Best Moisturizer For Acne Prone Skin (That Also Look Great Under Makeup)

Finding the right moisturizer for acne prone skin can be difficult. Speaking from experience, I don’t think it’s as simple as one would think. So, here’s a review of the best moisturizers for acne prone skin — tried and tested by me :).

Why is moisturizer important for oily and acne prone skin?

I’m starting off with this question because I think there’s a wild misconception that those with oily and acne prone skin types do not or should not use moisturizer; the “logic” being that moisturizers are creamy in nature and make the skin more oily and/or clog pores furthers, which can lead to more breakouts.

This is not entirely true. There are other reasons the skin is feeling extra oily or breaking out and this is usually due to an unbalanced or damaged skin barrier (it has nothing to do with a creamy moisturizer!). The skin barrier is the upper most protective layer of skin and it prevents irritants and UV rays from penetrating deeper into the skin cells. If the skin barrier is damaged, then UV rays and irritants penetrate too deep and cause skin issues such as pigmentation, fine lines, acne etc. In addition, the skin cells lose too much water and this causes other issues such as dehydration and excess sebum production (problematic in acne prone skin) because the skin cells are overcompensating for the moisture loss.

So, moisturizers contain ingredients, which are designed to maintain and protect the skin barrier and that’s why it is important to use one every day in your skincare routine.

Protecting skin barrier health is vital for acne prone skin

The reason I am diving deep into skin barrier health is because I, personally, noticed my acne improve and clear up almost completely after being very diligent about protecting my skin barrier. It was THE game changer in my acne journey.

Here’s one truth about acne prone skin: if you have it, then just know that you already have some skin barrier dysfunction aka it’s not balanced and protecting the skin. Instead, irritants and debris are penetrating into the deeper layers of skin and there is an increased chance of water loss.

Why does this happen? People with acne prone skin have lower levels of linoleic acid, which is a lipid (natural fat) holding our skin cells together, leading to compromised skin barrier and acne issues.

Not to mention that acne treatments such as salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide and retinoids further dry out and irritate the skin barrier, so protecting it is even more important.

The solution? Using the right moisturizer!

Related:

Skincare Routine for Acne-Prone Skin

Best Face Wash For Acne Prone Skin

Best Sunscreens For Acne-Prone Skin With No White Cast

What ingredients to look for in a moisturizer for acne prone skin?

The must-haves

• Hydrating ingredients (humectants) such as hyaluronic acid and glycerin, which pull moisture into the skin
• Occlusive ingredients such as ceramides, silicones, squalane, which lock-in moisture

The nice-to-haves

• Soothing ingredients such as niacinamide, centella Asiatica, colloidal oatmeal, green tea, licorice, chamomile

Ingredients to avoid, if you have extra sensitive or oily skin

In addition to acne prone skin, If you have extra sensitive or oily skin, then you might want to consider an oil-free moisturizer and avoid the following ingredients:

• Fragrance
• Mineral oils
• Essential oils
• Shea / cocoa butter
• Aloe vera / aloe leaf
• Algae extract
• Coconut oil
• Silicones like dimethicone
• Denatured alcohol
• Witch hazel

If you are using other acne treatments, then be sure to avoid the same ingredients (i.e. salicylic acid, AHAs, retinoids, benzoyl and peroxide) in your moisturizer.

Different moisturizer formulas for different uses

There are a few different kinds of moisturizer formulas, which suit oily and acne prone skin. Lotions and water/gel cream formulas work the best for different reasons. Avoid thick, rich, creamy moisturizers because they contain more emollients (i.e. natural oils and butters); run a higher risk of clogging pores; and are designed for very dry skin and cooler climates.

Moisturizing Lotions

Lotions are lightweight and runny in consistency; they are very popular for oily and acne prone skin because they do not clog the pores and blend well. My only issue with lotions is that I don’t think they sit as well under makeup because the formula is too thin, so they are great for makeup-free days.

Water cream or gel cream

Water or gel creams are essentially oil-free moisturizers, which are lightweight and absorb quickly into the skin. While this formula is designed mainly for oily skin types, I find that water or gel creams work well on all skin types. Don’t mistake water or gel cream for ‘water gel’ moisturizers; this is a different kind of formula that looks like a transparent gel while water/gel creams appear white.

Affordable oil-free water cream or gel cream moisturizers for oily and acne prone skin and look great under makeup

Finally, after a lot of trial and error, here are my favorite affordable (plus one bougie*) water or gel cream moisturizers for oily and acne prone skin that ALSO look amazing under makeup.

• Neutrogena Hydro Boost gel-cream (for extra dry skin): USD 20
• Mamonde Blue Chamomile Soothing Cream: USD 24
• The Inkey List Omega Water Cream: USD 11
• *Fresh Rose Deep Hydration Face Cream: USD 59

Related:

Best Products For Acne Prone Skin And Acne Scars

Affordable Skincare Routine To Soothe and Reduce Acne Redness

Best Foundation For Acne Prone Skin (Tried & Tested!)