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17 Best Moisturizers For Sensitive Skin (2024)

Sensitive skin people might know the hassle that sensitive skin brings with it and to find skin care products like moisturizer for sensitive skin type is not less than achieving a milestone.

Moisturizers For Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin people might know the hassle that sensitive skin brings with it and to find skin care products like moisturizers for sensitive skin type is not less than achieving a milestone. There are many questions that start popping in our head when we think about the skin care and beauty products that are safe to use on sensitive skin.

What is sensitive skin?

Sensitive skin isn’t a disease that you should be over worried about. Anyone can have sensitive skin genetically or they can develop it during any phase of their life due to external and internal factors. 

Sensitive skin is more reactive than any other skin type. It is easily irritated by sun, pollution, heat and cold. Continual exposure to these irritants weakens the skin’s protective barrier and makes the skin more vulnerable to external damage. When exposed for a long time, they can lead to redness, dryness, inflammation, bumps, itching and many other issues. 

Sensitive skin people are often reluctant to try new beauty or skin care products as they cause irritation or break them out. So, it is very much needed that you should know how your skin is behaving to a particular product and act accordingly.

Do’s & Don’ts For Sensitive Skin

  • Never go for the scented products. Sensitive skin is more reactive to fragrances and chemicals so choosing the products that are fragrances-free and toxins-free will be a good choice.

Check out Best Paraben Free Moisturizers

  • Dry sensitive skin should go for the products that are extremely nourishing and hydrating for their skin. Choosing products with Hyaluronic acid, Glycerine, Shea butter, Humectants, dimethicones and ceramides will be a better option.
  • Avoid soaps and face washes. Go for the cleansers that are mild and free from SLS, Parabens and other harmful chemicals.

Take a look at Best Face Washes and Cleansers for Dry skin

  • Be gentle while applying any skin care or beauty product on your skin. Don’t over rub your face as it can irritate your skin.
  • Never wash your face with warm water. Always wash your face with normal or cold water as it will calm down the skin.
  • Never skip sunscreens in your skin care routine. Exposure to sun can worsen skin issues. If you get exposed to the sun anyhow, use after sun to treat your irritated skin.
  • Drink enough water and stay hydrated.
  • Sensitive skin people should never leave their skin bare. A good moisturizer is a must for them. Moisturizer hydrates & nourishes the skin and forms a protective layer over the skin. It helps to calm the skin, reduces itching, dryness,redness, irritation and inflammation to a large extent.

Take a look atBest Face Moisturizers and Creams for Everyday Use

Why do we need Moisturizers?

Moisturization is a vital step in skin care routine that need not to be skipped anyhow. Moisturising everyday helps to reduce signs if ageing. Also, it controls the extreme dryness and oiliness of the skin. They help to hydrate the skin and add elasticity to it.

For sensitive skin, moisturizers play an important role.They provide the needed nourishment to the skin. Furthermore, they calm the irritated skin and help in repairing the skin’s protective barrier. So, adding moisturization in your skin care routine is of vital importance.

Below are some of the best face moisturizers for sensitive skin types. Do check them out and add it in your skin care regime to get the most of it.

Best Face Moisturizers for Sensitive Skin

1) Avene Rich Compensating Cream

17 Best Moisturizers For Sensitive Skin (2024)17 Best Moisturizers For Sensitive Skin (2024)

A Moisturizer that has an ultra rich moisture restoring capacity. This moisturiser comes in a jar packaging and has a thick consistency that is highly nourishing for extremely dry and flaky skin. Avene claims that this moisturizer is ideal for lipid deficiency and restores skin’s hydrolipidic film. The cream absorbs well into the skin giving a non-sticky finish making the skin supple. Furthermore, this moisturiser has a very mild fragrance and is non-comedogenic making it suitable for Acne Prone Skin too. You can also use this cream as a night Moisturizer, it works miraculously and helps in healing the skin.

Pros

  • Smooth texture.
  • Highly nourishing for very dry skin.
  • Can be used as a day crèam as well as a Night Cream.
  • Makes the skin soft and glowy with regular use.
  • Non-Sticky.
  • Suitable for sensitive and acne prone skin.
  • Mild or little fragrance that doesn’t irritate the skin.
  • Perfect Moisturizer for winters.

Cons

  • Some people complain of greasiness during summers.

Check out Best Face Creams and Moisturizers for Summer

  • Not a travel friendly packaging.

2) Aveeno Skin Relief Intense Moisture Overnight Cream

A night Moisturiser by Aveeno that is formulated to suit sensitive skin type. It works on dry areas and soothes the irritated skin overnight. Enriched with the goodness of Natural Shea Butter, triple oatmeal complex and rich emollients, this cream helps in forming a hydrating barrier that locks the moisture and repairs cracked chapped skin. This Moisturizer is clinically proven and its therapeutic formula is non greasy, fast-absorbing and is light on the skin. Besides this, it is steroids free and fragrance free that makes it highly suitable for sensitive Skin.

Pros

  • Soothing and hydrating to the skin.
  • Free from fragrance and steroids.
  • Highly nourishing.
  • Relieves dry and itchy skin.
  • Non-greasy and fast absorbing.

Cons

  • Availability might be an issue.

3) Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel Cream

A gel based cream moisturizer that is weightless and locks hydration upto 24hrs. Enriched with the goodness of hyaluronic acid that has the tendency to retain the optimum water balance of the skin and glycerine in it acts as a humectant that helps in nourishing the skin. It has a rich light texture that instantly gets absorbed into the skin without giving any oily sheen. Being gentle on the skin, this moisturizer is Non-comedogenic (that means it won’t clog pores), free from fragrance and oils and is a dermatologically tested product. This moisturizer by Neutrogena is a perfect option for dry to extremely skin.

Pros

  • Light textured.
  • Instant absorption.
  • Locks hydration upto 24 hours.
  • Non-comedogenic.
  • Suitable for dry to extremely dry skin.
  • Unscented.
  • Results in healthy, soft and supple skin.

Cons

  • Tub packaging. Everytime you need the product,you have to dip your finger into it.

4) Dermalogica Barrier Repair Moisturizer

An ultra calming moisturizer that helps in reducing redness,irritation and inflammation and repairs the skin’s damaged barrier. The moisturizer has a velvety texture and is enriched with oat extracts with neutral antioxidant and fatty acids that helps in reducing irritation and reinforces the barrier lipid layer.It helps in shielding the skin from environmental triggers. Furthermore, Silicones as Vitamin C & E help combat free radicals. This moisturizer works best for dry and flaky skin. You can even use this Dermalogica moisture cream under the makeup, it will create a perfect base to build upon.

Pros

  • Ultra calming formula.
  • Forms a protective layer that prevents the skin from external damage.
  • Free from color, fragrances and parabens.
  • Excellent for travel purposes.
  • Ideal for Sensitive Dry skin.
  • Travel friendly packaging.

Cons

  • A bit on the pricier side.

Best Face Moisturizers under INR 500

Check Price

5) Plum Green Tea Renewed Clarity Night Gel

A refreshing gel moisturizer front the Green Tea Range by Plum , this Moisturiser is loaded with antioxidants and plant nutrients that helps achieve clear and even toned skin. Argan oil in it helps in providing necessary hydration to the skin without clogging the pores. This night gel has a soft light texture that instantly gets absorbed into the skin and doesn’t make the skin oily or sticky. It’s a great product for those who face acne and pimples and can’t get through a moisturizer that hydrates the skin and doesn’t make the skin oily at the same time. This moisture night gel will give you clear and hydrating skin in the morning minus the greasiness. It will also act on acne marks and scars. Furthermore, this night gel by Plum is Non-comedogenic, free from Parabens, SLS, phthalates and is a vegan product.

Pros

  • Light-weighted gel consistency.
  • Instant absorption.
  • Doesn’t make the skin greasy.
  • Works for acnes and blemishes.
  • Provides needed hydration.
  • Free from Parabens, SLS and other harsh chemicals.
  • Non-comedogenic.

Cons

  • Won’t provide enough hydration to extremely dry skin.
  • Tub packaging.

6) Cetaphil Daily Advance Ultra Hydrating Lotion

A daily Advance Lotion by Cetaphil formulated to provide intense moisturization and hydration to dry and sensitive skin. Enriched with the goodness of Shea Butter and Macadamia nut oil that nourishes the skin all day long. This Moisturiser by Cetaphil contains Epidermal Replenishing Complex(ECR), a unique combination of 5 ingredients that protects dry skin and enhances hydration. It’s non-greasy and light weighted lotion formula makes it suitable for daily use. Furthermore, it is free from fragrances, Non-comedogenic and is approved by dermatologists. Thus,making it an ideal moisturizer choice for sensitive skin.

Pros

  • Intense hydration.
  • Long lasting nourishment.
  • Suits dry and sensitive skin.
  • Suitable for face as well as body.
  • Free from fragrances.
  • Doesn’t irritate the skin.
  • Non-comedogenic and Dermatologically tested.
  • Hypoallergenic.

Cons

  • Not suitable for oily and Acne Prone skin.

You may like Best Moisturizers For Oily Skin

Oily and Acne prone skin beauties can give a try to Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion.

7) Sebamed Moisturizing Cream Ph5.5

This moisturizing cream by Sebamed nourishes the skin deeply with the goodness of Vitamin C & E. This cream helps to guard the skin from harmful environmental pollutants and free radicals  by creating a barrier against the skin. Furthermore, it helps in controlling premature ageing and pH balance of the skin. This moisturising cream maintains the skin elasticity and makes the skin soft and supple all day long without breaking it out. It’s texture is light and fast absorbing. It is one of the best moisturizers recommended by Dermatologists for oily and sensitive skin as it is free from artificial colors and fragrances.

Pros

  • Results in all day hydrated skin.
  • Maintains skin’s elasticity.
  • Free from artificial color and fragrances.
  • Instantly absorbs into the skin.
  • Ideal for oily and sensitive skin.
  • Dermatologically and clinically proven.
  • Can be worn under the makeup.
  • Travel friendly tube packaging.

Cons

  • None.

8) Bioderma Atoderm Intensive Baume

An ultra thick creamy baume that glides on the skin smoothly leaving the skin highly nourished. This moisturizer is enriched with the goodness of Glycerine, Ceramide and PEA. These magical ingredients nourish the skin as well as fight itching, dryness and scaling making the skin soft and supple all day long. It also helps in repairing the skin barrier and makes it less susceptible to external damage. This moisture Baume by Bioderma is free from fragrances, artificial colors and Parabens making it highly suitable for Sensitive skin. 

Pros

  • All day long lasting nourishment.
  • Works effectively for Dry Sensitive Skin.
  • Free from fragrance.
  • Helps in reducing itchiness and dryness to a large extent.
  • Non-greasy.
  • Repairs the skin’s protective barrier.
  • Travel friendly packaging.

Cons

  • Not suitable for Oily and Acne Prone Skin.

Acne prone skin can give a try to Bioderma Sebium Hydra Moisturising Replenishing Care

9) Avene Day protector UV Ex SPF 30 PA+++


A day moisturizer that not only nourishes the skin but acts as a protector from harmful UV rays of the sun. It has a SPF of 30 and is PA+++ to provide broad spectrum protection from UV rays. Being mild on the skin, it penetrates well into the skin and provides intense hydration. This moisturizer is rich in thermal spring water that helps in soothing the irritated skin. This Avene Day Protector has a light comfortable formula that makes it an ideal option for daily usage. It forms a protective layer on the skin and prevents the skin from external damage that can be caused due to harmful pollutants and sun.

Pros

  • Soothes the irritated skin.
  • Provides hydration and nourishment.
  • Provides protection from sun damage.
  • Free from fragrances and alcohols.
  • Leaves no white cast.
  • Suitable for Oily, Acne Prone and sensitive skin.
  • Long-lasting, a little goes a long way.
  • Travel friendly packaging.

Cons

  • None

10) Neutrogena Oil Free Moisturizer SPF 15

An oil free moisturizer with added UV protection that shields the skin from the sun’s damage. It claims to provide long-lasting moisturization with the sun protection. This Moisturizer has a light-weighted, non-greasy and allergy tested formula that keeps the skin hydrated for 12 hours. Furthermore, it is free from alcohol, fragrances, oils and dyes that might irritate the skin during a long run. This moisturizer by Neutrogena is Non-comedogenic and Dermatologically tested to suit Oily and Sensitive skin types.

Pros

  • Long-lasting moisturization.
  • Sun protection.
  • Non-greasy.
  • Allergy tested.
  • Suits sensitive and oily skin type.
  • Free from fragrance, alcohol and oils.
  • Travel friendly packaging.
  • Easily available.

Cons

  • Contains Parabens.

11) Clinique Moisture Surge 72 Hour Auto Replenishing Hydrator

A light gel cream by Clinique that is formulated to provide intense hydration to the skin. This super hydrating moisturizer keeps the skin soft and supple for 72 hours. It contains Aloe, hyaluronic acid, glycerin and green tea extract to soothe and nourish the skin. It has an auto replenishing technology that helps skin create its own internal source to continually rehydrate itself. It has a very light texture that instantly gets absorbed into the skin making the skin plump.You can use this Clinique moisture surge as a day as well as night moisturizer.

Pros

  • Intense hydration.
  • Oil free and non greasy.
  • Cooling and refreshing afterfeel.
  • Results in soft and supple skin.
  • Suits all skin types.

For extra hydration and nourishment you can also give a try to Clinique Moisture Surge Intense Skin Fortifying Hydrator

Cons

  • Heavy on pocket.

12) Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Recovery Complex II

A night repairing complex that is enriched with the goodness of hyaluronic acid that moisturises the skin, yeast and algae extracts boost cells activity and Alkylguanine Transferase in it helps in brightening the skin. Overall, it hydrates the skin overnight and repairs the skin to give a natural healthy glow. It helps to fight the signs of ageing and improves the skin’s texture adding radiance to it.

This night repair complex is oil free and absorbs quickly into the skin. It is highly recommended for Oily and Acne prone sensitive skin. Furthermore, this complex is Non-comedogenic and fragrances-free. Use religiously every night to see the magical results.

Pros

  • Highly nourishing and hydrating.
  • Improves the skin’s texture with time.
  • Fights signs of ageing like fine lines and wrinkles.
  • Adds a healthy glow to the skin.
  • Free from fragrances and Parabens.
  • Helps in reducing acne and redness.
  • Best suited for oily and Acne prone sensitive skin.

Cons

  • Heavy on pocket.

13) The Face Shop Chia Seed Hydro Cream

Enriched with the goodness of Chia seeds and Vitamin B12, this cream has the potential to retain moisture of the skin, it hydrates the skin from deep within adding a natural glow to the skin. It acts on redness,inflammation, dryness and acne. It is a gel based cream that is light-weighted and absorbs into the skin instantly. Maintaining the pH balance of the skin, it makes the skin even and plump. It is a good option for dry sensitive skin beauties during summers.

Pros

  • Intensely hydrating.
  • Gel based, light-weighted.
  • Non sticky.
  • Acts on dullness and dryness.
  • Evens skin tone.
  • Reduces redness and inflammation.
  • Makes the skin soft and smooth all day long.
  • Tub packaging,it comes with a spatula.
  • Free from Parabens

Cons

  • Expensive.

14) CeraVe Moisturising Cream

Developed with dermatologist, this moisturizing cream by CeraVe is formulated to give 24 hours intense hydration. It helps to restore the skin’s protective barrier with the help of Ceramide present in it. Its formula is mild and gentle on the skin. Hyaluronic acid in it helps to retain the moisture balance of the skin. This Moisturizer is non-greasy and absorbs into the skin easily and is best suited for dry, flaky and sensitive skin. It is non-comedogenic and non-irritating and it is suitable for use on hands, face and body.

Pros

  • Moisturises the dry and flaky skin very well.
  • Does not clog pores.
  • Does not irritate the skin.
  • Non greasy.
  • Maintains the moisture balance of the skin.
  • Helps restore skin’s protective barrier.
  • Makes the skin soft and smooth.

Cons

  • Not suitable for Oily sensitive skin.

15) Avene Cicalfate Repair Cream

This Repair Cream by Avene is specially formulated to target dry and sensitive skin. The Sucralfate in it helps in repairing epidermal, Zinc and Sulphur in it helps to purify the skin and helps in reducing the risk of bacterial infection and rich thermal spring water helps to soothe the skin. This Moisturizer has a thick creamy consistency that glides on the skin easily and forms a protective layer and leaves the skin smooth and soft. Furthermore, this moisturizer by Avene is free from Parabens and fragrances making it highly suitable for Sensitive skin types. This cream is specially indicated for adults, children and infants that have irritated dry skin. 

Pros

  • Repairs, Purifies and soothes the irritated sensitive skin.
  • Free from fragrance and Parabens.
  • Non-comedogenic and Hypoallergenic.
  • Multipurpose cream.
  • Ideal for Sensitive & Irritated Skin
  • Suitable for use for children, adults and infants.

Cons

  • Not recommended for people having Oily Sensitive skin. It can lead them to breakouts.

Oily skin types can take a look at Best Moisturizers For Oily Skin

16) Lacto Calamine Skin Balance Daily Nourishing Lotion

A nourishing lotion that is enriched with the goodness of Glycerine, castor oil, kaolin clay and Zinc oxide that helps to reduce itching and skin irritation to a great extent. It prevents the skin from drying and maintains the oil balance of the skin by balancing pH level of the skin. This moisturiser is a multipurpose cream that can be used on open wounds, insect bites, measles, dry patches and sunburn. This Lacto Calamine lotion is anti-allergic and can be used as a daily Moisturizer. This variant of Lacto Calamine is ideal for normal to dry skin types. Oily skin types can opt Lacto Calamine Face Lotion for Oil Balance

Pros

  • Hydrates the dry patches.
  • Helps in reducing sunburn, redness and inflammation by soothing the skin.
  • Helps prevent breakouts
  • Absorbs excess oil thus unclogging pores.
  • Maintains the pH level of the skin.
  • Anti-allergic.
  • Suitable for daily usage.
  • Quite affordable.

Cons

  • None.

17) Derma Essentia Ultra Hydrating Moisturizer

A moisturizer with Ceramide, Pro-vitamin B5 and aquaxyl that rehydrates the skin and prevents water loss. It is formulated so as to provide an instant moisture boost to the skin. Making the skin soft and smooth, it helps to repair the protective barrier of the skin. This Derma Essentia Ultra Hydrating Moisturiser is light on skin and helps to prevent irritation, redness. It is dermatologically tested and free from Parabens and sulphates. This Moisturiser by Derma Essentia provides all day long lasting nourishment and is suitable for daily usage for sensitive skin.

Pros

  • Long lasting hydration.
  • No harsh chemicals.
  • Suitable for daily use, can be used under makeup.
  • Travel friendly packaging.
  • Dermatologically tested and free from Parabens and sulphates.

Cons 

  • Availability can be an issue.


If you are battling to find a good moisturizer then these are the best Moisturizers for Sensitive skin that we’ll highly recommend. Choosing right skincare and beauty products helps sensitive skin to react in a better way. When used religiously, these moisturizers will make a huge difference to your skin’s texture and help in soothing your irritated skin to a great extent.

Hope you have now achieved another milestone 😉

Do give these moisturizers a try and don’t forget to share your views on these products.

  1. Which moisturizer is best for sensitive skin?

    Avene Rich Compensating Cream is the best moisturizer for sensitive skin. If you are someone with sensitive and acne-prone, you are surely going to love it. For a budget friendly option you can go for Cetaphil Advance Daily Ultra Hydrating lotion.

  2. Is Clinique moisturizer good for sensitive skin?

    Yes, all products by Clinique are allergy tested and free from artificial fragrances making it an ideal choice for sensitive skin beauties. Clinique moisture surge & its intense version will fit best with the needs of sensitive skin.

  3. Is Vaseline good for sensitive skin?

    Vaseline is one of the safest options for sensitive skin beauties. Generally, vaseline works great for dry sensitive skin. It can also be used to effectively remove makeup from the skin and lips. But there is no harm going for a patch test before going over any large area.

  4. How can I moisturize my skin naturally ?

    Coconut oil, Aloe vera, Yoghurt, Olive oil, almond oil, honey and some nourishing fruits can be used to naturally moisturize your skin. Special attention should be given while using natural products as they are raw and going excess will be harmful for your skin.

  5. Which is the best face wash for dry sensitive skin?

    CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser is the best face wash for dry sensitive skin. The cleanser is Infused with 3 essential Ceramides and Hyaluronic Acid. It cleanses, hydrates and helps repair protective skin barriers .