Says: “If you have dry, mature skin, this moisturizer is amazing. My skin felt baby soft and supple after each use. The rose scent is divine and soothing too.”

3. Pilgrim Squalane Vitamin C Moisturizer

Shop Now

Shop Now

Key Features: Oil-free, lightweight formula with vitamin C and squalane

Skin Types: All skin types

Sizes Available: 50g

Price: ₹439 for 50g

This lightweight, oil-free moisturizer from Pilgrim combines the hydrating powers of squalane with the brightening benefits of vitamin C. The fast-absorbing texture works for all skin types without clogging pores or causing breakouts. Regular use helps improve uneven tone and texture. Skin looks naturally radiant and healthy. It is also enriched with hyaluronic acid for a moisture boost.

Our Product Tester Says: “If you’re looking for a daily moisturizer that brightens dull skin without making it look oily, this is it! My skin tone looked more even and smooth after using it.”

4. Plum Green Tea Oil-Free Moisturizer

Shop Now

Shop Now

Key Features: Green tea extracts, glycerin, vitamin E

Skin Types: Oily, acne-prone skin

Sizes Available: 50ml

Price: ₹281 for 50ml

Plum’s green tea moisturizer is specially designed for oily and acne-prone skin types. The oil-free gel-cream formula gets absorbed quickly without leaving any greasy residue. It contains green tea extracts that help control excess sebum production and fight acne-causing bacteria. Glycerin and vitamin E provide hydration without clogging pores. Regular use leaves skin feeling fresh, smooth and shine-free.

Our Product Tester Says: “This is my new favorite moisturizer for mornings when I want lightweight hydration before makeup and sunscreen. It didn’t make my oily skin look greasy at all.”

5. Re’equil Oil Free Moisturizer

Shop Now

Shop Now

Key Features: Ceramides, hyaluronic acid, antioxidants

Skin Types: Oily, acne-prone, combination skin

Sizes Available: 50g, 100g

Price: ₹349 for 50g

Re’equil’s oil-free moisturizer provides non-greasy hydration to oily and acne-prone skin. The lightweight formula gets quickly absorbed into skin and contains ceramides that help strengthen the moisture barrier. It is packed with hyaluronic acid for intense hydration along with antioxidants that protect against environmental damage. The oil-free texture won’t clog pores.

Our Product Tester Says: “If you struggle with excess oiliness and acne breakouts, this moisturizer is a must-try. It made my skin feel supple without looking shiny or breaking me out.”

6. Dot & Key Vitamin C + E Sorbet Moisturizer

Shop Now

Key Features: Oil-free gel formula with vitamin C and E

Skin Types: All skin types, especially dull/pigmented skin

Sizes Available: 25ml

Price: ₹297 for 25ml

The Dot & Key Vitamin C + E Sorbet moisturizer delivers a boost of brightening vitamins along with intense hydration. The lightweight gel-cream formula gets absorbed quickly without leaving any oily residue. It is powered by vitamin C that helps reduce uneven skin tone and fade dark spots. Vitamin E provides nourishment while making skin appear radiant. The oil-free texture also makes it suitable for acne-prone skin.

Our Product Tester Says: “I was looking for a moisturizer that could brighten my dull skin and this sorbet formula really delivered. My skin looked more even and glowy after a week of use.”

7. Minimalist 10% Vitamin B5 Moisturizer

Shop Now

Shop Now

Key Features: Oil-free gel with 10% vitamin B5

Skin Types: Oily, acne-prone skin

Sizes Available: 50g

Price: ₹331 for 50g

Minimalist’s 10% vitamin B5 moisturizing gel is specially formulated for oily, acne-prone skin. The oil-free, lightweight formula gets quickly absorbed without clogging pores. Vitamin B5 helps regulate sebum production to reduce shine and prevent breakouts. It provides intense hydration while keeping skin matte. The moisturizer is also free of potential irritants.

Our Product Tester Says: “If you have acne-prone skin like me, this moisturizer is a lifesaver! It didn’t aggravate my breakouts at all. My skin stayed comfortably matte and hydrated all day.”

8. Cetaphil DAM Ultra Hydrating Lotion

Shop Now

Shop Now

Key Features: Shea butter, macadamia nut oil, glycerin

Skin Types: Very dry, sensitive skin

Sizes Available: 30g

Price: ₹180 for 30g

The Cetaphil DAM lotion provides intense moisturization to parched, sensitive skin. It is enriched with skin-nourishing shea butter, macadamia nut oil and glycerin to bind moisture to the skin. The rich yet fast-absorbing texture immediately comforts dryness and irritation. It strengthens the skin barrier while keeping skin soft and supple. It is hypoallergenic, fragrance-free and gentle enough for eczema-prone skin.

Our Product Tester Says: “This is now my holy grail winter moisturizer for dry skin! Just a small amount comforted my tight, flaky skin instantly. I woke up with soft, soothed skin every morning.”

9. Mamaearth Vitamin C Ultra Light Gel

Shop Now

Shop Now

Key Features: Oil-free gel with vitamin C and aloe vera

Skin Types: All skin types, especially oily skin

Sizes Available: 200ml

Price: ₹285 for 200ml

This lightweight gel moisturizer from Mamaearth is a great everyday option for oily skin types. It provides oil-free hydration along with the antioxidant benefits of vitamin C that evens out skin tone and boosts collagen. Aloe vera water soothes and cools skin. The refreshing formula gets quickly absorbed without leaving a greasy residue. It’s suitable for face, body and hands.

Our Product Tester Says: “I loved how refreshing and lightweight this moisturizer felt on my oily skin. It gave a nice dose of hydration without looking shiny or feeling heavy.”

10. Lakme Peach Milk Moisturizer

Shop Now

Shop Now

Key Features: Peach, milk proteins, SPF 24

Skin Types: All skin types

Sizes Available: 120ml

Price: ₹168 for 120ml

Lakme’s affordable Peach Milk moisturizer has a refreshing gel-cream formula that feels lightweight on the skin. It is infused with nourishing milk proteins and skin-brightening peach extracts. The SPF 24 provides broad spectrum sun protection. It gets quickly absorbed to provide hydration without any greasy feel. The moisturizer is suitable for all skin types.

Our Product Tester Says: “This has been my go-to daytime moisturizer for years now. It layers well under makeup, feels lightweight and gives sun protection too.”

11. Biotique Morning Nectar Flawless Skin Moisturizer

Shop Now

Shop Now

Key Features: Aloe vera, honey, wheatgerm oil

Skin Types: Normal to dry skin

Sizes Available: 190ml

Price: ₹174 for 190ml

Biotique’s Morning Nectar moisturizer contains skin-nourishing botanical extracts like aloe vera, honey and wheatgerm oil. The lightweight formula absorbs quickly without feeling sticky. It provides intense hydration while making skin appear flawless and glowing. With regular use, skin texture is improved and dark spots are diminished. It is free of parabens and chemicals.

Our Product Tester Says: “I loved waking up to nourished, healthy-looking skin every morning after using this moisturizer. My dry skin felt comfortable all day long.”

12. Pilgrim Vitamin C Face Gel Moisturizer

Shop Now

Key Features: Oil-free gel, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid

Skin Types: Oily, acne-prone skin

Sizes Available: 50g

Price: ₹357 for 50g

This oil-free gel moisturizer from Pilgrim combines vitamin C and hyaluronic acid to deliver brightening hydration to oily, acne-prone skin. The fast-absorbing formula provides intense hydration without clogging pores or causing breakouts. Vitamin C evens out skin tone over time while hyaluronic acid locks in moisture. Skin looks glowing, not greasy.

Our Product Tester Says: “I’m so glad I found a moisturizer with vitamin C that doesn’t irritate my acne-prone skin. This absorbs quickly and makes my skin look naturally radiant.”

13. Nivea Soft Cream

Shop Now

Shop Now

Key Features: Jojoba oil, vitamin E, shea butter

Skin Types: All skin types, very dry skin

Sizes Available: 50ml, 200ml, 300ml

Price: ₹76 for 50ml

Nivea Soft cream has been a trusted, affordable moisturizer for generations. The rich, creamy formula contains jojoba oil, vitamin E and shea butter to deeply nourish skin. It provides instant hydration and lasts all day long. The moisturizer can be used on face, body and hands. It is suitable for all skin types, especially very dry skin. The fragrance-free formula is gentle and non-irritating.

Our Product Tester Says: “This classic moisturizer lives up to its name, it really leaves your skin feeling incredibly soft! A little goes a long way.”

14. Dot & Key Watermelon Gel Moisturizer

Shop Now

Shop Now

Key Features: Oil-free gel with watermelon extracts

Skin Types: Oily, acne-prone, combination skin

Sizes Available: 60ml

Price: ₹420 for 60ml

This oil-free gel moisturizer from Dot & Key is enriched with watermelon extracts that provide intense hydration without greasiness. It also contains glycolic acid that gently exfoliates and removes dead skin cells. The lightweight formula gets quickly absorbed to deliver a burst of refreshment. It controls excess oil and sebum production too. With regular use, skin texture is improved and pores appear minimized.

Our Product Tester Says: “I love how this moisturizer made my oily skin feel super hydrated and fresh! It also helped minimize my pores, which is a major plus.”

15. Plum Green Tea Mattifying Moisturizer

Shop Now

Shop Now

Key Features: Oil-free, green tea extracts

Skin Types: Oily, acne-prone skin

Sizes Available: 50ml

Price: ₹281 for 50ml

The oil-free, mattifying moisturizer from Plum contains green tea extracts that help control excess oil and acne breakouts. The lightweight formula provides hydration without clogging pores or leaving a greasy residue. Skin looks matte and fresh all day long. It is specially formulated for oily, acne-prone skin types.

Comparison for the 15 Best Moisturizer for Face in India

How to Use a Facial Moisturizer

• Cleanse face thoroughly before applying moisturizer.
• Take a small, pea-sized amount and warm it between your fingers.
• Gently massage in upward strokes until product is absorbed. Avoid tugging the delicate eye area.
• Apply morning and/or night, as needed for your skin type.
• Allow moisturizer to fully absorb before applying other products like makeup or sunscreen.
• For added hydration, apply moisturizer to damp skin after cleansing.
• Use a rich night cream to wake up to soft, nourished skin.

Tips for Moisturizer Care and Maintenance

• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Refrigeration can help extend the shelf life.
• Don’t use beyond the expiration date printed on the packaging.
• Stop usage if you notice any changes in color, texture or fragrance.
• Always keep the lid tightly closed to prevent the product from drying out or getting contaminated.
• Don’t share your facial moisturizer with others to avoid spreading bacteria. Use a clean spatula if you must dip into a tub container.
• Keep your hands clean before dipping into moisturizer jars or tubes to prevent contamination.
• Don’t add water or other products into the original container as this can affect the preservative system.
• Clean the outside of the packaging regularly with soap and water to remove germs.

FAQs about Best Moisturizer for Face in India

Q. Which is best moisturizer cream for face in India?

There are many excellent moisturizer creams available in India. Some of the best options include Cetaphil DAM Ultra Hydrating Lotion, Biotique Morning Nectar moisturizer, Mamaearth Vitamin C moisturizer, and Dot & Key Watermelon Gel moisturizer. These provide intense hydration while catering to different skin needs like brightening dull skin, reducing acne breakouts, soothing sensitive skin, etc. When selecting the best face cream moisturizer, it’s important to consider your specific skin type and concerns. Lightweight gels work well for oily skin while richer creams are better for very dry skin.

Q. Which is the No 1 moisturizer in India?

There is no definitive ranking for the number 1 moisturizer in India. However, some of the most popular and top-rated options include Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel, Nivea Soft moisturizing cream, Lakme Peach Milk moisturizer, Plum Green Tea oil-free moisturizer, and Minimalist 10% Vitamin B5 gel moisturizer. These provide intense hydration and cater to different skin types like oily, dry, sensitive, etc. When choosing the best moisturizer for you, consider your skin’s needs and look for hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, soothing agents like oat extracts if you have sensitive skin, or oil-control properties if you’re acne-prone.

Q. Which is the best moisturizer for face?

There is no single best moisturizer for the face overall, as this depends on your specific skin type and concerns. However, some excellent options include Neutrogena Hydro Boost gel for oily skin, Cetaphil DAM lotion for very dry skin, Minimalist Sepicalm cream for sensitive skin, Re’equil oil-free moisturizer for acne-prone skin, and Lakme Peach Milk with SPF for daily wear. Look for non-comedogenic, oil-free formulas if you’re acne-prone. Seek intense, creamy moisturizers if you have dry skin. And choose minimal ingredient, fragrance-free moisturizers if your skin is easily irritated.

Q. What is a good daily moisturizer for face?

A good daily face moisturizer is one that provides hydration while suiting your skin type and needs. It should absorb quickly without leaving a greasy residue. Some ideal options for daily use include Plum Green Tea oil-free moisturizer for oily skin, Pilgrim Squalane Vitamin C moisturizer for a brightening boost, Mamaearth Aloe Vera gel moisturizer for lightweight hydration, Lakme Peach Milk with SPF for sun protection, Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion for gentle nourishment. Look for added benefits like oil control, brightening, sun protection etc. according to your needs.

Q. How should you choose a facial moisturizer for your skin type?

When choosing a facial moisturizer, it’s important to consider your skin type. For oily skin, gel or lotion formulas that are oil-free and non-comedogenic work best. If you have dry skin, look for richer creams and butters that provide intense hydration. Those with sensitive skin need gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers with minimal ingredients. Combination skin benefits from gels or lotions that provide oil control on shiny areas but added moisture for any dry zones.

Q. What moisturizer ingredients should you look for?

Some beneficial moisturizer ingredients to look for include: hyaluronic acid for hydration, ceramides to strengthen skin’s barrier, vitamin C to brighten and even tone, niacinamide to control oil and sebum, antioxidants like vitamin E to combat environmental damage, soothing agents like aloe, green tea or oat extracts if you have sensitive or irritated skin. Also consider any special ingredients like retinol, salicylic acid or SPF tailored to your particular skin needs and concerns.

Q. How often should you apply a face moisturizer?

Most people find applying a facial moisturizer twice a day works well – once in the morning after cleansing and again at night before bedtime. Those with very dry skin may need to moisturize more frequently throughout the day. During drier winter months when skin gets more parched, an extra application mid-day can help provide a hydration boost and keep skin comfortable.

Q. Can you use a face moisturizer on your body?

While facial skin is more delicate, you can use your face moisturizer on the body if it is free of potentially irritating ingredients like fragrances, dyes, alcohols etc. However, avoid using a heavy body cream on the face as this can clog pores and cause breakouts. Look for lighter moisturizers labeled as suitable for both face and body. Keeping a separate facial moisturizer is ideal for catering to the needs of your facial skin.

Q. How often should you moisturize your face?

A. Most people need to moisturize their face twice daily – once in the morning and once before bedtime. Those with very dry skin may need to moisturize more frequently.

Q. Should you moisturize before or after sunscreen?

A. Apply moisturizer first, allowing it to fully absorb into skin before layering on sunscreen on top. The moisturizer creates a smooth, hydrated base that helps the sunscreen glide on easily and perform better.

Q. Is it okay to use the same moisturizer morning and night?

A. While you can use the same moisturizer AM and PM, many people opt to use a richer, more nourishing cream at night to wake up to soft, hydrated skin. Lighter lotions or gels are preferred for daytime wear.

Q. How do you choose between a cream, lotion or gel moisturizer?

A. Lotions have a lightweight, fast-absorbing texture great for oily skin. Creams are richer but still sink in well for dry skin. Gels provide an oil-free burst of hydration and are ideal for acne-prone skin.

Q. What ingredients should you avoid if you have sensitive skin?

A. Steer clear of fragrances, dyes, alcohols, emulsifiers and essential oils if your skin is easily irritated. Seek out formulas with minimal ingredients and soothing agents like aloe, oats or chamomile.

Q. Can you use the same moisturizer for your face and body?

A. While not ideal, many people do use their face moisturizer on the body if it is free of potentially irritating ingredients. Just avoid using a heavy body cream on the delicate facial skin.

Q. What to look for in a moisturizer?

Ans. good moisturizer should have humectants, emollients and occlusives. It should also be free of any toxic parabens and sulphates. All the products on this list are free of harmful toxins.

Q. What is an affordable price range for the best moisturizers for the face in India?

Gns.ood moisturizers are available for as low as Rs. 180 in the Indian market.

Q. Which are the top brands of best moisturizers for the face in India?

Lakme, Cetaphil, Biotique, Mamaearth and Nivea are some of the top brands when it comes to moisturizers in India.

Q. What to avoid in a moisturizer if I have oily or sensitive skin?

Ins.f you have oily or sensitive skin prone to breakouts, it is important to look for non-comedogenic formulations. Also, try to steer clear of moisturizers with fragrances; it is always best to choose a hypoallergenic one.

Conclusion

Moisturizing is a crucial step in any skincare routine. Choosing the right moisturizer tailored to your specific skin type and needs is key to getting the best results. Look for hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and plant oils while avoiding problematic ingredients if you have acne-prone or sensitive skin. Lightweight gels work well for oily skin while rich creams are better for dry skin. With this guide covering some of the top-rated options, you can find your perfect match. Don’t forget to apply and care for your facial moisturizer properly so it can work its skin-nourishing magic.