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Despite having a strong inclination towards hoarding products that smell or look good (which happens to the best of us), the chances of the outcome being as disappointing as a lottery scratch card are fairly high. We often forget that fancy-schmancy packaging is honestly just not going to cut it. If you’re still in pursuit of good skin, let's talk about the power base of every skin regime. Moisturiser.
Now, we wanted to be really sure of what we curate for you. That said, we decided to put our opinions aside and turn to the ones that know better. Dermatologists. Choosing the best formulation for your skin is a matter of trial and error; as per a study, an ideal moisturiser should restore your lipid barrier and be quick-absorbing, while also being hypoallergenic, non-sensitising, fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, accessible, and affordable.
As our curiosity rose at a rapid pace, we dug into what the skin experts slather on every morning. Well, for starters, pretty tubs and tubes must be a distant priority. We’re talking fragrance-free, hypoallergenic and most importantly dermatologically tested moisturisers to give you legit results. Now, you don’t have to shell out your hard-earned money to pay for a consultation.
The Key Ingredients To Look For In A Moisturiser
Whether you pick an emollient, occlusive, or humectant should depend on your skin type and concerns. Below, we’ve listed ingredients suitable for each skin type:
- Dry Skin: Dry skin types should opt for rich and luscious creams boasting ultra-hydrating ingredients, including hyaluronic acid, glycerin, propylene glycol, shea butter, ceramides, proteins, urea, and mineral oils.
- Oily/Acne-Prone Skin: Oily and acne-prone skin types should pick a non-comedogenic variant that won’t clog the pores while also delivering optimal hydration. Turn to moisturisers with ingredients such as green tea, salicylic acid, aloe vera, tea tree oil, and niacinamide.
- Sensitive Skin: Sensitive skin types should steer clear of formulas containing fragrances or any other chemical additives. Pick a moisturiser enriched with hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, glycerin, niacinamide, and green tea.
5 Best Dermatologically-Approved Moisturisers For Optimal Skin Health
1. BIODERMA SEBIUM HYDRA MOISTURISER
From the industry favourite micellar water (that sells faster than Lays) to the most invisible of formulas that include the Sebium Gel Moussant, Bioderma’s notable release, the Bioderma Sebium Hydra has everything we look for in a moisturiser. Designed specifically for acne-prone skin, you can use this non-comedogenic cosmetic under your makeup to avoid chances of redness and inflammation.
2. DERMALOGICA SUPER RICH REPAIR MOISTURISER
If you have chronically dry and prematurely ageing skin,Dermalogica’s Super Rich Repair should ideally be your next buy. Fortified with powerful peptides, this dermatologically tested moisturiser promises to stimulate collagen production to give your skin that rich dose of hydration it deserves. The moisturising ingredients include star ingredients like Organic Coconut Oil, Jojoba Seed Oil and a plush punch of Shea Butter.
3. NEUTROGENA HYDRO BOOST HYALURONIC ACID NOURISHING CREAM
If you have chronically dry and prematurely ageing skin, How do you follow up on the success of a customer-favourite sunscreen? By releasing a moisturiser, of course. That being said, if you're looking for a reliable, no-frills, easy-to-use moisturiser, dermatologists highly recommend the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Emulsion. Abundant in hyaluronic acid, this gel cream cools upon contact, hydrates within seconds, and keeps dry, sensitive skin moisturised for up to a whopping 48 hours. Think of it like a cold drink of water for your face.
4. CETAPHIL MOISTURISING CREAM
Needing no introduction at all, this over-the-counter bestseller is dedicated solely to softening your skin sheet without interrupting its natural protective barrier. Slather on from head to toe right before you start your day and it shall protect you from the daily irritants. Best part? This classic, unembellished facial and body formula is unscented so it won't compete with your fragrance. On second thought, if you still don’t have this skin giant in your medicine cabinet, we’re judging. Sorry.
5. SEBAMED MOISTURIZING CREAM
Spiked with a high-intensity dose of lipid content, the Sebamed Moisturizing Cream Ph5.5 is just what you need on a rainy day (or any day, if we may add). It instantly plumps your skin, giving you a more youthful appearance. The rich vitamin E present in this colourless cream neutralises free radicals, which cause premature ageing, making it the ultimate anti-ager. Experimental studies also suggest that vitamin E has antitumorigenic and photoprotective properties. Use it on mornings that follow sleepless nights, and nobody will be the wiser.
5 Best Dermatologically-Approved Moisturisers For Oily Skin
1. RE’EQUIL OIL-FREE MOISTURISER
Meet this super-lightweight, non-comedogenic, and non-greasy formula. Tested by dermatologists and free of alcohol, silicones, parabens, sulphates, and mineral oils, the Re’equil Oil-Free Moisturiser is ideal for normal to oily skin, delivering ample hydration while regulating sebum production. While the ingredient betaine helps retain moisture in your epidermis, anti-inflammatory elements limit the chances of skin irritation. Turn to this dermatologically-approved offering for your pre-makeup skin prep.
2. DOT & KEY WATERMELON SUPERGLOW MATTE MOISTURIZER
Another dermatologically-tested offering, Dot & Key’s Watermelon Superglow Matte Moisturizer is a no-nasties and non-comedogenic formulation – ideal for oily and acne-prone skin. While exfoliating glycolic acid helps bring to the fore your natural glow, watermelon extracts and hyaluronic acid intensify hydration and strengthen your epidermal barrier. The lightweight, clean moisturiser also balances sebum production to counteract your overactive sebaceous glands.
3. HYPHEN BARRIER CARE CREAM
The Hyphen Barrier Care Cream isn’t solely dermatologist-approved but celebrity-approved, too. With Kriti Sanon’s seal of approval, the ceramide and peptide-infused formulation locks in ample moisture, repairing and strengthening your epidermal barrier. Perfect for oily to combination skin, this moisturiser claims to improve your skin barrier in two weeks, with a 96% reduction in dryness and a 90% improvement in overall skin texture. This ultra-hydrating offering also boasts chamomile extracts, aloe vera, oatmeal extracts, and squalene.
4.LANEIGE WATER BANK BLUE HYALURONIC CREAM
This sought-after Korean brand relies on a next-generation hydrating ingredient, Blue Hyaluron, which is 2000x smaller than regular hyaluronic acid. Hence, the formulation delivers an additional 300% moisturisation that penetrates deeply into your skin, lending hydrating and reparative properties for up to 48 hours. The Laneige Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Cream also reduces skin inflammation for super-supple and plump skin. Grab this gel-based wonder cream today!
5. MINIMALIST 10% VITAMIN B5 OIL-FREE MOISTURIZER
Don’t believe us? Leave it to the consumer to attest to the claims this expert-recommended offering makes. 93% of users agree that the Minimalist 10% Vitamin B5 Oil-Free Moisturizer hydrates their skin for up to 12 hours, and 87% agree it reduces skin irritation after two weeks. Ideal for oily, acne-prone, and combination skin, this formula targets fine lines, dullness, inflammation, and dehydration via a unique amalgamation of vitamin B5 and antioxidants.
5 Best Dermatologically-Approved Moisturisers For Dry Skin
1. COSRX HYALURONIC ACID INTENSIVE CREAM
As per research, moisturisers work well to alleviate various kinds of dermatitis by boosting epidermal water content. Meet Cosrx’s Hyaluronic Acid Intensive Cream that does the job of quenching parched skin and locking in hydration. The rich and creamy formula is fast-absorbing, addressing dryness, dullness, and skin elasticity to make way for plumper skin. Dermatologically tested and cruelty-free, this cream also targets fine lines and wrinkles!
2. CERAVE MOISTURISING CREAM
If you have severely dry, patchy skin, turn to the CeraVe Moisturizing Cream to replenish lost moisture. Boasting three essential ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and MVE technology, USA’s #1 dermatologist-recommended brand leaves your skin feeling soft, supple, and refreshed while shielding your epidermal barrier. Clinically proven on Indian skin types, bag this one before you miss the chance.
3. CAUDALIE VINOSOURCE-HYDRA S.O.S INTENSE MOISTURIZING CREAM
Soothing, nourishing, and ultra-hydrating, Caudalie’s Vinosource-Hydra S.O.S Intense Moisturizing Cream features 95% natural-origin ingredients, which are dermatologically tested and drive away redness, dryness, and tightness. Shielding against free radical damage, this formula is silicone-free, paraben-free, mineral oil-free, and vegan. So, if you’re looking to splurge on a luxe skincare essential, this is the one for you.
4. UNDRY HYDRATING FACIAL MOISTURIZER
Thoughtfully formulated for dry skin with added SPF 30+ protection, the Undry Hydrating Facial Moisturizer features a clinically tested Antarctic-G Hydration Technology that deeply moisturises your skin for up to 12 hours. Non-greasy and non-comedogenic, the weightless formula leaves no white cast on your skin and offers broad-spectrum protection against UV rays. Your skin deserves the goodness of shea butter, ceramides, vitamin E, squalene, and aloe vera!
5.KIEHL’S ULTRA FACIAL CREAM
Double barrier strength and 24-hour moisturisation? Yes, please. Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream promises instant hydration with glacial glycoprotein and squalene. After recommended use, 92% of consumers reported that their skin felt softer, 91% said their skin felt healthier, and 88% agreed that their skin felt bouncier. Strengthen your skin from deep within with this skincare staple.
Coming to the end of this week-long research was pretty satisfying if you ask us. There’s nothing more validating than slathering on your morning cream with confidence, knowing that it’s got the stamp of approval of the best. So, the next time your phone starts blowing up first thing in the morning, you click the silent button. If they ask, chin up and say that you were busy moisturising. It’s just as important.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How often should I apply moisturiser?
As a general rule of thumb, one must moisturise twice daily after adequately cleansing the face. Moisturising once in the morning and once before heading to bed helps maintain the moisture content in your epidermis.
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Should I moisturise every single day?
Absolutely. One should moisturise their skin daily to prevent dryness, flaking or cracking, delay signs of premature ageing, soothe sensitive skin, keep breakouts at bay, and support optimal skin barrier health. Follow up your moisturiser with a suitable sunscreen.
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Can moisturiser cause acne?
No, while a moisturiser cannot cause or exacerbate acne, choosing a formula best suited to your skin type is ideal. Oily skin craves hydration as much as dry skin, and a lack thereof can result in your sebaceous glands producing excess oil to compensate for the moisture loss.
Dehydrated combination skin? Check out: HYDRATION WITH THE BEST MOISTURIZERS FOR COMBINATION SKIN
