People with oily skin need the perfect moisturizer that strikes that balance between adequately hydrating without contributing to shine. If you’re looking for a new moisturizer, we’ve created a list of the best daily moisturizers for oily skin.
Our Recommendations
1. Gokujyun Hyaluronic Perfect Gel
Hada Labo Moisturizer for Daily Moisturization
Hada Labo Gokujyun Hyaluronic Perfect Gel
This gel moisturizer is packed with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, squalane, and ceramides, which work to deeply hydrate the skin and lock in moisture.
This lightweight moisturizer contains a variety of ingredients that deeply hydrate. Four types of hyaluronic acid help plump and hydrate different layers of the skin, while ceramides support the skin’s barrier. This gel moisturizer also contains hydrolyzed collagen, which helps minimize fine lines and wrinkles.
Pros
- Affordable
- Fragrance-free
- Lightweight
Cons
- May not be suitable for acne-prone skin
This affordable moisturizer contains additional hydrating ingredients, including squalane and glycerin.
Water, BG, glycerin, hydroxyethyl urea, pentylene glycol, PPG-10 methyl glucose, triethyl hexanoin, squalane, (acryloyl dimethyl taurine ammonium / VP) copolymer, behenyl alcohol, acetyl hyaluronic acid Na (super hyaluronic acid), hyaluronic acid Na, hydrolysed hyaluronic acid (nano-ized hyaluronic acid), hyaluronic acid hydroxypropyl trimonium (skin-adsorbed hyaluronic acid), hydrolyzed collagen, glucosylceramide (ceramide), suizenzino-polysaccharide (Sakuran), dimethicone, PPG-17 butes -17, triethyl citrate, cyclopentasiloxane, phenoxyethanol, succinic acid 2Na, dimethicone crosspolymer, agarten, EDTA-2Na, succinic acid, α-glucan, acrylate copolymer ammonium , Methyl paraben
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Hyaluronic acid: A key molecule in skin aging"
Accessed Jan. 12, 2022. -
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "The structure, function, and importance of ceramides in skin and their use as therapeutic agents in skin-care products"
Accessed Jan. 12, 2022.
2. Tokyo Skin Plumping Gel Cream
Hada Labo Moisturizer for Daily Moisturization
Hada Labo Tokyo Skin Plumping Gel Cream
This lightweight moisturizer is packed with hyaluronic acid, collagen, and other ingredients that deeply hydrate while fighting signs of aging.
This is a great product for anyone looking for an affordable moisturizer that also provides anti-aging benefits. It contains three types of hyaluronic acid, which help hydrate different levels of the skin while also plumping to minimize the appearance of fine lines. Hydrolyzed marine collagen improves skin texture while minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Pros
- Anti-aging
- Non-greasy
- Fragrance-free
- Affordable
Cons
- May not be suitable for acne-prone skin
In addition to the ingredients mentioned above, this anti-aging moisturizer contains arginine, which helps restore moisture and smooth fine lines and wrinkles, as well as ceramides, which support the skin’s barrier.
Water, Hydroxyethyl Urea, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Peg/Ppg/Polybutylene Glycol-8/5/3 Glycerin, Squalane, Triethylhexanoin, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Vp Copolymer, Agar, Alpha-Glucan, Arginine, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Chlorphenesin, Citric Acid, Dimethicone, Disodium Edta, Glucosyl Ceramide, Hydrolyzed Collagen (Marine), Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Sodium Citrate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Triethyl Citrate
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Hyaluronic acid: A key molecule in skin aging"
Accessed Jan. 12, 2022. -
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Importance of amino acid composition to improve skin collagen protein synthesis rates in UV-irradiated mice"
Accessed Jan. 12, 2022.
3. Tolérance Extrême Emulsion
Avène Moisturizer for Daily Moisturization
Avène Tolérance Extrême Emulsion
This gentle and fragrance-free moisturizer contains six simple but effective ingredients that soothe and moisturize the skin without leaving behind a greasy feeling.
This lightweight, oil-free moisturizer is perfect for combination, oily, and sensitive skin types. Two key ingredients are the Avène thermal spring water, which soothes and softens the skin, and squalane, which hydrates and acts as an antioxidant.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Fragrance-free
- Oil-free
- Dye-free
Cons
- May not be moisturizing enough for drier skin types
In addition to the ingredients mentioned above, this gentle moisturizer contains glycerin and capric triglyceride, which both further help hydrate the skin.
Avène Thermal Spring Water, Squalane, Behenyl Alcohol, Caprylic / Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Sodium Acrylates C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Water
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Moisturizers: The Slippery Road"
Accessed Nov. 8, 2021. -
Sage Journals. "Safety Assessment of Glycerin as Used in Cosmetics"
Accessed Nov. 8, 2021.
4. Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel
Clinique Moisturizer for Daily Moisturization
Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel
This oil-free moisturizer is perfect for normal to oily skin, because it moisturizes and strengthens the skin without making it feel or appear oily.
This gel moisturizer is excellent for skin that gets a bit oily, because it gives the skin the essential hydration that it needs without contributing to shine. The oil-free formula contains sunflower seed cake, barley extract, and cucumber extract, which work to strengthen the skin’s barrier while retaining its moisture levels.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Oil-free
- Fragrance-free
- Dermatologist-developed
Cons
- Contains color additives
In addition to the ingredients mentioned above, this moisturizer contains hyaluronic acid, which attracts and locks in moisture for balanced skin.
Water\Aqua\Eau, Dimethicone, Isododecane, Butylene Glycol, Bis-Peg-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane, Glycerin, Laminaria Saccharina Extract, Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract, Saccharomyces Lysate Extract, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Hordeum Vulgare (Barley) Extract\Extrait D'Orge, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seedcake, Caffeine, Trehalose, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Polysilicone-11, Silica, Propylene Glycol Dicaprate, Oleth-10, Lactobacillus Ferment, Laureth-23, Laureth-4, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Vp Copolymer, Carbomer, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Tromethamine, Disodium Edta, Phenoxyethanol, Yellow 5 (Ci 19140), Red 4 (Ci 14700), Yellow 6 (Ci 15985)
5. Clear Oil-Free Moisturizer
Paula's Choice Moisturizer for Daily Moisturization
Paula’s Choice Clear Oil-Free Moisturizer
This moisturizer is perfect for those with acne-prone skin, because it is lightweight, non-greasy, oil-free, and doesn’t clog pores or lead to more breakouts.
It can be difficult for those with acne-prone skin to find a suitable moisturizer, but this option delivers hydration without contributing to breakouts. It also contains ingredients that soothe the skin, helping to eliminate any irritation.
Pros
- Oil-free
- Fragrance-free
- Lightweight
Cons
- No SPF for daytime use
This moisturizer contains niacinamide, which helps to minimize pores, eliminate redness, and even skin tone. It also contains antioxidants that soothe the skin, and ceramides that strengthen the skin’s surface.
Water (Aqua), Ethyl Macadamiate (hydration), Glycerin (skin-replenishing), Cetearyl Alcohol (texture enhancer), Propanediol (hydration), Triethylhexanoin (skin-smoothing), Sodium Acrylates Copolymer (texture enhancer), Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate (thickeners), Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract (skin- soothing), Hydrolyzed Pumpkin Seedcake (skin-replenishing), Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Fruit Extract (antioxidant), Euterpe Oleracea (Acai) Fruit Extract (antioxidant), Prunus Serotina (Wild Cherry) Fruit Extract (skin-soothing/antioxidant), Niacinamide (skin-restoring),Tripeptide-29 (skin-restoring), Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP (skin-replenishing), Sodium Hyaluronate (skin-replenishing/hydration), Phytosphingosine (skin-restoring), Cholesterol (skin-replenishing), Panthenol (hydration), Sodium PCA (skin-replenishing), Adenosine (skin-restoring), Lecithin (skin-restoring/hydration), Arginine (amino acid/hydration), Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate (emulsifier) Sodium Gluconate (hydration/chelation), Citric Acid (pH adjuster), Isohexadecane (solvent/texture enhancer), Xanthan Gum, Carbomer (thickeners), Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin (preservatives)
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Topical niacinamide reduces yellowing, wrinkling, red blotchiness, and hyperpigmented spots in aging facial skin"
Accessed Aug. 2, 2021.
6. Clear Ultra-Light Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 30+
Paula's Choice Moisturizer for Daily Sun Protection and Moisturization
Paula’s Choice Clear Ultra-Light Daily Hydrating Fluid SPF 30+
This lightweight SPF 30 moisturizer leaves a matte finish and doesn’t clog pores, making it one of the best Paula’s Choice sunscreens for normal to oily and acne-prone skin.
Many people with oily or acne-prone skin worry about using sunscreens, because they often feel thick and greasy. However, this SPF moisturizer is an excellent choice for these skin types, because it protects the skin but doesn’t feel greasy or clog pores. It also contains antioxidants and hydrators that calm the skin.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Lightweight
- Matte finish
Cons
- Contains chemical sunscreen, which may irritate sensitive skin
- Not water-resistant
This lightweight SPF moisturizer contains antioxidants and replenishing ingredients that calm and hydrate the skin without contributing to shine, including vitamin E, grape seed extract, green tea, and oat extract.
Avobenzone 2.0%, Octinoxate 7.50%, Octisalate 5.0%, Octocrylene 2.0% (sunscreen actives), Water (Aqua), Glycerin (hydration/skin-replenishing), Silica (absorbent), Dimethicone (hydration/texture enhancer), Benzyl Alcohol (preservative), Tocopherol (vitamin E/antioxidant), Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract (antioxidant), Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract (antioxidant), Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract (antioxidant), Camellia Oleifera (Green Tea) Leaf Extract (antioxidant), Peucedanum Graveolens (Dill) Extract (antioxidant), Sambucus Nigra (Black Elderberry) Fruit Extract (antioxidant), Avena Sativa (Oat) Bran Extract (skin-soothing), Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Extract (antioxidant), Lycium Barbarum (Goji) Fruit Extract (antioxidant), Hydrogenated Lecithin (skin-restoring), Titanium Dioxide (texture enhancer), Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer (hydration), Diethylhexyl Syringylidenemalonate (hydration), Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer (film-forming/suspending agent), Xanthan Gum (texture enhancer), Sodium Carbomer (texture enhancer), Benzyl Alcohol (preservative), Sodium Benzoate (stabilizer), Potassium Sorbate (preservative), Phenoxyethanol (preservative).
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American Academy of Dermatology. "Is Sunscreen Safe?"
Accessed Aug. 2, 2021.
7. Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer
La Roche-Posay Moisturizer for Daily Moisturization
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer
This lightweight, oil-free moisturizer is excellent for all skin types. It effectively hydrates without clogging pores, making it a particularly great choice for those prone to acne.
This product is one of the overall best La Roche-Posay moisturizers. It contains niacinamide, which helps soothe and reduce redness, as well as ceramides, which strengthen and hydrate the skin. Additionally, this moisturizer is non-comedogenic, meaning it contains ingredients that are not likely to clog pores. This makes this moisturizer excellent for acne-prone skin.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Oil-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Dermatologist tested
Cons
- May not be moisturizing enough for super dry skin
In addition to the ingredients mentioned above, this moisturizer contains prebiotics, which the brand says help restore the skin, and glycerin, which moisturizes.
Aqua/Water, Glycerin, Dimethicone, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Niacinamide, Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurine, Myristyl Myristate, Stearic Acid, Ceramide 3, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Isobutane, Glyceryl Stearate Se, Sodium Hydroxide, Myristic Acid, Palmitic Acid, Capryloyl Glycine, Caprylyl Glycol, Xanthan Gum, T-Butyl Alcohol, Acrylonitrile/Methyl Methacrylate / Vinylidene Chloride Copolymer, Tocopheryl
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Skin hydration is significantly increased by a cream formulated to mimic the skin’s own natural moisturizing systems"
Accessed Aug. 19, 2021. -
Sage Journals. "Safety Assessment of Glycerin as Used in Cosmetics"
Accessed Aug. 19, 2021.
8. Mattifying Moisturizer for Oily Skin
La Roche-Posay Moisturizer for Daily Moisturization
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat Mattifying Moisturizer for Oily Skin
This oil-free moisturizer is formulated with a variety of ingredients that cut down on shine to achieve a matte finish, but it still gives oily skin the hydration that it needs.
This moisturizer is great for oily skin, because it contains a variety of shine-reducing ingredients. It uses the brand’s Sebulyse technology, which helps mattify excess oil and reduce the appearance of pores. Additionally, it contains perlite and silica, which absorb excess oil to cut down on shine.
Pros
- Oil-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Dermatologist tested
Cons
- Contains fragrance
This moisturizer also contains a small amount of lipo-hydroxy acid, a chemical exfoliator that gently exfoliates the skin.
Aqua/Water, Glycerin, Dimethicone, Isocetyl Stearate, Alcohol Denat., Silica, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Acrylamide/Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Copolymer, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Butylene Glycol, PEG-100 Stearate, Cocamide Mea, Sarcosine, Glyceryl Stearate, Triethanolamine, Isohexadecane, Perlite, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid, Tetrasodium EDTA, Pentylene Glycol, Polysorbate 80, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Salicylic Acid, Parfum/Fragrance.
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "The Use of Lipohydroxy Acid in Skin Care and Acne Treatment"
Accessed Aug. 18, 2021.
9. Resist Anti-Aging Clear Skin Hydrator
Paula's Choice Moisturizer for Daily Moisturization and Anti-Aging Benefits
Paula’s Choice Resist Anti-Aging Clear Skin Hydrator
For those with normal to oily skin and aging concerns, this is an excellent lightweight moisturizer. The gel-lotion formula contains a blend of ingredients proven to brighten the skin and fight signs of aging.
This moisturizer is ultra-light and packed with ingredients that fight the signs of aging, making it one of the best Paula’s Choice moisturizers for people with normal to oily skin that want to soften lines and brighten. It also contains ingredients that defend against environmental stressors, hydrate, and minimize pore size.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Lightweight
Cons
- No SPF for daytime use
This moisturizer contains vitamin C, which brightens and fights signs of aging. It also contains niacinamide, which calms the skin, minimizes the appearance of pores, and diminishes fine lines.
Water (Aqua), Cyclopentasiloxane (texture enhancer/hydration), Octyldodecyl Neopentanoate (texture enhancer), Vinyl Dimethicone/Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer (texture enhancer/film-forming agent), Glycerin (skin-replenishing), Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate (vitamin C/antioxidant), Cetyl Alcohol (emollient), Niacinamide (skin-restoring), Dimethicone (hydration), Cetearyl Alcohol (emollient), Butylene Glycol (slip agent/hydration), Glyceryl Stearate (texture enhancer), PEG-100 Stearate (texture enhancer), Adenosine (skin-restoring), Epigallocatechin Gallate (green tea-derived antioxidant), Glucose Oxidase (hydration), Lactoperoxidase (hydration/soothing), Boerhavia Diffusa Root Extract (skin-soothing), Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Fruit Extract (antioxidant), Lactobacillus (hydration/skin-soothing), Polysilicone-11 (texture enhancer), Sodium Chloride (texture enhancer), Potassium Thiocyanate (hydration), Glucose (hydration), Xanthan Gum (thickener), Ceteareth-20 (solubilizing agent), Decyl Glucoside (surfactant), Citric Acid (pH adjuster), Phenoxyethanol (preservative).
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "The Roles of Vitamin C in Skin Health"
Accessed Aug. 2, 2021. -
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Topical niacinamide reduces yellowing, wrinkling, red blotchiness, and hyperpigmented spots in aging facial skin"
Accessed Aug. 2, 2021.
10. Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
The Ordinary Moisturizer for Daily Moisturization
The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
This daily moisturizer from The Ordinary is an excellent choice for all skin types. It contains a blend of ingredients that boost and maintain hydration levels.
This moisturizer contains hyaluronic acid, which attracts moisture to the skin, as well as amino acids, dermal lipids, and other hydrating ingredients that moisturize and protect.
Pros
- Alcohol-free
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Lightweight
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- No SPF for daytime use
In addition to the ingredients mentioned above, this moisturizer contains saccharides. These plant-derived sugars support dermal water density in the skin, further helping to maintain moisture levels.
Aqua (Water), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetyl Alcohol, Propanediol, Stearyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Arginine, Aspartic Acid, Glycine, Alanine, Serine, Valine, Isoleucine, Proline, Threonine, Histidine, Phenylalanine, Glucose, Maltose, Fructose, Trehalose, Sodium PCA, PCA, Sodium Lactate, Urea, Allantoin, Linoleic Acid, Oleic Acid, Phytosteryl Canola Glycerides, Palmitic Acid, Stearic Acid, Lecithin, Triolein, Tocopherol, Carbomer, Isoceteth-20, Polysorbate 60, Sodium Chloride, Citric Acid, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Pentylene Glycol, Triethanolamine, Sodium Hydroxide, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin
11. Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap
COSRX Moisturizer for Daily Moisturization
COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap
This lightweight, oil-free lotion is the perfect daily moisturizer, and is one of the best COSRX products for all skin types.
This lotion provides deep hydration that all skin types need, but does so without leaving behind a greasy finish. Birch sap helps to restore moisture to the skin and maintain hydration levels.
Pros
- Oil-free
- Lightweight
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Cons
- Contains fragrant essential oils
In addition to birch sap, this lotion contains hydrating and soothing ingredients, including glycerin, panthenol, allantoin, and sodium hyaluronate.
Betula Platyphylla Japonica Juice, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Dimethicone, Betaine, Cetearyl Alcohol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Ethylhexylglycerin, Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Peel Oil, Allantoin, Panthenol, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Lactate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ethyl Hexanediol, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Skin moisturizing effects of panthenol-based formulations"
Accessed Aug. 30, 2021. -
Sage Journals. "Safety Assessment of Glycerin as Used in Cosmetics"
Accessed Aug. 30, 2021.
12. PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion
CeraVe Moisturizer for Nightly Moisturization
CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion
The PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion contains a blend of powerful active ingredients that hydrate, calm, and soothe the skin. It is lightweight but is still able to effectively moisturize.
This PM lotion has been a longtime fan favorite for skincare enthusiasts, as it is lightweight, effective, budget-friendly, and ideal for daily use.
Pros
- Oil-free
- Fragrance-free
- Non-comedogenic
Cons
- Those with very dry skin may need a thicker moisturizer
Since it is oil-free and non-comedogenic (meaning it won’t clog pores), this moisturizer is a great option for those with acne-prone skin. It also contains hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and niacinamide, which hydrate and calm the skin.
Aqua/Water/Eau, Glycerin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Niacinamide, Cetearyl Alcohol, Potassium Phosphate, Ceramide Np, Ceramide Ap, Ceramide Eop, Carbomer, Dimethicone, Ceteareth-20, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Cholesterol, Phenoxyethanol, Disodium Edta, Dipotassium Phosphate, Caprylyl Glycol, Phytosphingosine, Xanthan Gum, Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate, Ethylhexylglycerin
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Accessed Aug. 27, 2021.
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Skin hydration is significantly increased by a cream formulated to mimic the skin's own natural moisturizing systems"
Accessed Aug. 27, 2021. -
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "How Much Do We Really Know About Our Favorite Cosmeceutical Ingredients?"
Accessed Aug. 27, 2021.
13. Moisture Gel
Paula's Choice Moisturizer for Daily Moisturization
Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Invisible Finish Moisture Gel
This super-light gel formula is perfect for those with normal to oily skin, as it hydrates without making the skin feel greasy.
Oilier skin types still need to moisturize daily, as it helps their skin stay hydrated and balanced. This super lightweight gel moisturizer is one of the best Paula’s Choice products for normal to oily skin, as it quenches the skin without leaving a greasy finish.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Non-greasy
- Lightweight
Cons
- No SPF for daytime use
This moisturizer contains niacinamide, which calms the skin and can also reduce the appearance of fine lines and even skin tone. It also contains hydrating hyaluronic acid and antioxidants that protect the skin.
Water (Aqua), Cyclopentasiloxane (hydration), Butylene Glycol (hydration), Glycerin (hydration/skin replenishing), Bis-Phenylpropyl Dimethicone (hydration), Niacinamide (vitamin B3/skin-restoring), Laminaria Saccharina (Algae) Extract (hydration), Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract (hydration/skin-soothing), Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract (antioxidant), Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract (antioxidant), Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Oil (non-fragrant oil/emollient/antioxidant), Tocopheryl Acetate (vitamin E/antioxidant), Phenyl Trimethicone (hydration), Dimethicone (hydration), Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate (skin-soothing), Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (vitamin c/antioxidant), Sodium Hyaluronate (hydration/skin replenishing), Superoxide Dismutase (antioxidant), Isohexadecane (texture-enhancing), Panthenol (skin replenishing), Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer (texture-enhancing, Sodium Carbomer (texture-enhancing), Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer (texture-enhancing), Polysorbate 80 (texture-enhancing), Hydroxyethylcellulose (texture-enhancing), Ethylhexylglycerin (preservative), Phenoxyethanol (preservative), Potassium Sorbate.
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National Library of Medicine. "Topical niacinamide reduces yellowing, wrinkling, red blotchiness, and hyperpigmented spots in aging facial skin"
Accessed Jul. 30, 2021. -
Accessed Jul. 30, 2021.
14. Oil-Free Face Moisturizer
Neutrogena Moisturizer for Daily Moisturization
Neutrogena Oil-Free Face Moisturizer
This lightweight, oil-free, and non-comedogenic moisturizer is an excellent choice for oily skin types, as it moisturizes without contributing to shine.
While this moisturizer is marketed towards sensitive skin, the lightweight and gentle formula is great for normal to oily skin. The water-based moisturizer is non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores, and also does not feel heavy or greasy on the skin.
Pros
- Non-comedogenic
- Oil-free
- Fragrance-free
- Lightweight
- Non-greasy
- Hypoallergenic
Cons
- None
This moisturizer is non-comedogenic, meaning it doesn’t contain ingredients known to clog pores. This makes it a suitable choice for those prone to acne. One of the key moisturizing ingredients in this moisturizer is glycerin, a humectant that keeps the skin hydrated.
Water, Glycerin, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Dimethicone, Petrolatum, Cyclomethicone, Soybean (Glycine Soja) Sterols, Isopropyl Isostearate, Cetyl Alcohol, PEG-10 Soy Sterol, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Carbomer, Tetrasodium EDTA, Sodium Hydroxide, Diazolidinyl Urea, Ethylparaben, Methylparaben, Propylparaben.
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Sage Journals. "Safety Assessment of Glycerin as Used in Cosmetics"
Accessed Jul. 30, 2021.
FAQs
What is the best moisturizer for oily and acne-prone skin?
There are a few great options on this list that are suitable for oily and acne-prone skin. This includes the Paula’s Choice Clear Oil-Free Moisturizer, the La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer, the CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion, and the Neutrogena Oil-Free Face Moisturizer.
Do I need to moisturize if I have oily skin?
Yes, everyone should moisturize their skin regardless of skin type, and this includes those with oily skin. Skin may be oily, but that does not mean it is well hydrated. This is because hydration has to do with water, not oil. Moisturizers work by attracting and holding water to the skin in order to keep it hydrated. Your skin needs to be adequately hydrated in order to function properly, and to look and feel its best. If you neglect to use a moisturizer, the skin can become dehydrated. This can actually exacerbate the problem, because when the skin is dehydrated, it can try to overcompensate by producing more oil. While people with oily skin can feel tempted to “dry out” their skin by not using a moisturizer, this is actually counterproductive.
What goes on first: serum or moisturizer?
If you also use a serum in your skincare routine, you’ll want to cleanse, apply your serum, and then apply your moisturizer. As a rule of thumb, you should apply thinner products first, and leave the thickest products for last.
The Bottom Line
Finding the right moisturizer is an essential part of a great oily skin skincare routine. If you have oily skin, add one of our recommended moisturizers to your routine to support a healthy and hydrated complexion.