These Oil-Free Moisturizers Will Hydrate Your Skin Without Clogging Your Pores

"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a moisturizer that glides onto your skin and boosts hydration for hours. On top of that, you likely want your go-to products to brighten and purify without clogging your pores (is that too much to ask?!). Unfortunately, tons of skincare products contain oil which can result in breakouts and a greasy texture for certain skin types. But good news: we spoke to dermatologists, who weighed in on the best oil-free moisturizers that check all the boxes.

“Anyone with combination or oily skin is a good candidate for an oil-free moisturizer, which is a good option for layering under sunscreen in the morning for added hydration,” says Michael Jacobs, MD, a dermatologist and associate professor of dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College. They’re also often less pore-clogging than heavy moisturizers but still pack a hydrating punch while remaining lightweight, he adds.

Meet Our Experts: Michael Jacobs, MD, dermatologist and associate professor of dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College, David Kim, MD, dermatologist at Idriss Dermatology

So how do you tell if a moisturizer is actually oil-free? “You can tell based on the texture because it’s more translucent and light, and not creamy,” says David Kim, MD, a dermatologist at Idriss Dermatology. You can also check the labels and look for phrases like “oil-free” or “non-comedogenic,” and scan the ingredient list for oils or petroleums.

When it comes to ingredients you should look for, Dr. Jacobs recommends hyaluronic acid and glycerin, as well as ingredients like ceramides, squalene, and peptides. “These aren’t heavy or pore-clogging, but they are still deeply hydrating and healthy for the skin, and restoring to the moisture barrier,” he explains.

Regardless of skin type, though, *everyone* needs to moisturize. Most acne topical medications are drying, and a lack of moisture leads to a damaged skin barrier, says Dr. Jacobs. “Using a moisturizer can help tolerate these drying medications which help to treat flare ups and prevent further acne,” he explains. Plus, your skin loses moisture throughout the day, so it needs to be replenished to keep it supple and soft, adds Dr. Kim.

Ready for hydrated, glassy skin? Here are the 12 best oil-free moisturizers, according to dermatologists.

Water Drench Hyaluronic Cloud Cream Hydrating Moisturizer

You may have seen this moisturizer trending on TikTok, but there’s a reason it has a cult following. “This oil-free moisturizer is formulated with high concentrations of hyaluronic acid to prevent moisture on the skin from evaporating, leaving it replenished and hydrated,” says Dr. Jacobs. It’s also fragrance-free, locks in hydration for up to 72 hours, and super easy to toss in your purse or makeup bag.

barrier+ Skin Barrier Niacinamide Restoring Gel Cream

If your skin is craving an extra hydration boost, Dr. Kim says this moisturizer is for you. “This is a fantastic gentle gel moisturizer that delivers moisture like no other gel moisturizer, and even patients with oily skin like this product,” he says. Plus, it contains niacinamide, which helps absorb excess oil and even out your skin tone.

Prevention Daily Matte Moisturizer Oil-Free SPF 30

This daily matte moisturizer is a go-to for Dr. Jacobs since it contains SPF 30 to protect against the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays. It also provides a lightweight and oil-free hydration boost, making it a great option for those with dry or oily skin, he adds. Another bonus? It works as a makeup primer!

Major Fade Active Seal Moisturizer

“This soft gel moisturizer is infused with vitamin C (Tetrahexyldexyl ascorbate) to keep the skin bright,” says Dr. Kim. The formula contains active ingredients to help treat dark spots and protect the skin from future discoloration, while delivering major hydration. The easy-to-use pump also delivers the perfect amount of product every. single. time.

Dermal Repair Cream

It’s pricey, but if you have sensitive skin, Dr. Jacobs says this cream works wonders. “It will give you healthier-looking skin in no time, while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles,” he explains. The non-greasy formula also improves skin texture without clogging your pores, so it’s a suitable option for everyone.

The Water Cream

Lightweight, clarifying, and hydrating? Check, check, and check! This Tatcha Water Cream is a top recommendation from Dr. Kim since it’s especially good for people with oily skin without leaving a sticky or greasy residue. Not to mention, the packaging is sleek and timeless!

Dermacontrol Oil Absorbing Moisturizer

“This is specially designed for oily and acne-prone skin since it’s lightweight and fast absorbing while still providing deep hydration to the skin,” says Dr. Jacobs. It also contains broad spectrum SPF 30, and the non-greasy formula absorbs quickly to provide 24-hour hydration.

PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion

“This is a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer that will help improve skin texture and protect the skin barrier,” says Dr. Jacobs. It also contains niacinamide and ceramides which will hydrate and keep your skin moisturized without clogging pores. The fragrance-free classic is suitable for all skin types and the perfect addition to your nighttime routine.

Even Tone Correcting Serum

A little skincare splurge is worth it when you’re looking for hydrated, smooth, glassy skin. “This serum is light but hydrating enough to be a moisturizer especially during the summer,” says Dr. Kim. It glides on and contains hexylresorcinol and alpha-arbutin which brighten your complexion and improve the appearance of dark spots.

C-Rush Brightening Gel Crème

Sometimes all you need is a moisturizer packed with vitamin C, and this brightening cream is worth the hype, says Dr. Jacobs. It's lightweight and formulated with three sources of vitamin C to brighten and even your skin tone, while also hydrating and plumping the skin's surface, he explains.

Hydro Boost Hydrating Water Gel Face Moisturizer

Neutrogena will always be a classic and Dr. Jacobs says their oil-free moisturizer is a reputable option for those with sensitive skin. It hydrates without clogging your pores or increasing oil production, and it’s gentle enough for sensitive skin since it contains glycerin.

Daily Greens Oil-Free Gel Moisturizer with Moringa and Papaya

For those with shiny skin, this is the refreshing skincare step you need. A few of this moisturizer's key ingredients are niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and papaya which refresh, hydrate, and purify without leaving a greasy finish. It’s also known to visibly reduce the appearance of pores which is always a plus!

You Might Also Like

• Jennifer Garner Swears By This Retinol Eye Cream

• These New Kicks Will Help You Smash Your Cross-Training Goals