11 Best Water-Based Moisturizers For Oily Skin In India 2024
Experience: 11 yearsRamona is an editor at StyleCraze with 11 years of experience in writing and editing. She has authored over 200 articles on skin and hair care. She graduated from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal, and did her post-graduation from the University of Kalyani, West Bengal.
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Using water-based moisturizers for oily skin might sound counterintuitive, but did you know that oily skin requires more moisturization? Water-based moisturizers have a watery consistency that offers hydration for oily skin. Though oily skin already produces enough oil, it needs the protective cushion moisturizers with water as a base offer. Here is a round-up of the best water-based moisturizing products for oily skin.
In This Article
11 Best Water-based Moisturizers For Oily Skin
1. Neutrogena Hydro Boost
Product Claims
This is a water-based gel moisturizer that seals the moisture in your skin without increasing its moisture levels. It keeps your skin non-greasy. This lightweight moisturizer is quickly absorbed. It contains glycerin and olive oil that nourish the skin and protect it.
- Dermatologist-tested
- No alcohol
- Oil-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Contains hyaluronic acid
- Provides 48-hour hydration
- Can be used under makeup
None
2. Re’equil Oil-Free Mattifying Moisturiser
Product Claims
This ultra-light formula contains cydonian green apple extract that improves your skin texture, tightens the pores, and reduces oiliness. It is a quick-absorbing formula that deeply hydrates your skin and gives it a matte look.
- No sulfates
- No parabens
- No mineral oil
- Non-comedogenic
- Dermatologist-tested
- Clinically proven formula
None
"This water-based moisturizer gives me a mattifying effect. I like how it does not trigger breakouts or make my skin oilier. I use it sparingly as a little goes a long way. Moreover, it gives a subtle glow to my skin without clogging the pores."
3. Alba Botanica Aloe And Green Tea Moisturizer
Product Claims
It is a nourishing and lightweight moisturizer. It contains refining humectants that keep your skin hydrated without making it oily and greasy. It contains aloe vera, green tea, cucumber, and gotu kola extracts that work as antioxidants for your skin.
- Hypoallergenic
- Oil-free
- pH-balanced
- Easily absorbed
- Free of sulfates, phthalates, and parabens
- No synthetic fragrance
- 100% vegetarian
- Cruelty-free
- No artificial colors
None
4. Pond’s Light Moisturizer
Product Claims
This lightweight moisturizer is easy to apply and gets absorbed quickly. It has a moisture lock formula that keeps your skin hydrated for 24 hours. It can be used throughout the year and is enriched with vitamin E. This cream can be used not only on your face but also on your hands and body.
- 80% water-based
- Suitable for all skin types (especially oily skin)
- Contains glutamic acid (a form of amino acid)
- 24-hour hydration
- Contains vitamins B3 and C
- Non-sticky
- Travel-friendly packaging
- Can be used as a makeup base
- Tub packaging can get a bit messy.
"I like this moisturizer's lightweight and non-greasy texture. It absorbs well and hydrates my skin without overwhelming it. It has a subtle floral-fruity scent that does not overwhelm me. I also like how good it is for daily use, especially when paired with a gentle sunscreen."
[ Read – Ponds Light Moisturizer Review ]
5. Oriental Botanics Aloe Vera, Green Tea & Cucumber Mattifying Moisturizer SPF 30
Product Claims
This lightweight, non-oily moisturizer is perfect for hydrating acne-prone and sensitive skin. It controls shine and imparts a matte finish. Its fast-absorbing formula also offers sun protection and has anti-aging properties. The bioactive constituents of this moisturizer – such as aloe vera, green tea, and cucumber extracts – penetrate the skin to deliver nutrition and hydration.
- Non-greasy
- SPF 30
- Lightweight
- Controls shine
- Hydrates the skin
- Anti-aging formula
- Suitable for oily and combination skin
- Suitable for acne-prone and sensitive skin
None
6. Plum Green Tea Mattifying Moisturizer
Product Claims
This water-based moisturizer gives you a shine-free, matte look. It is specially designed for oily skinned people and has multiple benefits. It claims to give your skin controlled hydration so that it looks and feels fresh for hours. It contains green tea extracts that are rich in antioxidants and prevent the growth of acne-causing bacteria. It nourishes and rejuvenates your skin from within.
- No SLS
- No phthalates
- No parabens
- PETA-certified (cruelty-free)
- 100% vegan
- Contains glycolic acid
- Fights acne
- Contains PEG-400
7. Lotus Herbals Alphamoist Oil-free Moisturizer
Product Claims
This is an oil-free moisturizer that contains milk enzymes that rejuvenate the skin, keep it hydrated, and nourish it. It contains aloe vera extracts that not only heal your skin but also moisturize it. The plant-derived AHA extracts soothe your skin, get absorbed quickly, and improve your skin texture.
- Natural extracts
- Contains Vitamin E
- Doesn’t irritate the skin
- Suitable for oily skin
- Contains parabens
- Contains alcohol
8. Sebamed Clear Face Clear Gel
Heal your acne without damaging the skin using Sebamed Clear Face Clear Gel. This water-based solution is specially formulated to restore and hydrate the skin and protect it from germs. Hyaluronic acid infused in the cream increases the moisture-binding capacity of the cell, and aloe vera helps to soothe irritated skin. In addition, allantoin and panthenol soothe the skin and make it soft and supple.
- Oil-free
- Suitable for sensitive skin as well
- Great fragrance
- Smooth texture
- Some may be allergic to some ingredients
9. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Emulsion
Product Claims
Keep your skin hydrated with Neutrogena Hydro Boost Emulsion. It provides long-lasting moisturization and creates a strong skin barrier by protecting against dryness. In addition, it is packed with powerful ingredients that make the skin smooth, trouble-free, firm, plump, and translucent.
- Dermatologist tested
- Oil-free
- Allergy tested
- Long-lasting
- Fragrance-free
- Dye-free
None
10. Dot & Key 72 HR HYDRATING GEL
Product Claims
Hydrate your skin with Dot & Key 72 HR Hydrating Gel. It is formulated with fermented rice water, probiotics, kombucha, and hyaluronic acid. The fermented rice water acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, and it helps restore the moisture of the skin, tighten the pores, and brighten the skin. In addition, kombucha makes the skin smooth and enhances skin elasticity, whereas hyaluronic acid provides long-lasting moisturization.
- Oil-free formula
- No nasty chemicals
- Cruelty-free
- Gentle on the skin
- May not be enough moisturizing for some users
- Sensitive skin may experience skin breakout
11. Good Vibes Aloe Vera Face Gel
Product Claims
Good Vibes Aloe Vera Face Gel profoundly penetrates the skin, moisturizes the skin, and keeps the skin soft. The aloe vera infused in the gel has excellent anti-inflammatory properties and is an ideal remedy for sunburn. The gel boosts the skin’s healing process, treats acne, and reduces infection. It effectively works to remove dirt and excess sebum and reduce enlarged pores by nourishing the skin.
- No parabens
- No sulphate
- Cruelty-free
- No mineral oil
None
Now that you know all about the best water-based moisturizers for oily skin currently available, let’s look at some vital points to consider when buying any of them.
Things To Consider When Buying A Water-Based Moisturizer
- Formula
The best-suited formula for oily skin is non-comedogenic. Therefore, look for moisturizers that are lightweight and do not clog pores.
- Ingredients
The most suitable ingredients for oily skin are aloe vera and hyaluronic acid as they get absorbed into the skin without making it feel greasy. Stay away from additives like shea butter and essential oils as they make oily skin even more oily. If you are looking for light exfoliation, opt for a moisturizer that contains salicylic acid. Ingredients like alpha hydroxy acid, lactic acid, and oatmeal renew the skin by stripping away the dirt and impurities from the skin.
- Sun Protection
Look for a moisturizer that contains sunscreen. Broad spectrum SPF 30 or above is ideal for protecting the skin from harmful sun rays.
- Sensitive Skin
If your skin is oily and sensitive, opt for a hypoallergenic moisturizer that is free of dyes and fragrances. Dermatologically-approved products are better as they are mild. If you have itchy skin, avoid products with steroids as they can aggravate the irritation.
Oily skin needs intense moisturization. But, oil-based moisturizers can make your skin more oily. Try investing in water-based moisturizers that do not add excess moisture but penetrate deep into the skin to restore hydration. These moisturizers are quickly absorbed into the skin to lock in the moisture and avoid greasiness. The water-based moisturizers are gentle on the skin, cruelty-free, and provide long-lasting results. However, some products may not be suitable for all skin types and may cause breakouts. Pick the best water-based moisturizer with the help of our buying guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some tips for incorporating water-based moisturizers into a skincare routine for oily skin?
To incorporate a water-based moisturizer into a skincare routine for oily skin, apply it after cleansing to lock in moisture. Use a small amount evenly on the face, avoiding the eye area. It is important to use it daily for hydrated and healthy skin, but avoid overuse to prevent clogged pores and breakouts. Remember to apply a water-based sunscreen after moisturizing to protect the skin from the sun.
How often should water-based moisturizers be applied to oily skin?
Apply a water-based moisturizer on oily skin twice daily, after cleansing the face in the morning and evening. This will help maintain hydration without adding excess oil.
Are water-based moisturizers suitable for all skin types or specifically designed for oily skin?
Yes. Water-based moisturizers are suitable for all skin types, including oily, dry, and combination skin. The formulations hydrate the skin without clogging pores or causing breakouts.
Can water-based moisturizers help reduce the appearance of large pores?
Yes. Water-based moisturizers improve the appearance of large pores. The lightweight formulas are non-comedogenic, preventing further congestion on the skin.
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