Best Gel Based Moisturiser For Oily Skin + 7 Top Benefits

Best Gel Based Moisturiser For Oily Skin + 7 Top Benefits

Authored by : Shreya Dalela
  • 24 January 2024
  • 4 mins read
Reviewed by : Dr. Kanchan Kachroo

When choosing a moisturizer for your skin, it’s important to consider your skin type. For instance, if you have dry skin, heavy and oil-based moisturizers will help lock in the natural oils and keep the skin hydrated. 

However, if you have oily-skin that is prone to acne and breakouts, you should avoid heavy moisturizers. For oily skin and normal skin type, gel based moisturizers are recommended.

What Is A Gel Moisturizer?

A moisturizer that is water-based and mostly free of oils is a gel moisturizer. These moisturizers are quick to absorb and have ingredients that help the skin remain hydrated for a long time. 

They are specially suited for oily and acne-prone skin as they don’t add any oils to the skin surface or clog pores. If your pores are already clogged, the last thing you want to do is add an oil moisturizer on the top.

Some people with oily skin tend to skip moisturizers all-together to prevent their skin from appearing greasy. But doing that can result in excessive dryness, making the oil glands go into an overdrive and produce even more oil. This leads to clogged pores and breakouts. 

Gel moisturizers are a great alternative to traditional creams that work by creating a barrier on the skin to lock in the moisture. Gel moisturizers on the other hand are quick absorbing and do not leave any heavy feeling residue on the skin surface. Gel moisturizers are also perfect for use during hot climatic conditions. 

Read - The Best Skin Care Routine For Oily Skin As Per Experts

Benefits Of Using A Gel Moisturizer For Oily Skin

The composition of gel moisturizer lends it some unique advantages over traditional creams. Here are a few of them -

  1. Light-weight Formula (H3)

Do you often worry about the greasy heavy feeling left behind by moisturizers? With gel moisturizers, your skin will feel light and fresh with every use without compromising on providing the essential hydration.

  1. Quick Absorbing (H3)

The gel moisturizers are quickly absorbed into the skin and work as an excellent base for make-up. It’s easy to layer your make-up on this moisturizer as compared to heavy creams.

  1. Non-Greasy (H3)

Since there are almost no oils in the formulation of gel moisturizers, they do not leave behind any greasy residue. They leave the skin smooth and soft to touch.

  1. Hydrating (H3)

Research has proven that gel moisturisers are able to increase the water content on the surface of dry, dull skin. This results in more radiance, clarity, and improved texture.

  1. Oil Control (H3)

Gel moisturizers help regulate oil production, reducing shine and greasiness. This can lead to fewer acne breakouts and a clearer complexion over time.

  1. Soothing Effect (H3) 

These moisturizers can have a cooling effect, soothing irritated or acne-prone skin. This is especially beneficial after exposure to harsh environmental factors or treatments.

  1. Improves Texture (H3) 

Regular use of gel moisturizers can make skin smoother and more even. Over time, this can lead to a more refined and healthy-looking skin surface, enhancing overall skin appearance.

While the light texture of gel moisturizers suits oily and normal skin type, it is not suitable for dry, dehydrated skin. Most of the time, the thicker the cream, the more moisturizing it is. Oil-based creams are better suited for dry skin.

Read - 14 Best Moisturizers For Dry Skin – Safe and Organic

Best Moisturizer For Oily Skin - Our Top Recommendation

We recommend Kama Ayurveda Eladi Light Cream for use as a gel moisturiser. Its light emulsion technology moisturises the skin without leaving it greasy. It’s proven to boost moisture and smoothen skin within 10 minutes of use. It leaves your skin feeling youthful and supple with every use.

Some of its key benefits for the skin include - improvement of skin texture, skin hydration and nourishment, prepping before makeup and balancing of sebum.

The moisturizer is based on an Ayurveda-inspired formula and has unique natural ingredients such as Eladi, Costus, Cardamom, Cinnamon Leaf extracts and Beetroot extracts and plant-derived emollients.

Eladi is well-known for treating acne and pigmentation. Costus and Cardamom enhance skin texture and provide moisture. Plant-based emollients leave the skin nourished and smooth to touch. The cream is also rich in Vitamin E that retains the moisture and prevents damage from the sun.

Beetroot extracts have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties to relieve dryness while Cinnamon Leaf extracts help firm the skin.

You can add this cream to your daily skin care regime. Cleanse and tone your skin in the morning before applying this gel moisturizer. 

We strongly recommend using natural gel moisturizers that do not contain any chemicals or harsh ingredients such as alcohol. They should also be free of fragrance and dyes as they may cause skin allergies. 

Gel Based Moisturizer For Oily Skin - FAQs

Who should use gel moisturizers?

Gel moisturizers are particularly effective for people with oily or acne-prone skin. They don't add oil to the skin's surface and are absorbed quickly, making them suitable for hot climates or warmer months as well​​.

What are the main benefits of gel moisturizers for oily skin?

They are lightweight, quickly absorbed, non-greasy, and hydrating. Gel moisturizers also help in attracting water from deeper layers of the skin to the surface, improving skin hydration and texture​​.

Can gel moisturizers be used by people with dry skin?

Gel moisturizers may not be the best option for people with very dry skin or conditions like eczema, as they are less moisturizing over an extended period compared to thicker creams​​.

What key ingredients should I look for in a gel moisturizer?

Look for ingredients that minimize drying effects and boost hydration, like plant based emollients. Additionally, choose products free from fragrance and dyes to avoid irritation, especially for sensitive skin​​.

References -

  1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6489629/
  2. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne-and-rosacea/moisturizer
About the Author
Shreya Dalela
Shreya Dalela

Shreya Dalela is a certified Yoga instructor and a professional dancer trained at The Danceworx. She’s passionate about Ayurveda and holistic living with over 6 years of experience in doing extensive research and content creation in the domain.

About the Reviewer
Dr. Kanchan Kachroo
Dr. Kanchan Kachroo

Certified Ayurvedic Doctor (Central Council of Indian Medicine) working in Kama Ayurveda as an Assistant Training Manager.

Was this article helpful?
Related Posts
arrow icon
arrow icon
Recent Posts
arrow icon
arrow icon