5 highly recommended moisturizers for oily skin (2024)

If you have oily skin, finding the right moisturizer can be a challenge. It’s important to look for creams that are lightweight and oil-free because heavier products can exacerbate unwanted shininess. You’ll likely want to try something that contains ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which can help to hydrate the skin without adding any excess oil.

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Doing your research and reading reviews from other shoppers with oily skin is key, so that’s exactly what we’ve done for you. Keep in mind that consulting a dermatologist is always a good idea, especially if you’re having trouble finding a product that works for you. They can offer personalized recommendations based on your individual skin type and concerns.

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In the meantime, these five top-rated creams are a great starting point for anyone with oily skin.

Summary of the best face creams for oily skin

Best overall: Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel
Runner up: La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat Moisturizer
Best budget: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Facial Gel Cream
Best splurge: Tatcha The Water Cream Oil-Free Pore Minimizing Moisturizer
Best multitasker: CeraVe Ultra-light Face Moisturizer With SPF 30

Best face creams for oily skin explained

Best overall: Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel

Why buy: This oil-free moisturizer is a favourite among people with oily skin. It’s lightweight, absorbs quickly and according to reviewers, will leave your skin feeling soft, hydrated and refreshed. Reviewers also appreciate that it provides a great base for makeup application. As a bonus, it’s fragrance-free and formulated without phthalates or parabens.

Price: $48
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, cucumber fruit extract
Where to buy: Sephora | Clinique

Runner up: La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat Moisturizer

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Why buy: This La Roche-Posay moisturizer is specifically designed for oily skin and can help to reduce your skin’s production of oil. It contains Sebulyse (which is comparable to zinc) and oil-absorbing microspheres, which are meant to help make your skin look matte and shine-free. It’s non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic and formulated without parabens.

Price: $33
Key ingredients: Sebulyse, salicylic acid
Where to buy: Amazon | Well.ca

Best budget: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Facial Gel Cream

Why buy: This non-comedogenic face cream actually feels more like a gel than a lotion. It contains hyaluronic acid, which is known for its ability to attract and retain moisture, as well as a range of other ingredients that can help to nourish and soothe the skin. It’s oil-free, which means it won’t clog your pores or leave a greasy residue on your skin.

Price: $23
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid
Where to buy: Amazon | Walmart

Best splurge: Tatcha The Water Cream Oil-Free Pore Minimizing Moisturizer

Why buy: This luxurious, oil-free moisturizer is formulated with Japanese botanicals and has a refreshing gel-like texture that quickly absorbs into the skin. Reviewers say it helps reduce the appearance of pores while leaving their skin feeling fresh, soft and non-greasy. It’s considered “clean” at Sephora, which means it’s formulated without phthalates, formaldehyde or formaldehyde releasers, oxybenzone and octinoxate.

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Price:$97
Key ingredients: Green tea, rice water, algae
Where to buy: Sephora | Amazon

Best multitasker: CeraVe Ultra-light Face Moisturizer With SPF 30

Why buy: This CeraVe face cream is a great choice if you’re looking for an oil-free moisturizer that doubles as sunscreen. It contains broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection, which means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. It’s formulated with ceramides and hyaluronic acid, which can help to restore the skin barrier and prevent moisture loss. It’s also fragrance-free, hypoallergenic and won’t leave a white cast on your skin like some SPF products do.

Price:$18
Key ingredients: Ceramides 1, 3 and 6-II, hyaluronic acid
Where to buy: Amazon | Walmart

Frequently asked questions about creams for oily skin

While it might seem counter-intuitive, even oily skin should be moisturized. Using the right products can actually help to regulate oil production, especially if your skin is overproducing oil to compensate for a lack of hydration. Here are some frequently asked questions about creams and lotions for oily skin that might help if you’re trying to figure out what products are best for you.

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What is the best type of cream for oily skin?

The best type of cream for oily skin is typically one that is lightweight, non-comedogenic and oil-free. These types of products are less likely to clog your pores or leave a greasy residue on your skin.

Can using a cream make my skin even more oily?

Using a cream that is too heavy or greasy can contribute to excess oil production and may make the skin feel more oily. Look for lightweight, non-comedogenic and oil-free moisturizers to avoid clogged pores and unwanted shininess.

Can I use a cream with “active” ingredients if I have oily skin?

Yes, many active ingredients can be beneficial for oily skin, but it’s important to choose products that are formulated for your skin type. Ingredients like salicylic acid or retinol can help reduce oil production and improve the overall texture and appearance of the skin. Just make sure you aren’t layering too many active ingredients together at the same time because it can cause irritation.

If you’re struggling with finding the right products for your skin, try speaking with a dermatologist.

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