If your skin is struggling this summer, these are our 14 go-to moisturisers for oily skin

Because hydration doesn't have to mean congestion

Studio portrait of fashionable Gen Z woman - best moisturiser for oily skin
(Image credit: Getty Images/We Are)

There’s a fine line between dewy supermodel skin and a slick of sheen. Especially when grease gets worse as the day wears on, leaving planet-sized pores in its wake. One way to outsmart oil is to re-evaluate your skincare: enter, the best moisturiser for oily skin.

After using the best toner and best face serums for combination skin, it makes sense that your moisturiser should be lightweight and, where possible, mattifying. Because it's true that different skin types need different moisturisers. For example, the best moisturisers for dry skin will likely be too heavy for those with oily skin, leaving complexions greasy, sticky and congested. 

What to look for in the best moisturiser for oily skin

"Combatting oiliness is a tricky business," explains medical and cosmetic consultant dermatologist Dr Anjali Mahto. "If in doubt, look for the words 'oil-free' and 'noncomedogenic' on the packaging as this means it won’t clog pores."

Moisturising may seem counterintuitive, but oily skin can still get dehydrated. This is especially true if you are also using acne products to quell breakouts.

"Many anti-acne products dry out the skin," explains consultant dermatologist Dr Sharon Wong. "It's important to rehydrate it in order to prevent sebum levels going into overdrive to compensate for this dryness."

However, this is obviously not the place for rich, oil-based moisturisers that could further aggravate an already clogged complexion. What's needed is lightweight creams and gels that sink into the skin quickly. Things like water-based creams work beautifully.

"What the water does is act as a vehicle to transport other actives in the product so they penetrate the skin better," says Benedicte Le Bris, head of research and development at L’Occitane. "At the same time, the gel traps the water so it doesn’t evaporate at room temperature." 

Another benefit of gels is that the watery consistency delivers a hit of hydration without blocking pores. Something that makes it ideal for acne sufferers but also helps all skin prone to oiliness."This is because gels are free from the fatty ingredients that normally make moisturisers creamy," explains Le Bris. 

Many also boast sponge-like ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and glycerin. These are oily skin saviours as they hold on to vast amounts of water, effectively plumping up fine lines and shuttling lost moisture back into dry skin. 

And the icing on the cake? Gels play well under make-up, leaving no sticky residue on the skin. 

How did we test the best moisturisers for oily skin

In light of everything that the experts said, we looked for products that were:

  • non pore-clogging
  • hydrating
  • oil-free

And luckily, there's a number of oily-skinned girls on the Marie Claire UK beauty desk who have been testing out the best moisturisers for oily skin for many, many years. So, if the thought of treating oily skin makes you break out in a sweat, this tailored arsenal of skincare will help. Keep reading for the Marie Claire UK beauty editor-approved edit of the best moisturisers for oily skin.

The 11 best moisturisers for oily skin

1. Murad Oil and Pore Control Mattifier SPF45

Murad Oil and Pore Control Mattifier SPF45 - best moisturiser for oily skin

(Image credit: Murad)

Murad Oil and Pore Control Mattifier SPF45

Best mattifying moisturiser for oily skin

Specifications

Formula: Cream
Size options: 50ml
SPF: 45

Reasons to buy

+
Keeps shine down all day long
+
High SPF protection

Reasons to avoid

-
Still has a relatively thick texture

This works quickly on contact with the skin to beat shine. Avocado lightly hydrates while oil-absorbing powders prevent the re-appearance of a greasy T-zone for up to 10 hours. We love how mattifying it is, while still feeling lightweight and hydrating on the skin.

2. Paula's Choice Clear Oil-Free Moisturiser

Paula's Choice Clear Oil-Free Moisturiser - best moisturiser for oily skin

(Image credit: Paula's Choice)

Paula's Choice Clear Oil-Free Moisturiser

Best night moisturiser for oily skin

Specifications

Formula: Gel-cream
Size options: 15ml, 60ml
SPF: None

Reasons to buy

+
Soothes skin instantly
+
Reduces the appearance of pores

Reasons to avoid

-
If you prefer a richer feeling cream, this light lotion won't be for you

This is your best night moisturiser for oily skin. There's a combo of niacinamide (improves the look of enlarged pores, refines texture), ceramides (to strengthen that all important skin barrier) and blueberry (calms redness) in the formula. It's a lightweight cream that won't clog your pores or further add to your skin's greasy feeling.

3. Caudalie Vinopure Moisturising Mattifying Fluid

Caudalie Vinopure Moisturising Mattifying Fluid - best moisturiser for oily skin

(Image credit: Caudalie)

Caudalie Vinopure Moisturising Mattifying Fluid

Best moisturiser for oily, blemish-prone skin

Specifications

Formula: Lotion
Size options: 40ml
SPF: None

Reasons to buy

+
It's barrier restoring without being oily

Reasons to avoid

-
This really takes down shine, so if you like a bit of glow it will have to be added with make-up

This is our fashion editor's favourite moisturiser. After coming off the pill, her skin went a little nuts and she had uncontrollable blemishes. This, along with rethinking her entire skincare routine, helped to calm inflammation, reduce the appearance of her spots and mattify any shine.

4. Medik8 Balance Moisturiser and Glycolic Acid Activator

Medik8 Balance Moisturiser and Glycolic Acid Activator - best moisturiser for oily skin

(Image credit: Medik8)

Medik8 Balance Moisturiser and Glycolic Acid Activator

Best balancing moisturiser for oily skin

Specifications

Formula: Cream
Size options: 50ml
SPF: None

Reasons to buy

+
Helps boost the skin's natural glow without oiliness

Reasons to avoid

-
Those with sensitive skin might not get on with the glycolic acid

This dynamic duo was formulated to balance the microbiome. Two to three times a week, apply 4-6 drops of the glycolic acid activator onto your face. This will slough away any dead skin cells. Apply the probiotic and prebiotic-rich Balance Moisturiser once the skin has dried. The moisturiser will be able to penetrate further with no dead skin in its way. By feeding the good bacteria in the microbiome, it encourages a clearer complexion. Use the moisturiser alone the rest of the week.

5. Summer Fridays Cloud Dew Oil-Free Gel Cream Moisturiser

Summer Fridays Cloud Dew Oil-Free Gel Cream Moisturiser - best moisturiser for oily skin

(Image credit: Summer Fridays)

Summer Fridays Cloud Dew Oil-Free Gel Cream Moisturiser

Best lightweight moisturiser for oily skin

Specifications

Formula: Gel-cream
Size options: 15ml, 50ml
SPF: None

Reasons to buy

+
Refreshing texture
+
Plumps and soothes skin

Reasons to avoid

-
Those with exceptionally oily skin might not find this mattifying enough

This gel cream is so lightweight that you can barely feel it on the skin (which is perfect when you feel like an oil-slick). However, that doesn't mean you won't feel the benefits. There are three weights of hyaluronic acid, so your skin will practically sing with happiness at how hydrated it is. There's also ceramides, minerals and amino acids inside which again are known to feed and regulate the skin barrier, making for a very content complexion.

"My skin is combination, so I like to use oil-free moisturisers that still let my skin's natural glow shine through. This moisturiser meets my criteria and is one of my favourites to use in the winter months." Shannon Lawlor, Acting Senior Beauty Editor

6. Kiehl's Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel-Cream

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel-Cream - best moisturiser for oily skin

(Image credit: Kiehl's)

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel-Cream

Best oil-free moisturiser for oily skin

Specifications

Formula: Gel-cream
Size options: 50ml, 125ml
SPF: None

Reasons to buy

+
Refreshing and hydrating
+
Leaves skin feeling silky

Reasons to avoid

-
Contains silicones to mattify, so beware of pilling under other products

Kiehl's iconic moisturiser also comes in an oil-free formula. Which means that all skin types can now reap the benefits of this super hydrator. It reduces shine on the skin and actually helps to improve the appearance of large pores over time.

7. Glossier Priming Moisturiser Balance

Glossier Priming Moisturiser Balance - best moisturiser for oily skin

(Image credit: Glossier)

Glossier Priming Moisturiser Balance

Best morning moisturiser for oily skin

Specifications

Formula: Gel-cream
Size options: 50ml
SPF: None

Reasons to buy

+
Contains niacinamide to tackle the appearance of large pores
+
Takes down shine before make-up application

Reasons to avoid

-
Works best with a more active serum underneath

The best moisturiser for oily skin needs to help balance oil without stripping the skin. This does exactly that. The Marine Extract in the cream reduces visible shine instantly and the niacinamide works to reduce the appearance of enlarged pores.

8. Kate Somerville Oil-Free Moisturiser

Kate Somerville Oil-Free Moisturiser - best moisturiser for oily skin

(Image credit: Kate Somerville)

Kate Somerville Oil-Free Moisturiser

Best moisturiser for oily, mature skin

Specifications

Formula: Cream
Size options: 50ml
SPF: None

Reasons to buy

+
Beautifully lightweight
+
Instantly mattifying

Reasons to avoid

-
It's very mattifying, so if you like a glow this isn't for you

Just because you have oily skin and are prone to breakouts, doesn't mean that they are your only skin concerns. This cream is ideal for more mature skin that wants a cream that can also supports elasticity, tightens and reduce fine lines. Et voila!

9. Vichy Normaderm Skin Corrector 1.5% BHA Daily Moisturiser

Vichy Normaderm Skin Corrector 1.5% BHA Daily Moisturiser - best moisturiser for oily skin

(Image credit: Vichy)

Vichy Normaderm Skin Corrector 1.5% BHA Daily Moisturiser

Best moisturiser for oily, spot-prone skin

Specifications

Formula: Cream
Size options: 50ml
SPF: None

Reasons to buy

+
Instantly mattifying
+
Contains actives to treat and prevent breakouts

Reasons to avoid

-
Might not be moisturising enough for some

Everyone knows that salicylic acid is the dream ingredient to tackle blemishes. This daily moisturiser both hydrates the skin, while also mattifying the skin and exfoliating the skin to tackle blemishes.

10. La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat - best moisturiser for oily skin

(Image credit: La Roche-Posay)

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat

Best moisturiser for shiny, oily skin

Specifications

Formula: Cream
Size options: 40ml
SPF: None

Reasons to buy

+
Absorbs quickly
+
Good under make-up

Reasons to avoid

-
Won't be hydrating enough for some

The whole La Roche-Posay Effaclar range is perfect for oily-skinned gals. And there are numerous moisturisers in the range to choose from. This one works on skin that's oily and needs a little extra help with shine control.

11. Byoma Moisturizing Gel Cream

Byoma Moisturizing Gel Cream - best moisturiser for oily skin

(Image credit: Byoma)

Byoma Moisturizing Gel Cream

Best affordable moisturiser for oily skin

Specifications

Formula: Gel cream
Size options: 50ml
SPF: None

Reasons to buy

+
Supports and strengthens the skin barrier
+
Contains niacinamide to tackle the appearance of enlarged pores

Reasons to avoid

-
You might need a more active serum underneath in the day (e.g. for antioxidant protection)

Byoma is one of our favourite affordable skincare brands, and this oil-free moisturiser is great for anyone with an oily complexion. Not only does it look great, but it's nice and lightweight on the skin, while still delivering a kick of hydration. Byoma is all about boosting your skin barrier, and we really can't argue with that.

12. OSKIA Violet Water Hydra Gel

OSKIA Violet Water Hydra Gel

(Image credit: Oskia)

OSKIA Violet Water Hydra Gel

Best active moisturiser for oily skin

Specifications

Formula: Gel cream
Size options: 50ml
SPF: None

Reasons to buy

+
Lightweight and soothing
+
Contains vitamin C for antioxidant protection
+
Niacinamide reduces appearance of enlarged pores

Reasons to avoid

-
Lightweight finish that is easy to overapply (which can cause pilling)

If you're looking for an all-in-one day cream to use before your SPF, this is it. Not only does it contains niacinamide and a micro-plankton complex to tackle oiliness and breakouts, it's also full of hyaluronic acid to help plump and hydrate, as well as vitamin C for that all important antioxidant protection (and glow). 

13. Laneige Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Gel Moisturiser

LANEIGE Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Gel Moisturiser

(Image credit: Laneige)

Laneige Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Gel Moisturiser

Best gel moisturiser for oily skin

Specifications

Formula: Gel
Size options: 50ml
SPF: None

Reasons to buy

+
Gorgeous packaging
+
Cooling thanks to mint extract
+
Lightweight and plumping

Reasons to avoid

-
Doesn't contain any major actives, so you might need to pair with a hardworking serum for targeted treatment

"I absolutely adore this gel moisturiser. It's simple but so effective. It contains small beads of hyaluronic acid that burst and unleash their plumping, hydrating goodness. It also contains cooling mint leaf to tackle unwanted shine and minimise the appearance of large pores. It has become my go-to moisturiser for summer." Shannon Lawlor, Acting Senior Beauty Editor

14. e.l.f. Pure Skin Moisturizer

e.l.f. pure skin moisturiser

(Image credit: e.l.f.)

e.l.f. Pure Skin Moisturizer

Best drugstore moisturiser for oily skin

Specifications

Formula: Cream lotion
Size options: 75ml
SPF: None

Reasons to buy

+
Mattifies skin instantly
+
Nourishes skin barrier
+
Contains niacinamide to tackle pore appearance

Reasons to avoid

-
Doesn't feel very hydrating, so if you want a glowy finish, you won't like it

If your skin is oily and not in any major need of glow-boosting hydration, look into this product. It sinks in almost instantly, without leaving a trace of grease behind. With niacinamide, it helps to minimise the appearance of pores while ceramides and oat milk deliver hydration and protect the skin barrier.

Katie Thomas

Katie Thomas is the Senior Beauty Editor at Marie Claire UK. With over 10 years of experience on women's luxury lifestyle titles, she covers everything from the best beauty looks from the red carpet and stand out trends from the catwalk, to colonic irrigation and to the best mascaras on the market. She started her career on fashion desks across the industry - from The Telegraph to Brides - but found her calling in the Tatler beauty department. From there she moved to Instyle, before joining the Marie Claire digital team in 2018. She’s made it her own personal mission to find the best concealer in the world to cover her tenacious dark circles. She’s obsessed with skincare that makes her skin bouncy and glowy, low-maintenance hair that doesn’t require brushing and a cracking good manicure. Oh and she wears more jewellery than the Queen.

With contributions from