Best Moisturizers for Oily Skin (2025 Reviews) 

Finding the perfect moisturizer for oily skin can be tricky! Many people skip moisturizers, fearing they'll make their skin greasy. The truth is, hydration is key to controlling excess oil. The right moisturizer can keep your skin balanced, fresh, and shine-free throughout the day.

In this blog, we'll dive into the best moisturizers for oily skin, based on honest reviews, expert recommendations, and real user experiences.

Whether you're dealing with acne-prone skin, excess shine, or just want a lightweight formula, we've got you covered.

Why Moisturizing Oily Skin is Essential?

Before we get into the product recommendations, let's clear up a common misconception: "oily skin still needs hydration". Skipping moisturizer ca actually make your skin produce more oil to compensate for the lack of moisture. The key is to choose a product that's lightweight, non-comedogenic (won't clog pores), design to balance your skin's natural oils.

What to look for in a Moisturizer for Oily Skin?

When shopping for moisturizer, keep these factors in mind:

• Lightweight Formulas: Gel-based or water based moisturizers are ideal for oily skin

• Non-Comedogenic: Ensures the product won't clog your pores or cause breakout.

• Oil-Free: Look for the labels that say "oil-free" to avoid adding extra shine.

• Mattifying Properties: Some moisturizers help control excess oil throughout the day.

• Hydrating Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and niacinamide are great for hydration without heaviness.

The Best Moisturizer for Oily Skin in 2025

After extensive research and testing, here are the top moisturizer for oily skin in 2025

1. La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat Face Moisturizer

Best for: Extremely oily skin and enlarged pores.

Why It's Great: This moisturizer is a cult favorite for oily skin. It mattifies the skin, reduces shine, and contains sebum-regulating ingredients to keep oil production in check.

Key Ingredients; Sebulyse technology, glycerin, and dimethicone.

Pros:

• Oil-free, mattifying formula

• Reduces shine and minimized pore appearance

• Keeps skin matte throughout the day.

Cons:

• May pill when layered with other products

• Infused with hyaluronic acid for hydration

2. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel

Best for: Oily & Combination Skin, lightweight hydration, and Anyone looking for affordable, effective hydration. 

Why It's Great: A lightweight, oil-free gel that delivers intense hydration without feeling greasy. It's perfect for daily use and works well under makeup.

Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid and glycerin

Pros:

• Infused with hyaluronic acid for hydration

• Fast-absorbing, non-greasy texture

• Non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores)

Cons:

• Less mattifying compared to others

• Fragrance may irritate sensitive skin

3. CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing

Best for: Oily, Acne-prone skin, Nighttime hydration & Repairing skin barrier.

Why It's Great: This nighttime moisturizer is lightweight, non-greasy, and packed with skin-loving ingredients like niacinamide and ceramides to restore the skin barrier.

Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid.

Pros:

• Contains ceramides & niacinamide to restore skin

• Lightweight, non-greasy formula

• Helps soothe and calm skin

Cons:

• No SPF (not ideal for daytime use)

• May not control oils as well as mattifying moisturizers

4. Tatcha The Water Cream

Best for: Those willing to splurge for a high-end, effective product

Why It's Great: A luxurious, lightweight moisturizer that hydrates while controlling shine. It's formulated with Japanese wild rose and leopard lily to minimize pores and smooth skin texture.

Key Ingredients: Japanese wild rose, leopard lily, and Hadasei-3 complex.

Pros:

• Water-based, lightweight formula

• Contains Japanese wild rose & leopard lily for pore refinement

• Gives a subtle glow without feeling greasy.

Cons:

• Expensive compared to other options

• Less intense mattifying effect

5. Paula's Choice Clear Oil-Free Moisturizer

Best for: Oily, Sensitive, and acne-prone skin types. 

Why It's Great: Designed for oily acne-prone skin, this moisturizer hydrates while helping to calm redness and breakouts. It's lightweight and absorbs quickly.

Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, antioxidants, and hyaluronic acid.

Pros:

• Oil-free, lightweight, and non-greasy

• Contains niacinamide and ceramides to soothe skin

• Helps reduce redness and irritation

Cons:

• May not be mattifying enough for very oily skin

• Some users find the hydration level a bit light

Honest Tips for Using Moisturizers on Oily Skin

• Less is More: You don't need a thick layer of moisturizer. A pea-sized amount is usually enough for your entire face

• Less is Wisely: If you use serums or treatments, apply them before your moisturizer to lock in hydration.

• Don't Skip SPF: Even if your moisturizer has SPF, consider using separate sunscreen for adequate protection.

• Patch Test: Always patch test new products to ensure they don't cause breakouts or irritation.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right moisturizer for oily skin doesn't have to be a daunting task. With so many great options available in 2025, you can achieve hydrated, balanced, and shine-free skin. Remember, what works for someone else might not work for you, so don't be afraid to experiment until you find your perfect match.

Have you tried any of these moisturizer? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!