For your makeup to stay put, your skin needs the right hydration and the right moisturiser that is lightweight, quick-absorbing, and of course, non-greasy. These lightweight moisturisers create a smooth base and prevent your foundation from piling or sliding. Apart from adding a glow, these work perfectly to give your makeup just the right amount of upliftment and are great for everyday wear. However, before choosing the right moisturiser, you must know which moisturiser formulas would work best for your skin type.
For oily and combination skin: Look for gel-based or water-based formulas that are non-greasy and non-sticky in nature. They plump the skin without extra shine to your overall look.
For dry skin: Since dry skin requires more hydration and nourishment, look for rich but fast-absorbing creams, as heavy formulas might just sit on top of the skin and make it look cakey.
Selecting a lightweight moisturiser can actually make all the difference. So, for all those looking to buy a lightweight moisturiser to keep their makeup looking supple, here are 7 options to consider.
Top 7 moisturisers that may work perfectly under makeup
Mamaearth Rice Oil-Free Face Moisturiser is a lightweight, non-greasy moisturiser designed to provide long-lasting hydration without making the skin feel oily. Infused with Rice Water, Niacinamide, Aloe Vera, and Black Oats, this cream helps nourish the skin, improve texture, and support a healthy-looking glow. Its fast-absorbent formula absorbs quickly, making it suitable for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. It aims to keep skin moisturised throughout the day while minimising the appearance of pores and leaving the skin feeling soft, refreshed, and comfortable.
Reasons to buy
Lightweight, oil-free texture suitable for oily and combination skin
Contains Niacinamide, which may help improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of pores.
Rice Water helps provide hydration and supports a brighter-looking complexion.
Absorbs quickly without leaving a sticky or greasy residue.
Aloe Vera helps soothe and calm the skin.
Works well under sunscreen and makeup
Reason to avoid
May not provide enough moisture for very dry skin
Some users have reported occasional breakouts after use.
Fragrance may not suit highly sensitive skin.
Customer Reviews
Customers frequently mention that the moisturiser absorbs quickly, gives a subtle glow, and leaves skin feeling soft and refreshed throughout the day. Several reviewers also praise the inclusion of Rice Water and Niacinamide, noting improvements in skin texture and a smoother appearance with regular use.
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Dr Sheth’s Ceramide & Vitamin C Moisturising Cream combines hydration and skin-barrier repair in a single formula. This cream is powered by ceramides and Vitamin C, which help nourish dry skin while supporting a brighter complexion. The texture feels creamy yet lightweight, making it suitable for everyday wear and giving up to 48 hours of hydration. It deeply moisturises your skin without clogging pores and helps maintain soft, healthy-looking skin. The powerful antioxidants and humectants in this moisturising cream brighten and moisturise your skin, making it soft, bright and plump, making it perfect to be applied under makeup. Ideal for Indian weather conditions, the moisturiser works well for normal, dry, and combination skin types.
Reasons to buy
Contains Ceramides for skin barrier support
Vitamin C helps improve skin radiance
Creamy but non-heavy texture
Suitable for daily hydration
Helps reduce dryness and roughness
Reason to avoid
Slightly rich for very oily skin
May feel heavy in extremely humid weather
Some users may prefer fragrance-free products
Customer Reviews
Users frequently praise this moisturiser for making their skin feel soft and nourished. Many customers with dry or damaged skin noticed improved hydration and smoother texture after regular use. The addition of Ceramides is appreciated by people dealing with skin barrier issues. Some reviewers found it slightly thick for oily skin during summer, but overall feedback highlights its balanced hydration and glow-enhancing benefits.
CeraVe Moisturising Cream is a dermatologist-developed formula known for delivering long-lasting hydration. The moisturiser is enriched with essential Ceramides and Hyaluronic Acid, which help hydrate and restore the skin’s protective barrier while keeping it moisturised throughout the day. Its fragrance-free, non-comedogenic formula is suitable for sensitive, dry, and eczema-prone skin and does not clog pores. Despite its rich texture, this moisturiser absorbs well without leaving a greasy finish and is perfect for use under makeup. It can be used on both the face and body for everyday hydration.
Reasons to buy
Developed with dermatologists
Contains Ceramides and Hyaluronic Acid
Fragrance-free and gentle on sensitive skin
Provides long-lasting hydration
Suitable for face and body use
Reason to avoid
Thick texture may feel heavy for oily skin
Premium pricing compared to local brands
Packaging can feel bulky for travel
Customer Reviews
Customers consistently rate CeraVe highly for its deep moisturising ability. Many customers with sensitive or eczema-prone skin say it calms dryness and irritation effectively. Users appreciate the fragrance-free formula and non-irritating ingredients. Some people with oily skin mention that the cream feels slightly heavy during daytime use, but most reviewers consider it a reliable and dermatologist-recommended moisturiser for year-round hydration.
As the name suggests, Plum 2% Niacinamide & Rice Water Superlight Gel Cream is a lightweight moisturiser designed for oily, acne-prone skin. The formula combines Niacinamide and Rice Water to help control excess oil, improve skin texture, and provide balanced hydration. Its gel consistency feels cooling and absorbs instantly without leaving any sticky residue. It is known for its brightening effects and for fading blemishes. Dermatologically tested, this cream is suitable for all skin types. The moisturiser delivers a fresh matte finish, making it ideal for hot and humid climates or daytime skincare routines. In fact, being quick-absorbing, it can be ideal for your quick under-makeup application.
Reasons to buy
Lightweight gel formula for oily skin
Niacinamide helps control oil production
Rice Water supports skin brightness
Non-sticky and quick-absorbing
Gives a fresh matte finish
Reason to avoid
Hydration may be insufficient for dry skin
Matte finish may not suit dewy skin lovers
Mild fragrance may not suit everyone
Customer Reviews
Customers with oily and acne-prone skin often praise this moisturiser for its super-light texture. Many reviewers mention that it hydrates the skin without causing breakouts or excess shine. Users also appreciate the cooling feel and matte finish during the summer months. Some dry skin users felt they needed an additional hydrating layer, but overall ratings highlight its effectiveness for lightweight daily moisturising.
Bioderma Atoderm Creme Ultra-Nourishing Moisturiser is designed to provide intense hydration for dry and sensitive skin. Its nourishing formula helps strengthen the skin barrier while soothing roughness and discomfort. The cream absorbs well despite its rich consistency and delivers long-lasting moisture without irritation. Rich in niacinamide and omega-3, 6, and 9, this moisturiser deeply nourishes the skin while also stimulating ceramides that strengthen the skin barrier. Dermatologically tested and gentle on sensitive skin, it works effectively for both adults and children. It can be used on the face under makeup and the body for everyday nourishment.
Reasons to buy
Deep hydration for dry skin
Gentle and suitable for sensitive skin
Helps strengthen the skin barrier
Dermatologically tested formula
Suitable for face and body use
Reason to avoid
May feel rich for oily skin types
Higher price range than drug store moisturisers
Texture may not suit humid weather use
Customer Reviews
Reviewers frequently recommend Bioderma Atoderm for dry and sensitive skin conditions. Customers mention that it provides lasting softness and reduces flaky skin effectively. Many users appreciate its gentle formulation that does not trigger irritation or breakouts. Some oily skin users found it slightly heavy for daytime use, but most buyers consider it an excellent moisturiser for winter and damaged skin care routines.
E45 Face Moisturiser is a gentle daily moisturiser formulated to hydrate and protect sensitive skin. Its lightweight consistency spreads easily and keeps the skin soft without feeling greasy. The lightweight formula is dermatologically tested and suitable for dry, sensitive, or irritation-prone skin types. It helps maintain the skin’s moisture balance while supporting smooth and comfortable skin throughout the day. The simple and fragrance-free formulation makes it ideal for minimal skincare and makeup routines. The cream claims to visibly reduce redness and improve the appearance of extremely dry and irritated skin in just 2 weeks.
Reasons to buy
Gentle and fragrance-free formula
Suitable for sensitive skin
Lightweight and non-greasy texture
Dermatologically tested
Good for daily hydration
Reason to avoid
Basic formulation with limited active ingredients
May not provide enough glow-enhancing benefits
Availability may vary in some regions
Customer Reviews
Many customers praise E45 Face Moisturiser for being simple, gentle, and effective. Users with sensitive skin appreciate that it hydrates without causing redness or irritation. Several reviewers mention that it works well under sunscreen and makeup. Some users looking for brightening or anti-ageing benefits felt the formula was too basic, but most people value its reliable hydration and skin-friendly ingredients.
Cetaphil Moisturising Cream is a rich yet gentle moisturiser designed to provide long-lasting hydration for dry and sensitive skin. The non-irritating and non-sticky cream helps restore moisture while protecting the skin barrier from dryness. It spreads smoothly and leaves the skin feeling soft and comfortable throughout the day. Dermatologist-recommended and fragrance-free, the cream is suitable for everyday face and body use. Its soothing formula works particularly well for sensitive and dehydrated skin. It is great for hydration and can be applied well under makeup.
Reasons to buy
Dermatologist-recommended formula
Long-lasting hydration
Fragrance-free and gentle on skin
Suitable for sensitive skin types
Can be used on the face and body
Reason to avoid
Rich texture may feel heavy for oily skin
Tub packaging may feel less hygienic
May take time to fully absorb on humid days
Customer Reviews
Amazon users commonly recommend Cetaphil Moisturising Cream for dry and sensitive skin care. Many reviewers say it helps reduce tightness, dryness, and flaky patches effectively. Customers appreciate its gentle formula that works well even for irritated skin. Some oily skin users feel the texture is slightly thick for daytime use, but overall feedback highlights its dependable hydration and soothing performance.
Comparison Table
|
Product Name |
Benefits |
Key Ingredients |
| Mamaearth Rice Oil-Free Face Moisturiser | Improves skin texture and provides lightweight hydration | Rice Water, Niacinamide, Aloe Vera, and Black Oats |
| Dr. Sheth’s Ceramide & Vitamin C Moisturising Cream | Repairs skin barrier and improves glow | Ceramides, Vitamin C |
| CeraVe Moisturising Cream | Deep hydration and barrier support | Ceramides, Hyaluronic Acid |
| Plum 2% Niacinamide & Rice Water Superlight Gel Cream | Controls oil and hydrates lightly | Niacinamide, Rice Water |
| Bioderma Atoderm Creme Ultra-Nourishing | Nourishes very dry and sensitive skin | Glycerin, Skin Barrier Agents |
| E45 Face Moisturiser | Gentle hydration for sensitive skin | Emollients, Moisturising Agents |
| Cetaphil Moisturising Cream | Long-lasting moisture for dry skin | Glycerin, Sweet Almond Oil |
(Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, concerning the products. The first two products listed in this article are sponsored, and the others are in no particular order of priority.)
