Skincare, as we all know, follows a very simple rule: “less is more,” and should be followed by everyone. There’s no truth in the fact that boys don’t need skincare. Each of us has a unique body type and different skin concerns, so we have a lot of brands and products to choose from. We’ve felt confused while choosing the best moisturiser for dry skin.
A basic skincare routine, i.e., cleanse, tone, moisturise, and SPF, is very important to follow diligently and regularly. Moisturisers are vital for providing hydration and required nourishment to our skin, giving it a glowing and radiant look. We have multiple moisturisers available depending on dry skin, oily skin, or sensitive skin. Once you identify your skin concern, selecting the right products becomes easy.
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Why Skin Hydration Matters
Your skin is the most sensitive protective layer that is subjected to diverse weather conditions, sun exposure, etc. Taking appropriate steps to protect and maintain your skin is as important as eating food for your body. Always cleanse and remember to stay hydrated.
Once you skip drinking an adequate quantity of water or fluids, your skin shows instant signs of warning that I’ll list it down-
- Your skin begins to feel flaky and tight
- It begins to lose elasticity
- Premature ageing, like fine lines, can become very common.
- If moisturiser is skipped, the skin produces excess oil, leading to aggressive breakouts and redness.
Hydration isn’t just about drinking water; it’s about sealing moisture within your skin barrier. The right moisturiser—especially the best moisturiser for dry skin—ensures your skin stays supple and strong.
What Are Water-Based Moisturisers?
Water-based moisturisers are extremely lightweight. It’s quickly absorbing and caters to people who have an oily skin type. They contain humectants that comprise the major ingredients as listed below:
- Hyaluronic Acid
- Glycerin
- Aloe Vera
- Vitamin E
- Panthenol
Key Benefits of Water-Based Moisturisers:
- Lightweight and breathable
- Fast-absorbing with no greasy residue
- Ideal for humid climates and summer months
- Perfect for oily, combination, or acne-prone skin
What Are Oil-Based Moisturisers?
Perfect for the extremely dry skin type, these contain emollients and occlusives-those that soften the skin and provide a protective barrier to hold in moisture, keeping the skin fresh and hydrated.
- Jojoba Oil
- Shea Butter
- Squalane
- Avocado Oil
- Coconut Oil
These ingredients are rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, offering nourishment and deep hydration.
Key Benefits of Oil-Based Moisturisers:
- Gives you a long-lasting moisturising effect.
- Even helps repair and rebuild the skin barrier.
- Best moisturiser for dry skin.
Water-Based vs. Oil-Based: A Detailed Comparison
| Feature | Water-Based Moisturisers | Oil-Based Moisturisers |
| Main Ingredient | Water + humectants, glycerin | Natural oils, butters, and emollients |
| Texture | Lightweight, gel texture | Creamy, balmy, or thick |
| Absorption | Quick absorption and feels light on the skin | Slow absorption, takes longer to absorb |
| Ideal Skin Types | Oily, acne-prone, combination skin type | Dry, sensitive, mature, and flaky skin type that needs heavy moisturising. |
| Best Use | Daytime, hot/humid climates, as we don’t want to feel heavy | Night-time, cold/dry climates |
| Makeup Compatibility | Excellent as a base under makeup | Best used as a night moisturiser or barrier balm |
How to Choose the Right Moisturiser for Your Skin Type
Dry Skin:
Dry skin typically feels taut, looks dull, and may even flake or peel. An oil-based moisturiser, for example, creates a protective layer over the skin to lock in moisture and can leave skin feeling smooth and soft.
Tips: ingredients like ceramides or shea butter.
Oily or Acne-Prone Skin:
Your skin can produce excess sebum, but it does not mean your skin is hydrated. Dehydrated skin may produce even more oil. Water-based moisturisers give skin the hydration it needs, without adding extra oil or clogging pores.
Tips: Use products that are “non-comedogenic” or contain niacinamide.
Combination Skin:
For combination skin, balance is key. You might have to put a water-based moisturiser on the T-zone and dry patches, such as the cheeks, and a cream (oil-based) at nighttime.
Tips: Multi-moisturising (using different types on different areas) can be highly effective.
Sensitive Skin:
Both water and oil-based moisturisers can be suitable for you. It’s better to look for fragrance-free, dye-free, and alcohol-free products for sensitive skin. If your skin barrier is compromised, using an oil-based product may be more physiologically comfortable and heal better, which is why this study was done.
Tips: Try ingredients like oat extract, chamomile, and calendula oil.
When to See a Dermatologist
Your skin feels dry, irritated, or flaky almost all the time, even with moisturisers on. This calls for a dermatologist. Persistent dehydration may be a sign of conditions like eczema, dermatitis, or an allergy to certain product ingredients. Dr. Priyanka Aggarwal, the best dermatologist in Kolkata, will guide you in finding the best moisturiser for dry skin. If you have any doubts as to whether to choose a water-based or oil-based moisturiser, or if you just cannot find a moisturiser that suits your skin type, then Dr. Priyanka Aggarwal’s expert opinion will save your skin for the rest of your life. Instead of damaging your skin with guesses, book a consultation for a well-established, scientifically proven approach to hydration today.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between water-based and oil-based moisturisers is not about which one is the best. It’s about what your skin wants. Knowing your skin type, the weather, and the hydration your skin needs will help you to choose the right product.
If you are struggling with dry skin, itchiness, or a dull skin condition, then an oil-based formula is the best moisturiser for dry skin. Water-based products that retain the natural oil of the skin and, at the same time, provide it with the necessary level of moisture can be easily chosen by people with oily or combination skin.
Still unsure? Visit your nearest dermatologist, who will help you find your skin’s needs and will be able to take the uncertainty out of your routine. If you are from Kolkata, visit Dr. Priyanka Aggarwal to get expert advice on choosing the best moisturiser for dry skin.
Also read: Minimalist Skincare Routine: Less Is More for Radiant Skin
FAQ
Can I use both water-based and oil-based moisturisers together?
Absolutely. Use the water-based moisturiser first, and then apply the oil-based one on top to lock in moisture. This technique is especially beneficial for dry or ageing skin.
Is a water-based moisturiser enough for winter or dry climates?
Generally not. Water-based products provide hydration, but it is not for long-lasting skin protection for winter or dry climates. In this case, a better option is to apply a lip balm as an oil-based layer.
What type of moisturiser is best for sensitive skin?
Choose gentle, hypoallergenic formulas. If you have dry and sensitive skin, you can go for oil-based moisturisers for a better feeling. For oily-sensitive skin, opt for a lightweight, unscented water-based best option.