BY MARY JUSTICE
If you have oily skin, you may have been under the impression that moisturizers are off-limits for your complexion. After all, the last thing you want is to add extra shine or clog your pores with heavy, greasy creams. However, not moisturizing can actually make your skin produce even more oil, resulting in a greasy T-zone, enlarged pores, and increased breakouts. The trick lies in finding the right moisturizer — one that hydrates without contributing to excess oil or shine.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best moisturizers for oily skin, explain what to look for when choosing a formula, and how to achieve a balanced, matte finish. Let’s dive in!
Understanding Oily Skin and the Importance of Moisturizing
Oily skin is caused by an overproduction of sebum from your skin’s sebaceous glands. While this natural oil is meant to protect your skin, too much of it can lead to clogged pores, breakouts, and an overall shiny appearance. Despite the excess oil, hydration is still essential for maintaining skin health.
Why moisturize oily skin?
When you skip out on a moisturizer, your skin can become dehydrated, prompting your glands to go into overdrive and produce even more oil. A proper moisturizer helps balance the skin’s moisture levels without making it greasy. The key is choosing a lightweight, oil-free formula designed for your skin type.
What to Look for in a Moisturizer for Oily Skin
When shopping for the best moisturizer for oily skin, look for products with the following features:
- Oil-Free: Oil-free formulas won’t clog your pores or leave your skin feeling heavy.
- Non-Comedogenic: This term refers to products that won’t block your pores, reducing the risk of breakouts.
- Lightweight Texture: Gel-based or water-based moisturizers tend to be more suitable for oily skin, as they offer hydration without the weight of creams or balms.
- Mattifying: Some moisturizers are designed with mattifying properties to reduce shine and help keep your skin looking fresh all day long.
- Hydrating Ingredients: Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or aloe vera, which hydrate without adding excess oil to the skin.
Top Moisturizers for Oily Skin
We’ve rounded up some of the best moisturizers for oily skin that will leave your complexion balanced and glowing (but not greasy!).
1. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel
This cult favorite is a go-to for oily skin types looking for a burst of hydration. The gel-based formula is packed with hyaluronic acid, which draws moisture into the skin without adding any oil or heavy residue. Plus, it absorbs quickly, leaving skin feeling smooth and refreshed.
Why we love it: Lightweight, non-comedogenic, and fragrance-free.
2. CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion
For those with oily skin and a tendency to break out, CeraVe’s PM formula offers gentle, nighttime hydration. It’s packed with niacinamide to calm inflammation and ceramides to restore the skin’s natural barrier. This non-greasy lotion is ideal for daily use, even if you have acne-prone skin.
Why we love it: Calming, nourishing, and suitable for sensitive skin.
3. Clinique Dramatically Different Hydrating Jelly
Clinique’s Hydrating Jelly is perfect for oily skin because it provides intense hydration with a weightless, oil-free formula. Infused with glycerin and aloe vera, this moisturizer helps lock in moisture without making skin feel greasy or sticky.
Why we love it: Oil-free, allergy-tested, and suitable for all skin types.
4. La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat Oil-Free Mattifying Moisturizer
Designed specifically for oily and acne-prone skin, this mattifying moisturizer from La Roche-Posay controls shine while providing hydration. It helps refine the appearance of pores and leaves skin with a smooth, matte finish.
Why we love it: Controls shine, refines pores, and is dermatologically tested.
5. Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel Cream
A fantastic option for those who want moisture without the shine, this lightweight gel-cream formula from Kiehl’s is oil-free and provides up to 24 hours of hydration. It’s a great choice if you want a moisturizer that will keep your skin matte throughout the day while still feeling fresh.
Why we love it: Provides long-lasting hydration without leaving skin greasy.
6. The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
A super affordable option that does not compromise on quality, The Ordinary’s NMF + HA offers hydrating benefits without overwhelming oily skin. With a combination of amino acids, fatty acids, and hyaluronic acid, this moisturizer helps maintain skin hydration while balancing oil production.
Why we love it: Affordable, effective, and straightforward formulation.
Additional Tips for Oily Skin
- Exfoliate regularly: Removing dead skin cells allows your moisturizer to penetrate better and prevents buildup that can lead to clogged pores.
- Don’t skip sunscreen: Many people with oily skin avoid sunscreen because it feels greasy, but there are lightweight, oil-free options specifically designed for oily skin. Opt for a non-comedogenic sunscreen to keep your skin protected without excess shine.
- Avoid thick creams: Stick to gel-based or water-based moisturizers rather than rich, heavy creams. Thick formulas can exacerbate oil production and clog pores.
Conclusion
Finding the best moisturizer for oily skin doesn’t have to be a challenge. By choosing the right lightweight, oil-free formula, you can keep your skin hydrated, balanced, and shine-free. Whether you opt for a cult favorite like Neutrogena Hydro Boost or a dermatologist-recommended brand like La Roche-Posay, these moisturizers will provide the hydration your skin needs without weighing it down.
Remember: the key is to focus on ingredients that hydrate and balance, not add to the oil production. With the right moisturizer, you’ll achieve that coveted, glowing matte finish every time.