Top 10 Best Serum for Oily Skin in India (September 2023)

With a history spanning over several decades, the brand has made a strong mark in the skincare industry, focusing on research and development to deliver science-backed solutions for various skin types. This passion for creating superior products has earned Neutrogena a distinguished place in households worldwide, and India is no exception.

The Hydro Boost Capsule in Serum is an embodiment of Neutrogena’s commitment to innovative skincare solutions. This product stands as a testament to the brand’s dedication to cater to the specific needs of those with oily skin.

It’s not just about reducing the oiliness of the skin; Neutrogena understands that oily skin requires hydration, not oil elimination, to maintain its health and natural glow. The Hydro Boost Capsule in Serum is thus crafted to offer intense hydration without increasing oiliness, making it one of the best serums for oily skin in India.

The combination of a hydrating serum and nourishing capsules is a unique dual action formula, which sets the Hydro Boost Capsule in Serum apart from other similar products in the market. It ensures that your skin gets the dual benefits of hydration and deep nourishment, which are integral to maintaining a healthy skin barrier and reducing oiliness.

Unique Features:

+ Hyaluronic Acid: This dermatologist-recommended ingredient is known for its superior hydrating properties. It not only provides surface hydration but also penetrates the skin to offer deep hydration.
+ Dual Action Formula: The dual-action formula combines the benefits of serum and capsules. The serum provides hydration, while the capsules offer deep nourishment to the skin.
+ Non-comedogenic: The non-comedogenic formula ensures that it doesn’t block your pores, reducing the chance of breakouts, a common issue for individuals with oily skin.
+ Oil-free: The serum is oil-free, making it perfect for those who struggle with excess oil production.

Pros:
Intense Hydration: The presence of hyaluronic acid ensures intense hydration for your skin.
Non-Greasy: Despite providing deep hydration, the formula is non-greasy, which is a boon for individuals with oily skin.
Improved Skin Texture: Regular use of the serum can lead to improved skin texture and overall skin health.

Cons:
Not Ideal for Sensitive Skin: Some users with extremely sensitive skin have reported mild irritation. It’s advisable to perform a patch test before regular use.
Cost: While it offers multiple benefits, the cost may seem a bit steep to some users. However, considering the brand’s reputation and the product’s performance, it’s often considered a worthwhile investment.

Price Range: INR 1000 – INR 1200

Why We Picked It: The Neutrogena Hydro Boost Capsule in Serum stood out in our selection due to its unique dual-action formula and the usage of hyaluronic acid. Unlike many products targeted towards oily skin, this serum understands the need for hydration to combat oiliness. Its formula is designed to hydrate and nourish the skin without adding to its oiliness, a balance that many brands fail to strike.

The Canadian brand’s commitment to honesty and integrity is exemplified by its minimalist packaging and straightforward ingredient lists. Its promise of “Clinical Formulations with Integrity” is echoed across its range of products and more specifically in their Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% serum, which has garnered global acclaim.

The Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% serum is a must-have for oily skin. Niacinamide, also known as Vitamin B3, is known for its ability to reduce skin blemishes and congestion, while Zinc balances visible aspects of sebum activity. Together, they form a powerful alliance that effectively regulates oil production, minimizes pores, and improves skin texture. For those looking to manage oily skin and achieve a clearer complexion, this serum from The Ordinary can be a game-changer.

Unique Features:

+ High-strength vitamin and mineral formula: The serum is formulated with high concentrations of Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) and Zinc, both well-regarded for their skin-beneficial properties.
+ Controls Sebum Production: With 10% Niacinamide, the serum can effectively regulate oil production, making it an ideal solution for oily skin.
+ Reduces Skin Blemishes: Coupled with Zinc, this serum is effective in reducing the appearance of skin blemishes and congestion.

Pros:
Oil-Free & Lightweight: The serum is oil-free and lightweight, which makes it suitable for oily skin types. It does not feel greasy or heavy on the skin.
Improves Skin Texture: Regular usage of the serum leads to improved skin texture and clarity.
Affordable: Despite its high-quality formulation, the product is budget-friendly.

Cons:
Pilling: Some users have reported issues with the serum pilling under makeup or other skincare products.
May not be Suitable for Sensitive Skin: Though generally well-tolerated, some people may experience irritation due to the high concentration of active ingredients.

Price Range: INR 500 – INR 700

Why We Picked It: The Ordinary’s Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% serum caught our attention because of its impressive formulation and rave user reviews. Its affordability, coupled with its proven efficacy, makes it one of the best value for money serums for oily skin available in India. Its high-strength vitamin and mineral formula promises to control sebum production and reduce the appearance of skin blemishes, a claim supported by numerous positive user experiences. Its commitment to transparent and honest skincare makes it a worthwhile contender on our list.

The brand’s philosophy is underpinned by its commitment to delivering goodness through a thoughtful blend of nature and science. The “goodness” ethos of Plum extends to its commitment to being free from parabens, phthalates, and other harmful chemicals, thus ensuring the safety and efficacy of its products.

The Plum Green Tea Skin Clarifying Concentrate is an exemplary product from their range, designed specifically for oily and combination skin types.

It’s powered by green tea extracts and glycolic acid, two powerhouse ingredients known for their oil-balancing and skin-smoothing benefits. This light, hydrating serum helps to shrink pores, clarify skin, and deliver a well-balanced, radiant complexion.

Unique Features:

+ Green Tea Extracts: Known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, green tea extracts help fight acne, reduce oiliness, and soothe the skin.
+ Glycolic Acid: This alpha-hydroxy acid helps exfoliate the skin, remove dead skin cells, and reveal a brighter, smoother complexion.
+ Non-comedogenic: The serum is non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog your pores, thus reducing the chance of breakouts.

Pros:
Skin Clarifying: The serum effectively clarifies the skin, reducing acne marks and blemishes, and delivering a clear, radiant complexion.
Controls Oil Production: The green tea extracts in the formula help control oil production, making it suitable for oily skin.
Cruelty-free and Vegan: The brand prides itself on offering vegan, cruelty-free products, adding to its appeal for ethically conscious consumers.

Cons:
Contains Fragrance: Though the fragrance is derived from natural sources, it may cause sensitivity in individuals with allergic reactions.
Initial Purging Phase: Some users might experience an initial purging phase, with increased breakouts when they first start using the product. This usually settles down as the skin adjusts to the product.

Price Range: INR 450 – INR 650

Why We Picked It: The Plum Green Tea Skin Clarifying Concentrate was an easy choice for our list due to its unique formulation aimed specifically at oily skin. Its combination of green tea extracts and glycolic acid, a potent AHA, provides skin-clearing and oil-control benefits, making it one of the top serums for oily skin available in India. Its commitment to being 100% vegan and cruelty-free adds to its appeal, making it a popular choice among ethically-minded consumers. Although some users might experience a purging phase, the long-term results have been overwhelmingly positive, contributing to its spot on our list.

Marrying ancient wisdom and modern scientific methods, Biotique presents an innovative and credible field of beauty and therapeutic skincare products. The Bio Dandelion Visibly Ageless Serum, one of the brand’s popular products, is a perfect example of its botanical, chemical-free approach.

Biotique’s Bio Dandelion Visibly Ageless Serum is specially formulated for oily skin and does a splendid job of reducing oil production without depriving the skin of essential nutrients. It’s packed with pure dandelion, rich in Vitamin E and minerals, combined with nutmeg oil.

These ingredients work together to brighten skin, reduce dark spots, and combat aging signs, making it an excellent all-rounder serum for oily skin.

Unique Features:

+ Pure Dandelion: The serum is infused with pure dandelion, known for its multiple skin benefits. Dandelion is rich in antioxidants, reducing the damage caused by free radicals and brightening the skin.
+ Nutmeg Oil: Nutmeg oil is known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps to reduce acne and inflammation while maintaining skin health.
+ Ayurvedic Recipe: The serum is created based on traditional Ayurvedic recipes, making it a natural and wholesome skincare product.

Pros:
Multi-Functional Serum: Apart from oil control, the serum also targets dark spots, pigmentation, and signs of aging, making it a comprehensive skincare product.
Herbal Formulation: With its Ayurvedic recipe, the serum offers a natural solution for oily skin, reducing the risk of chemical reactions.
Economical: Biotique products are known for their affordability, and this serum is no exception, providing value for money.

Cons:
Contains Parabens: While the brand claims to be natural, the serum contains parabens, which some users might prefer to avoid.
Strong Fragrance: Some users have reported that the serum has a strong scent, which might not be appealing to everyone.

Price Range: INR 200 – INR 300

Why We Picked It: We selected the Biotique Bio Dandelion Visibly Ageless Serum for its diverse benefits and natural formulation. This serum isn’t just about controlling oil; it also addresses various skin issues like dark spots, pigmentation, and signs of aging. While there’s a slight concern about the inclusion of parabens, the overwhelming positive user feedback and its affordable price make this serum a compelling inclusion in our list of the best serums for oily skin in India.

With a worldwide presence and a reputation for quality and innovation, it continuously produces skincare products that cater to a wide range of skin types and concerns.

The Revitalift Crystal Micro-Essence, a popular product from their skincare line, is a testament to the brand’s commitment to quality and innovation.

Specially formulated to penetrate up to 10 layers deep into the skin, the Revitalift Crystal Micro-Essence offers advanced skincare for oily skin.

Infused with Salicylic Acid, this essence helps to gently exfoliate and refine pores, while Centella Asiatica heals and revives the skin, leaving it looking crystal clear and youthful. The ultra-lightweight, watery texture doesn’t feel heavy on the skin, making it an ideal choice for those with oily skin.

Unique Features:

+ Salicylic Acid: This beta hydroxy acid is known for its ability to penetrate into the pores and exfoliate the skin, making it particularly effective for oily and acne-prone skin.
+ Centella Asiatica: Known for its healing and soothing properties, it helps to repair and revive the skin, giving it a healthier appearance.
+ Deep Penetration: The micro-essence penetrates up to 10 layers deep into the skin, providing advanced skincare.

Pros:
Refines Pores: The presence of salicylic acid helps to unclog and refine pores, reducing the likelihood of breakouts.
Lightweight Texture: The essence has a lightweight, watery texture that absorbs quickly into the skin, without leaving any sticky or greasy residue.
Promotes Radiant Skin: Regular usage of the essence leads to clearer, more radiant skin.

Cons:
Contains Alcohol: The essence contains alcohol which may not be suitable for individuals with sensitive or dry skin.
Fragrance: Though pleasant to many, the fragrance may be a bit strong for some users.

Price Range: INR 800 – INR 1200

Why We Picked It: The L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Crystal Micro-Essence earns its spot on our list for its deep-penetrating, pore-refining properties. With the inclusion of salicylic acid and centella asiatica, this essence targets oily skin concerns effectively while promoting overall skin health. Despite a higher price range and the presence of alcohol, its lightweight formula and the positive user experience make it a recommended choice for oily skin in India.

Committed to quality and customer satisfaction, the brand’s core value of improving the quality of the skin is deeply reflected in its globally-acclaimed product, the Midnight Recovery Concentrate.

This replenishing nighttime facial oil is a miracle worker for oily skin. Despite being an oil, it’s lightweight, non-comedogenic, and easily absorbed, making it suitable even for those with oily complexions. Infused with a blend of essential oils like lavender and evening primrose, and botanical extracts such as squalane, the Midnight Recovery Concentrate works overnight to leave the skin balanced, refreshed and radiant by morning.

Unique Features:

+ Botanical Extracts: This serum features a blend of botanical extracts including squalane, a powerful hydrator that mimics the skin’s natural sebum, thereby controlling oil production.
+ Essential Oils: Lavender and evening primrose oils help soothe and replenish the skin, promoting a healthier complexion.
+ Overnight Recovery: As an overnight serum, it works while you sleep to repair and rejuvenate your skin.

Pros:
Hydrates & Balances Skin: Despite being an oil, it’s effective in hydrating the skin without clogging pores or causing oiliness.
Improves Skin Appearance: Regular usage improves skin appearance, leaving it softer, smoother, and more radiant.
Suitable for All Skin Types: This facial oil is suitable for all skin types, including oily skin, thanks to its non-comedogenic properties.

Cons:
Pricey: It is one of the more expensive serums on the market, but the high-quality ingredients and proven results often justify the cost for many users.
Contains Essential Oils: While essential oils provide certain skin benefits, they can potentially cause irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals.

Price Range: INR 2100 – INR 4000

Why We Picked It: The Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate was an obvious choice for our list. Despite being an oil, its non-comedogenic, easily-absorbed formula makes it a great choice for oily skin. The product’s rich composition of botanical extracts and essential oils provides multiple skin benefits, leaving it balanced, hydrated and refreshed. Though the price tag may be on the higher side, the rave reviews and noticeable results make it a worthy investment in your skincare routine.

Their commitment to delivering innovative, high-quality skincare has earned them a loyal following worldwide. The Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Multi-Recovery Complex is one of the brand’s best-selling products, designed to tackle a wide array of skin concerns, including oiliness.

This serum is formulated with Chronolux Power Signal Technology, which promotes the skin’s natural repair system and boosts the production of collagen for smoother, firmer skin. It is oil-free and helps control excess oil, making it an excellent fit for those with oily skin. The serum also helps reduce the appearance of pores and combats the harmful effects of environmental damage.

Unique Features:

+ Chronolux Power Signal Technology: This innovative technology promotes the skin’s natural repair mechanism and boosts collagen production, leading to smoother, younger-looking skin.
+ Hyaluronic Acid: This powerful hydrator locks in moisture for up to 72 hours, ensuring the skin stays hydrated without increasing oiliness.
+ Antioxidant Protection: The serum provides 8-hour antioxidant protection to defend skin against environmental damage.

Pros:
Oil Control: Despite being highly hydrating, the serum helps control excess oil, making it suitable for oily skin.
Multi-Recovery Complex: The serum not only combats oiliness but also addresses various skin concerns like aging, dullness, and environmental damage.
Suitable for All Skin Types: The formula is designed to be suitable for all skin types, including those with oily skin.

Cons:
Expensive: This is a premium product, and its price point may be prohibitive for some.
Fragrance: The product contains fragrance, which might not suit individuals with sensitive skin or a preference for fragrance-free products.

Price Range: INR 3800 – INR 7500

Why We Picked It: Estée Lauder’s Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Multi-Recovery Complex made its way onto our list due to its innovative technology and multi-recovery benefits. It stands out for its ability to provide intense hydration and control excess oil simultaneously, a combination that is rare to find. While its high price point may not suit all budgets, the overall benefits, user reviews, and brand reputation make this serum a standout contender in the Indian market for those with oily skin.

Their botanical formulas are rooted in natural ingredients and advanced science, making them a favored choice for skin enthusiasts. The White Seed Brightening Serum is a celebrated product from their line, packed with intense brightening benefits.

This serum is a potent blend of White Seed Complex and triple real brightening systems that provide intense brightness and radiance to the skin. Despite its deep nourishing properties, it’s incredibly light, leaving a non-sticky, fresh finish that is ideal for oily skin. It works towards reducing dullness, enhancing skin radiance, and maintaining a flawless complexion.

Unique Features:

+ White Seed Complex: A compound of brightening ingredients (White Lupine Seed and White Daisy) lightens skin and reduces dullness.
+ Triple Real Brightening System: Works on enhancing skin radiance by working on melanin production and skin pigmentation.
+ Niacinamide: An essential ingredient known for its brightening properties.

Pros:
Enhances Skin Radiance: The serum effectively reduces dullness and enhances skin radiance.
Lightweight Texture: Despite its intense hydrating properties, the serum is lightweight and non-sticky, making it suitable for oily skin.
Brightens Complexion: Regular use leads to a noticeable brightening of the complexion and an overall healthier-looking skin.

Cons:
Contains Fragrance: The product has a mild fragrance, which might not suit those who prefer fragrance-free products.
Results Take Time: Visible results may take time and consistent application is key.

Price Range: INR 1600 – INR 2000

Why We Picked It: The Face Shop White Seed Brightening Serum stood out due to its brightening benefits and lightweight formulation. This serum provides intense hydration without the greasiness often associated with deeply nourishing products. With regular use, the serum works to brighten the complexion and reduce dullness, making it an excellent choice for oily skin. Though results may take some time, the overall positive reviews and fair pricing make this serum a noteworthy inclusion on our list.

This dermatologist-developed brand has been offering allergy-tested, 100% fragrance-free products since 1968. One of its highly praised products is the Anti-Blemish Solutions Blemish + Line Correcting Serum, designed specifically for adult skins suffering from breakouts and fine lines.

This serum is a unique blend of anti-blemish technology with high-speed skin repair. It’s a gentle, hydrating formula that helps clear and treat blemishes without causing dryness or irritation. Along with its oil-controlling properties, it visibly reduces fine lines and wrinkles, improving skin clarity and texture.

Unique Features:

+ Anti-Blemish Technology: The serum is designed to clear blemishes, helping to control and prevent future breakouts.
+ Skin Repairing Ingredients: With ingredients that contribute to high-speed skin repair, it reduces the visibility of fine lines and wrinkles.
+ Non-Acnegenic: It’s formulated so as not to cause breakouts, making it safe for acne-prone, oily skin.

Pros:
Tackles Multiple Concerns: Apart from managing oily skin, the serum also treats blemishes and aging signs, making it a versatile skincare product.
Non-Drying: The formula is hydrating, reducing blemishes without causing dryness or irritation.
Improves Skin Texture: Regular use leads to improved skin texture and reduced visibility of fine lines and wrinkles.

Cons:
Expensive: Clinique products are priced on the higher end of the spectrum, which might not suit all budgets.
May Not Suit Extremely Sensitive Skin: While it is designed to be gentle, some users with highly sensitive skin have reported minor irritations.

Price Range: INR 4000 – INR 4500

Why We Picked It: The Clinique Anti-Blemish Solutions Blemish + Line Correcting Serum is an exceptional product for oily skin. Its ability to control oil, treat blemishes, and reduce fine lines and wrinkles makes it a comprehensive skincare solution. Although the price is relatively high, the wide range of benefits it offers, along with Clinique’s renowned brand reputation, make this serum worth considering in the Indian market.

Known for its eco-friendly practices, Innisfree uses responsibly sourced ingredients from Jeju Island. The Green Tea Seed Serum is one of its top-selling products globally, designed to hydrate and nourish the skin without exacerbating oiliness.

This refreshing serum boasts a balanced blend of green tea extract and green tea seed oil. Rich in amino acids and minerals, the green tea extract hydrates the skin, while the green tea seed oil forms a moisture barrier to prevent moisture loss. The result is well-hydrated, plump skin that isn’t left feeling greasy, making it an excellent pick for oily skin types.

Unique Features:

+ Green Tea Extract and Seed Oil: These two core ingredients work synergistically to hydrate the skin and lock in moisture, offering double the benefits.
+ Dual Moisture-Rising Technology: This innovative technology derived from green tea and green tea seed oil helps to retain skin hydration.
+ Natural Ingredients: The serum leans on natural ingredients, reducing the risk of skin irritation from harsh chemicals.

Pros:
Deep Hydration: The serum delivers intense hydration without feeling heavy or greasy on the skin.
Improves Skin Texture: Regular use of the serum leads to improved skin texture and a healthy, radiant complexion.
Suitable for Oily Skin: Despite its deep hydrating properties, the serum is suitable for oily skin due to its non-greasy finish.

Cons:
Contains Fragrance: The product has a mild fragrance, which might not suit those who prefer fragrance-free products.
Slightly Higher Price Point: Compared to some other Korean beauty products, this serum is slightly more expensive.

Price Range: INR 1950 – INR 2250

Why We Picked It: Innisfree’s Green Tea Seed Serum has earned its spot on our list because of its unique formulation and overwhelmingly positive user reviews. Its combination of green tea extract and seed oil provides intensive hydration without triggering excess oil production, making it an excellent serum for oily skin. The slightly higher price point is justified by the serum’s performance and the brand’s commitment to natural and eco-friendly practices. The proven results, combined with Innisfree’s strong reputation, make this a compelling choice for our list of the top 10 best serums for oily skin in India.