5 Best Winter Moisturisers for Dry Skin in India

When cold winds hit, our skin needs extra care. Winter air strips moisture, making skin dry, flaky, and often irritated. Picking a moisturiser that hydrates deeply yet feels comfortable is essential this season. I’ve tested several top creams that promise nourishment, protection, and value. In this review, you’ll find my honest take—what works, what doesn’t—so you make the best choice.

Here are five creams that stand out in terms of ingredients, performance and price. I’ve pulled together details from user reviews, product specs, pros & cons so you know what to expect.

1. NIVEA Soft Light Moisturiser Cream

This is a lightweight multipurpose cream suitable for face, hands and body. It’s non-sticky, absorbs quickly, and claims “instant soft & fresh skin feel.” Key ingredients include Vitamin E and 100 % natural jojoba oil. The formula is noted to work well across all seasons and skin types. Price-wise it gives good value considering the quantity.

Pros

• Light texture, fast absorption
• Nourishes without greasy residue
• Works all day on normal skin
• Pleasant, mild fragrance

Cons

• May feel oily on very oily skin
• Strong scent for fragrance-sensitive users

2. Mamaearth Vitamin C Nourishing Cold Cream

This is a cold cream aimed at brightening and illuminating dull or dry skin. It contains Vitamin C & honey, with a whipped, thick texture that claims to deeply nourish. Many users say it softens the skin, even tone, and gives a dewy or radiant look with regular use.

Pros

• Deep nourishment for dry skin
• Brightens skin tone noticeably
• Does not clog pores much
• Good value for price

Cons

• Too thick for hot, humid weather
• Strong smell (honey / cream)

3. Himalaya Winter Defense Moisturizing Cream

This cream is formulated for very dry to extra-dry skin, especially in winter. It contains herbal oils: almond oil, jojoba oil, wheat germ which provides natural Vitamin E. Users report it helps heal flaky and rough patches. Texture is thick, so it forms a protective barrier. Price is modest.

Pros

• Highly moisturising, heals flakes
• Rich herbal oils for nourishment
• Long-lasting protection in cold weather
• Affordable price

Cons

• Thick texture feels heavy
• Fragrance / parabens / mineral oil may irritate some

4. BoroPlus Ayurvedic Antiseptic Cream

This cream has a cult status for a reason. It promises Ayurvedic antiseptic benefits, 24-hour moisture, and multipurpose use. Users love its healing ability, especially for cracked skin, dry hands, and rough spots. It’s rich, herbal, and feels protective. Some find the aroma strong; others think the consistency is a bit sticky.

Pros

• Repairs dry, cracked skin well
• Long lasting moisturisation
• Ayurvedic herbal benefits
• Pleasant fragrance for many

Cons

• Can feel sticky / heavy on face
• Strong herbal smell might bother some

5. Joy Skin Fruits Active Moisture Massage Cream

This is a cold cream/ massage cream designed to deeply moisturize while offering a fruity fragrance. Enriched with apple extracts, jojoba oil, and almond oil, it promises skin that’s supple, soft and glowing. Users say it absorbs relatively well for its richness, and the price per ml is favourable given the large pack sizes.

Pros

• Smooth-glide feel during massage
• Pleasant fruity, sweet smell
• Large volume, value for money
• Softens very dry patches

Cons

• Tub packaging is unhygienic
• Oily finish on very oily skin

Conclusion

Choosing the right moisturiser is all about balancing richness and comfort. If your skin is very dry and flaky, Himalaya Winter Defense and BoroPlus give the strongest barrier and repair. For those who want something lighter yet still nourishing, NIVEA Soft or Joy Skin Fruits are great.

Finally, always test on a small patch (especially if sensitive), apply thin layers, and adjust usage based on how your skin feels. With the right moisturiser, you can beat the winter dryness and keep skin healthy, comfortable and glowing.