Having oily skin can be frustrating. The constant shine, frequent breakouts, and enlarged pores often lead people with this skin type to avoid using moisturizer. However, skipping this essential skincare step can actually make oily skin worse!
Moisturizing helps balance oil production by preventing the overproduction of sebum that occurs when skin is dry. The best moisturizer for oily skin also protects the skin barrier, keeps skin hydrated, and can even help minimize pores.
But not just any moisturizer will do. People with oily and acne-prone skin need oil-free, non-comedogenic formulas that provide hydration without clogging pores or leaving a greasy residue.
To help you find the best moisturizer for oily skin, we tested the top-rated, best-selling products on the market. Keep reading for our expert picks, comparison chart, buying guide, and FAQs.
With its oil-free, non-comedogenic formula, Cetaphil’s daily hydrating lotion is our top pick for the best moisturizer for oily skin. It contains humectants like glycerin to draw moisture into the skin without adding excess oils. Niacinamide also helps control sebum production while panthenol soothes and hydrates. This dermatologist-recommended moisturizer absorbs quickly, never feels greasy, and won’t clog pores.
If you’re looking for an affordable gel based moisturizer for oily skin, Pond’s Super Light Gel is a great option. Despite the low price tag, it contains skin-nourishing ingredients like vitamin E, witch hazel, and hyaluronic acid. The refreshing gel-cream formula is oil-free and non-comedogenic. It moisturizes without leaving a greasy residue or shiny finish. This is a great daily moisturizer for those on a budget.
Neutrogena’s Hydro Boost Water Gel is a lightweight gel moisturizer powered by hyaluronic acid. This substance attracts and binds moisture to the skin. The unique gel texture absorbs quickly without leaving any greasy residue. It provides intense hydration that lasts all day. While it’s oil-free, it never feels drying. This moisturizer is great for oily skin that needs an extra moisture boost.
Niacinamide is ideal for oily, acne-prone skin thanks to its ability to control excess oil and sebum production. Minimalist’s 10% Niacinamide Moisturizer contains a high concentration of this active ingredient plus zinc PCA to treat and prevent breakouts. The lightweight lotion texture absorbs quickly without clogging pores or feeling greasy. It’s also free of fragrances, silicones, and other acne-provoking ingredients.
In addition to controlling shine, this Mamaearth moisturizer helps prevent and treat acne breakouts. Tea tree oil has natural antibacterial properties to fight acne-causing bacteria. Salicylic acid exfoliates dead skin cells inside pores to reduce breakouts. Together, these ingredients make this a great daily moisturizer for oily, acne-prone skin. It also has a mattifying effect to minimize shine.
Cetaphil’s moisturizing lotion is a dermatologist-recommended option for sensitive, easily irritated skin. It has a minimal, fragrance-free formula making it ideal for those who react negatively to scented products. The non-greasy lotion soothes and hydrates skin without clogging pores. Gentle enough for daily use, it’s a great moisturizer pick for oily yet sensitive complexions.
Oily skin tends to be prone to pigmentation and dark spots. Dot & Key’s brightening face moisturizer combats this with antioxidant vitamins C and E. Vitamin C evens tone and reduces the appearance of spots and marks. Vitamin E protects against free radical damage. The oil-free sorbet texture absorbs quickly without clogging pores. With regular use, this moisturizer reveals a more radiant, even-toned complexion.
The Lotus Herbals Oil-Free Matte Gel Creme lives up to its name. It has an ultra-lightweight gel texture that hydrates skin without ever feeling greasy. This moisturizer also contains oil-absorbing agents like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to control excess sebum. As a result, it leaves a shine-free, matte finish that lasts for hours. For oily skin in need of mattifying hydration, this is an excellent drugstore option.
As the name suggests, Plum’s Green Tea Oil-Free Moisturizer is completely oil-free and non-comedogenic. It hydrates oily skin without clogging pores thanks to ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and squalane. Antioxidant-rich green tea protects against environmental damage. The refreshing lightweight formula also contains niacinamide to balance oils and reduce shine. This moisturizer gives hydration without the greasiness.
Simple’s Kind to Skin moisturizer provides fuss-free hydration that’s gentle enough for daily use. It has a lightweight lotion texture that absorbs quickly without leaving any oily residue. The formula contains skin-softening glycerin, nourishing vitamin E, and mineral UV filters for protection. It’s fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, making it suitable for even sensitive or acne-prone skin. A great daily moisturizer at an affordable price.
This natural moisturizer from WOW Skin Science is formulated with organic apple cider vinegar. The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar helps balance skin’s pH levels, controls oil production, and prevents breakouts. Along with aloe vera juice, it provides lightweight hydration without clogging pores. As an alcohol-free, 100% natural and organic formula, it’s a great chemical-free option for oily skin.
Nivea Men’s Oil Control Moisturizer provides shine-free hydration with an oil controlling formula perfect for men’s oily skin. The lightweight, fast-absorbing texture won’t leave behind any greasy residue. It contains mineral oils and glycerin to moisturize while absorbing excess sebum. With its mens skincare formulation, this is an excellent daily moisturizer for guys with oily, acne-prone skin.
Product | Key Features | Price |
---|---|---|
Cetaphil Daily Oil-Free Hydrating Lotion | Oil-free, non-comedogenic, lightweight hydration | ₹428 for 100ml |
Pond’s Super Light Gel Moisturizer | Oil-free gel-cream, vitamin E, affordable | ₹198 for 100ml |
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel | Hyaluronic acid, oil-free gel, absorbs quickly | ₹945 for 50ml |
Minimalist 10% Niacinamide Moisturizer | 10% niacinamide, zinc PCA, lightweight lotion | ₹399 for 50ml |
Mamaearth Oil-Free Tea Tree Face Moisturizer | Tea tree oil, salicylic acid, mattifying | ₹280 for 80ml |
Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion | Fragrance-free, non-irritating, soothing | ₹428 for 100ml |
Dot & Key Vitamin C + E Sorbet Face Moisturizer | Vitamins C & E, minimizes dark spots | ₹297 for 25ml |
Lotus Herbals Oil-Free Matte Gel Creme | Oil-controlling, mattifying finish | ₹245 for 50g |
Plum Green Tea Oil-Free Moisturizer | 100% oil-free, green tea, antioxidants | ₹335 for 50ml |
Simple Kind to Skin Protecting Light Moisturizer | Lightweight, fast-absorbing, gentle | ₹388 for 125ml |
WOW Skin Science Apple Cider Vinegar Face Moisturizer | Organic apple cider vinegar, 100% natural | ₹268 for 100ml |
Nivea Men Oil Control Moisturizer | Quick-absorbing, oil control, men’s skincare | ₹199 for 50ml |
When it comes to hydrating oily, acne-prone facial skin, using the right moisturizer is key. Here are our top picks for the best face moisturizers for oily skin:
With its oil-free, non-comedogenic formula, Cetaphil’s daily hydrating lotion is our top choice face moisturizer for oily skin. It contains humectants like glycerin to hydrate without adding excess oils.
Neutrogena’s Hydro Boost Water Gel provides intense hydration powered by hyaluronic acid. The unique gel texture absorbs quickly without leaving greasy residue, making it a great face moisturizer for oily skin.
Minimalist’s 10% Niacinamide Moisturizer contains niacinamide to control excess oil and sebum production on the face. The lightweight lotion texture won’t clog pores.
Simple’s lightweight, fast-absorbing moisturizer provides fuss-free hydration that’s gentle enough for daily facial use on oily skin. It’s non-comedogenic and fragrance-free.
Oily skin needs lightweight, non-greasy hydration in hot, humid summer weather. Here are our top summer moisturizer picks:
The oil-free gel-cream texture of Pond’s Super Light Gel provides refreshing hydration without heaviness or greasiness during summer.
Plum’s green tea moisturizer is 100% oil-free with antioxidants to hydrate and protect oily skin in summer without clogging pores.
Mamaearth’s oil-free, mattifying moisturizer with tea tree oil helps control shine and acne in summer. The salicylic acid fights sweat-induced breakouts.
The apple cider vinegar in this lightweight WOW moisturizer helps balance oily summer skin and control breakouts with its antibacterial properties.
While oily skin produces less sebum in winter, it still needs hydration. Here are ideal winter moisturizers:
Cetaphil’s nourishing yet lightweight lotion soothes and hydrates oily skin without clogging pores during winter.
This moisturizer from Dot & Key brightens winter skin with antioxidant vitamins C and E in a pore-friendly sorbet texture.
Minimalist’s oil-control moisturizer regulates sebum with niacinamide to prevent dryness or flakiness in cold winter weather.
Neutrogena’s hyaluronic acid gel provides a surge of hydration to thirsty winter skin without adding shine or oil.
Here are top K-beauty moisturizer picks for shiny, acne-prone skin:
This lightweight Korean gel moisturizer calms inflammation and breakouts with anti-bacterial propolis and aloe vera.
Cosrx’s ultra-hydrating Korean lotion is powered by birch sap and hyaluronic acid for moisture minus the grease.
Jeju green tea balances oil production in this hydrating lotion from Korean skincare brand Innisfree.
Klairs’ soothing cream contains yeast extract and beta-glucan to hydrate while controlling sebum and shine.
For daytime use, make sure your moisturizer contains SPF. Here are top options with built-in sun protection:
Cetaphil’s daily moisturizing lotion offers lightweight hydration with broad spectrum SPF 15 sunscreen for oily skin.
Olay’s oil-free, fragrance-free daily moisturizer hydrates while providing sun protection with SPF 15 for oily and acne-prone skin.
Neutrogena’s fast-absorbing oil-free moisturizer contains broad spectrum SPF 15 sunscreen to hydrate and protect oily skin.
La Roche-Posay’s mattifying face moisturizer hydrates oily skin while reducing shine, plus offers SPF 30 protection.
Water-based moisturizers deliver hydration without heaviness or grease. Our top water-based picks include:
This hyaluronic acid gel moisturizer is formulated with water for quick absorption and oil-free hydration on oily skin.
Simple’s lightweight moisturizer has a water-rich formula that hydrates oily skin without greasiness or pore-clogging ingredients.
Clinique’s oil-controlling face gel has an oil-free, water-based formula that absorbs quickly and improves skin’s moisture barrier.
The Body Shop’s mattifying toner contains community trade tea tree oil to control excess oil while providing hydration.
Creams offer richer hydration while still working for oily skin if they have a non-comedogenic base. Our top cream picks include:
Despite the name, Cetaphil’s hydrating lotion has a creamy richness while still being lightweight and non-greasy for oily skin.
Olay’s lightweight SPF face cream provides daily hydration and sun protection. The oil-free formula won’t clog pores.
Aveeno’s oil-free face cream contains salicylic acid to treat and prevent breakouts while providing creamy hydration suitable for acne-prone skin.
La Roche-Posay’s nourishing face cream hydrates oily yet sensitive skin without clogging pores or causing new breakouts.
With so many options on the market, it can be tricky to choose the best moisturizer for your oily skin type. Here are some key things to look for:
The label should clearly state that the moisturizer is oil-free, non-comedogenic, and suitable for acne-prone skin. Avoid mineral oils, silicones, and other occlusive ingredients that can clog pores.
Gel and lightweight lotion or fluid textures absorb fastest on oily skin. Avoid thick, heavy creams or buttery formulas that can feel greasy.
Look for mattifying ingredients like silica, zinc, clay, or oil-absorbing powders that leave a shine-free finish. Or ingredients like niacinamide that regulate oil and sebum production
Hydrating humectants like glycerin and hyaluronic acid draw moisture into the skin without adding oils. The formula should feel hydrating but not greasy.
Fragrances, whether natural or synthetic, can irritate sensitive or acneic skin. Opt for fragrance-free moisturizers whenever possible.
There are a few different moisturizer formulas suitable for oily and acne-prone skin. Here’s an overview of the options:
Gel moisturizers have lightweight, water-based formulas that absorb quickly without leaving residue. They provide hydration through humectants like glycerin and hyaluronic acid. Gel textures are ideal for oily skin that needs a moisture boost.
These moisturizers contain oil-absorbing ingredients like silica, kaolin clay, zinc oxide, or titanium dioxide. By controlling shine and mopping up excess sebum, they leave a matte, shine-free finish on oily skin.
Oil-free facial lotions provide hydration through water-binding humectants in a lightweight lotion base free of pore-clogging oils. They moisturize oily skin without adding shine or greasiness.
These moisturizers use ingredients like niacinamide, saw palmetto, or linoleic acid to regulate oil production and sebum levels. With regular use, they improve skin’s natural oil balance.
Formulas containing acne fighters like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or tea tree oil help treat and prevent breakouts while hydrating. Look for non-comedogenic formulas.
With an overwhelming array of products to choose from, selecting the best moisturizer for your oily or acne-prone skin can be difficult. Here are some tips:
Yes, you should still moisturize oily skin. Skipping moisturizer can disrupt skin’s balance and cause it to overproduce oil. Look for lightweight, oil-free formulas that provide hydration without clogging pores or adding shine.
Avoid heavier oils like mineral oil, coconut oil, and jojoba oil that can clog pores. Steer clear of thick buttery formulas as well. Avoid fragrances and alcohols which can irritate and dry out acne-prone skin.
Moisturize oily skin once or twice daily, like after cleansing in the morning and evening. Opt for a lighter moisturizer in the morning underneath makeup or sunscreen. Use a richer night cream at bedtime when clogged pores are less of a concern.
Apply moisturizer first, then layer sunscreen on top. Moisturizing creates a smooth, hydrated base that allows sunscreen to glide on evenly for optimum UV protection. Let the moisturizer fully absorb before applying sunscreen.
Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, aloe vera, niacinamide, panthenol, and dimethicone are excellent lightweight hydrators for oily skin. Salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and antioxidants like vitamin C tackle breakouts and hyperpigmentation.
Cetaphil Daily Oil-Free Hydrating Lotion is considered the best moisturizer for oily skin. With its oil-free, non-comedogenic formula, it provides lightweight hydration without clogging pores or leaving a greasy residue. The humectants like glycerin draw moisture into the skin without adding excess oils.
According to sales and consumer popularity, Nivea Soft is considered the No. 1 moisturizer in India. This affordable, dermatologically-tested moisturizer provides instant hydration with its blend of vitamin E, jojoba oil and hydrating emollients. It is suitable for all skin types.
Yes, moisturizing oily skin is important. Skipping moisturizer can actually make oily skin worse by disrupting its natural moisture balance. This leads to increased oil production and more acne breakouts. Using an oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer provides hydration without clogging pores or adding shine.
Use an oil-free, lightweight gel or lotion moisturizer instead of heavy creams. Look for hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and aloe vera instead of thick occlusives. Apply just a small amount and opt for mattifying formulas with oil-controlling ingredients like niacinamide or zinc.
Some good ingredients to look for in products for oily skin include oil-absorbing clays like bentonite or kaolin, oil-controlling minerals like zinc oxide or magnesium aluminum silicate, niacinamide to regulate sebum production, salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to treat acne, and antioxidants like vitamin C or green tea extracts.
Cetaphil Daily Oil-Free Hydrating Lotion, Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel, and Simple Kind to Skin Protecting Light Moisturizer are some of the best moisturizers for oily skin suitable for daily use. They are non-comedogenic, lightweight, fast-absorbing, and gentle enough for daily application.
Some of the best face moisturizer brands for oily skin include Cetaphil, Neutrogena, La Roche-Posay, Clinique, Olay, Aveeno, Garnier, The Ordinary, Cosrx, and Innisfree. These brands offer oil-free and non-comedogenic face moisturizers specifically formulated for acne-prone complexions.
Cetaphil, Neutrogena, Nivea, L’Oreal, Ponds, Plum, Minimalist, Simple, The Body Shop and Himalaya are some of the best moisturizer companies with top-rated products for oily, acne-prone skin. They offer oil-free formulas that hydrate without clogging pores.
The best skincare brands for oily skin include Cetaphil, Neutrogena, La Roche-Posay, Clinique, Olay, Cosrx, Innisfree, The Body Shop, The Ordinary, Minimalist, Simple, Sebamed, and Ponds. These brands offer products specifically formulated for oily, acne-prone skin types.
Yes, oily skin needs sunscreen. The excess sebum on oily skin does not provide adequate protection against UV damage on its own, so it’s important to apply an SPF product. Look for oil-free sunscreens with a matte finish to avoid exacerbating shine.
Yes, rose water can be good for oily skin. Its mild astringent properties help tighten pores and regulate excess oil production. It also has antioxidant benefits. Use an alcohol-free rose water toner or face mist to treat oily skin. Avoid heavy rose oils which can clog pores.
Some good face washes for oily skin include Himalaya Neem Face Wash, Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash, Garnier SkinActive Acne+Pimple Control Face Wash, Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser, and Clean & Clear Foaming Facial Cleanser. Look for formulas with salicylic acid or tea tree oil.
Yes, aloe vera is excellent for oily skin. It is a natural astringent that helps remove excess oil and sebum. It also soothes inflammation and acne without drying the skin. Use aloe vera gel directly as a mask or look for it as an ingredient in moisturizers and cleansers.
The nose tends to be oilier because it has a higher concentration of sebaceous glands. The forehead and chin also typically produce more oil. Excess sebum production, hormone fluctuations, genetics, humidity, and hot weather can all increase oiliness specifically around the nose.
Good serums for oily skin include formulas containing niacinamide to control oil production, vitamin C for brightening and antioxidants, salicylic acid or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) to keep pores clear, and hyaluronic acid or glycerin for lightweight hydration.
Wash with a gentle cleanser, use oil-free skincare products, avoid heavy creams or occlusives, reduce sugar and refined carb intake, stay hydrated, use oil-blotting sheets, don’t over-wash, and use clay masks weekly to help reduce oiliness and restore balance naturally.
Using oil-absorbing clay masks, balancing ingredients like apple cider vinegar or green tea, staying hydrated, avoiding skin-clogging ingredients, applying natural astringents like rose water, taking targeted supplements like zinc or evening primrose oil, and maintaining a consistent but gentle skincare routine can help clear up oily skin.
Oily and acne-prone skin needs specialized oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizers that provide hydration without clogging pores or causing breakouts. Look for lightweight gels or lotions with mattifying properties and blemish-fighting ingredients. With the right formula, moisturizing is an essential step for healthy, balanced oily skin.
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