How To Choose Between Water And Oil Based Moisturizers

Written by Anushka Shah6th Apr 2023
How to Choose Between Water and Oil Based Moisturizers

Have you ever gone down an aisle in a store looking for a new moisturiser only to become confused by all the options available? Well, safe to say all of us beauty mavens have been a part of the confusion circuit! So, to make it simpler - let’s tell you how to navigate - you must first choose the brand of goods you want to buy. Next, you must choose between purchasing an oil  or a water-based moisturiser. And what makes these formulations different from one another? Clearly, one contains water and the other oil, duh! But is that the only distinction? Well, that’s something you will only get to know by reading and knowing the pros and cons of each; an oil and water based moisturiser, and why it's crucial to select the proper formulation for your skin type. Scroll down for all the secrets, we’ve stocked up on ‘em all.   

What Are Water Based Moisturizers?  

water based moisturiser

The ideal moisturiser for people with dry skin that needs moisture is one that contains water. Water-based moisturisers frequently contain glycerin and hyaluronic acid, which can effectively hydrate skin that is dehydrated. 

Additionally, these water-based compounds may have short-term anti-aging effects. This is due to the fact that increased hydration creates volume, which volumizes the skin and lessens the appearance of lines and wrinkles. 

This impact is temporary, though, and lines and wrinkles will return to their original size as soon as the moisture level of the skin drops. The fact that water-based moisturisers are often lighter than oil-based moisturisers makes them a fantastic choice for hot temperatures and summertime. 

Moreover, just so that you folks are picking out the right products from the racks - lotions that are water-based fall between creams and gels; they contain more water than creams but less than gels. A water-based lotion or gel is probably your best bet if you're seeking for a lightweight moisturiser. One unmatched water based moisturiser that we have on our radar has to be the Simple Kind To Skin Hydrating Light Moisturiser! Loaded with Vitamin E, this moisturiser seeps deep into the skin, proving it with A1 TLC.  

What Are Oil-Based Moisturizers? 

water based moisturiser

Well ladies, as the name suggests - all of the components in an oil-based moisturiser are dissolved in the oil basis. The ingredient list of a moisturiser will reveal whether it is water-based or oil-based, needless to say. So, if  it is a water-based moisturiser, then water will be listed as the first ingredient. 

It is an oil-based moisturiser if an oil, such as jojoba oil or sweet almond oil, is listed as the first component. A thick cream, ointment, body butter, or face or body oil can all be considered oil-based moisturisers. Once more, the texture and volume of oil are what distinguish these moisturisers from one another. Numerous creams contain water-based moisturisers, as was previously indicated. 

However, if a cream contains a higher concentration of oil than water, it is classified as an oil-based moisturiser. Ointments have a high concentration of oil (compared to creams) - this is something you must already know. And when touched these bad boys are thick, greasy, and occlusive. Ointments are typically used as skin protectants for very dry, cracked skin.  

So, when thinking about oil-based moisturisers, one leading name that comes to our minds has to be Lakme Absolute Argan Oil Radiance Overnight Oil-In-Creme. This rich, non-greasy day creme is light-weight and yet is designed to nourish and revitalize your skin. It additionally contains SPF 30 PA++ which provides sun proetction – so, what’s the wait for get your hands on this product now! 

What Is Better Water Based Moisturizers or Oil-Based Moisturizers? 

water based moisturiser

Knowing the distinction between an oil-based and water-based moisturiser may have you wondering whether formulation is superior - we’re bound to make the comparison! And while you may be looking for a direct answer, this question doesn't have a straightforward yes or no response - it is surrounded with nuances. 

So much so, the formulation you select is determined by your skin type and the condition you are trying to address. Whether your skin is dry or dehydrated should be one of the most crucial variables to take into account when selecting a moisturiser. Although you would believe these two terms are interchangeable, they actually refer to two distinct skin disorders. 

Your skin generates less sebum than usual if you have dry skin. Sebum is a natural oil secreted by glands in your skin that lubricates the skin and serves as a barrier against water - also, the shiny layer that makes your dermis shine without highlighter. 

So, If the lipid barrier of the skin is compromised, dry skin can also result - cracks and crumbs, precisely. Additionally, fine lines and wrinkles associated with ageing might result from dry skin. 

In contrast, a lack of water, not an absence of oil, results in dry skin. Particularly, what is depleted is the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF); a little technical but #facts!  The free amino acids and other derivatives of these amino acids make up the majority of the NMF, which cooperate to maintain proper skin moisture. 

So, over time the NMF can be depleted as well as by unhealthy eating habits, excessive sun exposure (SPF has to be your BFF), wearing makeup (gotta keep in control), using products incorrectly plus many other things. But this is where things might become a tad confusing: Skin produces extra oil when it is dehydrated to make up for the lack of water. Because of this, skin may feel both greasy and dry at the same time. When this happens, issues including acne flare-ups, irritability, and dry patches may appear - which is why using the right moisturises - in the right quantity and relying on the right cleansing technique is a non negotiable.    

Who Should Use a Water Based Moisturizer  

water based moisturiser

For those with dehydrated skin that needs moisture, a water-based moisturiser is recommended. Water-based moisturisers frequently contain ingredients like glycerin and hyaluronic acid, which can effectively moisturise dry skin. 

Additionally, some substances with a water base may have short-term anti-aging effects. This is due to the fact that increased hydration creates volume, which effectively fills out the skin and hides creases and wrinkles. 

However, this impact is only temporary; as the skin's moisture content returns to normal, lines and wrinkles will grow again. Finally, because they tend to be lighter than oil-based moisturisers, water-based moisturisers are an excellent option for warmer climes and summer months. 

Who Should Use an Oil-Based Moisturizer  

water based moisturiser

For people with dry skin that has a compromised barrier or lacking sebum, an oil-based moisturiser is recommended. The skin's barrier function will be replenished by the oil-based components. Many oils also have fatty acids and vitamins that have anti-aging properties. 

 The outer layers of the skin can regenerate and see an increase in cell turnover thanks to beta carotene. This can gradually balance out skin tone and give the complexion a "glow." Therefore, this oil-based moisturiser gives skin a young sheen in addition to replenishing the lipid barrier of the skin. 

 FAQs about How to Choose Between Water and Oil Based Moisturizers   

Q1 Are oil based moisturisers good for oily skin? 

Not really for their core ingredients: petrolatum, mineral oil, or petroleum will suffocate your oily skin and hence, clog your pores.  

Q2 Which skin type do water based moisturisers work best for?  

Water based moisturisers, especially one of our favs on the racks Lakme Absolute Argan Oil Radiance Oil-in-Gel is ideal for combination or oily skin - specially a skin type that’s  prone to pimples and blackheads. Wonder why? Well, because water-based moisturisers are non-comedogenic in nature and do not clog pores. 

Anushka Shah

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