8 Must-Have Moisturisers for Healthy and Hydrated Skin: Soft, Smooth, Supple 

Moisturisers are important in protecting the skin against drying up. They produce a protective barrier that reduces water loss, and the skin is soft, smooth, and healthy.

Radiant and soft skin is no longer something to dream about. Dry, oily, or sensitive, an appropriate moisturiser engulfs the skin in water, aids the skin barrier system, and gives the skin a glowing look. From the invention of lightweight gels to the cherished creams, moisturisers have become a routine skincare necessity, which makes the visible skin look and feel moist, youthful, and nourished.

Due to the enormous variety of moisturisers to be used on dry, oily, and acne-prone skin, it is hardly possible to choose the one that fits certain concerns only. To make this easier, a list of the top eight moisturisers is given below with their curated list.

1. Aqualogica Illuminate + Hydra Gel Moisturiser with Wild Berries and Alpha Arbutin.

This is an optimal solution for total hydration enjoyment because the water-based gel consistency of this moisturiser is lightweight and contains wildberries and alpha arbutin. It takes a minute to brighten darker spots without leaving a sticky residue. This is a formula that has been tested by a dermatologist and is universal.

Reasons to buy

Non-sticky finish, lightweight gel formula.

Suitable for all skin types.

The alpha arbutin makes the dull skin clearer.

Reasons to avoid

Pigmentation results are slow.

May not be sufficiently moisturising.

Not all people may like the fragrance.

Clients enjoy its lightweight, hydrating formulation and the luminosity it gives. It layers nicely on top of makeup and improves your overall look; however, you may want to reapply when your skin gets dry again.

2. Mamaearth Rice Oil-Free Face Moisturizer for Oily Skin | With Rice Water & Niacinamide for Glass Skin

This oil-free moisturiser, based around preexisting Korean skincare, has become enriched with rice water and niacinamide to hydrate, brighten, and fix the skin barrier. True to its name, its true lightweight consistency suits the oily and acne-prone body, managing sebum and bringing its hydration without filling the pores, thus making skin clearer.

Reasons to buy

Oil-free, lightweight texture.

Toxin-free and safe for sensitive skin.

Controls excess sebum production.

Reasons to avoid

May not be hydrating enough for dry skin.

Results on acne scars are slow.

Slight fragrance may irritate some users.

Customers love its oil-free hydration and the shine of this face moisturiser. Many say it feels refreshing, though people with dry skin may find it less effective in winter.

3. The Derma Co. 5% Nia-Ceramide Mattifying Moisturizer | For Oily to Acne-Prone Skin | 5%

It is a mattifying moisturiser containing 5% niacinamide and ceramides to regulate the amount of oil produced and replenish the skin barrier. It was created to be slick and matte over oily and combination skin and hydrates and removes redness. The paraben-free formula out there is set to enhance the texture and reduce pores after it is used daily.

Reasons to buy

Controls excess oil with a matte finish.

Dermatologist-tested and fragrance-free.

Restores skin barrier with ceramides.

Reasons to avoid

Not moisturising enough for very dry skin.

May cause purging in acne-prone skin initially.

Slightly pricey for the quantity.

Customers praise the matte look and lightweight hydration. Some note improvement in skin texture, but a few wish for stronger moisturising in cold weather.

4. Dr. Sheth's Ceramide & Vitamin C Moisturizing Cream | For Dry to Very Dry Skin | Brightens & Strengthens

This is an oil-free oil moisturiser containing ceramides and brightening vitamin C to help create hydrated and resilient skin. The lightweight and non-comedogenic formula helps in strengthening the skin barrier and protecting against forms of environmental damage. It perfectly suits people in the case of oily-to-dry combination skin types.

Reasons to buy

Combines ceramides with vitamin C benefits.

Targets dullness and barrier repair.

Lightweight, oil-free texture.

Reasons to avoid

Not as hydrating for very dry skin.

Packaging could be more user-friendly.

The vitamin C content may cause mild tingling.

Customers highlight improved glow and barrier repair. Many people enjoy the oil-free feel, but those with dry patches often feel the need to apply an additional cream.

5. Aqualogica Glow+ Hydra Gel Moisturizer with Vitamin C & Papaya

Formulated with papaya extracts, this vitamin C–infused rejuvenating gel helps brighten skin without compromising hydration. The gel feels lightweight and fresh and absorbs quickly without greasiness, helping diminish dullness and promote an even skin tone. This formulation is vegan-friendly and recommended for use on all skin types.

Reasons to buy

Vegan and cruelty-free.

Lightweight, refreshing gel formula.

Vitamin C and papaya for natural radiance.

Reasons to avoid

Not enough moisture for very dry skin.

Glow results may take time.

Vitamin C may irritate sensitive skin.

Its ability to be absorbed fast and give a glow effect to customers is beloved. It is said to be refreshing, but some had slight irritation of the sensitive skin.

6. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Face Moisturizer 50 ml

This sticky gel cream renders deep hydration with the aid of purified hyaluronic acid to maintain moisture and fill in the skin. The non-comedogenic formula is made without oil; hence, it can be used on regular to oily skin and lies under makeup. It creates an immediate refreshing effect and a prolonged cleansing effect.

Reasons to buy

Intense hydration with hyaluronic acid.

Suitable for layering under makeup.

Oil-free, non-comedogenic formula.

Reasons to avoid

On the pricier side.

Small quantity for frequent use.

May not be rich enough for very dry skin.

Customers rave about its deep hydration and smooth texture. Many consider it worth the price, though some feel it finishes too quickly.

7. Cetaphil Moisturising Lotion 100 ml

This deeply moisturising lotion is recommended by dermatologists and delivers a full 24 hours of hydration, combined with the benefits of avocado oil. It is suitable for anyone with dry, rough, or flaky skin. This lotion has a lightweight, airless texture that quickly absorbs into the skin to provide protective benefits without leaving the skin feeling greasy. It is fragrance-free and non-allergenic and is acceptable to use on the face and in regions of dry skin, including skin affected by eczema.

Reasons to buy

Gentle and fragrance-free, safe for sensitive skin.

Suitable for face and body use.

Provides 24-hour hydration.

Reasons to avoid

Texture may feel slightly sticky initially.

Packaging is not travel friendly.

Customers love its skin-soothing hydration and suitability for sensitive skin. Some prefer more advanced formulas with brightening or anti-ageing benefits.

8. Bioderma Atoderm Crème

Developed as an ultra-nourishing cream, it is suitable for dry to very dry skin and brings about complimentary long-term moisturisation with a luxurious touch to it. It is fragrance-free and hypoallergenic and is aimed at rebuilding the skin barrier, soothing redness, and reinforcing resilience. It is a reliable option for the whole family, embodying sensitive skin.

Reasons to buy

Ultra-rich hydration for dry to very dry skin.

Suitable for the whole family.

Hypoallergenic and safe for sensitive skin.

Reasons to avoid

Thick texture may feel heavy for oily skin.

Not ideal for tropical, humid climates.

Higher price compared to regular creams.

Its suppleness runs well into very dry skin; its customers rave of its efficacy upon skin subject to eczema. Others do not consider it to be heavy enough to wear during hot seasons during the day.

Benefits of Moisturisers

Prevention of dehydration and dryness.

Moisturisers cause the skin to re-intake water in the outer layer and envelop it as a form of protection, which then keeps the water inside and does not cause it to escape.

Optimising Skin Barrier Function.

They are helpful to rejuvenate and strengthen the natural protective barrier of the skin, which contributes to the decrease in sensitivity and protection against environmental irritants.

Anti-Ageing Effects

Frequently enhancing water intake aids in plumping the skin, thereby possibly lessening the volume of small lines and wrinkles, further creating a strong and more appealing look.

Acne Support

Due to dryness, the overproduction of oil can be avoided by maintaining the necessary amount of hydration in the body. Non-comedogenic formulas using no oil can be used to reduce clogged pores and breakouts.

Moisturises skin before other lotions.

This can be done by applying a moisturiser, which will form a smooth foundation over which sunscreen can be applied, as well as makeup. It is also used after serums in order to fix the active ingredients.

Soothes Sensitive Skin

Containing mild ingredients, e.g., ceramides or botanical extracts, formulas are used to soothe redness, irritation, and discomposure of sensitive skin.