We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. What to Buy Skincare Products The 17 Best Moisturizers for Oily Skin of 2024, Tested and Reviewed Hydrate your skin and balance oil production with these real-life tested and dermatologist-approved picks By Lauren Paige Richeson Lauren Paige Richeson Lauren Paige Richeson is a health writer and commerce editor at Verywell. She's the author of Avocado Obsession Cookbook and covers a wide range of lifestyle and wellness topics for some of the world's most popular publications. health's editorial guidelines and Lacey Muinos Lacey Muinos Lacey is a professional writer living in Southern California. She specializes in fitness, nutrition and various health topics. She not only has a passion for healthy living, but she also practices what she preaches with her longtime vegan diet. Her work has been featured in Health, Simply Recipes, VeryWell Fit, and more. Lacey graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in English from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona. She is also host of Guide to Vegan, a blog focused on a plant-based lifestyle. health's editorial guidelines Updated on March 20, 2024 Medically reviewed by William Truswell, MD Medically reviewed by William Truswell, MD William Truswell, MD, FACS, operates his own cosmetic and reconstructive facial surgery practice. Dr. Truswell was the first in his area in Western Massachusetts to have an accredited private office surgical suite. learn more Fact checked by Richard Scherr Fact checked by Richard Scherr Rich Scherr is an updates strategist and fact checker for Dotdash Meredith brands, including Health and Verywell. He is a seasoned financial and technology journalist who served as editor-in-chief of the Potomac Tech Wire for nearly two decades, and is a regular contributor to the sports pages of The Baltimore Sun. He has also been a news editor for America Online and has contributed to the Associated Press and The Washington Post. health's fact checking process In This Article Expand In This Article Our Top Picks ReviewsDo People With Oily Skin Need Moisturizer? We Also Tested Our Testing Process The Experts Key Ingredients to Look for Can Moisturizer Cause Acne If You Have Oily Skin? Who We Are Health / Kristin Kempa Contrary to popular belief, moisturizing oily skin doesn’t exacerbate the issues (nor does it cause acne)—it can actually help, according to board-certified dermatologist Macrene Alexiades, MD, FAAD. Oily skin produces too much oil or sebum but may still be in need of hydration or addressing other skin concerns, such as acne, eczema, melasma, or rosacea, she says. Choosing the right moisturizer can balance oil production, unclog pores, and soothe irritation. We consulted dermatologists for their recommendations for moisturizers with the right ingredients to control sebum, fight acne-causing bacteria, and minimize pores. Then, we tested over three dozen moisturizers in the Health lab and rated them for consistency, absorption, oiliness, appearance, and value. We also had a plastic surgeon on our Medical Expert Board review this article for medical and scientific accuracy. Do People With Oily Skin Need Moisturizer? Everyone needs to moisturize, and individuals with oily skin are no exception. A moisturizer’s job is to form a protective barrier around the skin. This keeps out the nasties like dirt and debris but prevents water from escaping, which is essential for skin health. Skin that is well-hydrated is less prone to sensitivity, irritation, and premature aging and can also better perform functions like flushing out toxins and carrying nutrients. Additionally, hydrating the skin with a moisturizer may help balance out oil levels in the skin. When skin is dehydrated, it can overcompensate with excess oil. Using a moisturizer can prevent water loss, so skin doesn’t go into overdrive producing oil to make up for the lack of water. Our Top Picks Best Overall: Tatcha The Water Cream at Amazon ($72) Jump to Review Best Budget: Versed Dew Point Moisturizing Gel-Cream at Target ($15) Jump to Review Best for Acne: e.l.f. Blemish Water Cream at Amazon ($12) Jump to Review Best with SPF: Cetaphil Oil Absorbing Moisturizer SPF 30 at Amazon ($18) Jump to Review Best Lightweight: BYOMA Moisturizing Gel Cream at Amazon ($20) Jump to Review Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Moisturizer at Amazon ($13) Jump to Review Best Gel: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel with Hyaluronic Acid at Target ($20) Jump to Review Best Night Cream: Mele Facial Cream at Target ($8) Jump to Review Best for Fall and Winter: Innisfree Green Tea Seed Serum at Amazon ($30) Jump to Review Best for Spring and Summer: Basebutter Balancing Gel Facial Moisturizer at Target ($37) Jump to Review Best Overall Tatcha The Water Cream PHOTO: Amazon $72 at Amazon $72 at Sephora $65 at Walmart Why We Like It We named Tatcha The Water Cream Moisturizer our best overall because it targets oil control without neglecting to hydrate oily skin. This moisturizer impressed us during our tests with its delightful floral scent and quick absorption, delivering lightweight and deep moisturization. Our faces felt calm, smooth, and non-greasy. The moisturizer went on smoothly and evenly, boasting a delightful light cream consistency. Initially, the thin and watery consistency gave us pause, but our worries dissolved as our skin appeared nourished and radiant after application. It effectively kept our skin hydrated without any tacky feeling, maintaining a healthy and moisturized appearance even at the end of the day. It's a great moisturizer for a healthy glow without an oily T-zone. It’s Worth Noting It may leave the skin with a white cast, so it’s best used under makeup as a primer. Product Details: Key Ingredients: Japanese Wild Rose, Japanese Leopard Lily, Hadasei-3 Complex,Size: 1.3 fl. oz.Formulation: Cream Best Budget Versed Dew Point Moisturizing Gel-Cream PHOTO: Amazon $15 at Target $15 at Walmart View on Versedskin.com Why We Like It This budget-friendly pick is powered by many of the same active ingredients as other moisturizers at higher price points. Versed Dew Point Moisturizing Gel Cream features a blend of ingredients that promote hydration and comfort. Notable components like squalane and glycerin provide deep moisturization, while aloe vera and green tea extract soothe and protect the skin. We found this moisturizer's clean, cruelty-free, and vegan formula to be quite impressive. It stood out for its ability to calm and soothe redness, and we were particularly pleased with its lightweight and non-sticky gel-like consistency. Despite its light feel, it offered hydration akin to a cream, minus any heaviness. The cream absorbed rapidly, leaving an immediate sense of hydration. Our skin not only appeared less oily but also felt less oily to the touch. This gel cream seamlessly blended with our natural skin, offering an ultra-hydrated version. What's even better is the price point – it's an exceptional deal for its quality. With its blend of antioxidants like green tea and natural hydration from aloe vera, this product not only offers value but effectiveness as well. It’s Worth Noting Some may find the scent bothersome or irritating, particularly if they have sensitive skin. Product Details: Key Ingredients: Sodium Hyaluronate, Aloe Vera, Green Tea Extract, Algae Extract, Squalane, Glycerin, Chamomile Flower Extract, and PanthenolSize: 2 fl oz.Formulation: Gel cream Best for Acne e.l.f. Blemish Water Cream PHOTO: Ulta $12 at Amazon $11 at Target $25 at Walmart Why We Like It After putting the E.L.F Blemish Breakthrough Calming Water Cream to the test, we found it to be a top choice for those with acne-prone, oily skin. This water cream not only soothes and evens out skin tone but also helps control excess oil, all thanks to its powerful combination of salicylic acid and zinc PCA. Plus, it's fragrance-free, dermatologist-developed, and non-comedogenic. The cream's consistency is incredibly comfortable, lightweight, and barely noticeable on our skin. Absorption is quick and efficient, leaving no residue or pilling behind. What's most impressive is its ability to significantly reduce oiliness while maintaining moisture and hydration. Though we noticed a subtle difference in skin feel – a bit more refreshed and hydrated – visible changes weren't as pronounced. However, considering its 4% Niacinamide content and cruelty-free nature, we think the price is fair. With the added benefits of oil reduction, improved skin tone, and blemish reduction, this product holds great value. It’s Worth Noting While salicylic acid is a plus for oily acne-prone faces, it might not be as suitable for all skin types. Product Details: Key Ingredients: Salicylic Acid, Zinc PCA, Aloe Vera, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, Squalane, Green Tea ExtractSize: 1.7 fl oz.Formulation: Water cream Best with SPF Cetaphil Oil Absorbing Moisturizer SPF 30 PHOTO: Amazon $15 at Amazon $15 at Target $17 at Walmart Why We Like It Everyone needs sunscreen, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, but applying it can feel like a chore. Moisturizers with built-in SPF are a convenient solution. We found the Cetaphil Pro Oil Absorbing Moisturizer to be a wonderful option for those seeking a moisturizer with SPF. This multitasker is specifically formulated to reduce excess oil on the skin and provide hydration and sun protection without leaving a greasy or heavy feeling on the skin. The two-in-one product protects against sun exposure, which can increase the risk of skin cancer and contribute to premature aging, all while addressing other skin needs. Its oil-free, non-greasy formula was impressive, the moisturizer's consistency was lightweight and creamy without any heaviness, and it absorbed quickly without leaving residue or a white cast. While it effectively reduced oil and offered hydration, we didn't observe significant improvements in skin texture. The affordability and its sun protection benefit make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking mild hydration and sunscreen. While it could be more hydrating, it's a solid option for those in search of a lightweight moisturizer with added SPF benefits. It’s Worth Noting This moisturizer lacks ingredients that minimize pores and balance sebum levels. Product Details: Key Ingredients: Avobenzone, Octisalate, Octocrylene, SPF30Size: 4 fl oz.Formulation: Lotion Best Lightweight BYOMA Moisturizing Gel Cream PHOTO: Target $15 at Amazon $10 at Target $12 at Ulta Why We Like It If you have oily skin, finding a lightweight moisturizer is crucial to avoid feeling greasy and congested. The BYOMA Moisturizing Gel Cream is oil-free and strikes the right balance, providing moisture without heaviness, making it great for oily skin. We loved its silky, lightweight feel despite the slightly thicker consistency. It had a gel-like quality, neither too thick nor too loose, giving a refreshing, airy sensation upon application. While there was a brief sticky sensation, it swiftly dissipated, leaving the skin smooth. The moisturizer absorbed rapidly, lending a dewy look and requiring minimal blending. It steered clear of any greasiness due to its oil-free formulation and curbed breakouts, promoting clearer skin. It’s Worth Noting The pump dispenser can be difficult to use when there’s not much product left in the bottle. Product Details: Key Ingredients: Tri-Ceramide Complex, Niaciminade, Green TeaSize: 1.69 fl. oz.Formulation: Gel Health / Joy Kim Health / Joy Kim Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Moisturizer PHOTO: Walmart $10 at Amazon $17 at Walmart $13 at CVS Why We Like It Packed with salicylic acid and a non-comedogenic formula, Neutrogena Oil Free Acne Facial Moisturizer proved to be the ultimate drugstore option for those with oily skin in our tests. The moisturizer's lightweight texture glided seamlessly onto the skin, providing an incredibly refreshing sensation upon application. Absorption was impressively swift, leaving no pilling or residue behind. We noticed a subtle reduction in skin oiliness while our skin felt fully hydrated, moisturized, and remarkably refreshed. The cool sensation it offered post-application was a delightful bonus. Our skin looked noticeably plumper, softer, and smoother, without any greasy appearance. The moisturizer's exceptional quality and performance exceeded our expectations, especially considering its wallet-friendly price. It's a standout option for anyone seeking an effective and value-packed solution. It’s Worth Noting This moisturizer has a scent that not everyone may find pleasant. Product Details: Key Ingredients: 2% Salicylic Acid, Grapefruit extract, Vitamin CSize: 4 fl oz.Formulation: Cream Best Gel Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel with Hyaluronic Acid PHOTO: Ulta $20 at Target $26 at CVS $20 at Ulta Why We Like It Another dermatologist we spoke to, Dustin Portela, DO, urges those with oily skin to trade in the thick creams for gel moisturizers, like the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Gel-Cream. It’s formulated with hyaluronic acid, which provides long-lasting moisture without feeling heavy or greasy on the skin. The lightweight texture and non-comedogenic formula make it ideal for oily and acne-prone skin.During our test, we found it to be a versatile moisturizer with a perfect balance, neither too heavy nor too light, which we appreciated. The inclusion of hyaluronic acid helped lock in hydration. By the end of the day, the product looked fine and was not visibly noticeable. We also noticed a reduced need for setting our makeup and less forehead oiliness compared to before. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Gel-Cream is a worthwhile option, especially for those seeking a moisturizer with a balance between accessibility, hyaluronic acid content, and a comfortable feel. It’s Worth Noting It doesn’t contain as many active ingredients as other moisturizers on our list. Product Details: Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, DimethiconeSize: 1.7 fl oz.Formulation: Gel cream Health / Jhett Thompson Health / Jhett Thompson Health / Jhett Thompson Health / Jhett Thompson Health / Jhett Thompson Health / Joy Kim Health / Joy Kim Best Night Cream Mele Facial Cream PHOTO: Amazon $8 at Target Why We Like It If applying an oil- and additive-free moisturizer to your oily skin is a part of your nighttime skincare, consider adding the Mele Plump It Up Nourishing Facial Cream to your routine. Formulated without parabens, alcohol, and mineral oil, this POC-founded product packs a punch with oil-fighting ingredients like niacinamide.Applying it was a breeze, and the light floral fragrance added to the experience. The cream absorbed effectively, leaving no heavy feeling. Instead, our skin felt both hydrated and refreshed, without any greasiness or oiliness. In fact, it created an excellent base for our foundation and makeup. The soothing effect was a welcome bonus. Considering the product's size and ingredients, it's a fantastic deal. Its affordability and value make it a smart choice, and the mess-free packaging is a big plus. It’s Worth Noting The lightweight texture might require additional applications. Product Details: Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, vitamin BSize: 1.3 fl oz.Formulation: Cream Best for Fall and Winter Innisfree Green Tea Seed Serum PHOTO: Innisfree $30 at Amazon $24 at Sephora View on Innisfree.com Why We Like It We were pleasantly surprised by the innisfree Green Tea Seed Intensive Hydrating Cream Face Moisturizer in our test. Infused with green tea extract, it provides deep hydration using hyaluronic acid, which makes it a great choice for those with oily skin, particularly for cooler weather. Its intensive formula replenishes moisture and helps maintain the skin's natural barrier, keeping it soft and supple in the face of harsh weather conditions. It's lightweight and sheer, so a little goes a long way with this cream. As the cooler days arrived, we discovered its true magic – it provided remarkable hydration without making our skin appear greasy. Instead, we enjoyed a dewy but not overpowering look. This moisturizer proved its worth with its ample quantity in the jar and the minimal amount needed for application, offering excellent value. If you're seeking moisture and a refreshed complexion, this brand has you covered. Plus, it's conveniently packaged in a jar for easy use. It’s Worth Noting Some might find the strong green tea fragrance overwhelming, especially if they are sensitive to scents. Product Details: Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Green Tea ExtractSize: 2.7 fl oz.Formulation: Serum Best for Spring and Summer Basebutter Balancing Gel Facial Moisturizer PHOTO: Basebutter $37 at Target View on Basebutter.com Why We Like It BaseButter Balancing Gel Facial Moisturizer is an antioxidant-rich and refreshing option ideal for oily skin in spring and summer weather. Its lightweight formula ensures that it won't clog pores or feel heavy on the skin, making it a suitable choice for those with oily skin seeking hydration without added shine. Upon application, we enjoyed a pleasant experience. Its gel-like consistency provides a cooling sensation, making it perfect for the warmer months. It felt soothing and left our skin feeling comfortable, accompanied by a subtle minty sensation that thankfully didn't lead to any burning. Remarkably, we hardly felt it on our face, even with movement, and there was no uncomfortable tightness. Our skin felt wonderfully hydrated, soft, and refreshed. It lives up to its claims of moisturizing and boosting elasticity. We give this moisturizer a thumbs up – it's effective, reasonably priced, and comes in attractive packaging. It’s Worth Noting It might not be sufficient for those seeking intense moisturization. Product Details: Key Ingredients: Organic Aloe Leaf Juice, Shea Butter, Evening Primrose Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, Glycerin, Witch HazelSize: 2 fl oz.Formulation: Gel Best for Sensitive Skin Estee Lauder Soft Creme/Mask Moisturizer PHOTO: Estee Lauder $48 at Ulta $43 at Walmart $43 at Walmart Why We Like It Estée Lauder's Nutritious Melting Soft Creme/Mask Moisturizer is a true gem for sensitive skin, formulated with enriching ingredients like sweet kelp and red algae, and it proudly avoids harmful components such as parabens and sulfites. We loved its refreshing, lightweight feel, accompanied by a delightful coconut and rose water fragrance. The water-based formula seamlessly melded into the skin, leaving a luxurious, silky sensation. It layered well with makeup, providing a flawless, skin-like finish. While it absorbed quickly, a bit more product might be needed for intense hydration, something to consider for budget-conscious users. We had no issues with pilling or greasiness; removing it was effortless. Over four weeks, we consistently noticed a steady improvement in skin hydration and remarkable effectiveness in preventing breakouts and red spots, even for sensitive, acne-prone skin. For daily use, especially with its lightweight, non-greasy formula and pleasant aroma, this moisturizer is an excellent choice. It’s Worth Noting It does have a light scent but didn't appear to cause any irritation. Product Details: Key Ingredients: Nutri-9 Complex, Sweet Kelp, Red Algae Ferment, Coconut Water FermentSize: 1.7 fl. oz.Formulation: Cream Health / Jhett Thompson Health / Joy Kim Health / Jhett Thompson Health / Jhett Thompson Health / Jhett Thompson Health / Jhett Thompson Health / Jhett Thompson Health / Jhett Thompson Health / Joy Kim Best Oil-Free Shani Darden Skin Care Weightless Oil-Free Moisturizer PHOTO: Sephora $50 at Amazon $50 at Sephora $72 at Walmart Why We Like It Shani Darden Weightless Oil-Free Moisturizer is an excellent choice for oily skin due to its oil-free formulation that provides hydration without adding excess shine. The lightweight texture absorbs quickly, leaving a smooth and non-greasy finish, making it ideal for those looking to control oil throughout the day. It strikes a balance between delivering essential moisture and addressing the needs of oily skin, helping to maintain a matte appearance. The moisturizer blended seamlessly into our skin, applying thinly and easily. Upon application, our skin quickly drank it up, leaving us feeling nourished and rejuvenated. The best part was that it didn't impart any oily or greasy feeling; rather, it provided a healthy, glowing effect. We observed a noticeable improvement in skin texture, which felt smoother and well-nourished. While it didn't necessarily plump our skin, it surely left it feeling revitalized and refreshed. This product is vegan, cruelty-free, paraben-free, fragrance-free, and it's proudly Black-owned/founded. Also, the convenient pump packaging is a bonus. It’s Worth Noting Some users with extremely dry but oily skin may find it to be not moisturizing enough for their needs. Product Details: Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Hydrolyzed Collagen, Red Algae Extract Size: 2.5 fl. oz.Formulation: Cream Best Mattifying Caudalie Vinopure Moisturizing Mattifying Fluid PHOTO: Amazon $38 at Amazon $38 at Sephora $38 at Dermstore Why We Like It With its vegan, gluten-free, and cruelty-free formulation, the Caudalie Vinopure Oil Control Moisturizer emerged in our tests as a top choice for those seeking a mattifying solution tailored for oily skin. Upon application, its impressively lightweight, almost watery gel-like consistency seamlessly absorbed into the skin without any discomfort. However, we found that while it effectively eliminates any oily sheen, it might require an additional moisturizer to address dryness fully. Despite this, its matte finish is a plus for oily skin.The product's reasonable pricing makes it an attractive option, though, for those with combination dry and oily skin, a more moisturizing formula might be ideal. It’s Worth Noting The product has a specific fragrance that may not be suitable for individuals with fragrance sensitivities. Product Details: Key Ingredients: Grape Seed Polyphenols, Silica Powder, Java Tea Extract, Natural Mediterranean Olive SqualaneSize: 1.3 fl oz.Formulation: Cream Best for All Day Wear SkinCeuticals Daily Moisture PHOTO: Dermstore $66 at Dermstore View on Skinceuticals.com Why We Like It SkinCeuticals Daily Moisture boasts a range of benefits that make it a stand-out choice for all-day wear, particularly for those with oily skin. One of its key features is its ability to restore and maintain moisture levels, offering a sense of hydration that doesn't feel overwhelming. Initially, the texture might give a slight impression of thickness, which could raise concerns for those with oily skin. However, upon application, it seamlessly spreads out, feeling much lighter than anticipated.Absorption is another strong point of this moisturizer. It readily sinks into the skin, even during our 15-minute lab waiting period, taking merely a fraction of that time. What's impressive is that despite its speedy absorption, it manages to impart a delicate dewy quality without crossing into oily territory. We experienced a noticeable improvement in our skin's texture and overall feel. It achieved a delicate balance—our skin felt lighter, cleaner, and undoubtedly hydrated without a hint of greasiness or weight. While the price point may appear relatively high for a daily moisturizer, its quality justifies the investment, especially for those who value premium skincare. It’s Worth Noting This moisturizer is relatively expensive compared to other similar products in the market. Product Details: Key Ingredients: Algae Extracts, Botanical Extracts (Burnet, Cinnamon, Ginger, Horsetail, Thyme, Licorice, and Nettle)Size: 2 fl oz.Formulation: Cream Best for Mature Skin Tata Harper Water-Lock Moisturizer PHOTO: Sephora $62 at Sephora $68 at Nordstrom View on Spacenk.com Why We Like It Tata Harper Water-Lock Moisturizer caters excellently to mature skin, delivering deep nourishment and combating dryness for a plump, youthful appearance. The lightweight formula incorporates key ingredients that support skin elasticity and firmness, making it ideal for addressing signs of aging. In our tests, the moisturizer offered a remarkably lightweight and soft consistency, seamlessly melding with the skin and swiftly absorbing without any residue. It left our skin beautifully soft and dewy, avoiding any stickiness or pilling. Our complexion appeared rejuvenated, deeply moisturized, and notably plumper, showcasing an enhanced brightness and texture. For those with oily skin, this moisturizer stands out, providing hydration without a heavy feel. Its eco-conscious design, offering reusable jars and refillable options, adds considerable value. While the packaging may be slightly bulky due to the pump mechanism, the refillability and sustainability aspects compensate for this. Overall, it proves to be an effective and worthwhile investment, emphasizing sustainability, cleanliness, and vegan ingredients. It’s Worth Noting While the moisturizer is designed to provide hydration, its richness might not be ideal for those with very oily skin. Product Details: Key Ingredients: Pomegranate Spheres, Orange Blossom Peptides, Macro Hyaluronic AcidSize: 1.7 fl oz.Formulation: Lotion Best Calming REN Clean Skincare Day Cream PHOTO: Sephora $52 at Amazon $52 at Dermstore View on Renskincare.com Why We Like It Evercalm Global Protection Day Cream is a soothing moisturizer specifically designed to calm and nourish sensitive skin. Enriched with nourishing ingredients like blackcurrant seed oil, ochorleuca seaweed, and antioxidant-packed cranberry seed oil, this gentle and lightweight formula provides instant hydration, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a skincare product that helps alleviate skin irritation and redness. This moisturizer is a game changer for acne-prone, sensitive, or easily irritated skin, boasting nourishing ingredients like sweet kelp and red algae while avoiding harmful additives like parabens and sulfites. During our tests, we were impressed by its easily spreadable creamy texture, instantly moisturizing and relieving dryness without feeling heavy. The delightful cooling effect and subtle coconut and rose water scent during application added to the experience, catering to sensitive skin with a 100% natural fragrance. Our sensitive skin felt incredibly hydrated and soothed, even during eczema flare-ups, without any stinging or irritation. Perfect for hot and humid weather, this day cream offers a lightweight feel, though drier skin may need additional hydration, especially in colder months. If you prefer clean, lightweight, and virtually invisible moisturizers, this could be your go-to. It’s Worth Noting Some may find the cream to be slightly greasy or heavy on their skin, especially those with oily or combination skin types. Product Details: Key Ingredients: Blackcurrant Seed Oil, Seabuckthorn Berry Oil, Camellia OilSize: 1.7 fl oz.Formulation: Cream Health / Jhett Thompson Health / Jhett Thompson Health / Jhett Thompson Health / Jhett Thompson Health / Joy Kim Health / Joy Kim Best with Hyaluronic Acid Murad Clarifying Oil-Free Water Gel PHOTO: Amazon $49 at Amazon $49 at Sephora $49 at Dermstore Why We Like It The Murad Clarifying Oil-Free Water Gel is an exceptional choice, especially for individuals seeking a moisturizer with hyaluronic acid designed for oily skin. Upon application, it felt incredibly light and smooth, lighter than most moisturizers, and spread thinly due to its gel-based formula.We experienced no sensitivity, burning, redness, or tingling upon application, and the product absorbed quickly, leaving no residue or sensation on the skin. It layered well with other skincare products and felt remarkably lightweight. Our skin felt noticeably more hydrated throughout the day, although it didn't profoundly affect acne or redness. However, it effectively improved hydration levels. Despite this, it remains one of the lightest and gentlest moisturizers we've used, making it a great fit for those with oily skin. It's Worth Noting The absence of SPF means you'll need an additional sunscreen layer for daywear. Product Details Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, Salicylic acid, Korean red pine extractSize: 2 fl oz.Formulation: Gel We Also Tested As we researched to find the perfect moisturizers for oily skin, we put a bunch of contenders to the test that didn't quite make it to our top picks. These products show the range out there, even though they didn't make our final cut. We found the La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Matte Face Moisturizer lightweight and barely noticeable on our faces. It absorbed quickly, reduced oiliness, and left a matte finish. While it did what it claimed, the amount of product felt limited. We'd recommend it for a matte look, but the tight feeling and small amount were downsides for us. The SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 242 was super lightweight and easily blended into the skin. Although absorption took a bit longer than expected, it balanced out our combination skin, making oily zones matte and dry areas hydrated. For those dealing with combination skin, this could be a valuable buy, but if you're seeking a simpler moisturizer, there are more cost-effective options available. We felt that the Youth To The People Polypeptide-121 Future Cream was lightweight and non-greasy hydration, but it, unfortunately, left a greasy appearance and residue. Although it left our skin supple, the greasy look and clumping were concerning. Despite its potential, due to these drawbacks, we might consider using it at night, especially if it were on sale. Our Testing Process We spoke with dermatologists to bust myths about oily skin and better understand the needs of oily skin. They recommended their favorite lightweight, non-comedogenic formulas, and we chose the rest based on the criteria they provided. With expert input from Dr. Ava Shamban, our Health team members with oily skin tested over 30 facial moisturizers for over 228 hours. Testers followed manufacturer instructions, taking "before" photos and using the designated moisturizer for four weeks. Our evaluations included application, comfort, and "after" photos to assess effectiveness. Our final ratings focused on consistency, hydration, appearance, and value. We also considered factors like price, ingredients, availability, texture, and skin type. The Experts Macrene Alexiades, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist and laser surgeon in New York Melanie Palm, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon in San Diego Dustin Portela, DO, a board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon in Idaho Dr. Ava Shamban, Harvard Educated, Board Certified Dermatologist, researcher clinician founder of AVA MD, SKINFIVE and ALTHAEA SKIN Key Ingredients to Look for According to the dermatologists we spoke to, those with oily skin should look for the following ingredients in a good moisturizer: CeramideHyaluronic acidNiacinamideSalicylic acidVitamin A Experts recommend sticking to lightweight, non-comedogenic formulas and avoiding pore-clogging ingredients, occlusives, and synthetic fragrances. Can moisturizer cause acne if you have oily skin? Acne is one of the most common skin conditions. Though it can affect any skin type, it’s especially common in people with oily skin. “Acne-causing bacteria feed off of the oil that skin produces, so we often see acne in those with oily skin,” says Dr. Portela. “Using a moisturizer helps strengthen skin’s moisture barrier, so there’s less inflammation and potentially less acne.” Clogged pores cause acne, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, and pore-clogging ingredients in some moisturizers can contribute to breakouts. So, some moisturizers can worsen breakouts. However, using the right moisturizer won’t lead to acne. Moisturizers for oily skin tend to be free of oils and comedogenic ingredients that can clog pores. Some moisturizers are also formulated with ingredients that help reduce oil, bacteria, and acne, such as salicylic acid. Others may contain niacinamide, which helps minimize pores that often become clogged and lead to breakouts. This may require some trial and error as you learn how your oily skin responds to certain ingredients and formulations. Who We Are Lacey Muinos is a health and skin care writer. She is an avid skin health researcher and has developed a complex understanding of skin care from interviewing medical experts like board-certified dermatologists. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit