Best moisturizer for oily, acne-prone skin

Best Moisturizers for Oily, Acne-Prone Skin, According to Dermatologists

These lightweight, oil-free picks won’t clog your pores.

This article was medically reviewed by Caroline Chang, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist and member of the Prevention Medical Review Board.

If you have oily skin, being diligent about moisturizing may seem a bit counterintuitive—but yes, you do need to moisturize, even if you have acne. Skipping this critical step may leave you plagued with rough, flaky, and red patches, which only brings more attention to your breakouts.

It all has to do with the acne treatment you’re using. “Even acne-prone teenagers need to moisturize to keep their skin barrier healthy. The skin barrier can become damaged from drying acne products and medications,” says Arielle Kauvar, M.D., director of New York Laser & Skin Care and clinical professor of dermatology at New York University School of Medicine. This includes salicylic acid (which works to unclog pores) and benzoyl peroxide (which fights acne-causing bacteria).

While it is important to hone in on the moisturizer for your skin type, there’s also a correct way to apply it. Follow this order: Acne medications go on first, topped with a moisturizer, then sunscreen, and finally makeup if you choose to wear it, says Dr. Kauvar. However, if you use a retinoid-based product to control acne (like tretinoin or adapalene), apply these over a moisturizer or mixed with one to lessen irritation, she advises. Now, onto the fun part: shopping. 

How to choose the best moisturizer for acne-prone skin:

Read the label carefully: The two most important phrases you’re looking for on your moisturizer are “oil-free” or “noncomedogenic,” and you probably won’t have to look very hard. “These types of moisturizers are really easy to find,” says Rebecca Baxt, M.D. board-certified dermatologist at Baxt Cosmedical in Paramus, New Jersey. “If it’s advertised as either, you can rest assured it will not clog pores,” she says.

Mind the texture: If you’re on the drier side (or have combination skin) and have acne, opt for a moisturizing cream. Those with oily skin should go for a lightweight lotion or gel, recommends Dr. Kauvar. 

Look for SPF: Sun exposure is a foe to acne. “Many moisturizers for acne-prone skin are fragrance-free and contain chemical-free, non-irritating sunscreens, which help reduce the development of long-lasting blemishes that persist after the pimples are gone,” says Dr. Kauvar. 

Then, consider these moisturizers that will work wonders on acne-prone skin.