I use oil-free moisturizers because I've struggled with oily, acne-prone skin for years. Dealing with excess shine and frequent breakouts has been a constant battle, and traditional moisturizers often worsened the situation by adding more oil to my skin. That's why I made it my mission to find the best oil-free moisturizers out there.

Curating the best oil-free moisturizers wasn't an easy task. It involved extensive research, reading countless reviews, and trying out numerous products myself. I looked for formulations labeled as cruelty-free, non-comedogenic, with lightweight textures that wouldn't feel heavy or greasy on my skin. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin were must-haves for effective hydration without the oiliness.

After careful selection, I found a few standout products that truly made a difference in my skincare routine. These oil-free moisturizers not only provided the hydration my skin needed but also helped control excess oil and minimize breakouts. They left my skin feeling refreshed, matte, and balanced throughout the day.

I recommend using these best oil-free moisturizers for anyone struggling with oily, acne-prone, or sensitive skin. They offer the perfect balance of hydration without clogging pores or exacerbating oiliness, making them ideal for those looking to achieve a clear, healthy complexion. Trust me, making the switch to oil-free moisturizers has been a game-changer for my skin, and I'm confident they can make a difference for you too.

• 1
  Best Lightweight

  La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer

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Formulated with ceramide and niacinamide, this oil-free and fragrance-free moisturizer provides intense skin hydration while strengthening the skin barrier. Ceramides replenish moisture and restore the skin's natural protective barrier, helping to prevent moisture loss and maintain hydration levels. Niacinamide, known for its soothing and antioxidant properties, helps to calm inflammation and improve the overall texture of the skin. Whether you have dry, oily, or sensitive skin, this lightweight and non-greasy formula absorbs quickly, leaving the skin feeling soft, smooth, and balanced and helps restore skin’s barrier after 1 hour.

Active ingredients: Avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene 

Skin type: All

SPF: 30

Size: 2.5 fl oz

Quick Tip:

Apply it to slightly damp skin after cleansing. This helps to lock in moisture more effectively, leaving your skin hydrated and refreshed throughout the day.

2

Best for Daily Use

Neutrogena Oil Free Daily Long Lasting Facial Moisturizer

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Neutrogena Oil-Free Daily Long Lasting Facial Moisturizer & Neck Cream is a lightweight and non-greasy moisturizer designed to hydrate the skin without clogging pores. Formulated with SPF 15 sunscreen and glycerin, this moisturizer provides broad-spectrum sun protection while locking in moisture to keep skin soft and supple throughout the day. The oil-free formula is suitable for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin, as it absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue. Glycerin helps to attract and retain moisture, leaving the skin feeling hydrated and refreshed. With daily use, this moisturizer helps to protect the skin from sun damage and premature aging, making it an essential part of any skincare routine. 

Active ingredients: Avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, oxybenzone 

Skin type: Dry

SPF: 15

Size: 4 fl oz

3

Best Travel-friendly

Cetaphil Face Moisturizer

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Specifically formulated for both dry and oily combination and sensitive skin, this fragrance-free face lotion effectively moisturizes without clogging pores. The oil-free formula is gentle and non-comedogenic, making it suitable for acne-prone skin as well. Enriched with a blend of nourishing ingredients, including glycerin and vitamin E, it helps to replenish and protect the skin's natural moisture barrier, leaving it feeling soft, smooth, and balanced. The inclusion of SPF 35 provides reliable protection against harmful UVA and UVB rays, helping to prevent sun damage and premature aging. 

Active ingredients: Homosalate, octisalate, avobenzone, vitamin E

Skin type: All

SPF: 35

Size: 3 fl oz

4

Best Hypoallergenic

Differin Oil Absorbing Moisturizer

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Created by the makers of Differin Gel, this lightweight moisturizer effectively hydrates while providing broad-spectrum sun protection. With SPF 30, it shields the skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays, crucial for preventing sun damage and premature aging.

The oil-absorbing properties help control excess oil production throughout the day and its micropearl technology absorbs surface oil for a matte finish, thus making it suitable for those with oily or acne-prone skin. Its gentle formula is designed to minimize irritation and inflammation, making it ideal for sensitive skin types. 

Active ingredients: Avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene

Skin type: Sensitive

SPF: 30

Size: 4 fl oz

5

Best for Improving Skin Tone

EltaMD AM Therapy Facial Moisturizer Lotion

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Enriched with hyaluronic acid, this lightweight formula effectively replenishes moisture, leaving the skin feeling soft, smooth, and supple. Ideal for daily use, it provides long-lasting deep hydration without feeling heavy or greasy on the skin.

The gentle formula is safe for sensitive skin, soothing and nourishing even the most delicate skin types. Whether used alone or as a base for makeup, EltaMD AM Therapy Facial Moisturizer Lotion delivers essential hydration to maintain a healthy and radiant complexion throughout the day. 

Active ingredients: Hyaluronic acid

Skin type: Sensitive, acne-prone

SPF: Not present

Size: 1.7 fl oz

6

Best Absorption

Peter Thomas Roth | Water Drench Hyaluronic Cloud Cream

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Infused with hyaluronic acid, this weightless oil-free moisturizer delivers up to 72 hours of continuous hydration, leaving the skin feeling refreshed, plump, and youthful-looking. The unique "cloud cream" texture melts into the skin, providing instant relief from dryness and restoring optimal moisture balance. Ideal for all skin types, including sensitive skin, this hydrating formula helps improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, promoting a smoother, more radiant complexion.

Whether used as a daily moisturizer or as part of a skincare or makeup routine, Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hyaluronic Cloud Cream offers long-lasting skin hydration for a revitalized and rejuvenated appearance.

Active ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, hydrolyzed silk, pentavitin

Skin type: All

SPF: Not present

Size: 1.7 fl oz

Quick Tip:

For an extra boost of hydration, mix a few drops of your favorite facial oil with a dime-sized amount of the Water Drench Hyaluronic Cloud Cream before applying. This combination enhances the moisturizing properties of the cream, leaving your skin feeling even more supple and nourished.

7

Best Soothing

Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Pink Juice Hydrating Face Moisturizer

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Crafted with a blend of watermelon extract, hyaluronic acid, and botanicals like jasmine and peony, this lightweight moisturizer delivers intense hydration while promoting a radiant, glowing complexion. The watermelon extract helps to soothe and hydrate the skin, while hyaluronic acid plumps and firms, ensuring optimal moisture retention. Additionally, the brightening amino-rich botanicals work to even out skin tone and enhance overall radiance. Perfect for all skin types, including oily and combination skin, this non-greasy formula absorbs quickly, leaving your skin feeling refreshed and revitalized. 

Active ingredients: Watermelon extract, peony extract, jasmine, amino acid, hyaluronic acid

Skin type: All

SPF: Not present

Size: 0.84 fl oz

8

Best Gentle Formula

TATCHA The Water Cream | Cream Moisturizer

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Crafted with Japanese nutrients and botanicals, this lightweight moisturizer absorbs quickly, leaving your skin feeling refreshed and revitalized. Infused with Japanese wild rose and leopard lily, it helps to balance and clarify the skin, minimizing the appearance of pores and promoting a smoother, more refined complexion.

The unique water-based formula delivers intense hydration without feeling heavy or greasy, making it suitable for all skin types, including oily and combination skin. Additionally, TATCHA's signature blend of green tea, rice, and algae provides antioxidant protection, helping to combat environmental stressors and maintain the skin's youthful radiance.

Active ingredients: Wild rose, leopard lily, hadasei-3

Skin type: All

SPF: Not present

Size: 1.7 fl oz

9

Best All-Day Hydration

COVERGIRL Clean Fresh Skincare Mattifying Oil-Free Moisturizer

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Designed to provide lightweight hydration without the shine, this oil-free moisturizer is perfect for those with a combination to oily skin type. Its unique formula helps control excess oil production throughout the day, leaving your skin looking fresh and matte. Enriched with nourishing ingredients like coconut milk and aloe vera, it soothes and revitalizes the skin, giving you a healthy, radiant complexion.

The non-comedogenic formula ensures that pores remain clear, reducing the likelihood of breakouts. This moisturizer absorbs quickly, making it ideal for use under makeup or alone. 

Active ingredients: Rosewater

Skin type: Normal, oily skin

SPF: Not present

Size: 2.0 fl oz

10

Best Non-greasy

Paula's Choice CLEAR Oil-Free Moisturizer

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Specifically crafted to address the needs of troubled skin, this lightweight face moisturizer offers a powerful blend of ingredients to combat acne while providing essential hydration. Enriched with pore-minimizing niacinamide, it helps to refine skin texture and reduce the appearance of pores, giving you a smoother complexion.

Additionally, soothing antioxidants work to calm inflammation and redness, promoting a more even tone. Ceramides further strengthen the skin's barrier function, preventing moisture loss and enhancing overall resilience. The oil-free formula ensures a non-greasy feel, making it perfect for daily use under makeup or alone. 

Active ingredients: Niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, licorice root extract

Skin type: All

SPF: Not present

Size: 2 fl oz

11

Farmacy Daily Greens Oil Free Gel Face Moisturizer

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This innovative formula combines the power of natural ingredients with advanced skincare technology to provide intense hydration without the heaviness of oils. Perfect for all skin types, especially oily and combination skin, it delivers a refreshing burst of moisture that revitalizes and plumps the skin, leaving it soft and supple. The inclusion of hyaluronic acid ensures long-lasting hydration, helping to lock in moisture and maintain skin's elasticity. 

Infused with a blend of potent botanicals such as moringa seed extract and papaya enzymes, it helps to detoxify and purify the skin, while also providing antioxidant protection against environmental stressors. With its lightweight gel texture, Farmacy Daily Greens moisturizer absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving behind a radiant and healthy-looking complexion.

Active ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, moringa, papaya, niacinamide, galacturonic acid, polyglutamic acid

Skin type: Dry

SPF: Not present

Size: 1.7 fl oz

12

Jack Black - Clean Break Oil-Free Moisturizer

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Specially formulated for guys who want effective hydration without the greasy residue, this moisturizer offers a lightweight, oil-free solution. Packed with potent ingredients like organic white tea and sea kelp, it nourishes and revitalizes the skin, leaving it feeling fresh and rejuvenated. The formula absorbs quickly, providing instant hydration and a matte finish, making it perfect for daily use or as a post-shave soother.

Clean Break Moisturizer works to improve skin texture, minimize the appearance of fine lines, and enhance overall skin health. Its clean, masculine scent is subtle and refreshing, adding to the overall grooming experience. 

Active ingredients: Niacinamide

Skin type: All

SPF: Not present

Size: 3.3 fl oz.

13

bareMinerals Poreless Oil-Free Moisturizer

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This advanced face cream delivers intense moisture without clogging pores, making it ideal for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin. Infused with botanical extracts and nourishing ingredients, it revitalizes the skin, leaving it soft, smooth, and supple. The unique formulation works to minimize the look of pores, giving your complexion a refined and flawless finish. Its oil-free formula ensures a non-greasy feel, making it perfect for daily use under makeup or alone. 

Active ingredients: Bilberry, noni fruits, orange and lemon extracts

Skin type: Oily

SPF: Not present

Size: 1.7 fl oz.

Now that you have seen my product recommendations for the best oil-free moisturizers, glance through my buying guide to make an informed purchase.

When searching for oil-free moisturizers, it's essential to consider several factors to ensure they suit your skin type and provide the hydration and protection you need without clogging pores or exacerbating oily skin. Here's what to look for:

Non-Comedogenic Formulas: Choose moisturizers labeled as "non-comedogenic" or "won't clog pores." This ensures they are formulated to not block pores, which can lead to acne and breakouts, especially for those with oily or acne-prone skin.

Lightweight Texture: Look for lightweight, gel-based, or water-based formulations. These are less likely to feel heavy or greasy on the skin, making them suitable for oily skin types. Gel-based moisturizers can also provide a cooling effect, which may be refreshing for oily or combination skin.

Hyaluronic Acid: Hyaluronic acid is a humectant that attracts moisture to the skin without adding oil. It's an excellent ingredient for oil-free moisturizers as it helps to hydrate the skin effectively.

Glycerin: Glycerin is another humectant commonly found in oil-free moisturizers. Like hyaluronic acid, it helps draw moisture to the skin without adding oiliness.

Matte Finish: Look for moisturizers that offer a matte finish or claim to control oil throughout the day. These formulations can help reduce excess shine and keep the skin looking fresh.

Oil-Absorbing Ingredients: Ingredients like silica, kaolin clay, or rice powder can help absorb excess oil throughout the day, making them suitable for those with oily skin.

Fragrance-Free And Hypoallergenic: Fragrances can irritate sensitive skin, so opt for fragrance-free formulas if you have sensitive or reactive skin. Additionally, hypoallergenic products are less likely to cause allergic reactions.

Broad-Spectrum SPF: If you're using a moisturizer during the day, consider choosing one with broad-spectrum SPF protection. This helps protect your skin from the harmful effects of UVA and UVB rays without adding extra oil.

Antioxidants: Ingredients like vitamin C, vitamin E, and green tea extract can provide antioxidant benefits, protecting the skin from environmental damage and promoting overall skin health.

Remember to patch-test any new product before applying it to your entire face, especially if you have sensitive or reactive skin. If you're unsure which product is best for your skin type, consider consulting with a dermatologist for personalized recommendations.

Oil-free moisturizers are particularly beneficial for individuals with certain skin types or concerns:

Oily Skin: People with oily skin tend to produce excess sebum, leading to a shiny or greasy complexion. Oil-free moisturizers provide hydration without adding additional oil to the skin, helping to balance moisture levels without exacerbating oiliness.

Acne-Prone Skin: Acne-prone skin is often characterized by clogged pores, breakouts, and inflammation. Oil-free moisturizers, especially those labeled as non-comedogenic, can help hydrate the skin without contributing to pore blockages or acne flare-ups.

Combination Skin: Combination skin typically features both oily and dry areas, with an oily T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) and drier cheeks. Oil-free moisturizers can provide hydration to the dry areas without making the oily areas feel greasy or congested.

Sensitive Skin: Some individuals with sensitive skin may find that oil-free moisturizers are less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions compared to heavier, oil-based formulas. Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic options are often available for those with sensitive skin.

Those with a Preference for Lightweight Formulas: Even individuals with normal or dry skin may prefer the lightweight feel of oil-free moisturizers, especially if they dislike the sensation of heavy or greasy products on their skin.