Introduction
If you have oily skin, you might think moisturizers will make it greasier — but skipping moisturizer is one of the biggest skincare mistakes. Without proper hydration, oily skin can produce even more oil to compensate. The key is choosing the right oil-free or gel-based moisturizer that hydrates without clogging pores.
In this guide, you’ll discover the 7 best moisturizers for oily skin in India (2025) for men, their pros and cons, and expert tips to find your perfect match. Plus, you’ll learn when to use moisturizer, who should avoid certain ingredients, and how to keep your skin oil-free all day.
Best Gel Moisturizers for Men with Oily Skin in India – Key Ingredients & Benefit
| Rank | Product | Best For | Key Ingredient |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Minimalist 10% Vitamin B5 Gel Moisturizer | Barrier repair + hydration | Vitamin B5 |
| 2 | Pond’s Super Light Gel | Budget daily hydration | Hyaluronic Acid |
| 3 | Re’equil Oil-Free Mattifying Gel | Shine control | Niacinamide |
| 4 | CeraVe Oil Control Moisturizing Gel-Cream | Sensitive oily skin | Ceramides + Niacinamide |
| 5 | Coconut Water Oil-Control Gel | Cooling + matte finish | Coconut Water |
| 6 | IYAL Golden Glow Gel | Soothing + glow | Aloe Vera + Turmeric |
| 7 | SoulTree Kumkumadi Hydra Radiant Gel | Brightening oily skin | Kumkumadi Oil |
Top 7 Best Moisturizers for Oily Skin in India (2025)
1. Minimalist 10% Vitamin B5 Gel Moisturizer
Type: Gel-based, oil-free
Skin Type: Oily, acne-prone, sensitive
Key Ingredients: Vitamin B5, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lightweight, absorbs quickly | Not hydrating enough for extremely dry patches |
| Fragrance-free & non-comedogenic | Slightly more expensive than basic gels |
| Repairs skin barrier & reduces redness | Needs sunscreen for daytime use |
When to Use: Morning & night after cleansing and serum.
Who Should Avoid: Those allergic to niacinamide or with extremely dry skin.
2. Pond’s Super Light Gel Moisturizer
Type: Gel-based
Skin Type: Oily, combination
Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin E
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Very affordable | Contains fragrance |
| Non-sticky texture | Not for extremely sensitive skin |
| Provides instant hydration | Needs reapplication in dry climates |
When to Use: Morning before sunscreen.
Who Should Avoid: People sensitive to fragrance.
💡 Note: Both Minimalist and Pond’s are gel moisturizers, but Minimalist focuses more on skin barrier repair & treatment, while Pond’s is a basic daily hydrator for quick freshness.
3. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel
Type: Gel
Skin Type: Oily, dehydrated skin
Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Deep hydration without greasiness | Price is higher than drugstore brands |
| Oil-free & dermatologist-tested | Jar packaging may not be hygienic |
| Long-lasting moisture | May sting if skin is very irritated |
When to Use: Morning or night after cleansing.
Who Should Avoid: Those who react to silicones.
4. The Derma Co Oil-Free Moisturizer
Type: Lotion-gel hybrid
Skin Type: Oily, acne-prone
Key Ingredients: Ceramides, Hyaluronic Acid
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Hydrates & strengthens skin barrier | Contains synthetic fragrance |
| Lightweight yet nourishing | Slight tackiness for first few minutes |
| Works well under sunscreen | Not for extremely sensitive skin |
When to Use: Daily after serum, before sunscreen.
Who Should Avoid: People allergic to ceramides.
5. Plum Green Tea Oil-Free Moisturizer
Type: Light lotion
Skin Type: Oily, combination, acne-prone
Key Ingredients: Green Tea, Glycolic Acid
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Controls oil & prevents breakouts | Not for sensitive skin due to AHA |
| Vegan & cruelty-free | Can cause dryness if overused |
| Absorbs quickly | Needs SPF in daytime |
When to Use: Nighttime for acne-prone skin.
Who Should Avoid: Those with very sensitive skin or AHA allergy.
6. Cetaphil Pro Oil Absorbing Moisturizer (SPF 30)
Type: Lotion with SPF
Skin Type: Oily, combination, sensitive
Key Ingredients: Oleosome Technology, Micropearl Mattifying Agents
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Provides sun protection | Slightly thicker than gels |
| Controls shine & oil | Price is on the higher side |
| Dermatologist recommended | Limited availability offline |
When to Use: Morning as moisturizer + sunscreen.
Who Should Avoid: Those who prefer gel textures only.
7. Mamaearth Oil-Free Moisturizer for Acne-Prone Skin
Type: Lotion
Skin Type: Oily, acne-prone
Key Ingredients: Apple Cider Vinegar, Betaine
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Regulates sebum production | Strong scent for some |
| Helps reduce acne marks | Not hydrating enough for dry areas |
| Non-greasy texture | Pump may clog over time |
When to Use: Morning & evening after cleansing.
Who Should Avoid: People allergic to apple cider vinegar.
Tips for Choosing the Best Moisturizer for Oily Skin
| Factor | Why It Matters | Best Choice |
|---|---|---|
| Texture | Prevents heaviness & clogged pores | Gel or light lotion |
| Oil-Free Formula | Controls shine | “Oil-free” or “non-comedogenic” label |
| Key Ingredients | Targets skin concerns | Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide, Ceramides |
| Fragrance-Free | Avoids irritation | Especially for sensitive skin |
| SPF | Daytime protection | SPF 30+ moisturizers |
When & How to Use Moisturizer for Oily Skin
- Morning: Cleanse → Serum → Moisturizer → Sunscreen.
- Night: Cleanse → Serum → Moisturizer.
- Use pea-sized amount for face & neck.
- Reapply during the day if skin feels tight or dry.
Who Should Avoid Certain Moisturizers
- People allergic to specific ingredients like niacinamide, fragrance, or ceramides.
- Those with severe fungal acne — choose non-fungal acne-safe options.
- Avoid thick cream moisturizers unless skin is very dehydrated.
Related Reads
- Best Beard Care Routine for Men with Oily Skin – Complete grooming tips to maintain a healthy beard without extra oiliness.
- Best Face Serums for Oily Skin in India – Boost your skincare with oil-balancing serums.
Final Thoughts:
Choosing the right moisturizer for oily skin isn’t about skipping hydration — it’s about picking the right texture & ingredients. Whether you prefer Minimalist’s treatment-based gel or Pond’s budget-friendly daily hydrator, these top 7 options will keep your skin fresh, shine-free, and healthy in 2025.
