If you have oily skin, finding the perfect moisturiser can feel like a constant challenge. The wrong product can leave your face feeling greasy, causing breakouts and clogging pores. But fear not. Moisturising oily skin is crucial for staying balanced, hydrated, and healthy. Here’s a few tips to aid you in your search as well as a list of the best moisturisers for oily skin types that will hydrate without the shine—stocked here at Cosmetify.
Why Moisturising Oily Skin is Important
It’s a common myth in the world of skincare that oily and/or acne-prone skin types don’t need moisturiser — this couldn’t be further from the truth. Skip moisturiser and your skin may produce even more oil to compensate for the lack of hydration. The key is choosing the right kind of moisturiser—one that hydrates while controlling excess oil production and maintaining a healthy skin barrier.
What to Look for in a Moisturiser for Oily Skin
When you’re choosing a moisturiser for oily skin, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Oil-Free Formulas: Opt for oil-free or non-comedogenic products that won’t clog your pores.
- Lightweight Gel or Water-Based: These types of formulas are less likely to feel heavy or greasy on oily skin.
- Mattifying Ingredients: Look for ingredients like niacinamide, silica, and salicylic acid, which can help control shine and prevent breakouts.
- Hydrating Ingredients: Even oily skin needs hydration. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin provide moisture without the extra oil.
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Moisturiser
£7.55 £14.00 (47% off)A popular choice for oily skin types, this water-gel moisturiser by Neutrogena is packed with hyaluronic acid, providing intense hydration without feeling greasy. Its non-comedogenic formula is perfect for those who want a lightweight, refreshing feel.
Clinique Dramatically Different Hydrating Jelly
£14.56 £22.00 (34% off)Clinique’s oil-free, water-based gel moisturiser is designed specifically for oily and combination skin. It offers 24-hour hydration, helping to balance the skin’s moisture levels while keeping oil production in check. Plus, the jelly texture feels incredibly light and breathable.
CeraVe PM Facial Moisturising Lotion
£14.65 £18.32 (21% off)This non-greasy, oil-free lotion by CeraVe is ideal for oily skin, especially if you’re looking for something gentle. It contains ceramides to restore the skin’s barrier and niacinamide to reduce excess oil and inflammation. Its lightweight texture ensures it absorbs quickly without clogging pores.
Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream
£18.95 £20.10 (6% off)If you're looking for long-lasting hydration without the shine, Kiehl's oil-free gel cream is a great choice. It’s formulated to reduce the appearance of oily skin while providing lightweight, cooling moisture that keeps the skin balanced all day.
Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hyaluronic Cloud Cream
£39.75 £53.00 (25% off)Suppose you’re looking for best moisturiser for oily skin and are willing to splurge a little. In which case, the Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hyaluronic Cloud Cream is a lightweight, hydrating moisturiser designed to provide intense moisture without adding weight or greasiness to the skin. This cloud-like cream absorbs quickly, leaving the skin feeling soft, smooth, and plumped. This cream is also non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores, making it perfect for those prone to acne and excess oil production.
Q+A Amino Acid Oil-Free Moisturiser
£6.30 £9.00 (30% off)The Q+A Amino Acid Oil-Free Moisturiser is specially formulated for oily and combination skin types, offering lightweight hydration without the added oils that can often contribute to shine. With its fast-absorbing, oil-free formula, it ensures that the skin stays moisturised without feeling greasy or weighed down. Ideal for those looking for a mattifying effect, the amino acids work to maintain a healthy skin barrier while providing hydration in a simple, effective way.
Key Ingredients to Look For
Here are a few superstar ingredients to watch for when considering skincare for oily skin:
- Niacinamide: Helps control oil production and reduce inflammation.
- Hyaluronic Acid: Provides lightweight hydration without adding oil.
- Salicylic Acid: Exfoliates and unclogs pores, reducing the risk of breakouts.
- Zinc Oxide: Absorbs excess oil and acts as an anti-inflammatory agent.
The right moisturiser can make all the difference when doing skincare for oily skin. Look for products that are oil-free, lightweight, and designed to hydrate without adding extra shine. With the right moisturiser, your skin can feel balanced, refreshed, and healthier. Whether you prefer gel-based formulas or lightweight lotions, there's a perfect product out there for every oily skin type.
For more tips and recommendations on skincare for oily skin, be sure to explore our blog post on the best salicylic acid cleansers. Hydration is key, even for oily skin.
Written by Maria
Maria’s background is rooted primarily in creative media and a love for all things written, expressed through experience both online and in print; for creative platforms spanning from music to fashion to beauty.