I used to think that having oily skin meant I didn’t need to moisturize— why add more moisture to an already slick face? Even my dermatologist couldn’t sway this mindset of mine as she put me on acne medicine that had made my oily skin dry up like a raisin.
After years of topical treatments and medication, I finally recognized that, though many things are not one-size-fits-all, my skin needed some moisture— regardless of the amount of oil I produced. Moisturizing is key in reducing oil production (if you’re using the right moisturizer), preventing premature wrinkles, and promoting skin resurfacing and suppleness. As an oily-skinned girl, here are the best moisturizers I’ve found that keep my skin soft and grease free at the same time.
1. The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid+B5
This has been the best product I’ve used for achieving the perfect balance of moisture. Key for someone with oily skin, the product doesn’t leave a greasy residue, and I know I can apply my makeup on top of it without feeling desperate for a blotting paper or my holy grail Hourglass Veil setting powder. It leaves a silk-like finish that dissolves deep into the skin and conceals practically all dry patches on the face.
2. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel
With its gel-like consistency, this product lays smoothly on the skin and absorbs quickly without leaving a wet, greasy finish. The gel dries faster than a lot of other moisturizers, so I find it more comparable to a serum. Comparing this to The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid+B5, I would definitely consider the two similar, however, the gel is a bit thicker. After doing a mud mask or The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution mask, I often do a layer of both products, applying the Hyaluronic Acid+B5 first.
3. Skinceuticals Hydrating B5 Gel
While this product is definitely a bit pricier, usually around $80 per bottle, it’s one of the best products I’ve ever used.Honestly, there are dupes on the market that would give you similar, if not exact results. But I’m not gonna lie, I was gifted this product after a facial at my local spa and for months after I didn’t break out once— which is huge for someone with acne-prone skin. This serum focuses on resurfacing and moisturizing, so your skin is hit with the perfect mixture of banishing the bad and inviting the good.
4. Effaclar MAT Mattifying Moisturizer by La Roche-Posay
This moisturizer is a drugstore product that gives you dermatologist level results. Ranging around $30 at CVS, this moisturizer promises to reduce oil through their micro-exfoliating lipo-hydroxy acid formula while keeping the skin’s surface supple and fresh. I personally have found this product, among other LaRoche Posay products, to be a bit harsh on my skin when I’m combining it with other acne medications. I reduced my usage to about twice a week. It did moisturize my skin on the days I used it, but while mixing with other acne-specific products, I felt as though it made my skin a bit more red than usual. While I can’t personally attest to this, I assume if you’re planning on using this moisturizer with less drying products such as CeraVe, or even other LaRoche Posay products, you’ll likely be able to experience the full effect that the product claims!
5. Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream
The product combines polypeptides and amino acids to improve the texture of your skin, leaving it smooth and hydrated. I used this moisturizer when my face was exceptionally dry from my acne medications and topical treatments. While I never experienced extra breakouts from this product, I did find it a bit heavy to use during the day. In my eyes, this is definitely reserved for a nighttime regimen. When used as a night cream, it’ll transform dry and irritated patches of flaky skin into supple smoothness.
When you’re using the right moisturizing facial products, your skin will produce less oil. This was hard for me to learn as someone who continues to struggle with breakouts, but when properly nourished, your skin doesn’t need to over-compensate for the lack of moisture due to the otherwise drying acne products you’re using. I’ve enhanced the results of the other products I’m using (click here to see my current skin routine) by adding a quality moisturizer into my routine.
Here’s to great skin!
Xoxo,
Cati
*Edited by Carolyn D’Auria 11/8.