The 10 Best Moisturizers for Oily, Acne-Prone Skin, Recommended by Dermatologists

The 10 Best Moisturizers for Oily, Acne-Prone Skin, Recommended by Dermatologists

Just because your skin produces more natural oils (called sebum) doesn't mean you should give up moisture. The best moisturizers for oily, acne-prone skin can keep your complexion looking fresh without causing breakouts.

By adding a moisturizer (especially one designed for oily or acne-prone skin) to your routine, you'll help keep the cells inside your skin hydrated. When your skin cells are well hydrated, you're less likely to produce excess sebum, which actually helps reduce the feeling of oily skin.

This is especially true if you use medications or products to treat acne. "Even acne-prone teens need moisturizing to keep their skin barrier healthy. Drying acne products and medications can damage the skin barrier," says Arielle Kauvar, MD, director of the New York Laser & Skin Care Center and clinical professor of dermatology at NYU School of Medicine. explain. These include salicylic acid (which unclogs pores) and benzoyl peroxide (which fights acne-causing bacteria).

While it's important to match your moisturizer to your skin type, there's also the right way to use it. Follow this order: Apply your acne medication first, then your moisturizer, then your sunscreen and, if you want to wear makeup, your makeup last, says Dr. Cowal. However, she recommends that if you use a retinoid-based product to fight acne (such as tretinoin or adapalene), apply it on top of or mix with your moisturizer to soothe irritation.

1. AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30

With SPF 30, you can trust it as your go-to moisturizer before heading out in the morning. Thanks to an expert blend of ceramides (naturally occurring fats in skin) and hyaluronic acid (a humectant), dry patches won't appear, even on sensitive, acne-prone skin. Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, also strengthens the skin’s protective barrier.

2. Oil-absorbing moisturizing sunscreen

Non-comedogenic, non-greasy, and fragrance-free? Check, check, check! This lightweight formula won't clog pores, skin never looks greasy, and protects sensitive areas with SPF 30. "I've always used expensive moisturizers. I couldn't believe it, but this works as well as any other product at deeply moisturizing my skin," raved one reviewer. "

3. Effaclar Matte Facial Moisturizer

A common complaint from acne sufferers is a shiny, smooth complexion, especially after moisturizing. This oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer absorbs excess oil for a matte finish while leaving skin smooth and hydrated.

Corey L. Hartman, M.D., board-certified dermatologist, founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, Ala., and clinical assistant professor of dermatology at the University of Alabama School of Medicine, recommends the product, saying it "gently creates a beautiful look" at its weight. "A formula that restores the barrier without adding greasiness."

4. Paula's Choice CLEAR Oil-Free Moisturizer

Acne-prone skin will love this lightweight facial moisturizer with pore- tightening niacinamide, soothing antioxidants, and calming ceramides. It plumps skin without clogging pores and is formulated without parabens and fragrance.

5. Oil-Free Daily Facial Moisturizer SPF 35

When you apply your moisturizer in the morning, it contains broad-spectrum SPF 35 to prevent UV rays from darkening acne-related red spots, as well as glycerin and dimethicone, an ingredient that reduces water loss without clogging pores ). Locks in moisture. This moisturizer also absorbs into the skin without leaving a chalky residue like some sunscreens.

6. Toleriane Sensitive Liquid Protective Moisturizer

This oil- and fragrance-free moisturizer is best for oily and combination skin. The formula contains glycerin (a humectant that draws water into the skin) and squalene (an emollient that forms a protective barrier) for an extra boost of hydration. Still, it absorbs quickly and leaves a matte finish, so you don't have to worry about shiny spots.

7. Ultra-repairing oil-control moisturizing cream

This silky formula is a dream for oily skin. It contains hyaluronic acid for a beautiful plumping effect, but thanks to the addition of mineral powder and niacinamide, it controls sebum production throughout the day. It also absorbs quickly, smooths pores, and effectively moisturizes without leaving a greasy feeling.

8. Oil-free moisturizing lotion

"This lightweight lotion contains birch sap and allantoin to moisturize and soothe skin without clogging pores," says Dr. Gashik. "This is a great option for people with oily or combination skin and can be used once or twice daily."

9. Daily facial moisturizing

"This gentle daily facial moisturizer contains hyaluronic acid and ceramides to help absorb moisture and support the skin barrier," says MDCS board-certified dermatologist, clinical assistant professor, Department of Dermatology, Cornell NewYork-Presbyterian Medical Center, MD said Marisa Garshick, Ph.D., F.A.A.D. "This lightweight formula can be used year-round, is oil-free, and is especially suitable for sensitive skin because it is free of fragrance, parabens, formaldehyde, and other preservatives."

10. Cleansing Concentrated Blemish Control Serum

"This lightweight serum is perfect for sensitive, acne-prone skin because it clears breakouts in a gentle, non-drying way," says Dr. Hartmann.

"This serum works wonders. It exfoliates, lightly moisturizes and heals acne! I've only been using it for three days and so far it's going great. I haven't purchased it on Amazon but I plan to in the future," one review The reporter said.