Finding the right moisturizer for oily skin can feel like a challenge. While you need hydration, your skin also tends to produce excess oil, which can lead to unwanted shine and breakouts. Fortunately, there are moisturizers specifically designed for oily skin that hydrate without clogging pores or contributing to greasiness. Here, we’ve rounded up the 12 best moisturizers for oily skin that promise to deliver the perfect balance of moisture and control for a shine-free, glowing complexion.
1. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel
A classic favorite for oily skin, Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel is a lightweight, oil-free formula that delivers intense hydration without feeling greasy. It contains hyaluronic acid, which helps to draw moisture into the skin and keep it hydrated throughout the day. Its gel texture feels refreshing and absorbs quickly, making it a great option for those with oily skin who want a non-greasy finish. This moisturizer is also non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores or cause breakouts.
2. CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion with SPF 30
CeraVe’s AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion is an excellent choice for those with oily skin who want hydration and sun protection in one. It features a unique formula with niacinamide, which helps calm the skin and regulate oil production, along with ceramides that help strengthen the skin’s protective barrier. The lightweight, non-greasy texture makes it perfect for daily use, and the added SPF 30 ensures your skin stays protected from harmful UV rays.
3. La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat Oil-Free Mattifying Moisturizer
This oil-free, mattifying moisturizer from La Roche-Posay is a top pick for oily and acne-prone skin. It features a combination of sebum-regulating ingredients and oil-absorbing perlite to reduce shine and leave your skin with a smooth, matte finish. Additionally, it contains glycerin and thermal spring water to hydrate the skin without overwhelming it. The Effaclar Mat Moisturizer helps to balance oil production and control shine throughout the day, making it ideal for those looking for long-lasting moisture without a greasy finish.
4. EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
EltaMD’s UV Clear is a favorite among dermatologists for its lightweight, oil-free formula that’s perfect for oily and sensitive skin. This sunscreen/moisturizer hybrid provides broad-spectrum sun protection with SPF 46 while also soothing and calming the skin with niacinamide. It’s great for oily skin types that are prone to redness or irritation. This non-comedogenic formula won’t clog pores, and it has a matte finish that ensures no shine throughout the day.
5. Paula’s Choice Clear Oil-Free Moisturizer
Paula’s Choice Clear Oil-Free Moisturizer is formulated specifically for oily, acne-prone skin. It offers lightweight hydration without clogging pores or causing breakouts. The addition of soothing ingredients like chamomile and niacinamide helps calm irritated skin and reduce redness. It also contains antioxidants to protect the skin from environmental stressors. This moisturizer hydrates while helping to balance oil production, making it an ideal option for oily skin in need of a calming boost.
6. Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel Cream
Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel Cream provides hydration without the heavy feeling of traditional creams. The gel-based formula is perfect for oily skin types, as it absorbs quickly and leaves no greasy residue. It contains imperata cylindrica extract, which helps to keep the skin hydrated while controlling excess oil production. This moisturizer is also enriched with glycerin to draw moisture into the skin, providing long-lasting hydration without shine.
7. Vichy Normaderm Phytosolution Double-Correction Daily Care
Vichy Normaderm Phytosolution Double-Correction Daily Care is a multi-purpose moisturizer designed for oily, acne-prone skin. It provides hydration while helping to reduce the appearance of acne, blackheads, and imperfections. The formula features salicylic acid to gently exfoliate and unclog pores, while also soothing and hydrating the skin. The lightweight texture absorbs quickly and leaves the skin feeling smooth and matte, making it an excellent choice for oily skin in need of moisture and treatment.
8. Bioderma Sébium Mat Control Moisturizer
This moisturizer from Bioderma is specifically formulated for oily skin with a tendency to break out. It works by controlling excess sebum production while providing hydration to keep the skin balanced. The lightweight formula is enriched with fluidactiv technology, which helps to regulate the skin’s oil production and improve skin texture. It also features a mattifying effect that controls shine, making it a great option for those who want to keep their skin clear and oil-free throughout the day.
9. Clinique Dramatically Different Oil-Free Gel
Clinique’s Dramatically Different Oil-Free Gel is designed for oily and combination skin. It provides lightweight hydration without leaving the skin feeling greasy or heavy. The oil-free gel formula helps balance the skin’s moisture levels, leaving it feeling refreshed and hydrated. The addition of glycerin helps to attract moisture to the skin, while the formula is non-comedogenic, making it suitable for acne-prone skin. It absorbs quickly and is perfect for anyone looking to hydrate their skin without the shine.
10. Origins Zero Oil Oil-Free Moisturizer
Origins Zero Oil Oil-Free Moisturizer is a lightweight, mattifying formula that’s perfect for oily skin. It helps to control excess oil while hydrating the skin, leaving it feeling fresh and smooth. The formula contains salicylic acid, which helps to gently exfoliate and keep pores clear. It also has a blend of mint and willowherb extract, which helps to balance oil production and reduce shine. This moisturizer is a great option for those looking to keep their skin matte throughout the day.
11. Murad Oil-Control Mattifier SPF 15
Murad’s Oil-Control Mattifier SPF 15 is a two-in-one product that helps control shine while offering sun protection. This oil-free moisturizer helps minimize excess oil and mattifies the skin, keeping it shine-free throughout the day. The addition of SPF 15 provides some sun protection, making it a great option for everyday wear. It’s formulated with ingredients like niacinamide and grape seed extract to help calm the skin while keeping oil production in check.
12. Dr. Dennis Gross C+ Collagen Brighten & Firm Vitamin C Serum
Though primarily a serum, Dr. Dennis Gross C+ Collagen also serves as an excellent addition to an oily skin care routine. This potent vitamin C serum fights signs of aging, brightens the complexion, and firms the skin. It’s formulated with a unique blend of antioxidants that helps balance oil production and hydrate the skin, giving it a smooth, glowing appearance. It’s especially beneficial for those with oily skin who want to address dullness or hyperpigmentation while maintaining a shine-free look.
When it comes to oily skin, finding a moisturizer that hydrates without exacerbating oil production is key. The products listed above not only provide essential hydration but also help control shine, minimize pores, and maintain a balanced complexion. From gel creams to oil-free formulas and treatments for acne-prone skin, there is a perfect moisturizer for every type of oily skin. Consistent use of the right moisturizer can help you achieve a hydrated, smooth, and shine-free glow.
