I have oily skin—and yes, I still need moisturizer. Every time I hear someone with oily skin say, “I don’t use moisturizer because I don’t need it,” and then I look at their dull, tired-looking skin like they haven’t slept in days… I just silently scream. Like, why can’t they see what I can? Nevermind. I’m a moisturizer girly through and through. Even in peak Delhi summer, I cannot skip it. The moment I do, my skin starts looking sad, flat, and lifeless.
Over the years, I’ve tried basically every budget-friendly Best moisturizers on the market (yep, I’ve done the legwork), and these 5? These are the only ones I ever need in my life. So if you’re someone who thinks moisturizer is optional for oily skin, give me five minutes to convince you otherwise. Let’s dive into the list, and hopefully, you’ll walk away with a new obsession too.
Top 5 Oily Skin Approved Budget Moisturizer in India
Looking for lightweight, non-greasy moisturizers that hydrate without clogging pores? These 5 affordable picks are perfect for oily skin types, balancing moisture while keeping shine and breakouts at bay — all available within a budget-friendly price range.
1. Dr. Sheth’s Haldi & Hyaluronic Acid Oil-Free Moisturizer
I actually got this one for free during Dr. Sheth’s Buy 1 Get 1 sale—and let me tell you, I had high hopes. I’d seen so many influencers rave about the texture, and honestly? They were right. I’m obsessed. First off, let’s talk about packaging. It comes in a sleek, squeezy tube, way more hygienic than tub packaging and super convenient to use. The design gives off major “dermatologist-approved” vibes.
Ingredient-wise, it’s simple, minimal, and has zero fragrance, which my sensitive nose really appreciates. Now for the texture, it’s a true gel. Not watery, but more like an aloe vera gel consistency. I assumed it wouldn’t be moisturizing enough because it felt so lightweight, but once I applied it… boom. It absorbed like a dream and made my skin look super healthy and calm, without a trace of greasiness.
Pros:
- Gel-based, non-greasy texture
- Fragrance-free and great for sensitive skin
- Tube packaging = hygienic & travel-friendly
- Hydrates deeply without clogging pores
2. The FormulaRX Hydraveil Hyaluronic Hydrating Gel
This one was the talk of the skincare world back when I was in college—and for good reason. At the time, it was a bit pricey for my student budget, but the buzz around it (and that very specific claim of being “India’s first fungal-acne safe moisturizer”) got me curious. I didn’t even have fungal acne, but something about how clinical and purposeful it sounded made me want to try it. And let me tell you, I’ve been obsessed with it ever since. It comes in a sleek, hygienic tube—simple, effective packaging. No fragrance, no heaviness, just a pure water-like gel that melts into your skin. It may feel lightweight, but don’t let that fool you—it deeply hydrates and soothes irritated or damaged skin like a dream. What I love the most?
It lasts me over two and a half months with daily use, which totally justifies the price. I’ve used it in Delhi’s peak summer heat and in the freezing winters, and it never once let me down. If your skin barrier is compromised or just needs a break, this is your go-to. And now they’ve made it even better—yes, they’ve revised the formula and added my absolute favourite skincare ingredient: hyaluronic acid. It’s like they read my mind and made this moisturizer even more of a holy grail.
Pros:
- Lightweight, water-like gel texture
- Fungal acne-safe and fragrance-free
- Restores and strengthens damaged skin barrier
- Now upgraded with hyaluronic acid
- Lasts 2.5+ months even with daily use
3. L’Oreal Paris Hyaluronic Acid Line Filling Water Cream
This one’s quite the popular kid on the block, and honestly, I always found it a little pricey. But then I saw that glossy, luxe-looking tub and gave in (guilty). I picked up the 15 ml version, and to my surprise, it lasted me a solid 1.5 months with regular use. Yes, it does have fragrance. But it’s nothing overwhelming, just a soft, clean aroma that vanishes in seconds. Now, texture-wise, this is richer than all the other moisturizers I’ve mentioned in this blog. It’s not one of those “apply and done” moisturizers.
You’ll need to pat it in and give it a few seconds to absorb properly. But trust me, all that effort is worth it. Why? Because nothing makes my skin glow like this one. I mean it. The hydration, the plumpness, the luminosity—it does it all. It’s perfect for summer too, as long as you layer it right. I usually follow it up with a mattifying compact or powder to keep the glow controlled. But for that healthy, glazed-skin vibe? This one can become your go to.
Pros:
- Rich, plumping texture for that dewy glow
- Great as makeup base
- Soft fragrance and luxurious packaging
- Delivers a hydrated, glowy finish like no other
4. Dot & Key CICA Calming Skin Renewing Night Gel
Technically, it’s a night gel, but it’s so lightweight, I’ve used it like a regular moisturizer and had no issues. I first tried this one as part of their trial kit that came with three moisturizers: the Retinol one, the Probiotic one, and this beauty right here. And honestly? Dot & Key has never disappointed me. I love all their oily-skin-friendly moisturizers equally. No partiality here. This one comes in an adorable glass jar with a lid and spatula (super hygienic and aesthetically pleasing, not gonna lie).
Despite being a trial size, it lasted me the whole month! It has barely-there fragrance, just the way I like it and the texture is pure jelly goodness. It soothes my occasional pimples and always delivers on what a moisturizer is supposed to do. It calms, hydrates, doesn’t clog pores, and makes my skin feel happy. And major shoutout to Dot & Key for keeping the fragrance mild enough for sensitive noses like mine.
Pros:
- Calms inflamed or acne-prone skin
- Lightweight jelly texture that doubles as a moisturizer
- Lasts long even in smaller sizes
- Barely-there fragrance (sensitive skin-friendly)
- Comes with hygienic spatula and luxe glass packaging
5. Plum Green Tea Renewed Clarity Night Gel
This one is iconic, and for all the right reasons. I’ve had this on my shelf since my college days, and I still repurchase it when my skin needs that reliable, no-drama hydration. It has glycolic acid in it and let me tell you, this ingredient right here transforms your skin. The texture, those stubborn little bumps, surprise breakouts… all of it? Gone with just a few uses. The water-like texture sinks into the skin effortlessly. I also have to appreciate the fragrance—it’s subtle, fresh, and not overwhelming at all.
And the packaging? Aesthetic. It doesn’t feel like a budget product at all. It looks, feels, and performs like something way more luxe. If you’re struggling with dull, uneven skin and want something that hydrates while also giving you that glow-up overnight—this is the one. I’m not exaggerating when I say this is easily one of the best moisturizers I’ve used.
Pros:
- Contains glycolic acid to smooth texture and reduce breakouts
- Water Based Gel formula
- Luxurious packaging and refreshing scent
- Affordable and effective
Final Thoughts
Taking care of oily skin doesn’t mean skipping moisturizer, it means choosing the right one. These five favorites have truly transformed my skincare routine, and I’m confident they can do the same for you. Give them a try and see the difference yourself. Also, if you’re looking to complete your self-care ritual, check out my top favorite perfumes available in India and the 5 best face washes for oily skin—show them some love and find your next skincare inspiration!
