The 16 Best Moisturizers for Oily Skin of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

Best Overall

Tatcha The Water Cream

5

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We named Tatcha The Water Cream Moisturizer our best overall because it targets oil control without neglecting to hydrate oily skin. “Tatcha the Water moisturizer pleasantly impressed us during our tests with its delightful floral scent and quick absorption, delivering lightweight and deep moisturization. While we may have over-applied in some areas, leading to slight tackiness on the cheeks, overall, our faces felt calm, smooth, and non-greasy.

The moisturizer went on smoothly and evenly, boasting a delightful light cream consistency. Initially, the thin and watery consistency gave us pause, but our worries dissolved as our skin appeared nourished and radiant after application. We were pleased to see how well the product absorbed, proving its resilience in various environments without transferring to clothes or pillowcases.

For daily use, it effectively kept our skin hydrated without any tacky feeling, maintaining a healthy and moisturized appearance even at the end of the day, especially for those seeking a healthy glow without an oily T-zone. Considering the investment, we believe it's well worth it, and we plan to continue using it and take advantage of sales events to stock up. The only drawback we noticed was the non-environmentally-friendly packaging, an area we hope Tatcha will consider improving in the future.

Price at time of publication: $70

Product Details:

• Key Ingredients: Japanese Wild Rose, Japanese Leopard Lily, Hadasei-3 Complex,
• Size: 1.3 fl. oz.
• Formulation: Cream

Best Budget

Versed Dew Point Moisturizing Gel-Cream

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This budget-friendly pick is powered by many of the same active ingredients as other moisturizers at higher price points. Versed Dew Point Moisturizing Gel Cream features a blend of ingredients that promote hydration and comfort. Notable components like squalane and glycerin provide deep moisturization, while aloe vera and green tea extract soothe and protect the skin. 

When we tested Versed Dew Point Moisturizing Gel Cream, we found its clean, cruelty-free, and vegan formula to be quite impressive. It stood out for its ability to calm and soothe redness, and we were particularly pleased with its lightweight and non-sticky gel-like consistency. Despite its light feel, it offered hydration akin to a cream, minus any heaviness. The cream absorbed rapidly, leaving an immediate sense of hydration upon application. Our skin not only appeared less oily but also felt less oily to the touch. This gel cream seamlessly blended with our natural skin, offering an ultra-hydrated version. What's even better is the price point – at just $15, it's an exceptional deal for its quality. With its blend of antioxidants like green tea and natural hydration from aloe vera, this product not only offers value but effectiveness as well. 

Price at time of publication: $15

Product Details:

• Key Ingredients: Sodium Hyaluronate, Aloe Vera, Green Tea Extract, Algae Extract, Squalane, Glycerin, Chamomile Flower Extract, and Panthenol
• Size: 2 fl oz.
• Formulation: Gel cream

Best for Acne

e.l.f. Blemish Breakthrough Calming Water Cream

4.6

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After putting the E.L.F Blemish Breakthrough Calming Water Cream to the test, we found it to be a top choice for those with acne-prone, oily skin. This water cream not only soothes and evens out skin tone but also helps control excess oil, all thanks to its powerful combination of Salicylic Acid and Zinc PCA. Plus, it's fragrance-free, dermatologist-developed, and non-comedogenic.

The cream's consistency is incredibly comfortable, lightweight, and barely noticeable on our skin. Absorption is quick and efficient, leaving no residue or pilling behind. What's most impressive is its ability to significantly reduce oiliness while maintaining moisture and hydration. Though we noticed a subtle difference in skin feel – a bit more refreshed and hydrated – visible changes weren't as pronounced. However, considering its 4% Niacinamide content and cruelty-free nature, we believe the price is fair. With the added benefits of oil reduction, improved skin tone, and blemish reduction, this product holds great value.

Price at time of publication: $12

Product Details:

• Key Ingredients: Salicylic Acid, Zinc PCA, Aloe Vera, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, Squalane, Green Tea Extract
• Size: 1.7 fl oz.
• Formulation: Water cream

Best with SPF

Cetaphil DermaControl Oil Absorbing Moisturizer SPF 30

4.8

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Everyone needs sunscreen, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, but applying it can feel like a chore. Moisturizers with built-in SPF are a convenient solution. The two-in-one product protects against sun exposure, which can increase the risk of skin cancer and contribute to premature aging, all while addressing other skin needs. We found the Cetaphil Pro Oil Absorbing Moisturizer to be a standout option, particularly for those seeking a moisturizer with SPF. This multitasker is specifically formulated to reduce excess oil on the skin and provide hydration and sun protection without leaving a greasy or heavy feeling on the skin.

Its oil-free, non-greasy formula was impressive, efficiently absorbing excess oil while providing sun protection. The addition of SPF, along with its dermatologist-tested and gentle-on-skin qualities, makes it a top choice for daily use. The moisturizer's consistency was notably lightweight and creamy without any heaviness, and it absorbed quickly without leaving residue or a white cast. While it effectively reduced oil and offered hydration, we didn't observe significant improvements in skin texture. The affordability of this product, especially considering its sun protection benefit, makes it a worthwhile investment for those seeking mild hydration and sunscreen. While it could be more hydrating, it's a solid option for those in search of a lightweight moisturizer with added SPF benefits.

Price at time of publication: $12

Product Details:

• Key Ingredients: Avobenzone, Octisalate, Octocrylene, SPF30
• Size: 4 fl oz.
• Formulation: Lotion

Best Lightweight

Byoma Moisturizing Gel Cream

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If you’re looking for a moisturizer that works for your oily skin, a lightweight consistency is what you want. Heavy creams can leave oily skin feeling greasier than before and may contain pore-clogging ingredients that are more suitable for dry skin types. 

The BYOMA Moisturizing Gel Cream is an oil-free moisturizer that feels lightweight on the skin but still adds the perfect amount of moisture that people with combination skin are looking for. 

During our tests, we noted that the moisturizer felt remarkably lightweight, gliding silkily onto our skin despite its slightly thick consistency. It possessed a gel-like quality that struck a perfect balance – not overly thick nor too loose – giving a refreshing and airy sensation.

It went on smoothly during the application, though we noticed a faint sticky sensation on our faces for approximately 10 minutes. However, this quickly subsided, leaving our skin feeling smooth. It quickly absorbed into our skin, offering a dewy appearance, and required minimal blending. Despite its lightweight nature, the moisturizer managed to avoid any greasy buildup, likely attributed to its oil-free formula.

We were pleased to discover its effective defense against breakouts, resulting in clearer skin. We highly recommend it, particularly for those seeking a lightweight option. However, it may not be the most ideal choice for individuals with very dry skin. Our only minor quibble is that it could absorb slightly quicker, but overall, it remains an excellent product.

Price at time of publication: $17

Product Details:

• Key Ingredients: Tri-Ceramide Complex, Niaciminade, Green Tea
• Size: 1.69 fl. oz.
• Formulation: Gel

Best Drugstore

Neutrogena Pink Grapefruit Oil-Free Acne Moisturizer

4.4

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Packed with salicylic acid and boasting a non-comedogenic formula, Neutrogena Oil Free Acne Facial Moisturizer proved to be the ultimate drugstore option for those with oily skin in our tests. 

The moisturizer's lightweight texture glided seamlessly onto the skin, providing an incredibly refreshing sensation upon application. Absorption was impressively swift, leaving no pilling or residue behind. We noticed a subtle reduction in skin oiliness, while our skin felt fully hydrated, moisturized, and remarkably refreshed. The cool sensation it offered post-application was a delightful bonus.

Our skin looked noticeably plumper, softer, and smoother, without any greasy appearance. The moisturizer's exceptional quality and performance exceeded our expectations, especially considering its wallet-friendly price. It's a standout option for anyone seeking an effective and value-packed solution. We were so impressed that we wouldn't change a thing about it.

Price at time of publication: $9

Product Details:

• Key Ingredients: 2% Salicylic Acid, Grapefruit extract, Vitamin C
• Size: 4 fl oz.
• Formulation: Cream

Best Gel

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Gel-Cream

4.7

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Another dermatologist we spoke to, Dustin Portela, DO, urges those with oily skin to trade in the thick creams for gel moisturizers, namely this one by Neutrogena. It’s formulated with hyaluronic acid, which “provides long-lasting moisture without feeling heavy or greasy on the skin,” he says, noting that the lightweight texture and non-comedogenic formula make it ideal for oily and acne-prone skin.

During our Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Gel-Cream test, we found it to be a versatile moisturizer with a perfect balance, neither too heavy nor too light, which we appreciated. The inclusion of hyaluronic acid helped lock in hydration.

By the end of the day, the product looked fine and was not visibly noticeable. However, we felt slightly dehydrated compared to our previous moisturizer. We also noticed a reduced need for setting our makeup and less forehead oiliness compared to before.

Overall, we felt Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Gel-Cream is a worthwhile option, especially for those seeking a moisturizer with a balance between accessibility, hyaluronic acid content, and a comfortable feel.

Price at time of publication: $20

Product Details:

• Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Dimethicone
• Size: 1.7 fl oz.
• Formulation: Gel

Best Night Cream

Mele Plump It Up Nourishing Facial Cream

5

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If applying an oil- and additive-free moisturizer to your oily skin is a part of your nighttime skincare, consider adding the Mele Plump It Up Nourishing Facial Cream to your routine. Formulated without parabens, alcohol, and mineral oil, this POC-founded product packs a punch with oily fighting ingredients like niacinamide.

Applying it was a breeze, and the light floral fragrance added to the experience. The cream absorbed effectively, leaving no heavy feeling. Instead, our skin felt both hydrated and refreshed, without any greasiness or oiliness. In fact, it created an excellent base for our foundation and makeup. The soothing effect was a welcome bonus.

Speaking of value, considering the product's size and ingredients, it's a fantastic deal. While a larger portion could make it even more worthwhile for a drugstore brand, the fragrance could be toned down. Would we recommend it? Absolutely. Its affordability and value make it a smart choice, and the mess-free packaging is a big plus.

Price at time of publication: $6

Product Details:

• Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, vitamin B
• Size: 1.3 fl oz.
• Formulation: Cream

Best for Fall and Winter

Innisfree Intensive Hydrating Serum with Green Tea Seed

4.2

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We were pleasantly surprised by the innisfree Green Tea Seed Intensive Hydrating Cream Face Moisturizer in our test. Infused with green tea extract, it provides deep hydration using hyaluronic acid, which makes it a great choice for those with oily skin, particularly for cooler weather. Its intensive formula replenishes moisture and helps maintain the skin's natural barrier, keeping it soft and supple in the face of harsh weather conditions.

Although lightweight and sheer, the intense green tea fragrance caught us off guard. But fear not, a little goes a long way with this cream. Upon application, our skin absorbed it swiftly, albeit with a slight oiliness and a resulting shine. As the cooler days arrived, we discovered its true magic – it provided remarkable hydration without making our skin appear greasy. Instead, we enjoyed a dewy but not overpowering look. This moisturizer proved its worth with its ample quantity in the jar and the minimal amount needed for application, offering excellent value. The only drawback was the heavy green tea fragrance during application, which might be a bit overwhelming. However, if you're seeking moisture and a dewy complexion, this brand has you covered. Plus, it's conveniently packaged in a jar for easy use.

Price at time of publication: $30

Product Details:

• Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Green Tea Extract
• Size: 2.7 fl oz.
• Formulation: Serum

Best for Spring and Summer

Basebutter Balancing Gel Facial Moisturizer

4.8

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BaseButter Balancing Gel Facial Moisturizer is an antioxidant-rich and refreshing option ideal for oily skin in spring and summer weather. Its lightweight formula ensures that it won't clog pores or feel heavy on the skin, making it a suitable choice for those with oily skin seeking hydration without added shine.

Upon application, we enjoyed a pleasant experience. Its gel-like consistency provides a cooling sensation, making it perfect for the warmer months. It felt soothing and left our skin feeling comfortable, accompanied by a subtle minty sensation that thankfully didn't lead to any burning. Remarkably, we hardly felt it on our face, even with movement, and there was no uncomfortable tightness. Within about 15 minutes, the product had absorbed well into our skin, leaving no residue behind. Around the 25-minute mark, we noticed a slight increase in oiliness around the sides of our nose, though it was nothing too excessive or shiny.

On the whole, our skin felt wonderfully hydrated, soft, and refreshed. As for the verdict, we'd certainly invest in this product. It lives up to its claims of moisturizing and boosting elasticity. While there's not much we'd change, a matte version and a slightly different, less "medical" scent could be considered. All things considered, we give this moisturizer a thumbs up – it's effective, reasonably priced, and comes in attractive packaging.


Price at time of publication: $29

Product Details:

• Key Ingredients: Organic Aloe Leaf Juice, Shea Butter, Evening Primrose Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, Glycerin, Witch Hazel
• Size: 2 fl oz.
• Formulation: Gel

Best for Sensitive Skin

Estee Lauder Nutritious Melting Soft Creme/Mask Moisturizer

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Estée Lauder's Nutritious Melting Soft Creme/Mask Moisturizer is a true gem, expertly designed for individuals with acne-prone, sensitive, or easily irritated skin. Its enriching blend includes sweet kelp and red algae, proudly free from parabens, phthalates, sulfites, and other acnegenic components.

During our tests, we enjoyed a refreshing, cooling effect and a lightweight feel, accompanied by a delightful coconut and rose water fragrance. The water-based formula gracefully melted into our skin, creating a luxurious, soft, and silky sensation. The moisturizer's thin, natural consistency seamlessly blended with makeup, granting a flawless, skin-like finish. 

We delighted in its quick absorption, though slightly more product may be required for intense hydration, which is worth considering for those mindful of their budget. Notably, we encountered no issues with pilling or greasiness; removing it was a breeze.

Throughout our four weeks of testing, we consistently observed a modest yet steady improvement in skin hydration. Its ability to ward off breakouts and red spots was particularly impressive, even for our sensitive, acne-prone skin.

With its lightweight, non-greasy formulation and pleasant aroma, this moisturizer proves an excellent choice for daily use. However, those with extremely dry skin might seek a more intensive option. Nevertheless, our skin remained hydrated after a full day's wear, with only a faint hint of dryness towards bedtime due to extended use.

Price at time of publication: $48

Product Details:

• Key Ingredients: Nutri-9 Complex, Sweet Kelp, Red Algae Ferment, Coconut Water Ferment
• Size: 1.7 fl. oz.
• Formulation: Cream

Best Oil-Free

Shani Darden Skin Care Weightless Oil-Free Moisturizer

4.6

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Shani Darden Weightless Oil-Free Moisturizer is an excellent choice for oily skin due to its oil-free formulation that provides hydration without adding excess shine. The lightweight texture absorbs quickly, leaving a smooth and non-greasy finish, making it ideal for those looking to control oil throughout the day. It strikes a balance between delivering essential moisture and addressing the needs of oily skin, helping to maintain a matte appearance.

During our tests, the moisturizer blended seamlessly into our skin, applying thinly and easily. Upon application, our skin quickly drank it up, leaving us feeling nourished and rejuvenated. The best part was that it didn't impart any oily or greasy feeling; rather, it provided a healthy, glowing effect. We observed a noticeable improvement in skin texture, which felt smoother and well-nourished. While it didn't necessarily plump our skin, it surely left it feeling revitalized and refreshed, with a lovely subtle glow.

The pricing seems quite reasonable for what you're getting, although whether we'd recommend it to everyone solely depends on budget considerations. This product is vegan, cruelty-free, paraben-free, fragrance-free, and it's proudly Black-owned/founded, also the convenient pump packaging is a bonus.

Price at time of publication: $48

Product Details:

• Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Hydrolyzed Collagen, Red Algae Extract 
• Size: 2.5 fl. oz.
• Formulation: Cream
  

Best Mattifying

Caudalie Vinopure Moisturizing Mattifying Fluid

4.8

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With its vegan, gluten-free, and cruelty-free formulation, the Caudalie Vinopure Oil Control Moisturizer emerged in our tests as a top choice for those seeking a mattifying solution tailored for oily skin. 

Upon application, its impressively lightweight, almost watery gel-like consistency seamlessly absorbed into the skin without any discomfort. However, we found that while it effectively eliminates any oily sheen, it might require an additional moisturizer to fully address dryness. Despite this, its matte finish is a plus for oily skin, although we didn't observe significant redness reduction in areas affected by our sensitive rosacea skin. 

The product's reasonable pricing makes it an attractive option, though, for those with combination dry and oily skin, a more moisturizing formula might be ideal. Additionally, the fragrance could be overpowering for some, suggesting an unscented version could be considered.

Price at time of publication: $38

Product Details:

• Key Ingredients: Grape Seed Polyphenols, Silica Powder, Java Tea Extract, Natural Mediterranean Olive Squalane
• Size: 1.3 fl oz.
• Formulation: Cream
  

Best for All Day Wear

SkinCeuticals Daily Moisture

4.6

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SkinCeuticals Daily Moisture boasts a range of benefits that make it a stand-out choice for all-day wear, particularly for those with oily skin. One of its key features is its ability to restore and maintain moisture levels, offering a sense of hydration that doesn't feel overwhelming. Initially, the texture might give a slight impression of thickness, which could raise concerns for those with oily skin. However, upon application, it seamlessly spreads out, feeling much lighter than anticipated.

Absorption is another strong point of this moisturizer. It readily sinks into the skin, even during our 15-minute lab waiting period, taking merely a fraction of that time. What's impressive is that despite its speedy absorption, it manages to impart a delicate dewy quality without crossing into oily territory. We experienced a noticeable improvement in our skin's texture and overall feel. It achieved a delicate balance—our skin felt lighter, cleaner, and undoubtedly hydrated without a hint of greasiness or weight.

While it's true that the price point may appear relatively high for a daily moisturizer, its quality justifies the investment, especially for those who value premium skincare.  Considering potential improvements, a larger jar size could enhance the product's overall value, aligning better with the price. Additionally, incorporating a pump dispenser could provide a more convenient and hygienic application experience.

Price at time of publication: $76

Product Details:

• Key Ingredients: Algae Extracts, Botanical Extracts (Burnet, Cinnamon, Ginger, Horsetail, Thyme, Licorice, and Nettle)
• Size: 2 fl oz.
• Formulation: Cream

Best for Mature Skin

Tata Harper Water-Lock Moisturizer

4.8

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Tata Harper Water-Lock Moisturizer is particularly beneficial for mature skin due to its hydrating and rejuvenating properties. The lightweight formula deeply nourishes the skin, helping to combat dryness and maintain a plump, youthful appearance. The inclusion of key ingredients supports mature skin's elasticity and firmness, making it an ideal choice for those looking to address signs of aging.

When testing this moisturizer, we were greeted with a remarkably lightweight feel that effortlessly melded with our skin. Its soft consistency further enhanced the experience, leaving our face feeling pampered. Absorption was swift, and we were delighted that it left no trace of residue. Instead, our skin felt beautifully soft and dewy, sans any stickiness. The absence of pilling and the easy spreadability were additional wins.

We noted a welcomed absence of oiliness or greasiness, and our skin distinctly felt nourished. Afterward, our complexion appeared rejuvenated, deeply moisturized, and notably plumper. A delightful softness in texture and enhanced brightness made us quite pleased with the outcome.

This moisturizer is a stellar fit for those with oily skin, seamlessly providing hydration without feeling heavy. Its eco-conscious design, offering reusable jars and refillable options, adds considerable value to its proposition. While the packaging might lean towards bulkiness due to the pump mechanism, the refillability and sustainability aspects make up for this trade-off. Its effectiveness aligns with its promises, making it an excellent investment. The blend of sustainability, clean and vegan credentials further underscores its appeal.

Price at time of publication: $68

Product Details:

• Key Ingredients: Pomegranate Spheres, Orange Blossom Peptides, Macro Hyaluronic Acid
• Size: 1.7 fl oz.
• Formulation: Lotion