How To Choose the Right Moisturizer For Oily Skin

Last Updated on June 17, 2022

Picking the right moisturizer for your skin type is so crucial for healthy skin. Yet, most people end up using the wrong type of oily skin moisturizer since they don’t know how to choose one. 

This makes their face feel either too greasy or too dry. Using the wrong moisturizer may even lead you to breakouts so it is important to know which one is the right one for you.

Is it Important To Use a Moisturizer For Oily Skin?

There are a lot of moisturizer myths like oily skinned people should choose only gels and stay away from creams and oils. Some people even believe skipping moisturizer is okay if your skin is oily. (So. Not. True)

Oily skin needs a moisturizer every day. Yes, your skin is producing too much oil so adding a moisturizer may seem futile. But oily skin can be dehydrated too and lack enough water to keep it supple. 

Another key reason to use a moisturizer for oily skin is maintaining the linoleic and oleic acid ratio. Studies have found that oily skin is deficient in linoleic acid and hence applying linoleic acid can help balance it out and even reduce breakouts. You can read more about that here.

What Type of Moisturizer to Use For Oily or Acne-Prone Skin?

I have oily/ acne-prone skin so I used oil-free moisturizers only throughout my teenage years. Lacto Calamine was one of my most-favourite oily skin moisturizers.

However, in the last couple of years, I have been loving using facial oils on my skin. And my skin has never looked or felt better.

I keep switching between gels and oils, sometimes even a mix of both based on my skin feels that very moment.

You have to listen to your skin, see how it feels at that particular moment and choose a moisturizer accordingly.

I always have more than one option on my shelf- usually a water-based option and a light oil. Here are some questions you should ask yourself when picking a moisturizer for oily skin-

Also Read: The Best Oily Skincare Products Under Rs. 500

Different Types Of Moisturizers

A good oily skin moisturizer should feel lightweight on the skin. It may also contain some anti-bacterial or anti-inflammatory ingredients to help soothe acne and other irritations. These products will usually have words like non-comedogenic, hydrating, doesn’t clog pores, non-greasy, oil-free or anti-acne written on the product labels.

Hydrating Gels And Serums

These type of moisturizers will work well for most oily-skinned people. A hydrating gel or serum is water-based and has humectants like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, aloe vera gel, panthenol etc.

The ingredients attract moisture from deep within the skin or even air if the weather is humid. They thus keep your skin plump and hydrated. 

For E.g

1. Soultree Tulsi and Sandalwood Moisturizing Gel
2. Fiducia Botanicals Daily Brightening Concentrate
3. Vaunt Multivitamin Hydrator

Even pure aloe gel can work for those looking a hydrating moisturizer on a budget.

Face Creams and Lotions

A tricky formulation but when done right can be your HG option. Face creams and lotions are a good choice for oily skinned people who live in a place with a dry climate or spend a lot of time in air-conditioned rooms. 

They help soften the skin and keep it nourished with triglycerides, fatty alcohols and plant oils.

For e.g.

1. Fiducia Botanicals Hemp and Rose Otto Face Lotion
2. Mamaearth Ultra-Light Sunscreen SPF 50
3. The Organic Riot Smog Block
4. The Moms Co. Natural Vita Rich Face Cream

Facial Oils

Oils that are rich in linoleic acid are non-greasy and hence, perfect to use on oily skin. Based on the oil you choose, it can also help reduce breakouts, fade acne scars and even fight pigmentation.

You can apply 2-3 drops directly on damp skin or mix it with a gel or water-based serum for added hydration. I love using them in my evening skincare routine for some extra nourishment to my skin.

For E.g.

1. Juicy Chemistry Acne And Blemish Control Facial Oi
2. Juicy Chemistry Vitamin C Rich Facial Oil (Use code “DEMURE10” to get 10% off on all non-sale days)
3. Ilana Organics Clarifying Skin Serum

Also Read: Top 4 Anti-Acne Serums to Get Clear, Blemish Free Skin

Tips To Moisturize Oily Skin

1. Avoid using mineral oil, coconut oil or silicone-based products as they tend to heavy on oily skin and may even cause breakouts.
2. Apply moisturizer on slightly damp skin for better application and faster absorption.
3. You can choose to use a separate moisturizer in AM and PM routine if you wish.
4. Apply your moisturizer to the neck area too.
5. Pair your moisturizer with a gentle face wash for hydrated, supple and glowing skin.

What moisturizer do you recommend to oily-skinned people based on your experience? Share your recommendation in the comments below.