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15 Best Face Moisturisers for Dry Skin in India

Sanskriti Mathur

November 25, 2025

“Which are the best face moisturisers for dry skin that deliver deep, long-lasting hydration without feeling heavy or greasy?”

During winter, the skin’s natural moisture barrier weakens due to cold winds, low humidity, indoor heaters and constant sun exposure, leading to flakiness, tightness, dullness and irritation in both men and women. This makes choosing the good face moisturisers for dry skin not just a preference but a seasonal skincare necessity to maintain healthy, supple, well-nourished skin.

What You’ll Find in This Blog:

✅ Top 15 moisturisers for dry & dehydrated skin sorted by use case
✅ Budget vs. premium comparisons (₹199 to ₹1499)
✅ What ingredients heal dry skin, and what to avoid
✅ Expert picks for sensitive, oily, natural skincare lovers & winter warriors
✅ Amazon links with real reviews to help you shop smarter

Top 15 Products (Sorted by Effectiveness & Popularity)   

Detailed Overview

Best Overall: CeraVe Moisturising Cream

Why we recommend it:
Developed with dermatologists, this cult-favourite moisturiser is powered by 3 essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) and hyaluronic acid, working together to restore and maintain the skin’s protective barrier.

CeraVe’s patented MVE (MultiVesicular Emulsion) technology ensures controlled hydration release for up to 24 hours, making it ideal for intense, long-lasting moisturisation without clogging pores.

Best for:
✔️ Eczema, psoriasis, flaky or rough patches
✔️ Barrier-damaged or post-treatment skin
✔️ Winter dryness, especially on the face, elbows, or body

Skin Types:
✔️ Dry
✔️ Very Dry
✔️ Sensitive
✔️ Normal

Avoid if:
❌ You prefer ultra-light, gel-based, or quick-absorbing textures
❌ You need a scented or glow-enhancing cream

Hero Ingredients:

• Ceramides (1, 3, 6-II): Rebuild the skin’s barrier and reduce moisture loss
• Hyaluronic Acid: Attracts and retains moisture
• Cholesterol & Fatty Acids: Enhance skin elasticity and recovery

Editor’s Tip:
Apply this cream to slightly damp skin after cleansing or showering for optimal absorption. Also works well as a night moisturiser or a spot treatment for dry patches on the knees, elbows, or under the eyes.

Compared to Cetaphil Moisturising Cream:
CeraVe is thicker, longer-lasting, and better suited for barrier repair, while Cetaphil is lighter and preferred for sensitive, reactive skin that requires rapid absorption.

User Review:

“The only thing that worked during my eczema flare. Worth the price!” – Verified Amazon Buyer

Best for Sensitive Skin: Cetaphil Moisturising Cream

Why we recommend it:
Cetaphil’s Moisturising Cream is a dermatologist-trusted formula that delivers instant, long-lasting hydration for dry to normal skin. Enriched with niacinamide, vitamin B5, and nourishing emollients, it binds water to the skin to prevent moisture loss for up to 24 hours.

Its non-greasy, fragrance-free, and hypoallergenic texture makes it ideal for sensitive skin while delivering fast relief from dryness and tightness. Suitable for both face and body, this cream is especially effective on rough areas like elbows, knees, and heels.

Best for:
✔️ Dry, flaky skin
✔️ Sensitive or easily irritated skin
✔️ Rough patches on elbows, knees, hands, and feet

Skin Types:
✔️ Dry
✔️ Normal
✔️ Sensitive
✔️ All skin types (including reactive skin)

Avoid if:
❌ You prefer thicker, occlusive creams for barrier-repair
❌ You want active-heavy formulations with strong resurfacing ingredients

Hero Ingredients:
• Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Strengthens the skin barrier and soothes irritation
• Vitamin B5 (Panthenol): Speeds up skin healing and deeply hydrates
• Almond Oil: Softens the skin and improves suppleness

Editor’s Tip:
Apply generously after showering or cleansing when the skin is slightly damp to lock in maximum hydration. It can also be used as a hand cream or spot treatment on very dry areas throughout the day.

Compared to CeraVe Moisturising Cream:
Cetaphil is lighter, absorbs more quickly, and is better suited to sensitive or reactive skin. CeraVe is thicker and better for intense barrier repair, while Cetaphil offers comfortable everyday hydration without heaviness.

User Review:
“Moisturises without feeling sticky. Perfect for my dry, sensitive skin!” – Verified Amazon Buyer

Best Lightweight Clinical Moisturiser: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair

Why we recommend it:
This lightweight gel-cream moisturiser is formulated specifically for oily and sensitive skin, delivering hydration without shine or greasiness. Powered by niacinamide and glycerin, it reinforces the skin’s moisture barrier while balancing oil production for a clean matte finish. The oil-free, non-comedogenic formula absorbs quickly, making it ideal for acne-prone skin that still needs barrier support. Suitable for daily use, it leaves the skin soft, soothed, and perfectly prepped for sunscreen or makeup.

Best for:
✔️ Excess oil or shine
✔️ Acne-prone or easily congested skin
✔️ Sensitive skin needing barrier-friendly hydration

Skin Types:
✔️ Oily
✔️ Combination
✔️ Sensitive

Avoid if:
❌ You prefer rich or creamy textures
❌ You want heavy occlusion or intense moisturisation for dry skin

Hero Ingredients:
• Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Reduces redness, calms sensitivity, and regulates oil
• Glycerin: Draws moisture into the skin for long-lasting hydration
• La Roche-Posay Thermal Water: Soothes irritation and strengthens the skin barrier

Editor’s Tip:
For best results, apply on freshly cleansed skin before sunscreen. Works exceptionally well under makeup due to its matte, non-greasy finish, making it ideal for hot, humid weather when shine control is essential.

Compared to CeraVe AM Facial Moisturising Lotion:
La Roche-Posay offers a more matte, lightweight feel suited for oily and acne-prone skin, while CeraVe AM provides a richer finish with added ceramides for those needing deeper hydration.

User Review:
“Keeps my face matte for hours without drying it out. A must-have for oily skin!” – Verified Amazon Buyer

Best Barrier Repair Cream: The Derma Co Ceramide + HA Moisturiser

Why we recommend it:
This lightweight yet deeply nourishing moisturiser combines 4% ceramides with niacinamide and Oxylance to restore, strengthen, and protect the skin barrier. It locks in hydration for up to 24 hours while improving the skin’s oxygenation, leaving it plump, healthy, and resilient. The non-greasy, fast-absorbing texture makes it a comfortable everyday choice for anyone dealing with dryness, dullness, or compromised skin. Free from mineral oil, parabens, dyes, and sulfates, it’s gentle enough for all skin types, even sensitive ones.

Best for:
✔️ Barrier damage from over-exfoliation or acne treatments
✔️ Dryness, tightness, or rough texture
✔️ Dull or fatigued-looking skin needing nourishment

Skin Types:
✔️ Dry
✔️ Normal
✔️ Sensitive
✔️ Combination

Avoid if:
❌ You want a rich, heavy cream for very dry or eczema-prone skin
❌ You prefer fragrance-based or glow-enhancing moisturisers

Hero Ingredients:
• 4% Ceramides: Rebuild the protective barrier and reduce moisture loss
• Niacinamide: Smooths skin texture and calms redness
• Oxylance: Boosts oxygen supply to improve overall skin health and radiance

Editor’s Tip:
Use after cleansing on slightly damp skin to maximise hydration. Pairs exceptionally well with retinoids or exfoliating acids to counteract irritation and maintain barrier strength.

Compared to Minimalist Ceramide 0.3% Moisturiser:
The Derma Co offers a higher ceramide concentration for more intensive barrier repair, while Minimalist provides a gentler, simpler formula suited for extremely sensitive or acne-prone users.

User Review:
“Lightweight yet super nourishing. My skin feels healthier within days of use!” – Verified Amazon Buyer

Best Ceramide-Rich (Budget): Foxtale Nourishing Ceramide Moisturiser

Why we recommend it:
This lightweight, non-sticky cream delivers up to 100 hours of hydration with a blend of five essential ceramides, niacinamide, vitamin E, and other nourishing actives. It’s great for all skin types (men & women) and ideal if you’re looking for soft, glowing, well-moisturised skin without heavy texture or residue. According to the brand, it also helps improve skin texture and strengthen the skin barrier.

Best for:
✔️ Skin that feels slightly dry or lacks suppleness
✔️ Skin needing barrier support and glow enhancement
✔️ All-skin-type usage: normal, combination, even casual oily

Skin Types:
✔️ All Skin Types
✔️ Normal
✔️ Combination
✔️ Sensitive

Avoid if:
❌You need ultra-rich occlusive creams for very dry or eczema-prone skin
❌ You prefer fragrance-free / ultra-minimalist formulations (check ingredient list if you’re highly sensitive)

Hero Ingredients:
• Ceramides (5-blend): Restore and reinforce the skin barrier for long-lasting hydration.
• Niacinamide: Promotes skin clarity and supports a brighter, more even texture.
• Vitamin E: Antioxidant support to protect skin from everyday environmental stress.

Editor’s Tip:
Use after cleansing and toning on slightly damp skin to maximise absorption. Because the texture is light and non-sticky, it works well under sunscreen or makeup. Suitable for both a morning and an evening routine.

Compared to the Derma Co 4% Ceramide Barrier Repair Moisturiser:
Foxtale is lighter, more glow-oriented, and suitable for a wider range of skin types, with a non-sticky texture, while the Derma Co version is more focused on intensive barrier repair (4% ceramides + stronger actives) and may feel richer.

User Review:
“Feels light, absorbs fast, my skin is noticeably smoother and not tight anymore.” – Verified Buyer

Best Niacinamide: Plum Niacinamide & Rice Water Superlight Gel Cream

Why we recommend it:
This gel-cream moisturiser from Plum blends 2% niacinamide with rice water extract to deliver oil-free, super-light hydration, help fade blemishes, and improve texture. According to the brand, it offers “2× hydration” and a non-greasy finish while controlling excess shine. It’s also 100 % vegan and suitable for all skin types.

Best for:
✔️ Oily or combination skin prone to shine
✔️ Skin with blemishes, uneven tone, or texture issues
✔️ Lightweight day-use when you want hydration without heaviness

Skin Types:
✔️ Oily
✔️ Combination
✔️ Normal
✔️ Sensitive

Avoid if:
❌ You prefer rich, occlusive creams for very dry or flaky skin
❌ You need a heavy night cream under extreme winter conditions

Hero Ingredients:
• Niacinamide (2 %): Helps fade blemishes, brighten skin and regulate oil production.
• Rice Water Extract: Smooths skin texture and enhances radiance.
• Matmarine™ & Cactus Water (in formula): Helps control excess sebum, reduce shine and maintain hydration.

Editor’s Tip:
Apply after cleansing and toning, morning or night. Because of its lightweight, gel texture, it works especially well under sunscreen or makeup. For oily skin, use this on the face, and a richer cream on drier zones like the cheeks or neck.

Compared to The Derma Co 4% Ceramide Barrier Repair Moisturiser:
Plum’s gel-cream is much lighter and suited for oily/combination skin with a focus on oil control and brightness. The Derma Co cream is more barrier-repair focused, with a richer texture and better suited for dryness or a compromised skin barrier.

User Review:
“Oil-free yet hydrating, my skin looks clearer and less shiny in just a week.” – Verified Buyer

Best for Daily Glow: Lakmé Peach Milk Moisturiser (Pro-Ceramide)

Why we recommend it:
This richly formulated yet surprisingly light crème from Lakmé is powered by 2% Pro-Ceramides and peptides to actively repair your skin’s barrier and deliver deep hydration. Its blend of peach-milk extracts and vitamin E soothes and nourishes the skin while leaving behind a healthy, soft glow. Designed for dry, normal and sensitive skin, it offers intense yet comfortable nourishment without heaviness.

Best for:
✔️ Dry or normal skin needing enriched hydration
✔️ Sensitive skin in need of barrier repair
✔️ Skin that looks dull or lacks suppleness

Skin Types:
✔️ Dry
✔️ Normal
✔️ Sensitive

Avoid if:
❌ You prefer ultra-light gel textures (especially for oily skin)
❌ You want fragrance-free minimal formulations (this has peach-milk extracts and some scent)

Hero Ingredients:
• Pro-Ceramides (2%): Strengthens the skin’s protective barrier and reduces moisture loss.
• Peptides: Supports skin resilience and smooth texture, helping skin feel firmer and less patchy.
• Vitamin E + Peach Milk Extracts: Provide antioxidant nourishment and a soft, luminous finish.

Editor’s Tip:
Use after cleansing, preferably on damp skin, to seal in moisture. Because of its richer texture, it works especially well in the evening or for skin exposed to drying conditions (air conditioning, sun, heating). For daytime under makeup, apply a thin layer and let it absorb for a minute.

Compared to The Derma Co 4% Ceramide Barrier Repair Moisturiser:
The Lakmé version focuses more on enriched, comforting hydration, with a richer cream texture and a nourishing feel, whereas The Derma Co. is more clinical, lightweight, and barrier-repair-oriented, with a higher ceramide concentration.

User Review:
“My skin feels super soft and hydrated. This cream really brought back the glow.” – Verified Buyer

Best Coffee-Based Moisturiser: mCaffeine Ceramide Barrier Cream

Why we recommend it:
This ultra-light water-gel moisturiser is designed specifically for oily and combination skin, delivering deep hydration without greasy residue. Powered by caffeine, hyaluronic acid, and Pro-Vitamin B5, it instantly plumps and softens the skin while controlling excess oil throughout the day. A barrier-boosting 3:1:1 ceramide–cholesterol–fatty acid complex strengthens the skin from within, making it ideal for those who experience dehydration but are prone to breakouts. Its refreshing coffee aroma and clean formulation make it a great everyday choice for both men and women.

Best for:
✔️ Oily or combination skin
✔️ Dehydrated skin that still gets greasy
✔️ Weak or compromised barrier needing lightweight repair

Skin Types:
✔️ Oily
✔️ Combination
✔️ Normal (during summer/humid weather)

Avoid if:
❌ You prefer rich cream textures
❌ You need heavy moisturization for dry or flaky skin

Hero Ingredients:
• Caffeine: Controls excess oil and provides antioxidant protection
• Hyaluronic Acid: Deep hydration for soft, plump skin
• Pro-Vitamin B5: Enhances water retention and soothes irritation
• 3:1:1 Ceramide Complex: Strengthens the moisture barrier and mimics natural skin lipids

Editor’s Tip:
Use on clean, slightly damp skin to maximise hydration. Because of its oil-free gel texture, it performs excellently under sunscreen and makeup, making it perfect for humid climates or long outdoor days.

Compared to Plum 2% Niacinamide Gel Cream:
mCaffeine offers stronger barrier-repair benefits with its ceramide complex, while Plum focuses more on brightening and oil control. mCaffeine feels more water-light and refreshing, ideal for those wanting hydration without shine.

User Review:
“Super light and hydrating! Keeps my oily skin fresh without greasiness. Love the coffee smell!” – Verified Amazon Buyer

Best Budget Cream with Oils: Joy Skin Fruits Moisturising Cream

Why we recommend it:
This budget-friendly cream from the JOY Skin Fruits line offers rich, all-over hydration – perfect for face, hands, and body. Enriched with apple extract, jojoba oil and almond oil, it nourishes skin while creating a protective moisture barrier that locks in comfort. The non-sticky, quick-absorbing texture makes it a practical daily option, especially for those looking for dependable moisture without a heavy feel. This is the best face cream for dry skin daily use.

Best for:
✔️ Dry or dry-to-normal skin needing full body hydration
✔️ Skin that feels rough, dull or lacks suppleness
✔️ Anyone looking for an affordable cream for face, hands, & body

Skin Types:
✔️ Dry
✔️ Normal
✔️ Combination (on body)
✔️ All skin types (on body)

Avoid if:
❌ You prefer ultra-light gel textures (especially for oily facial skin)
❌ You need a fragrance-free / super minimalistic formula

Hero Ingredients:
• Apple Extracts: Improves texture, gives a healthier glow and soft feel.
• Jojoba Oil: A natural emollient that seals in moisture and supports barrier function.
• Almond Oil: Adds nourishment and helps smooth skin for a velvety finish.

Editor’s Tip:
Use generously after showering while skin is still slightly damp to lock in maximum moisture. Because this is more of a rich cream, it’s excellent for the body and for cooler weather. On the face, it may feel heavy if you have oily skin, so consider using it only on drier areas, such as the arms, legs, or hands.

Compared to mCaffeine Water Light Gel Oil-Free Coffee Moisturiser:
The Joy Skin Fruits cream is far richer and fuller-body oriented, making it better for all-over skin or dry patches. In contrast, the mCaffeine gel is lightweight, oil-control-focused, and better suited for facial use on oily/combination skin. This is the best face moisturiser for dry skin in India.

User Review:
“My skin feels so much softer after using this all over. It absorbs nicely and gives a healthy glow.” – Verified Buyer

Best Clinical Moisturiser: Fixderma Moisturising Lotion

Why we recommend it:
This rich yet non-greasy cream from Fixderma is formulated to deeply hydrate and restore the skin barrier for dry to very dry skin types. Enriched with magnesium oil, shea butter, aloe vera and coconut oil, it not only locks in moisture but also helps soothe redness, reduce itching, and improve skin smoothness. The lightweight texture absorbs readily, making it suitable for both face and body use. This is one of the best face cream for dry skin men.

Best for:
✔️ Dry → very dry skin that feels tight or flaky
✔️ Skin with irritation, redness or barrier damage
✔️ All-over body use (face, hands, arms, legs) needing deep moisturisation

Skin Types:
✔️ Dry
✔️ Very Dry
✔️ Sensitive
✔️ Normal (especially when skin is compromised)

Avoid if:
❌ You prefer ultra-light gel/serum textures for oily skin
❌ You need a mattifying cream for oily or acne-prone skin

Hero Ingredients:
• Magnesium Oil: Helps soothe the skin, reduce redness and itching, and contributes to barrier repair.
• Shea Butter: Rich in fatty acids and vitamins, it hydrates deeply and smooths rough texture.
• Aloe Vera & Coconut Oil: Provides calming hydration and strengthens the natural barrier against moisture loss.

Editor’s Tip:
After cleansing (preferably at night), apply a generous layer on slightly damp skin. For very dry patches (knees, elbows, hands), you can reapply as needed. Because the formula supports barrier repair, complementing it with a mild cleanser and a sun protection product during the day will maximise results.

Compared to The Derma Co 4% Ceramide Barrier Repair Moisturiser:
Fixderma’s Dewrav cream leans more into deep, all-over body hydration and soothing comfort for very dry skin, while The Derma Co’s product is more targeted at facial barrier repair with ceramides and lighter textures. If you need full-body relief from dryness or irritation, Fixderma may have the edge.

User Review:
“Best moisturiser for dry skin, thank you Fixderma” – Verified Buyer

Best Oil-Free Gel: Pond’s Super Light Gel Moisturiser

Why we recommend it:
This ultra-light gel moisturiser from POND’S combines hydrating and brightening actives, including hyaluronic acid and vitamin C, in a non-oily, fast-absorbing texture. It promises intense hydration (200% instant hydration according to the brand) and a lasting “water-fresh” feel, making it ideal for daily use across seasons and skin types.

Best for:
✔️ Normal to combination skin needing lightweight daily hydration
✔️ Oily skin that wants a moisturiser without heaviness or greasiness
✔️ All skin types looking for a quick-absorbing, non-sticky finish

Skin Types:
✔️ Oily
✔️ Combination
✔️ Normal
✔️ Sensitive (as lightweight formulas often suit sensitive skin too)

Avoid if:
❌ You prefer rich, cream-type moisturisers for very dry or flaky skin
❌ You need intensive barrier repair with high lipid content (e.g., ceramides/heavy emollients)

Hero Ingredients:
• Hyaluronic Acid: Attracts and retains moisture to plump and hydrate the skin.
• Vitamin C: Helps brighten the skin and enhance radiance.
• Glycerine / Humectants: Help lock in hydration and maintain moisture balance.

Editor’s Tip:
Apply to clean, dry or slightly damp skin. Because the gel texture is so light, it works very well under sunscreen or makeup, especially in warm or humid climates. For best results, pair with a gentle serum for more targeted treatment (e.g., dullness or uneven tone).

Compared to The Derma Co 4% Ceramide Barrier Repair Moisturiser:
The POND’S gel emphasises lightweight hydration and a non-sticky feel suitable for all skin types and seasons. In contrast, the Derma Co product is more focused on barrier repair, with a higher ceramide content and a richer texture, better suited for deeper dryness or compromised skin.

User Review:
“This is a beautiful product, feels so light and non-greasy on skin ❤️” – Verified Buyer

Best Brightening Moisturiser: Mamaearth Vitamin C Oil-Free Moisturiser

Why we recommend it:
This lightweight, oil-free moisturiser from Mamaearth is formulated with a blend of vitamin C, vitamin E, gotu kola and turmeric extract to illuminate the skin and restore natural radiance. It’s designed to hydrate without greasiness, fade dark spots and tan, and support moisture retention while maintaining a comfortable feel for daily use. According to the brand, it suits all skin types and is especially useful when you want a non-sticky finish with visible glow benefits.

Best for:
✔️ Dull, uneven-toned skin
✔️ Oily or combination skin seeking lightweight hydration
✔️ Daily use when you want a non-greasy moisturiser under makeup or sunscreen

Skin Types:
✔️ All skin types
✔️ Oily
✔️ Combination
✔️ Normal

Avoid if:
❌ You prefer very rich or occlusive textures for extremely dry or flaky skin
❌ You are seeking ultra-minimalist formulas (this does contain fragrance and botanical extracts)

Hero Ingredients:
• Vitamin C (and derivatives): Brightens skin, helps fade dark spots and enhances radiance.
• Gotu Kola Extract: Plant-based ingredient supporting skin tone and moisture retention.
• Vitamin E: Antioxidant nourishment, supports skin health and barrier.

Editor’s Tip:
Use after cleansing and toner, morning or evening. Because the texture is oil-free and lightweight, it layers well under sunscreen or makeup. For the best brightening effect, pair with a dedicated vitamin C serum in the morning. If you have dry patches, apply a richer cream on those spots at night and use this during the day.

Compared to Mamaearth Ultra-Light Gel Oil‑Free Moisturiser:
While both are oil-free and lightweight, this Vitamin C version emphasises brightening and glow enhancement beyond simple hydration. The Ultra-Light Gel focuses purely on minimal texture and hydration, whereas this one adds radiance-boosting actives.

User Review:
“Lightweight, non-sticky, keeps my skin hydrated throughout the day and gives a subtle glow.” – Verified Buyer

Best Barrier-Repair Cream: Re’equil Ceramide & Hyaluronic Acid Moisturiser

Why we recommend it:
This dermatologist-trusted moisturiser combines ceramides with hyaluronic acid to deliver long-lasting hydration while strengthening the skin’s natural barrier. Its rich, cushiony texture nourishes dry and combination skin without clogging pores, thanks to a non-comedogenic formulation. It helps reduce transepidermal water loss, keeps the skin soft and supple, and forms a protective moisture layer that lasts throughout the day, making it ideal for irritated, dehydrated, or barrier-damaged skin.

Best for:
✔️ Dry skin
✔️ Compromised or weakened skin barrier
✔️ Flaky, tight, or rough skin needing deep nourishment

Skin Types:
✔️ Dry
✔️ Normal
✔️ Combination (dry-leaning)
✔️ Sensitive

Avoid if:
❌ You prefer extremely lightweight, gel-based moisturisers
❌ Your skin is very oily or prone to midday shine

Hero Ingredients:
• Ceramides: Restore the skin’s barrier and prevent moisture loss
• Hyaluronic Acid: Provides deep hydration and plumps the skin
• Occlusive Emollients: Create a protective layer to keep skin soft and smooth

Editor’s Tip:
Apply on slightly damp skin after cleansing to boost hydration and strengthen the barrier. Works especially well at night or after using active ingredients like AHAs, BHAs, or retinoids to reduce irritation.

Compared to The Derma Co 4% Ceramide Barrier Repair Moisturiser:
RE’EQUIL offers a richer, creamier texture and longer-lasting hydration, making it great for dry skin and barrier repair. The Derma Co formula is lighter and more suitable for normal-to-combination skin or those who prefer faster absorption.

User Review:
“It makes my skin soooo soft and keeps it hydrated all day. Perfect for dry, sensitive skin!” – Verified Amazon Buyer

Best Classic All-rounder: NIVEA Soft Light Moisturising Cream

Why we recommend it:
This timeless cream from NIVEA delivers light yet intensive moisturization for everyday use. The formula, enriched with Vitamin E and jojoba oil, absorbs quickly and leaves the skin feeling soft, refreshed, and supple. It can be used on the face, body and hands, making it a highly versatile pick for all skin types.

Best for:
✔️ All-over skin hydration (face, hands & body)
✔️ Normal to dry skin needing a reliable, everyday cream
✔️ Anyone looking for an inexpensive, widely available moisturiser

Skin Types:
✔️ All skin types (including oily, as the formula is light)
✔️ Normal
✔️ Dry
✔️ Combination

Avoid if:
❌ You need specialised actives for barrier repair or anti-ageing (e.g., ceramides, peptides)
❌ You prefer ultra-light, gel textures for very oily skin

Hero Ingredients:
• Vitamin E: Nourishes and provides antioxidant support
• Jojoba Oil: Mimics skin’s natural oils to lock in moisture
• Rich emollients & humectants (e.g., glycerin) that help maintain suppleness

Editor’s Tip:
Use in the morning and/or at night on clean skin. Because it’s light and non-greasy, you can apply it under sunscreen or makeup. It also works well as a hand and foot cream when you want “one jar for everything”.

Compared to a barrier-repair-specialist cream (e.g., ones with ceramides + peptides):
NIVEA Soft focuses more on broad-use, everyday moisturization rather than targeted advanced skin repair. If you have specific concerns, such as barrier damage, flaking, or sensitive, reactive skin, you might prefer a product engineered for that. But for reliable, all-purpose hydration, this remains a strong pick.

User Review:
“Very nice and so soft and cute packaging… my skin looks subtle and soft.” – Verified Buyer

Best Brightening Gel-Cream: Lotus Herbals White Glow Gel Cream

Why we recommend it:
This gel-cream from Lotus Herbals offers a lightweight texture combined with brightening actives designed to address dark spots, tanning and dullness. It features botanical extracts such as mulberry, saxifrage and grape, along with milk enzymes and niacinamide, and includes SPF 25 for daily sun protection.

Best for:
✔️ Skin with uneven tone, dullness or tanning
✔️ Normal to combination skin looking for a non-heavy moisturiser
✔️ Day-use when you want both hydration and brightening

Skin Types:
✔️ All skin types
✔️ Normal
✔️ Combination
✔️ Sensitive (provided you patch-test)

Avoid if:
❌ You prefer very rich, occlusive creams for very dry skin
❌ You’re looking for intensive barrier repair (this one prioritises glow/brightening)

Hero Ingredients:
• Niacinamide: Helps even skin tone and reduce pigmentation.
• Mulberry & Saxifraga Extracts: Inhibit melanin production and assist in brightening.
• Grape Extract & Milk Enzymes: Provide exfoliating / skin-texture benefits and nourishment.

Editor’s Tip:
Apply on cleansed skin in the morning for a hydrating texture that layers easily under sunscreen or makeup. If you have dry patches at night, pair this with a richer cream. Because it contains SPF, you may still choose a dedicated sunblock depending on your exposure.

Compared to a heavier repair cream (e.g., one high in ceramides):
This WhiteGlow gel-cream emphasises brightening and a lighter finish, whereas repair creams often prioritise lipids and occlusives for barrier recovery. Choose this if glow and a lightweight feel matter more than deep occlusion.

User Review:
“The cream makes skin softer and glowy-look, it fades away dark spots… non-sticky and good for daily skin.” – Verified Buyer.

Best Picks by Use Case

Key Ingredients to Look For

1. Hyaluronic Acid (HA)

• What it does: Attracts and retains water. 1g can hold up to 6 litres.
• Why it matters: Deep hydration, plumper skin, and improved absorption of other actives.
• Best for: Dehydrated skin, especially in humid climates.
• Found in: CeraVe and The Derma Co

2. Ceramides

• What it does: Rebuilds the skin’s barrier and locks in moisture.
• Why it matters: Essential for repairing flaky, damaged, or eczema-prone skin.
• Best for: Sensitive, cracked, or chronically dry skin.
• Found in: CeraVe, Foxtale, The Derma Co and  Re’equil

3. Glycerin

• What it does: Pulls water into the skin and retains it in multiple layers.
• Why it matters: Non-irritating, improves elasticity, and works on all budgets.
• Best for: All skin types, especially sensitive or acne-prone skin.
• Found in: Cetaphil, NIVEA and  Joy Skin Fruits

4. Shea Butter & Cocoa Butter

• What it does: Creates a protective barrier that prevents moisture loss.
• Why it matters: Ideal for shielding skin from cold, wind, or pollution.
• Best for: Rough, winter-dry, or body skin.
• Found in:  mCaffeine

5. Oils & Fatty Acids (Almond, Marula, Coconut, etc.)

• What it does: Nourishes the lipid layer and softens dry, dull skin.
• Why it matters: It delivers vitamins and improves skin texture naturally.
• Best for: Those preferring Ayurvedic, natural, or vegan skincare.
• Found in:  Mamaearth and Joy

Ingredients to Avoid for Dry Skin

1. Alcohol-Based Formulas

• Avoid These: SD Alcohol, Denatured Alcohol, Ethanol
• Why it’s bad: Strips away moisture, damages the skin barrier, and may cause stinging.
• Important Note: Fatty alcohols (e.g. Cetyl Alcohol, Stearyl Alcohol) are safe and often hydrating.
• Pro Tip: Always check the top 5 ingredients. If alcohol is listed there, skip it for dry skin.

2. Artificial Fragrance

• Why it’s harmful: Can trigger irritation, itchiness, or redness, especially for sensitive or eczema-prone skin.
• Hidden Danger: Even “natural” essential oils (like lavender, citrus, or peppermint oil) can irritate dry or broken skin.
• What to look for: Terms like “Fragrance-Free”, “Unscented”, or “No Added Perfume” on the label.

3. Sulphates & Parabens

• Sulphates (like SLS): Harsh surfactants that strip natural oils, mostly in cleansers but sometimes sneak into lotions.
• Parabens: Preservatives linked to hormonal disruption and sensitivity in some individuals.
• Why avoid: Over time, they dry out skin and may aggravate existing skin conditions.
• Look for: Products marked as “SLS-Free”, “Paraben-Free”, “Non-Comedogenic”, or “No Mineral Oil”.

Who Is This Guide For?

How to Choose the Right Moisturiser for Dry Skin?

When it comes to dry skin, not all moisturisers are created equal. Choosing the right one depends on a combination of your skin condition, the season, the ingredients, and the product texture.

Here’s a deeper dive into what to look for (and what to avoid):

Pro Tip: Choose the Right Texture for Your Skin Condition

Quick Review

Finding a good moisturiser for dry skin doesn’t have to be confusing; just look for ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and glycerine. These ingredients repair, hydrate, and protect, especially in winter. Use this guide to pick the best daily face cream for dry skin and keep your skin soft, calm, and glowing all year.

Frequently Asked Questions