10 Best Moisturizers for Dry Skin

Moisturising the skin is essential for maintaining a healthy skin. People with dry skin are prone to allergies and need more concern in choosing the best moisturiser that suits their skin. We are here to help you. This article presents the best 10 moisturisers for dry skin available on the market, and they have excellent hydrating properties.
Best Moisturizers for Dry Skin
Updated on

Our Top Picks

Best Overall: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Face Moisturizer 50ml

The Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Face Moisturizer is chosen as the best overall because of its intense hydrating capacity and water-like texture. It is easily absorbed by the skin and also helps treat flaky, inflamed skin.

Best for Acne-Prone: Minimalist 3% Sepicalm With Oats Face Moisturizer Cream for Sensitive Skin

The Minimalist 3% Sepicalm With Oats Face Moisturizer Cream is a perfect choice for people with acne-prone skin. It is formulated with amino acids, hyaluronic acid, squalene, and vitamin B5, which help fight acne-causing bacteria.  

Best for Sensitive Skin: Cetaphil Moisturising Lotion for Normal to Combination, Sensitive Skin

Dermatologists suggest Cetaphil Moisturising Lotion for its gentle and non-allergic formulation. The presence of avocado oil, Vitamins E and B3, and Pro-vitamin B5 makes this moisturiser best for sensitive skin.

Best for Anti-Aging: RE' EQUIL Ceramide & Hyaluronic Acid Moisturiser

The RE' EQUIL Ceramide & Hyaluronic Acid Moisturiser contains Ceramides and Mango Seed Butter, which are highly moisturising emollients. They help strengthen the skin barrier and tighten the skin cells. 

Best Lightweight: Aqualogica Glow+ Hydra Gel Moisturiser with Vitamin C & Papaya - 20 g

The Aqualogica Glow+ Hydra Gel Moisturiser is a non-sticky, weightless, water-gel formula. It provides 24 hours of hydration, and vitamin C helps brighten the skin texture. Papaya extract effectively lightens dark spots.

Comparative Analysis Based on Key Product Features

Comparative Analysis Based on Key Product Features
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream

This deep moisturising cream with ceramide and hyaluronic acid helps to hydrate the skin and repair the skin barrier.

Key Ingredients:

  • Hyaluronic acid

Pros:

  • Hydrates and repairs skin Barrier

  • Gentle and non-greasy

  • Unique Mve Technology

Cons:

  • In hot climates, it causes sweat

Best for:

  •  Those seeking a moisturiser that offers deep hydration for dry skin without any harmful chemicals. 

Insights from Our Product Testing Specialist:

  • Our product testing specialists stated that the presence of hyaluronic acid helps retain moisture and ensures twenty-four hours of hydration. 

You should buy this product if you are looking for:

  • A non-greasy moisturiser.

  • A moisturiser that doesn't clog pores.

User testimonial

"Very good for dry and sensitive skin!"

2. Dot & Key Vitamin C + E Sorbet Super Bright Moisturizer For Face - Click here for an Amazon Deal

Dot & Key

The Dot & Key vitamin C+E moisturiser is formulated with Kakadu Plum, Ethyl Ascorbic Acid & Sodium Ascorbic Phosphate, which helps in treating pigmentation and brightens the skin.

Key Ingredients:

  • Vitamin C

  • Vitamin E

  • Kakadu Plum

  • Ethyl Ascorbic Acid

  • Sodium Ascorbic Phosphate

Pros:

  • Treats dullness and adds glow

  • Intense hydration

  • Reduces acne spots

Cons:

  • It might feel oily for some skin type.

Best for:

  • Individuals with oily, normal and combination skin are looking for a paraben-free, unscented moisturiser. 

Insights from Our Product Testing Specialist:

  • Our testing specialist noted that this lightweight moisturiser effectively prevents acne-causing bacteria and controls breakouts. 

You should buy this product if you are looking for:

  • Dermatologist-recommended moisturiser for dry skin

  • A moisturiser suitable for all skin types.

User testimonial

"It helps in pigmentation and leaves your skin hydrated.”

3. simple Kind To Skin Protecting Light Moisturiser 125 Ml, Liquid - Click here for an Amazon Deal

simple Kind

The Simple Kind To Skin, Protecting Light Moisturiser, offers thirteen hours of effective moisturisation and acts gently on sensitive skin.

Key Ingredients:

  • Pro-vitamin B

  • Vitamin E

  • Allantoin

  • Bisabolol

Pros:

  • Enriched with multivitamins

  • Unscented and non-allergic

  • Deeply nourishes the skin

Cons:

  • Not recommended for oily or combination skin type

Best for:

  • Individuals seeking a moisturiser that can fight impurities.

  • People looking for a moisturiser that can lock moisture for a long time

Insights from Our Product Testing Specialist:

  • Our testing specialist noted this as a moisturiser that nourishes the skin with intense hydration added with SPF 15 protection. 

You should buy this product if you are looking for:

  • A SPF 15 moisturiser with vitamin E. 

  • Best face moisturiser for dry skin in liquid form

User testimonial

"Lightweight and worth it.”

4. Plum Green Tea Mattifying Moisturizer For Face - Click here for an Amazon Deal

Plum Green Tea

The Plum Green Tea Mattifying Moisturizer contains glycolic acid, which helps exfoliate pores and add glow to the skin.

Key Ingredients:

  • Green tea extracts

  • Glycolic acid

Pros:

  • Suitable for acne-prone skin

  • Gives a matte finish

  • Suitable for both men and women

Cons:

  • For some skin types, it gets oily after 3-4 hrs.

Best for:

  • People who want a moisturiser with green tree extracts and glycolic acid for soothing the skin.

Insights from Our Product Testing Specialist:

  • Our testing specialists have proven that this moisturiser is suitable for all skin types and excellently fights against acne-causing bacteria. 

You should buy this product if you are looking for:

  • An intense hydration moisturiser with green tea extract

  • A moisturiser with anti-inflammatory properties

User testimonial

"Water-like and non-greasy texture.”

5. RE' EQUIL Ceramide & Hyaluronic Acid Moisturiser - Click here for an Amazon Deal 

RE' EQUIL

This is a hydrating, non-greasy moisturiser that helps heal damaged skin and gives it a smooth and supple texture.

Key Ingredients:

  • Aqua, Caprylic/Capric Triglycerides, Myristyl Myristate, Ethylhexyl Stearate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Propanediol, Cetearyl Ethylhexanoate, C14-22 Alcohol, Mangifera Indica (Mango) Seed Butter, Arachidyl Alcohol, C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside, Behenyl Alcohol, Octyldodecanol, Squalane, Arachidyl Glucoside, Dimethicone, Saccharide Isomerate & Aqua, Dexpanthenol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Ceramide III, Sodium Hyaluronate, Cross Polymer, Borage Seed Oil, Jojoba Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Allantoin, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Carbomer, Triethanolamine, Ethylhexylglycerin, Fragrance.

Pros:

  • Helps in improving skin texture

  • Retains natural moisturisation

  • Non-comedogenic formulation

Cons:

  • It might feel heavy on combination skin types

Best for:

  • People with inflamed or irritated skin need a moisturiser that soothes and gently nourishes the skin.

Insights from Our Product Testing Specialist:

  • Our testing specialists stated that this deep moisturising cream has proven effects on improving overall skin texture and helping tighten it.

You should buy this product if you are looking for:

  • A lightweight moisturiser that doesn't clog the pores.

  • A moisturiser that treats inflamed skin.

User testimonial

"Genuinely best for dry skin.”

6. Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion for Normal to Combination, Sensitive Skin - Click here for an Amazon Deal

Cetaphil

The Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion is one of the most trusted moisturisers dermatologists have suggested because of its gentle and tested formula. 

Key Ingredients:

  • Vitamin E

  • Panthenol (Vitamin B5)

  • Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)

Pros:

  • Protects from dryness

  • Perfect for daily use

  • Soothing effect on the skin

Cons:

  • It does not give a matte finish.

Best for:

  • People with Combination, Sensitive and Dry skin types, looking for a gentle moisturising lotion for the face.

Insights from Our Product Testing Specialist:

  • This dermatologist-recommended moisturiser for dry skin impressed our testing specialists with its non-sticky and quick absorption formula.

You should buy this product if you are looking for:

  • A chemical-free moisturiser is suitable for all skin types.

  • A moisturiser that strengthens the natural moisture barriers of the skin.

User testimonial

"A good everyday moisturiser.”

7. Aqualogica Glow+ Hydra Gel Moisturiser with Vitamin C & Papaya - 20 g - Click here for an Amazon Deal

Aqualogica Glow+

The Aqualogica Glow+ moisturiser has a water-like gel texture, and it gets easily absorbed, providing optimal hydrating results.

Key Ingredients:

  • Vitamin C

  • Papaya

  • Hyaluronic acid

Pros:

  • Long-lasting hydration

  • Adds glow to the skin

  • Paraben-free and cruelty-free

Cons:

  • The scent might irritate some skin type

Best for:

  • Individuals seeking a water-like moisturiser that helps in reducing dark spots and locks natural hydration.

Insights from Our Product Testing Specialist:

  • This lightweight moisturiser stands out in our testing with its extreme moisturising properties and skin-brightening agents.

You should buy this product if you are looking for:

  • A moisturiser that offers comprehensive skin treatment.

  • Affordable and best face moisturiser for dry skin.

User testimonial

"The skin feels breathable, it glides on the skin smoothly, and the skin feels hydrated throughout the day.”

8. Cetaphil DAM DailyAdvance Ultra Hydrating Lotion for Dry, Sensitive Skin - Click here for an Amazon Deal

Cetaphil

The Cetaphil DAM hydrating lotion is paraben—and sulphate-free. This moisturiser for dry skin fights against roughness and softens skin cells.

Key Ingredients:

  • Niacinamide

  • Shea Butter

  • Panthenol

Pros:

  • Adds natural glow to the skin

  • Fights against dryness

  • Softens the skin

Cons:

  • It might darken the skin if applied too much.

Best for:

  • Individuals looking for a clinically tested and lightweight moisturiser, with shea butter and niacinamide suitable for sensitive skin.

Insights from Our Product Testing Specialist:

  • Our product testing specialists have stated that this moisturiser helps provide long-lasting hydration and improves skin texture.

You should buy this product if you are looking for:

  • A lightweight formula suitable for all skin types.

  • A non-sticky lotion-based moisturiser.

User testimonial

"If you have dryness or combination skin, you must try this product. This cream seals the skin with softness.”

9. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Face Moisturizer 50ml - Click here for an Amazon Deal

Neutrogena

The Neutrogena Hydro Boost moisturiser is formulated with 20% more hyaluronic acid and also protects the skin from dust accumulation and pollution.

Key Ingredients:

  • Water, Dimethicone, Glycerin, Dimethicone/vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Phenoxyethanol, Polyacrylamide, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Dimethiconol, C13-14 Isoparaffin, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Chlorphenesin, Carbomer, Laureth-7, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Fragrance, C12-14 Pareth -12, Sodium Hydroxide & Blue 1.

Pros:

  • Fast absorption

  • Oil-free and non-sticky

  • Locks the moisture

  • Unscented formula

Cons:

  • It is expensive when compared to other products.

Best for:

  • Individuals seeking an efficient light water gel moisturiser.

  • People looking for moisturisers with high hyaluronic acid content for hydration.

Insights from Our Product Testing Specialist:

  • Our testing showed that the Neutrogena Hydro Boost moisturiser is extremely lightweight and easily absorbed. It also provides 72 hours of moisturisation.

You should buy this product if you are looking for:

  • A moisturiser with amino acids and electrolytes.

  • An intense hydration moisturiser with a non-sticky texture.

User testimonial

"The texture of the product is thin. Overall, it's an excellent moisturiser. ”

10. Minimalist 3% Sepicalm With Oats Face Moisturizer Cream for Sensitive Skin - Click here for an Amazon Deal

Minimalist 3%

This dermatologically tested, safe-to-use moisturiser has excellent moisturising properties and treats skin dullness, redness and dryness.

Key Ingredients:

  • Amino acid

  • Capric triglyceride

  • Hyaluronic acid

  • Lactic acid

  • Squalane

  • Vitamin B5

Pros:

  • Repairs sun damage

  • Sulphates and paraben-free

  • Helps in skin nourishment

Cons:

  • Some users find the consistency to be thick.

Best for:

  • Dry, sensitive and normal skin types, looking for a dermatologically tested, chemical-free and non-irritant moisturiser.

Insights from Our Product Testing Specialist:

  • Our product testing specialists reported that Minimalist products are known for their transparency, and this moisturiser is also formulated with skin-friendly ingredients.

You should buy this product if you are looking for:

  • A moisturiser with no added dyes.

  • A dermatologist-recommended moisturiser with hyaluronic acid for dry skin.

User testimonial

"It is one of the best moisturisers available in the Indian market at this reasonable price.”

How do we shortlist the best products?

To check the complete process, please refer to - Link

What ingredients should I look for in a moisturiser for dry skin?

  • Hyaluronic acid: It has excellent moisture locking capacity and retains natural hydration. It is also lightweight and does not clog the pores.

  • Glycerine: It is a kind of humectant that pulls the environmental moisture and hydrates the skin, giving a glowy supple texture.

  • Shea butter: It is rich in fatty acid and intensely moisturises the skin. It also has healing properties that soothe the damaged skin cells.

  • Squalane: It is a lightweight and non-greasy ingredient that is widely used as a moisturiser for dry skin. It balances the natural oil and fights against dryness.

  • Aloe vera: This natural ingredient does wonders in hydrating and soothing dry skin. It is also used to treat irritated skin.

  • Mineral oils: They have exceptional moisturising properties and help to add a natural glow to the skin.

Conclusion:

We hope this article has answered all your questions and helped you choose the best moisturiser for dry skin on the market. Happy shopping!

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use a moisturiser with SPF for daytime protection on dry skin?

Yes, you can use a moisturiser with SPF for daytime protection on dry skin. Look for moisturisers with at least SPF 30 or more for effective sun protection.

2. How often should I apply moisturiser to dry skin?

It is generally advised to apply moisturiser at least twice a day for efficient hydration. Include it in your morning and night skincare routine. If you are in an extremely dry environment, apply moisturiser more frequently.

3. Is it better to use a cream or a lotion for dry skin?

Moisturising cream works better for people with dry skin. It is thicker than lotions and has heavy barriers that lock in moisture and treat flaky skin.

4. Are there specific moisturisers for dry, sensitive skin?

For people with dry, sensitive skin, moisturisers with non-comedogenic, non-irritant, and anti-inflammatory ingredients are best. Moisturisers with natural ingredients like oatmeal and aloe vera moisturise the skin without causing irritation.

5. What is the best time to apply moisturiser for maximum hydration?

The best time to apply moisturiser for maximum hydration is on damp skin after washing the face with a gentle cleanser. This helps lock in the skin's natural moisture.

To contact the Express Deals team, please drop an email to - expressdeal@newindianexpress.com
We will reach out to you in the next 48 business hours.

Disclaimer: At Express Deals, we work with subject matter experts to bring you the latest in product innovations and Indian eCommerce trends. Express Deals participates in various affiliate programs, which means we may earn revenue on purchases made through the links to retailer sites. Please note that prices mentioned on the pages can vary based on retailer promotions on any given day. Also, do note that we will not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, with respect to the featured products since they aren't directly sold by us.

TNIE Express deals
www.newindianexpress.com