10 Best Moisturizers for Acne-prone Skin to Prevent Breakouts

Written by Anoushka Sinha, Skincare Coach & Writer
Updated on Feb 22, 2024
Moisturizers for Acne-prone Skin to Prevent Breakouts
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Following a good skincare routine is essential, and so is picking up the right products for your skin type. On the other hand, one of the most important and tricky skincare steps is to include a moisturizer that suits your skin. Keeping that in mind, we have curated a list of the best moisturizers for acne-prone skin just for you! Busting out the myth, moisturizer is important even for oily-acne-prone skin, and skipping it can be a disaster.

“Nighttime is the best time to rejuvenate the skin while you sleep," says certified dermatologist, Rita Linkner. People with acne-prone skin should choose a good moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated enough to fight skin dryness while keeping zits at bay. The challenge of keeping off excess oil from the skin can often lead to drying out the skin excessively causing skin irritations. So, it is highly essential to invest in a good quality moisturizer no matter what. We know the struggle is real, so here we are with the best moisturizers for acne-prone skin. Check them out.

10 Best Moisturizers for Acne-prone Skin

The oil-free acne facial moisturizer is a tried and tested product and is indeed one of the best moisturizers for acne-prone skin. Formulated with a powerful medication like 0.5% salicylic acid which is a holy grail for breakouts, the non-comedogenic formula doesn’t clog pores and keeps the skin free from acne. The grapefruit extract lends a fruity fragrance to the formula which gives a soothing feeling to the skin. Furthermore, this water-based moisturizer has a lightweight texture with no traces of stickiness

Pros
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Loaded with salicylic acid
  • Soothing effect
  • Best for sensitive skin
  • Lightweight texture
  • Oil-free
Cons
  • Not for dry skin

Quick Tip

Add this moisturizer to your AM and PM routine to reduce the appearance of pores. It contains salicylic acid that cleans the pores and reduces excess sebum production.

  • Dermatologist-tested

    Cetaphil Derma Control Oil Absorbing Moisturizer

    Cetaphil Derma Control Oil Absorbing Moisturizer
  • Cetaphil boasts of providing one good moisturizer for acne-prone skin with SPF that comes with a multi-action formula and does an impressive job of keeping the skin hydrated. It has a sun protection factor of 30 and keeps your skin against the harmful UVA and UVB rays of the sun. While the moisturizer provides enough hydration, it leaves no traces of stickiness on the skin. The formula spreads evenly, absorbs excess oil from the skin, and lends a matte finish.

    Pros
    • Suits sensitive skin
    • With SPF 30
    • Easily blendable
    • Multi-action formula
    • Provides hydration
    • Dermatologist-tested
    Cons
    • Doesn’t have a matte finish
  • Best for Dry Skin

    Neutralyze Renewal Complex Moisturizer Cream

    Neutralyze Renewal Complex Moisturizer Cream
  • The renewal complex range from Neutralyze is a versatile moisturizer for dry acne-prone skin. The product contains A.H.A., B.H.A. along with salicylic and mandelic acid, which make it effective for gentle exfoliation and acne healing. The patented, advanced oil control technology gets absorbed quickly and prevents the clogging of pores. This formula not only keeps the skin well-hydrated and moisturized but also keeps excess oil at bay. The lightweight consistency of this product fights acne and also provides anti-aging benefits in the long run.

    Pros
    • Little goes a long way
    • Versatile product
    • Contains AHA and BHA
    • Doesn’t clog pores
    • Anti-aging properties
    • Lightweight
    Cons
    • Overpowering smell
  • Era Organics Tea Tree Oil Face Cream

    Era Organics Tea Tree Oil Face Cream
  • This organic product is one good facial moisturizer for acne-prone skin. It nourishes the skin while helping in the treatment of cystic acne, blemishes, and blackheads. Enriched with tea tree oil, the cream helps moisturize the skin and provides relief from acne trouble. It soothes irritated skin while fighting blemishes and other skin issues. It also contains salicylic acid, known for its effective acne treatment. Other than these, the formula is a blend of other herbal ingredients like pomegranate seed oil, burdock root, golden seal, dandelion root, and St. John's wort.

    Pros
    • Works for cystic acne
    • Little goes a long way
    • Suits sensitive skin
    • Naturally extracted
    • Nourishes thoroughly
    • Soothes irritated skin
    Cons
    • Not for dry skin
  • Clean & Clear Essentials Dual Action Facial Moisturizer

    Clean & Clear Essentials Dual Action Facial Moisturizer
  • Clean & Clear Essentials blesses us with an effective drugstore moisturizer for acne-prone skin and it comes with 0.5% salicylic acid, which is powerful at treating and preventing pimples while taking care of dry skin. It has an oil-free formula that prevents new breakouts and keeps acne in check. Using it with the corresponding facial cleanser and astringent can keep the skin clean and clear more effectively and give you the skin of your dreams!

    Pros
    • Comes with salicylic acid
    • Prevent breakout
    • Works for dry skin
    • Moisturizes thoroughly
    • Oil-free formula
    • Treats the skin
    Cons
    • Strong smell
  • Vegan Formula

    First Aid Beauty Skin Rescue Oil-Free Mattifying Gel

    First Aid Beauty Skin Rescue Oil-Free Mattifying Gel
  • The mattifying gel is a great oil-free moisturizer for acne-prone skin that comes with a lightweight formula to keep your skin moisturized. This mattifying gel moisturizer is a lifesaver product when it comes to acne trouble. It has a gel-like texture that spreads evenly without making the skin sticky or greasy. The formula helps in reducing breakouts by balancing the skin oils. It has a vegan formula with no toxic chemicals, which results in perfectly balanced hydration with no skin irritations.

    Pros
    • Oil-free formula
    • Balances the oil in the skin
    • Vegan-friendly
    • No harmful chemicals
    • Lightweight texture
    • Spreads easily
    Cons
    • Doesn’t truly mattify
  • Proactiv Clear Skin Face Sunscreen Moisturizer With SPF 30

    Proactiv Clear Skin Face Sunscreen Moisturizer With SPF 30
  • This is a sunscreen moisturizer that comes with a dual-action formula to keep acne in check while providing broad-spectrum sun protection which is why it is an effective moisturizer with SPF for acne-prone skin. The product has a lightweight consistency that prevents the clogging of pores while providing a fine, matte finish texture. Incorporate this daily moisturizer in your stash to keep the skin fresh, oil-free, and protected from the harmful rays of the sun. Last but not the least, it is tested by dermatologists, which means the formula is safe for even sensitive skin.

    Pros
    • Contains SPF
    • Suitable for sensitive skin
    • Dermatologist-tested
    • Lightweight
    • Matte finish
    • Nourishes the skin
    Cons
    • Leaves a white cast
  • Sheamoisture Face Moisturizer

    Sheamoisture Face Moisturizer
  • It is one of the best moisturizers for oily acne-prone skin which boasts of providing an amazing amalgamation of African black soap and bamboo charcoal that clarifies the pores while moisturizing the surface. The lightweight formula of the product glides smoothly on the skin with no residue left behind. Enriched with the cooling properties of aloe, the moisturizer gives a smooth radiant appearance every time you apply it. It is a boon for people with mature skin and blemishes to leave the skin hydrated and smooth.

    Pros
    • Provides brighter skin
    • Rich in natural ingredients
    • Free of harmful components
    • Ensures hydration
    • Cruelty-free
    • Spreads evenly
    Cons
    • Poor container quality

    Quick Tip

    Most suited for dry skin and cold weather, this cream cools the skin under the acne to reduce inflammation. Apply it right after a serum to get enhanced hydration.

  • Starface Moisture on Mars Hydrating Face Cream

    Starface Moisture on Mars Hydrating Face Cream
  • The product deeply hydrates your skin by infusing hyaluronic acid and natural ingredients like vitamin E, sage leaf, holy basil, and aloe vera. Loaded with organic properties, the moisturizer is best to strengthen the skin barrier of your skin without irritating it. It is a great option to include in your skincare for your day and night skin routine to give your skin the dose of antioxidant-rich nutrients that it craves.

    Pros
    • Works on irritated skin
    • Works best as a day and night cream
    • Intensive moisture
    • Protects skin barrier
    • Oil-free
    • Absorbs quickly
    Cons
    • Too-light consistency
  • Antioxidant rich

    Paula's Choice CLEAR Oil-Free Moisturizer

    Paula's Choice CLEAR Oil-Free Moisturizer
  • Paula's Choice gives us a holy grail for people with skin conditions like rosacea, cystic acne, redness, blackheads, etc. The product comes with licorice extract, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide that treat the upper layer of the skin while infusing the hydrating formula deep into the skin. The product is an excellent amalgamation of science and organic properties to target skin concerns effectively! The fragrance-free, no-colorant formula ensures a great result even on sensitive skin.

    Pros
    • Non-greasy
    • Antioxidant-rich
    • Doesn’t clog pores
    • Hydrating
    • Works on sensitive skin
    • Free of harmful preservatives
    Cons
    • Expensive

    What to Consider When Buying Moisturizers for Acne-prone Skin?

    Before you invest in a moisturizer for your acne-prone skin, take a look at the points to keep in mind-

    a) Formula: Formula plays the biggest role when it comes to choosing the best moisturizer for your skin. Always stick to a lightweight formula that doesn’t clog pores. A non-comedogenic product doesn’t clog your pores, thus, preventing further acne.

    b) Ingredients: Natural ingredients like tea tree oil, aloe vera, and turmeric, are good for acne-prone skin. Other than these, vitamin B3, hyaluronic acid, and salicylic acid work wonder on acne-prone skin. Avoid petroleum and alcohol-based products to further worsen your skin problems.

    c) Texture: The texture depends on your skin type! If you have oily acne-prone skin, better to stick to the non-greasy, mattifying gel. On the other hand, if you have dry acne-prone skin, choose a product with a lot of hydrating components.

    d) Skin condition: People with certain skin conditions like eczema, rosacea, cystic acne, and redness, may need to pick their product carefully. In their case, an alcohol-based product is a big no-no as it will further worsen the condition.

    Achieving healthy skin without any sign of acne and blemishes is a difficult task, however, by incorporating these best moisturizers for acne-prone skin, you can now stay stress-free when it comes to a fail-proof skincare routine. These effective moisturizers minimize breakouts and keep your skin rejuvenated for healthy glowing skin without the worry of clogged pores and breakouts. Plus, using these products is hassle-free and needs your minimum attention. For all those women who have a busy, hectic schedule, relying on these cool products can fetch immense benefits!

    Pro Tip

    Apply the moisturizers in your AM and PM routine. This heals your skin barrier and reduces bacteria. Using a non-comedogenic formula prevents clogged pores.

    FAQ's

    Can moisturizers really control pimples?
    Your skin produces more sebum and oil to keep itself nourished! Acne is mostly caused by clogged pores by the accumulation of sebum and oil. When you don’t keep the skin moisturized enough, your skin produces more sebum to keep itself moisturized naturally, and thus, you witness more breakouts. Choosing effective moisturizers typically made for your acne-prone skin controls pimples and gives radiant skin.
    Is moisturizer good for acne scars?
    Moisturizers that come with active ingredients and gentle acids targeting blemishes work wonders for your skin.
    Can I use moisturizer for oily skin regularly?
    Of course. You shouldn’t skip your moisturizer at any cost to keep every skin-related problem at bay.
    How often should you apply moisturizers for acne-prone skin?
    You should apply a moisturizer twice a day after following a cleansing and toning ritual to get the best result out of it.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    While hydration is a non-negotiable step in any beauty routine, our in-house skincare aficionado and writer Anoushka believes that using a moisturizer can get tricky for acne-prone skin. If the product contains too many heavy oils or occlusives, it can risk acne flare-ups by clogging the skin’s pores. Hence, after sleuthing the internet for lightweight moisturizers and trying some out herself, she could thoroughly review each product listed in the article. Of all, her personal favorites are Era Organics Tea Tree Oil moisturizer and the Cetaphil Derma Control Oil-absorbing moisturizer. 

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Anoushka Sinha
    Skincare Coach & Writer

    Anoushka is certified in Professional Skincare and is a Mass Media (Journalism) graduate from Mumbai University. As a More