The Best Drugstore Moisturizers For Oily Skin

There’s a common myth that oily skin doesn’t need moisturizer, but this is absolutely not the case. It’s possible to have dehydrated oily skin, in fact, dehydrated skin attempts to compensate for the lack of moisture by producing more oil, thereby making your skin even oilier. Therefore the best solution is to keep your skin hydrated by consistently using a lightweight, hydrating moisturizer. Anything too rich and creamy could be too heavy for your skin, so it’s better to stick to either light, milky creams or gel textures. These five drugstore formulas are great for keeping oily skin hydrated, thereby helping to control oil.

For Dehydrated Skin: The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA, $6

Source: The Ordinary

Believe it or not, the Natural Moisturizing Factors is not only the name of the product but a skincare term that refers to the multiple components that make up the skin’s protective barrier, which include natural forms of amino acids, fatty acids, and hyaluronic acid. This lightweight, non-greasy cream acts as a topical supplement of the natural moisturizing components to strengthen the skin’s epidermis while offering intense hydration. In total, it includes 11 amino acids, as well as other hydrating heroes like glycerin and hyaluronic acid. It makes your skin feel super plump and restored almost instantly.

For Plump Skin: Bioderma Hydrabio Gel Cream, $25

Source: Bioderma

The French pharmacy is like a haven for skincare addicts, and this moisturizer is a serious staple. The water-based gel formula glides onto your skin offering instant hydration without leaving a greasy residue, making it ideal for oily skin. However, it doesn’t just offer intense hydration, it also contains salicylic acid, which helps to gently decongest blocked pores that can contribute to breakouts. It’s also non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic so it won’t clog your pores, and it’s suitable for sensitive skin.

For Oily, Acne-Prone Skin: Cetaphil DermaControl Oil Absorbing Moisturizer SPF 30, $19

Source: Cetaphil

Dermatologists are huge fans of Cetaphil products and this moisturizer was formulated for oily, acne-prone skin, and is clinically proven to absorb oil using a micropearl technology that helps reduce shine and provide a matte finish. It also offers broad-spectrum SPF 30, which is a major bonus. Plus, it oil-free, fragrance-free, and non-comedogenic, so it shouldn’t irritate your skin or block your pores. This formula also wears really well underneath foundation.

For Skincare Buffs: La Roche Posay Effaclar Mat Daily Face Moisturiser For Oily Skin, $32

Source: La Roche-Posay

Another product from the French pharmacy, this moisturizer was made with oily skin in mind and contains a few key ingredients to lower oil production. Of course, it’s oil-free, plus it contains Sebulyse Technology that works to mattify and tighten pores. It’s also formulated with LHA (beta-lipohydroxy acid, a derivative of salicylic acid), which provides gentle exfoliation and refines the skin’s texture, as well as zinc to neutralize shine. It works amazingly as a moisturizing base for makeup application and really keeps your skin looking matte all day long – we’re obsessed!

For Mature Skin: The Inkey List Peptide Moisturizer, $15

Source: The Inkey List

The Inkey List is our go-to brand for affordable skincare that packs a punch, and this Peptide Moisturizer is no exception. The fast-absorbing cream is formulated with peptides, which are amino acid chains that help encourage natural collagen production, leaving you with firmer, more youthful skin. It will also help strengthen your skin’s moisture barrier, preventing future moisture loss. It’s also certified clean at Sephora, which means it’s free of parabens, sulfates, and other common skincare irritants.

Moisturizer Application Tip: Apply your moisturizer, once you’ve cleansed, toned, and after you’ve applied any serums. For an extra layer of hydration, you can follow with a facial oil – we love this $24 facial oil from K-Beauty brand Sweet Chef).