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Beauty Front Benchers

Yes, even your oily skin needs a moisturiser—here's why

By
Hasina Jeelani
3
min read
Skin
Yes, even your oily skin needs a moisturiser—here's why
Yes, even your oily skin needs a moisturiser—here's why
Read More
Beauty Front Benchers
Skin

Yes, even your oily skin needs a moisturiser—here's why

By
Hasina Jeelani
By
Hasina Jeelani
Beauty Front Benchers
Skin
3
Min read
All the hydration with none of the shine: who’s in?
Yes, even your oily skin needs a moisturiser—here's why

As much as the world of skincare has evolved, some myths just won’t quit—like that clingy ex who refuses to take a hint. Yes, you need sunscreen even on cloudy days. No, drinking water alone won’t solve all your skincare woes. And yes, you still need moisturiser, even if your skin is oily.

We get it: layering on hydration when your skin already feels greasy can sound counterintuitive. But skipping moisturiser could be the reason your dehydrated skin is producing even more oil to compensate. The good news? The best moisturisers for oily skin are designed with you in mind. With lightweight textures, oil-free formulas and mattifying ingredients, they’re like a love letter to your complexion—keeping it balanced, hydrated and comfortable without the unwanted shine.  

Dr. Sheth's Ceramide & Vitamin C Oil Free Moisturiser(50g)
1073311
Dr. Sheth's
Know More
Re'equil Oil Free Moisturizer (100g)
995964
Re'equil
Know More
Bioderma Atoderm Creme Ultra Daily Hydrating Moisturizer for Normal To Sensitive Dry Skin, 200ml
411660
Bioderma
Know More
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Face Moisturizer With Hyaluronic Acid For 72 Hours Hydration (50g)
Neutrogena
Know More
The Formularx Hydraveil Barrier Care Hydrating Gel Moisturizer with Ectoin & Ceramide (50 g)
1128182
The Formularx
Know More
Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel (125ml)
1084552
CLINIQUE
Know More
Aqualogica Radiance+ Oil Free Moisturizer With Watermelon And Niacinamide (100g)
1126102
Aqualogica
Know More
Foxtale Nourishing Moisturiser with Niacinamide & Vitamin E for 24hrs Hydrated Glowing Skin (100ml)
1160013
Foxtale
Know More

1073311
Dr. Sheth's
.

Dr. Sheth's Ceramide & Vitamin C Oil Free Moisturiser(50g)

No items found.
Add to Cart
995964
Re'equil
.

Re'equil Oil Free Moisturizer (100g)

No items found.
Add to Cart
411660
Bioderma
.

Bioderma Atoderm Creme Ultra Daily Hydrating Moisturizer for Normal To Sensitive Dry Skin, 200ml

5 moisturisers that the Tira editors are currently obsessing over
Priyanka Ghura
Skin type: Combination, sensitive skin

“I’ve always been a fan of French pharmacy finds because of their no-fuss, result-oriented formulas—and honestly, this one’s no different. It hydrates my dry cheeks while controlling the oiliness in my T-zone. I love how gentle and nourishing this cream feels. It has also made my skin more resistant to flare-ups over time. I use it on my face and neck, and often on my hands too when they’re feeling a little too dry. It also works great under makeup and preps my skin well.”

10 moisturisers to choose from, if you have dry skin

Fast-absorbing yet rich, this French favourite nourishes dry skin from the very first use. Infused with niacinamide, ceramides and omegas, it helps restore balance without leaving any residue. Whether you’re building your first routine or upgrading your winter kit, this one offers lasting comfort with a velvet-soft finish.

Add to Cart
Neutrogena
.

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Face Moisturizer With Hyaluronic Acid For 72 Hours Hydration (50g)

No items found.
Add to Cart
1128182
The Formularx
.

The Formularx Hydraveil Barrier Care Hydrating Gel Moisturizer with Ectoin & Ceramide (50 g)

No items found.
Add to Cart
1084552
CLINIQUE
.

Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel (125ml)

The Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturising Gel is a classic for a reason. It's extremely lightweight formulation—specifically designed for oily skin—feels almost like a second skin and provides ample hydration without adding any extra shine. This moisturiser is a staple for anyone looking to keep their skin balanced and hydrated throughout the day.
8 moisturisers for oily skin that keep the greasiness at bay
Add to Cart
1126102
Aqualogica
.

Aqualogica Radiance+ Oil Free Moisturizer With Watermelon And Niacinamide (100g)

No items found.
Add to Cart
1160013
Foxtale
.

Foxtale Nourishing Moisturiser with Niacinamide & Vitamin E for 24hrs Hydrated Glowing Skin (100ml)

No items found.
Add to Cart

Do you really need moisturiser if you have oily skin?

The short answer? Yes. The long answer? Still yes. Your skin might be producing enough sebum to rival an oil well, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t dehydrated. In fact, when your skin lacks water, it can overcompensate by producing even more oil. That’s where moisturisers come in—they help your skin retain hydration for longer, keeping it balanced rather than greasy.

Dehydrated skin is also more prone to visible signs of ageing. Regular use of a good moisturiser won’t turn back the clock entirely, but it will help delay the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, keeping skin soft, supple and healthier in the long run.

How to choose a moisturiser for oily skin

Now that we’ve cleared up the myth, let’s talk about choosing the right product. Thick butters and rich creams aren’t your only options—in fact, they’re not what oily skin needs at all. Today’s new generation of moisturisers are lightweight, oil-free and designed specifically to keep shine under control. Here’s what to look out for:

Check the label

“Oil-free” should be the first phrase you hunt down when shopping for moisturiser. But don’t stop there—keep an eye out for “non-comedogenic,” which means the formula won’t clog pores or trigger breakouts.

Tira recommends:

Dr. Sheth's Ceramide & Vitamin C Oil Free Moisturiser(50g)

Re'equil Oil Free Moisturizer (100g)  

Bioderma Atoderm Creme Ultra-Nourishing Moisturising Cream (200 ml)

Look for lightweight formulas

The last thing oily skin needs is a heavy layer sitting on top. Skip rich creams, butters and balms, and instead reach for lightweight lotions and gels that absorb quickly and feel breathable on the skin.

Tira recommends:

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Face Moisturizer With Hyaluronic Acid For 72 Hours Hydration (50g)  

The Formularx Hydraveil Hydrating Gel Moisturizer with Ectoin & Ceramide for Acne Prone Skin (50 g)  

CLINIQUE Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel (125 ml)

Scout for the right ingredients

Not all hydrating ingredients are equal. Rich emollients like shea butter, lanolin and mineral oil can weigh skin down, but lightweight hydrators like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and glycerin deliver moisture without heaviness.

Tira recommends:

Aqualogica Radiance+ Oil Free Moisturizer With Watermelon And Niacinamide (100g)

 

Foxtale Nourishing Moisturiser with Niacinamide & Vitamin E for 24hrs Hydrated Glowing Skin (100ml)  

Plum Green Tea Oil-Free Moisturizer With Niacinamide & Hyaluronic, Non-Sticky Daily Hydration (50ml)

Choose mattifying formulas

If shine control is your top priority, mattifying moisturisers are your best bet. These formulas help absorb excess oil while keeping skin hydrated. Look for ingredients like silica, kaolin clay and niacinamide, often found in lightweight gels or lotions.

Tira recommends:

Embryolisse Mattifying Face Moisturizer (50ml)

Caudalie Vinopure Moisturizing Mattifying Fluid (40ml)

bareMinerals Complexion Rescue Mattifying Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30 - Desert 6.5 (35 ml)

Opt for hybrid formulas

If you prefer a streamlined routine, hybrid moisturisers are your go-to. Look for options that combine hydration with SPF protection to cut down on extra layers and keep oily skin comfortable throughout the day.

Tira recommends:

FENTY SKIN Hydra Vizor Mini Broad Spectrum Mineral SPF 30 Moisturizer (30 ml)  

Smashbox Halo Healthy Glow Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 25 - Light Neutral (40ml)  

Forest Essentials Soundarya Radiance Cream with 24K Gold SPF 30 PA++ Moisturizer (50 g)

939276
Plum
Plum Green Tea Oil-Free Moisturizer With Niacinamide & Hyaluronic, Non-Sticky Daily Hydration (50ml)
Know More
1133117
Embryolisse
Embryolisse Mattifying Face Moisturizer (50ml)
Know More
1020330
Caudalie
Caudalie Vinopure Moisturizing Mattifying Fluid (40ml)
Know More
1163843
bareMinerals
bareMinerals Complexion Rescue Mattifying Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30 - Desert 6.5 (35 ml)
Know More
1177502
FENTY SKIN
FENTY SKIN Hydra Vizor Mini Broad Spectrum Mineral SPF 30 Moisturizer (30 ml)
Know More
1070729
Smashbox
Smashbox Halo Healthy Glow Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 25 - Light Neutral (40ml)
Know More
1105675
Forest Essentials
Forest Essentials Soundarya Radiance Cream with 24K Gold SPF 25 (50g)
Know More

Do you really need moisturiser if you have oily skin?

The short answer? Yes. The long answer? Still yes. Your skin might be producing enough sebum to rival an oil well, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t dehydrated. In fact, when your skin lacks water, it can overcompensate by producing even more oil. That’s where moisturisers come in—they help your skin retain hydration for longer, keeping it balanced rather than greasy.

Dehydrated skin is also more prone to visible signs of ageing. Regular use of a good moisturiser won’t turn back the clock entirely, but it will help delay the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, keeping skin soft, supple and healthier in the long run.

How to choose a moisturiser for oily skin

Now that we’ve cleared up the myth, let’s talk about choosing the right product. Thick butters and rich creams aren’t your only options—in fact, they’re not what oily skin needs at all. Today’s new generation of moisturisers are lightweight, oil-free and designed specifically to keep shine under control. Here’s what to look out for:

Check the label

“Oil-free” should be the first phrase you hunt down when shopping for moisturiser. But don’t stop there—keep an eye out for “non-comedogenic,” which means the formula won’t clog pores or trigger breakouts.

Tira recommends:

Dr. Sheth's Ceramide & Vitamin C Oil Free Moisturiser(50g)

Re'equil Oil Free Moisturizer (100g)  

Bioderma Atoderm Creme Ultra-Nourishing Moisturising Cream (200 ml)

Look for lightweight formulas

The last thing oily skin needs is a heavy layer sitting on top. Skip rich creams, butters and balms, and instead reach for lightweight lotions and gels that absorb quickly and feel breathable on the skin.

Tira recommends:

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Face Moisturizer With Hyaluronic Acid For 72 Hours Hydration (50g)  

The Formularx Hydraveil Hydrating Gel Moisturizer with Ectoin & Ceramide for Acne Prone Skin (50 g)  

CLINIQUE Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel (125 ml)

Scout for the right ingredients

Not all hydrating ingredients are equal. Rich emollients like shea butter, lanolin and mineral oil can weigh skin down, but lightweight hydrators like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and glycerin deliver moisture without heaviness.

Tira recommends:

Aqualogica Radiance+ Oil Free Moisturizer With Watermelon And Niacinamide (100g)

 

Foxtale Nourishing Moisturiser with Niacinamide & Vitamin E for 24hrs Hydrated Glowing Skin (100ml)  

Plum Green Tea Oil-Free Moisturizer With Niacinamide & Hyaluronic, Non-Sticky Daily Hydration (50ml)

Choose mattifying formulas

If shine control is your top priority, mattifying moisturisers are your best bet. These formulas help absorb excess oil while keeping skin hydrated. Look for ingredients like silica, kaolin clay and niacinamide, often found in lightweight gels or lotions.

Tira recommends:

Embryolisse Mattifying Face Moisturizer (50ml)

Caudalie Vinopure Moisturizing Mattifying Fluid (40ml)

bareMinerals Complexion Rescue Mattifying Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30 - Desert 6.5 (35 ml)

Opt for hybrid formulas

If you prefer a streamlined routine, hybrid moisturisers are your go-to. Look for options that combine hydration with SPF protection to cut down on extra layers and keep oily skin comfortable throughout the day.

Tira recommends:

FENTY SKIN Hydra Vizor Mini Broad Spectrum Mineral SPF 30 Moisturizer (30 ml)  

Smashbox Halo Healthy Glow Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 25 - Light Neutral (40ml)  

Forest Essentials Soundarya Radiance Cream with 24K Gold SPF 30 PA++ Moisturizer (50 g)

No items found.

No items found.
About

Do you really need moisturiser if you have oily skin?

The short answer? Yes. The long answer? Still yes. Your skin might be producing enough sebum to rival an oil well, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t dehydrated. In fact, when your skin lacks water, it can overcompensate by producing even more oil. That’s where moisturisers come in—they help your skin retain hydration for longer, keeping it balanced rather than greasy.

Dehydrated skin is also more prone to visible signs of ageing. Regular use of a good moisturiser won’t turn back the clock entirely, but it will help delay the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, keeping skin soft, supple and healthier in the long run.

How to choose a moisturiser for oily skin

Now that we’ve cleared up the myth, let’s talk about choosing the right product. Thick butters and rich creams aren’t your only options—in fact, they’re not what oily skin needs at all. Today’s new generation of moisturisers are lightweight, oil-free and designed specifically to keep shine under control. Here’s what to look out for:

Check the label

“Oil-free” should be the first phrase you hunt down when shopping for moisturiser. But don’t stop there—keep an eye out for “non-comedogenic,” which means the formula won’t clog pores or trigger breakouts.

Tira recommends:

Dr. Sheth's Ceramide & Vitamin C Oil Free Moisturiser(50g)

Re'equil Oil Free Moisturizer (100g)  

Bioderma Atoderm Creme Ultra-Nourishing Moisturising Cream (200 ml)

Look for lightweight formulas

The last thing oily skin needs is a heavy layer sitting on top. Skip rich creams, butters and balms, and instead reach for lightweight lotions and gels that absorb quickly and feel breathable on the skin.

Tira recommends:

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Face Moisturizer With Hyaluronic Acid For 72 Hours Hydration (50g)  

The Formularx Hydraveil Hydrating Gel Moisturizer with Ectoin & Ceramide for Acne Prone Skin (50 g)  

CLINIQUE Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel (125 ml)

Scout for the right ingredients

Not all hydrating ingredients are equal. Rich emollients like shea butter, lanolin and mineral oil can weigh skin down, but lightweight hydrators like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and glycerin deliver moisture without heaviness.

Tira recommends:

Aqualogica Radiance+ Oil Free Moisturizer With Watermelon And Niacinamide (100g)

 

Foxtale Nourishing Moisturiser with Niacinamide & Vitamin E for 24hrs Hydrated Glowing Skin (100ml)  

Plum Green Tea Oil-Free Moisturizer With Niacinamide & Hyaluronic, Non-Sticky Daily Hydration (50ml)

Choose mattifying formulas

If shine control is your top priority, mattifying moisturisers are your best bet. These formulas help absorb excess oil while keeping skin hydrated. Look for ingredients like silica, kaolin clay and niacinamide, often found in lightweight gels or lotions.

Tira recommends:

Embryolisse Mattifying Face Moisturizer (50ml)

Caudalie Vinopure Moisturizing Mattifying Fluid (40ml)

bareMinerals Complexion Rescue Mattifying Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30 - Desert 6.5 (35 ml)

Opt for hybrid formulas

If you prefer a streamlined routine, hybrid moisturisers are your go-to. Look for options that combine hydration with SPF protection to cut down on extra layers and keep oily skin comfortable throughout the day.

Tira recommends:

FENTY SKIN Hydra Vizor Mini Broad Spectrum Mineral SPF 30 Moisturizer (30 ml)  

Smashbox Halo Healthy Glow Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 25 - Light Neutral (40ml)  

Forest Essentials Soundarya Radiance Cream with 24K Gold SPF 30 PA++ Moisturizer (50 g)

Dr. Sheth's Ceramide & Vitamin C Oil Free Moisturiser(50g)
Dr. Sheth's
1073311
Know More
Re'equil Oil Free Moisturizer (100g)
Re'equil
995964
Know More
Bioderma Atoderm Creme Ultra Daily Hydrating Moisturizer for Normal To Sensitive Dry Skin, 200ml
Bioderma
411660
Know More
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Face Moisturizer With Hyaluronic Acid For 72 Hours Hydration (50g)
Neutrogena
Know More
The Formularx Hydraveil Barrier Care Hydrating Gel Moisturizer with Ectoin & Ceramide (50 g)
The Formularx
1128182
Know More
Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel (125ml)
CLINIQUE
1084552
Know More
Aqualogica Radiance+ Oil Free Moisturizer With Watermelon And Niacinamide (100g)
Aqualogica
1126102
Know More
Foxtale Nourishing Moisturiser with Niacinamide & Vitamin E for 24hrs Hydrated Glowing Skin (100ml)
Foxtale
1160013
Know More

Do you really need moisturiser if you have oily skin?

The short answer? Yes. The long answer? Still yes. Your skin might be producing enough sebum to rival an oil well, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t dehydrated. In fact, when your skin lacks water, it can overcompensate by producing even more oil. That’s where moisturisers come in—they help your skin retain hydration for longer, keeping it balanced rather than greasy.

Dehydrated skin is also more prone to visible signs of ageing. Regular use of a good moisturiser won’t turn back the clock entirely, but it will help delay the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, keeping skin soft, supple and healthier in the long run.

How to choose a moisturiser for oily skin

Now that we’ve cleared up the myth, let’s talk about choosing the right product. Thick butters and rich creams aren’t your only options—in fact, they’re not what oily skin needs at all. Today’s new generation of moisturisers are lightweight, oil-free and designed specifically to keep shine under control. Here’s what to look out for:

Check the label

“Oil-free” should be the first phrase you hunt down when shopping for moisturiser. But don’t stop there—keep an eye out for “non-comedogenic,” which means the formula won’t clog pores or trigger breakouts.

Tira recommends:

Dr. Sheth's Ceramide & Vitamin C Oil Free Moisturiser(50g)

Re'equil Oil Free Moisturizer (100g)  

Bioderma Atoderm Creme Ultra-Nourishing Moisturising Cream (200 ml)

Look for lightweight formulas

The last thing oily skin needs is a heavy layer sitting on top. Skip rich creams, butters and balms, and instead reach for lightweight lotions and gels that absorb quickly and feel breathable on the skin.

Tira recommends:

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Face Moisturizer With Hyaluronic Acid For 72 Hours Hydration (50g)  

The Formularx Hydraveil Hydrating Gel Moisturizer with Ectoin & Ceramide for Acne Prone Skin (50 g)  

CLINIQUE Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel (125 ml)

Scout for the right ingredients

Not all hydrating ingredients are equal. Rich emollients like shea butter, lanolin and mineral oil can weigh skin down, but lightweight hydrators like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and glycerin deliver moisture without heaviness.

Tira recommends:

Aqualogica Radiance+ Oil Free Moisturizer With Watermelon And Niacinamide (100g)

 

Foxtale Nourishing Moisturiser with Niacinamide & Vitamin E for 24hrs Hydrated Glowing Skin (100ml)  

Plum Green Tea Oil-Free Moisturizer With Niacinamide & Hyaluronic, Non-Sticky Daily Hydration (50ml)

Choose mattifying formulas

If shine control is your top priority, mattifying moisturisers are your best bet. These formulas help absorb excess oil while keeping skin hydrated. Look for ingredients like silica, kaolin clay and niacinamide, often found in lightweight gels or lotions.

Tira recommends:

Embryolisse Mattifying Face Moisturizer (50ml)

Caudalie Vinopure Moisturizing Mattifying Fluid (40ml)

bareMinerals Complexion Rescue Mattifying Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30 - Desert 6.5 (35 ml)

Opt for hybrid formulas

If you prefer a streamlined routine, hybrid moisturisers are your go-to. Look for options that combine hydration with SPF protection to cut down on extra layers and keep oily skin comfortable throughout the day.

Tira recommends:

FENTY SKIN Hydra Vizor Mini Broad Spectrum Mineral SPF 30 Moisturizer (30 ml)  

Smashbox Halo Healthy Glow Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 25 - Light Neutral (40ml)  

Forest Essentials Soundarya Radiance Cream with 24K Gold SPF 30 PA++ Moisturizer (50 g)