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10 Best Moisturizers for Dry Skin in India - Buyer's Guide

Dry skin is difficult to handle and often causes scratches, cracks, and even itching. So, having the best moisturizer for dry skin is crucial, especially for dehydrated people. These moisturizers increase the hydration level in the dermal cells and keep the skin soft. So, to help you choose the best moisturizer, we have prepared a comprehensive guide.

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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 moisturiser that deeply nourishes and hydrates dry skin. It contains 5% marula oil, which is rich in essential fatty acids that help to strengthen the skin barrier and reduce inflammation.

2. Supplements:  Experts recommend these dissolving strips for dry skin. They contain vitamins C and E, and hyaluronic acid, which help to boost collagen, reduce inflammation, hydrate, and plump the skin. 

3. Serum: This is a lightweight and effective serum that helps to reduce acne marks and blemishes, balance oil production, and clarify the skin. It contains 10% niacinamide, a powerful ingredient that is clinically proven to improve skin health.

4. Sunscreen/ Sunblock: This is a lightweight and fast-absorbing sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. It also contains hyaluronic acid to hydrate and plump the skin.

5. Face wash: Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser is a trusted choice for those with dry to normal, sensitive skin. This mild yet effective face wash helps maintain the skin's natural moisture balance, leaving it clean and refreshed

Our Top Picks

The 2022 Minimalist Marula Oil edition is India's best dry skin moisturizer for treating flakiness, roughness, and dryness. It is best suitable for dry skin as it is rich in Omega-9 fatty acids and contains many hydrators, including glycerin, saccharide isomerate, and hyaluronic acid, that provide complete hydration to the skin and helps keep it soft and moist. 

  • According to a supplier-conducted clinical trial, 5% Marula Oil lotion enhanced skin capacitance value by 17.7%. 97% of respondents agreed that skin flakiness disappeared right away after application. 

This glycerine-infused Ponds moisturizer enhances the luminosity, softness, smoothness, and healthy appearance of the skin, and the best thing about it is its budget-friendliness. Its 24-hour moisture lock technology prevents moisture loss by locking moisture deep inside and is available in a 150-gram pack at an affordable price of Rs. 305.00. 

  • According to clinical research, it provides hydrated skin that is evenly toned and luminous. SPF 15 sunscreen effectively blocks UV radiation to protect the skin. The product is value for money.

Pilgrim launched its 2022 edition of face moisturizer that uses natural elements to hydrate and brighten the skin using the strength of Vitamin C and Niacinamide. The formation is light and non-oily, so it doesn't leave the skin feeling greasy and sticky. The 100% plant-derived squalane gives a natural glow to the skin.

  • Almost 90% agreed that skin stays hydrated throughout the day after using the product. 93% of respondents said that skin stays soft and moisturized for 24 hours.

Hyaluronic acid and coconut water combined in this Aqualogica moisturizer is the most potent combination for deep hydration. This moisturizer's gold standard of hydration is hyaluronic acid, which can hold 1,000 times its weight in water. The product is best to use in winter as it provides deep hydration to the skin for an oh-so-plump appearance. 

  • As Shown in Clinical Studies, Aqualogica's hydrate+ gel moisturizer combines the advantages of hyaluronic acid and coconut water and increases hydration levels by 74%, giving your skin a radiant and plump appearance.

Table of Contents

  • How we shortlist the best products
  • 10 Best Moisturizers for Dry Skin in India
  • FAQs
  • Conclusion

How do we shortlist the best products?

Knowing your skin type:

The first step we take for selecting the ideal and most straightforward skincare product for you is understanding your skin type. With this knowledge, we identify items designed especially for skin similar to yours (i.e., a deep hydrating creme moisturizer for dry skin.) 

Descriptions and ingredients used:

The second most important thing we consider is the formula and ingredients used in the product and assess their impact on the skin type and tone. Many natural components are effective and make excellent additions to the functional elements frequently utilized as the foundation of product formulas. We prefer products that do not include parabens, silicones and chemicals.

Value for money:

We shortlist the products within our target audience's budget and provide value for money. We compare the products in terms of their pros and cons and select the top ones with the most and least cons. 

10 Best Moisturizers for Dry Skin in India

Say goodbye to skin discolouration and welcome bright and radiant skin!

Plum Vitamin C moisturizer is a lightweight, fragrance-free dry face moisturizer for men and women that keeps your skin hydrated and shining. The 3% Ethyl ascorbic acid is a stable, quick-absorbing Vitamin C derivative against your skin. The product has received 4.2/5 stars and 169 ratings and qualifies among Amazon's top choice of products. A 50-gram product is available to you at Rs. 385.00.

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Plum Vitamin C

Positives 

  • It is entirely fragrance-free, vegan, and suitable for all skin types.

Negatives

  • It may cause itching to hyper-sensitive skin due to Vitamin C.

When and how to apply

  • Apply directly to the face and use fingers for soft strokes
  • Add it to the nighttime skincare routine and before starting the day 

User Feedback:

  • Not recommended for sensitive skin as it might lead to rashes.

Our Verdict:

  • The product is best for treating dry skin and flakiness. 

Who should buy this?

  • People with both oily as well as dry skin should use this. 

This newest edition of Minimalist Face moisturizer is the best moisturizer for dry skin. It comes with 5% Marula Oil which nourishes, softens, and reenergizes your skin by removing the dead skin cells and providing ultimate hydration. With a 4.1 star rating and 781 reviews, the product in a 50-gram pack is most budget-friendly for its value and available to you at Rs. 283.00.

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Minimalist Marula Oil

Positives

  • Repairs dry, sensitive, and damaged skin with a disrupted lipid barrier- thanks to vitamins F and E.

Negatives

  • The moisturizer may feel greasy and oily on the skin. 

How to apply:

  • Apply the moisturizer after the toner and cleanser. Use an adequate amount of the product, and massage it on your face and neck until completely absorbed. Use at AM and PM every day.

User Feedback:

  • Nourishes and hydrates the skin 
  • Provides long-lasting moisturizing

Our Verdict

  • Not recommended for oily skin 

Who should buy this?

  • Most suitable for dry skin

Get soft, moisturized skin with a non-oily fresh radiance with this Pond's Light Moisturizer variant. It is fortified with vitamin E, which deeply hydrates your skin. It contains glutamic acid, an amino acid generated naturally in the human body, which aids in restoring moisture balance and maintaining the softness and smoothness of the skin. The product comes in a mega 250-gram pack at just Rs. 305.00 with a star rating of 4.2/5 and 147 reviews.  

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POND'S Cream Moisturizer

Positives

  • Light and non-oily formula makes it suitable for all skin types 
  • Perfect for year-round use

Negatives 

  • It might not be that effective for harsh winters

How to apply

  • Apply the moisturizer directly to your face and stroke gently. 
  • For better results, apply three times a day.

User Feedback:

  • The best budget moisturizer for winter
  • It may not give long-lasting moisturization in winter.

Our Verdict:

  • Suitable for dry skin but may not treat flakiness without repeatable application.

Who should buy this?

  • Works well for all skin types.

Are you dreaming of glowing, supple skin? It's time to give hydration a new beginning and to start using Aqualogica products for healthy skin care. The 80% more hydration, Special Water Lock Technology, and Scientifically Proven Ingredients make the product your best buddy for winter and give dry skin a new treat. The hydrate+ gel moisturizing formula with a star rating of 4.2 makes it the best seller. The product comes in a pack of 100 grams priced at 559.00 rs.

Positives

  • All the products in our Hydrate+ line are created specifically for Indian skin and are suitable for all skin types, including regular, sensitive, oily, and combination.

Negatives

  • It has a light coconut fragrance.
  • It feels heavy against the skin and should be applied in less quantity.

How to apply:

  • Cleanse your face properly and apply a coin-sized amount to your face and neck. 
  • Massage in a clockwise direction until absorbed. Use twice for better results.

User Feedback:

  • Very efficient for deep hydration

Our Verdict:

  • Reduces acne and makes the skin glow with continuous application
  • Don’t buy if you are allergic to strong scents or coconut smell

Who should buy this?

  • People with dry skin should only buy this. It may not be suitable for oily skin.

Dot & Key's newly launched lightweight cream moisturizer is one of the best dry skin moisturizers, specially designed to solve all your dry skin problems this winter. The product contains 100% natural vitamin C, which intensely hydrates skin to give you a super-soft, youthful glow and reduces dullness, thus being best suited for Indian skin tones. The product launched in July 2022 has received a 3.9-star rating and is available at a decent price of Rs. 373.25.

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Dot & Key Vitamin C Moisturiser

Positives

  • Neutralizes free radicals and increases collagen to reduce wrinkles, dark spots, and fine lines from sun exposure.

Negatives

  • Not recommended for hypersensitive skin

How to apply:

  • Apply directly to the skin after applying serum or tone.

User Feedback:

  • Brightens skin with consistent application
  • Non-greasy feel

Our Verdict:

  • A patch test is a must before application on sensitive skin.
  • Not recommended if you are allergic to scent.

Who should buy this?

  • It is suitable for both oily as well as dry skin 

Pilgrim launched its 2022 edition of face moisturizer that uses natural elements to hydrate and brighten the skin using the strength of Vitamin C and Niacinamide. Squalane, a versatile component used in the product when combined with Niacinamide and vitamin C, smooths out rough textures and locks in moisture. With 4 /5 stars, 150 ratings overall, and has received more than 70 positive reviews, available at Rs.496.00.

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Pilgrim Squalane

Positives

  • The blend's quick absorption lessens the visibility of wrinkles and fine lines.
  • Brightens & smooths skin Fades dark spots & pigmentation Makes skin moist & supple 

Negatives

  • The product is highly priced 

How to apply

  • After cleansing and toning, apply to the face and neck. 
  • Massage gently for quick absorption.     

User Feedback:

  • Provides nourishment and hydration
  • It feels very light against the skin

Our Verdict

  • A must-buy for dry skin.

Who should buy this?

  • People with dry skin should only buy this.

Get skin that radiates with light!

The Radiance+ range from Aqualogica is India's best dry skin moisturizer, explicitly designed for Indian skin tone and climate. Radiance+ JellO Moisturizer is a cool, gel-based composition that is lightweight and non-sticky; your skin will adore it. 

The product uses a perfect combination of natural fruits, active ingredients, and Unique Water Lock Technology to hydrate the skin in the ever-changing climate of India. The product received a 3.9/5 star rating and is available in a 50-gram pack at Rs. 399.00. 

Positives

  • Niacinamide is a crucial ingredient that helps diminish dark spots and improve skin texture.

Negatives

  • The gel-based formula does not give day-long moisturization.

How to apply:

  • Scoop, Dap, and Massage.
  • It can be used as a primer.

User Feedback

  • Does not absorb properly. 

Our Verdict

  • It may feel a little sticky, but it works well for hydrating dry skin.

Who should buy this?

  • Highly recommended for oily and dry skin.

The best accessories to wear are joy and hydrated skin!

This non-greasy moisturizer, 5% Cica Extract-packed, seals in hydration and makes the skin glow.

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The Derma Co

This moisturizer is for anyone searching for deep hydration and to impart the necessary radiance, and it is suitable for all skin types. The product has received a 3.8/5 rating, and a 50-gram pack is available at Rs. 297.00.

Positives

  • The formula's abundance of antioxidants keeps the skin moisturized for hours. Say hello to moisturized, radiant skin that exudes vitality and clarity by including this potent moisturizer in your skincare routine.

Negatives 

  • Effective only on daily use.

How to apply

  • Put an adequate quantity, apply to the face and dab gently
  • Use daily for effective results

User Feedback

  • Not for harsh winters
  • The moisturization does not last longer

Our Verdict

  • Not recommended for super dry skin

Who should buy this? 

  • For oily and dry skin. 

Since ancient times, rice extract has been vital to Japanese beauty products. This non-greasy, lightweight face cream is developed with the Super-5 natural extracts of Aloe, Coconut, Calendula, Cucumber, and Chamomile. The product is available in a 50-gram pack at Rs 375.00. It works for a long time to maintain your skin nourishment and absorbs fast.

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Komenuka Rice Face Cream

Positives

  • Rice is rich in antioxidants and vitamins and has been utilized for ages in Japanese beauty treatments.

Negatives

  • Strongly scented

How to apply

  • Wash your skin gently with a product designed to go with this moisturizer, such as Wa' Rice Foaming Face Wash. 

User Feedback

  • It blends with the skin very well

Our Verdict

  • Best for winter weather.

Who should buy this?

  • Suits oily as well as dry skin

Abundant in Ceramides and sodium hyaluronate cross polymer, the moisturizer is designed to nourish, hydrate, and relax the skin. So, keep your skin moisturized this winter with an antioxidant-rich cream that will protect your skin. With a star rating of ⅘ star rating 147 reviews, the product is available in a 50 ml pack at Rs 398.00.

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Ceramide Moisturizer for Face

Positives

  • THE PRODUCT'S Ceramides NP, AP, and EOP form a barrier that keeps moisture and guards against dryness and irritation.

Negatives

  • Not fairly priced 

How to apply

  • Apply a dollop to your face and neck during morning and evening routines.

User Feedback

  • It might feel a little greasy against the skin in summers

Our Verdict

  • Best suitable for winters 
  • Not recommended if you are allergic to strong scents.

Who should buy this?

  • Suits both dry and oily skin

FAQ

1. What is the best face moisturizer for dry skin?

The Minimalist Marula Oil is the best dry skin moisturizer for treating flakiness, roughness, and dryness. Apart from providing complete hydration, it promotes collagen and balances the skin tone to moisturise your skin in harsh winters.

2. Which brand of moisturizer is best for dry skin?

Aqualogica has launched the best products in its range, suitable for all skin types and highly recommended for dry skin. The products use water lock technology and deep hydration to treat dry skin.

3. What is the best way to moisturize your skin?

Using a serum and toner before applying the moisturizer helps to balance the skin's ph level and provides deep nourishment. Choosing the right brand and adding a moisturizer to your morning and night care routine will help you see fast results. 

Conclusion:

As we draw to a close with this shopping guide on India's top 10 dry skin moisturizers, we hope you're prepared to choose the one that meets your needs and is within your budget among the list of best this chilly season.

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