The Top Moisturisers For Oily Skin Types: Lightweight Hydration

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 Is Moisturising Oily Skin 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 Should I 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.

What is the best moisturiser for oily skin?

The best moisturiser for oily skin is one that’s oil-free, non-comedogenic, and packed with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide. We've compiled a list of our favourites, that include picks that offer lightweight moisture without adding shine.

What type of moisturiser is best for oily skin?

Gel-based or water-based moisturisers are the best types for oily skin, as they absorb quickly and won’t clog pores. A gel moisturiser for oily skin provides hydration while helping to mattify and balance the complexion. These are ideal for both daily wear and layering under SPF or makeup.

Which CeraVe moisturiser is best for oily skin?

The CeraVe PM Facial Moisturising Lotion is one of the best choices for oily skin types. It’s oil-free, contains niacinamide to help control sebum, and supports the skin barrier with essential ceramides—all without leaving a greasy residue.

Which Simple moisturiser is best for oily skin?

If you're a fan of Simple’s affordable skincare, try the Simple Kind To Skin Hydrating Light Moisturiser. It’s often praised as the best Simple moisturiser for oily skin thanks to its light, fast-absorbing texture and lack of added oils or artificial perfumes.

Can I use an SPF moisturiser for oily skin?

Yes, and you should! Opt for a SPF moisturiser for oily skin that’s labelled as oil-free and non-comedogenic. Look for formulas like CeraVe AM SPF 30, which hydrate while offering protection against sun damage without contributing to breakouts or excess shine.

Is tinted moisturiser good for oily skin?

Yes — just choose the right one. A good tinted moisturiser for oily skin will offer sheer coverage and a natural matte finish, without adding oil. Products like La Roche-Posay Anthelios Anti-Shine Tinted SPF 50+ or bareMinerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Hydrating Gel Cream SPF 30 are great because they even skin tone and provide hydration without clogging pores.

Should I use a gel moisturiser for oily skin?

Absolutely. A gel moisturiser for oily skin is ideal if you want hydration without heaviness. These types of moisturisers absorb quickly, leave no greasy residue, and help control excess oil throughout the day. They're also a great option for summer or humid climates.

Is there a good men’s moisturiser for oily skin?

Yes! While most moisturisers are unisex, men’s moisturiser for oily skin options often have lightweight, mattifying properties and are designed with thicker, oilier male skin in mind. Look for oil-control options from Clinique For Men, Bulldog Skincare, or L'Oréal Men Expert.

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.