Many people with oily skin mistakenly skip moisturizers, thinking it will make their skin even more greasy.
But here’s the truth: even oily skin needs hydration. The key lies in choosing the right type of moisturizer for oily skin—one that balances sebum production without clogging pores or leaving a heavy, sticky feel.
Let’s break down how to choose the best moisturizer for oily skin, what ingredients to look for, and why skipping this step could be making your skin worse.
Why Oily Skin Still Needs Moisturizer
When you don’t moisturize oily skin, it can go into overdrive—producing even more oil to compensate for the lack of hydration. This can result in excess shine, clogged pores, and more breakouts. A good non-comedogenic moisturizer keeps the skin hydrated without contributing to oiliness.
See our popular product - Moisturizer for oily skin
Key Features to Look for in a Moisturizer for Oily Skin
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Oil-Free or Gel-Based: Lightweight, gel textures absorb quickly and don’t sit heavy on the skin.
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Non-Comedogenic: Won’t clog pores, which is crucial for oily and acne-prone skin types.
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Mattifying or Balancing: Helps reduce shine and control oil throughout the day.
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Hydrating, Not Greasy: Look for ingredients that bind water to the skin—like hyaluronic acid and glycerin—without adding oil.
Best Ingredients for Oily Skin Moisturizers
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Niacinamide: Regulates oil, tightens pores, and reduces inflammation.
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Thyme or Magnolia Extract: Natural botanicals known for anti-acne and balancing effects (found in our Clarity Lotion).
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Hyaluronic Acid: Deep hydration without heaviness.
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Zinc PCA: Helps control sebum and soothe the skin.
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Sea Buckthorn or Tea Tree Oil (in small concentrations): Provide antioxidant protection and reduce acne-causing bacteria.
What to Avoid in Oily Skin Moisturizers
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Heavy oils like coconut oil or mineral oil
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Silicones in high amounts (they can clog pores over time)
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Alcohol-based formulas (they dry out skin and trigger rebound oiliness)
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Artificial fragrances or dyes
Our Top Pick: Clarity Lotion by Pure Bubbles
If you're looking for a dermatologist-recommended moisturizer that works with Indian skin and weather, Clarity Lotion checks all the boxes.
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Non-comedogenic
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Lightweight, lotion-gel hybrid
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Contains thyme, magnolia bark, and sodium hyaluronate
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Reduces oiliness without stripping the skin
It’s perfect for oily, sensitive, and acne-prone skin, especially in hot and humid climates.
Final Thoughts
The best moisturizer for oily skin isn’t the one that dries you out—it’s the one that balances, hydrates, and keeps your skin calm. Go for formulas that are light, breathable, and non-comedogenic with ingredients that support oil control and healing.
If you’ve been skipping moisturizer thinking it’s better for oily skin, it’s time to rethink your routine. With the right formula, your skin can stay matte, balanced, and breakout-free—all year round.