Best moisturisers for dry skin: 10 choices for smooth and nourished skin

Does your skin feel as dry as a barren land? Are you tired of using multiple layers of skincare products to get rid of those dry patches? Consider including a hydrating moisturiser in your skincare routine. Dry skin lacks moisture, so using a good quality moisturiser may help to tackle dehydration and promote skin rejuvenation. Packed with the goodness of active ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, shea butter, ceramides and other botanical extracts, the best moisturiser for dry, sensitive skin may help to deeply hydrate your skin, and improve skin elasticity and texture. They may even create a protective barrier on your skin, preventing moisture loss, strengthening the skin’s natural barrier and soothing irritated skin. We have handpicked some of the best moisturisers for dry skin that you may try to improve your skin health.

10 best moisturisers for dry skin

Check out this list of the best moisturisers for dry skin in India:

1. CeraVe Moisturising Cream for Dry to Very Dry Skin

CeraVe Moisturising Cream for Dry to Very Dry Skin might be a good addition to your skincare routine. Infused with the goodness of essential ceramides, hyaluronic acid and MVE technology, this moisturiser may help maintain the skin’s barrier function, retain the natural moisture and provide long-lasting hydration. This non-comedogenic and fragrance-free skincare product has a rich texture that may help nourish your skin without leaving any greasy residue.

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2. Cetaphil Dam Daily Advance Ultra Hydrating Lotion

Cetaphil Dam Daily Advance Ultra Hydrating Lotion promises to replenish, hydrate and protect your dry skin for 48 hours. This non-greasy moisturiser contains glycerin, panthenol, niacinamide, shea butter and sunflower oil that may help to provide a soft, smooth and hydrated feel to your skin. Ideal for dry, sensitive skin, this moisturiser may help to relieve and nourish your skin. The brand also claims that this product is free from fragrance, parabens and sulfates which makes it safe to use.

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3. Neutriderm Moisturising Lotion w/Vitamin E

Neutriderm Moisturising Lotion may help to combat dryness and provide relief to your skin. Packed with the goodness of vitamin E phosphate, this product may help provide soothing and replenishing benefits. It may even provide a long-lasting moisturising effect, keeping your skin nourished.

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4. The Derma Co Ceramide + Ha Intense Face Moisturiser

The Derma Co Ceramide + Ha Intense Face Moisturiser may keep your dry skin nourished. Free from mineral oil, dye, paraben and sulfate, this intense moisturiser promises to keep your skin hydrated for up to 72 hours. It also promises to lock in moisture, calm irritated skin, and treat acne and pigmentation.

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5. Minimalist Marula Oil 5% Face Moisturiser

Minimalist Marula Oil 5% Face Moisturiser promises to soften and nourish your skin. Packed with the goodness of marula oil, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, saccharide isomerate, vitamin E and F, this moisturise can revitalise your skin and make it soft. It also contains Omega-9 fatty acid and antioxidant properties that can protect your skin from free radicals and repair damaged skin. This dermatologically tested skin care product for dry skin may restore and protect the skin’s barrier function. The brand states that its product can also reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and prevent dullness.

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6. Dot & Key Ceramides Moisturiser

Dot & Key Ceramides Moisturiser is enriched with the goodness of 5 essential ceramides, hyaluronic acid, probiotics and Japanese rice water. Together these ingredients may work towards strengthening the skin barrier function and boosting the hydration level. This moisturiser promises to lock in moisture, plum your skin and make it feel healthy. It may also soothe redness and irritation, making your skin feel relaxed and calmed. The lightweight, non-sticky and non-greasy texture of this moisturiser makes it perfect to use in summers.

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7. Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Moisturiser

Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Moisturiser is packed with the goodness of glycerin that helps replenish lost moisture. Regular use of this moisturiser may decrease the evaporation at the skin surface and create a protective barrier to reduce water loss. It also promises to provide 24 hour long moisturisation. This moisturise may enhance the hydration level in your skin, making it look soft, supple and nourished. The brand claims that its product is non-greasy and dermatologically tested, which makes it safe to use.

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8. Pilgrim Squalane Glow Moisturiser Cream

Pilgrim Squalane Glow Moisturiser Cream promises to revitalise your skin health. Loaded with the goodness of vitamin C, Spanish squalane and niacinamide, this moisturiser claims to improve the firmness of your skin. It may also brighten your skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. This skin care product can also fade dark spots, pigmentation and make your skin look radiant.

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9. Sotrue Ceramide Face Moisturiser

Sotrue Ceramide Face Moisturiser promises to provide 24 hours of moisturisation, making your skin look soft and supple. It is infused with the goodness of ceramide, hyaluronic acid and squalane that may help hydrate your skin, promote skin barrier repair and reduce dryness. This ultra light gel-based moisturiser can quickly absorb and improve skin’s elasticity. The brand also claims that its product is free from cruelty and toxins.

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Also Read: Shea butter moisturisers will help you say goodbye to dry skin!

10. Parasoft Cream for Dry and Dehydrated Skin

Parasoft Cream for Dry and Dehydrated Skin claims to intensely hydrate your skin. Its quick-absorbing formula allows it to get gently absorbed in the skin’s surface without leaving any oily residue. Enriched with the goodness of aloe vera, light liquid paraffin and soft white paraffin, this moisturiser may prevent water loss and make your skin soft. The brand also states that its product is free from parabens and sulphates, which makes it skin-friendly.

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What are the benefits of moisturisers for dry skin?

• Promotes instant hydration: Dry skin lacks natural oils and moisturiser, which leads to roughness and flakiness. By using moisturisers that are packed with humectants, occlusives and emollients, you can restore the hydration level of your skin. They may also strengthen the skin barrier function, protect it from environmental stressors and prevent water loss.
• Contains calming properties: Packed with the goodness of aloe vera, chamomile, and oat extract, moisturisers can help calm and soothe irritated skin. Regular use of these skin care products can reduce symptoms of dryness-induced sensitivity and make your skin feeling calm.
• Improves skin texture: Along with moisturising your skin, these products can also improve the appearance and texture of your skin. The presence of ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin and ceramides in these products can reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and plump your skin.
• Enhances skin elasticity: By deeply hydrating, moisturising and nourishing your skin, these products can also improve the firmness and elasticity of the skin.
• Prevents premature ageing: Due to compromised skin barrier function and decreased collagen production, dry skin becomes more prone to premature ageing. By using moisturiser that provides essential nutrients, hydration and antioxidants to the skin, you can combat free radical damage that can accelerate ageing.

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How to choose the best moisturiser for dry skin?

Here are a few things that you must remember while choosing the best moisturiser for dry skin in India:

• Ingredients: While choosing a moisturiser for dry skin, make sure to check the ingredients list thoroughly. Opt for a product that contains glycerin, hyaluronic acid, shea butter, jojoba oil, beeswax and more.
• Formulation: Consider the formulation of the product as moisturisers are available in different forms from creams, and lotions to gels. Opt for non-greasy and lightweight products for better absorption.
• Avoid harmful ingredients: Choose a product that is free from fragrances as they can increase the risk of irritation. Ensure that the product is free from other harmful ingredients like paraben, phthalate, sulphate and more.
• Review: Always check the feedback section while buying the products. Reading reviews and ratings can help gauge the effectiveness of the moisturiser.
• Recommendations: You can also visit your dermatologist for guidance. They can help you choose the product according to your skin needs.

Also Read: Hydrator vs moisturiser: What does your dry skin need?

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

• Which type of moisturiser is best for dry skin?

Dry skin lacks natural water and oils that can make your skin look rough, tight and flaky. To address these problems, look for a moisturiser that is packed with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, shea butter, aloe vera and more. These ingredients can prevent water loss, lock in moisture and make your skin feel nourished from within.

• Why do you need a moisturiser?

Moisturisers can reduce fine lines, wrinkles, improve hydration level of your skin, making them look healthy and radiant. A study published in the Clinical Medicine & Research states that moisturisers can provide a cooling effect to your skin, reduce itching, calm inflamed skin and can promote wound healing acceleration.

• What makes the skin dry?

The American Academy of Dermatology Association suggests that skin becomes dry when it loses excessive water too quickly. Vitamin or mineral deficiency, medicines, skin-related conditions like dermatitis, diabetes, thyroid, low outdoor temperature and harsh cleaning products can increase the dryness of your skin.

• Why do you need a moisturiser?

Moisturisers are essential as they can help reduce fine lines, and wrinkles, improve hydration levels and boost skin radiance. They can also provide a cooling effect to your skin and reduce itching.

• Is it good to use a moisturiser with SPF?

It is a good idea to use a moisturiser with SPF as it can provide additional protection against sun damage. When you need to be out in the sun for an extended time, apply broad-spectrum protection sunscreen after your moisturiser.

(Disclaimer: At Health Shots, we make a constant effort to break the clutter for our readers. All products listed are carefully curated by the editorial team but use your discretion and an expert’s opinion before using them. Their price and availability may differ from the time of publication. If you buy something using these links in the story, we may earn a commission.)