Facial Moisturisers have been around for ages and have been used by many people as an additional part of their skincare routine. Moisturiser is a lotion, cream, ointment, balm, or oil-based product which is infused with soothing ingredients that aid in keeping the skin moisturised and hydrated. Its main goal is to lock in the moisture in the skin whilst defending the skin from the harsh environment. Moisturisers can also slow down the signs of ageing, make the face a smooth base before applying make-up, and prevent acne. There are different types of moisturisers that can be bought on the market. Humectants are the type of moisturiser that can attract water and slow down the dehydration of the skin. Emollients are the type of moisturiser that can make the skin supple and smooth. Occlusives are the type of moisturiser that locks in the moisture in the skin. Adding moisturiser to the skincare routine is said to be essential as it can aid in maintaining good skin conditions, thus making one look youthful and healthy, which can boost one’s self-confidence.
Facial moisturisers have improved their formulation, most brands consider skin conditions and skin type, especially for oily skins. Since there are many skin types, each type has certain concerns that need to be addressed. The ingredients present in the moisturisers play an important role in addressing those concerns. It will solely depend on them whether they fit the skin type, especially oily skins. Oily skins are more prone to skin issues like clogged pores, acne, discolourations, or blackheads and whiteheads due to the excess oil the skin produces. In choosing the right moisturiser for oily skins, the moisturisers must be lightweight, oil-free, and has active ingredients. This will aid in reducing the excess oil production on the skin, thus reducing the shine and the risk of having skin issues, whilst keeping the skin moisturised and hydrated throughout the day.
Listed below is the top selection of the best facial moisturisers for people with oily skin.
1. CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum (Best Overall)
CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum contains Hyaluronic Acid, which is a hydrating component. Our skin usually has Hyaluronic Acid but as people age, it decreases, thus they need to refill it up by using products that are infused with Hyaluronic Acid to prevent skin from drying. CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum aids in locking the moisture on the skin’s surface for up to 24 hours. It is also infused with other vitamins like vitamin B5 and ceramides that also help in locking up the moisture and restoring the protective barrier of the skin. This serum immediately provides skin with a smoother and softer finish. Any type of skin can use this serum, even those who have sensitive and acne-prone skin. Use it in the morning and evening after cleansing and moisturising by applying a pea-sized amount on the forehead, nose, cheeks, and chin.
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Cerave Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum Advantages |
Cerave Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum Disadvantages |
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Paraben-free and fragrance-free |
Changed formula |
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Developed with dermatologists |
Percentage of hyaluronic acid is not indicated |
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Provides 24-hour hydration |
Can cause breakout |
2. The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 (Best Value)
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 is infused with Hyaluronic Acid and B5 which provides hydration and leaves a visible plumping finish because of the different mixture of low, medium, and high-molecular-weight hyaluronic acids. This alcohol-free lightweight water-based serum which has a pH level of 6.50 – 7.50 enhances and locks in the hydration on the skin’s surface. It works with any skin type, but those who have sensitive skin must perform a patch test to know if there will be an allergic reaction. If there is no allergic reaction, proceed with applying a few drops to the face in the morning and evening before creams. Do not use it on the broken skin of the face.
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The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Advantages |
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Disadvantages |
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Reducing wrinkles |
Drying on the skin for some |
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Vegan |
Not effective for some |
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Cruelty-free and Nut-free |
Some experienced irritation |
3. SkinCeuticals B5 Gel (Best Formula)
SkinCeuticals B5 Gel is an oil-free serum that restores the moisture and radiance of the face for a smoother and softer complexion. It also contains vitamin B5, a natural hydrator, that restores the nutrients of the skin and locks the moisture to make it appear youthful. It can be used as a daily moisturiser which is perfect for those who are prone to acne or breakouts. Apply 2-3 drops of this serum to the face, neck, and chest using the fingertips whilst avoiding the eye area. If this serum will be used in the morning, apply it after a vitamin C antioxidant serum and before sunscreen. If it will be used at night, apply it after a retinol skin care product.
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SkinCeuticals B5 Gel Advantages |
SkinCeuticals B5 Gel Disadvantages |
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Leaves skin feeling supple and smooth |
Not moisturising or hydrating for some |
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Provides optimal hydration without clogging pores |
Does not work for dry skin |
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Paraben-, alcohol-, dye-, fragrance-free |
Makes the skin feel tight |
4. CeraVe Facial Moisturising Lotion PM
CeraVe Facial Moisturising Lotion PM is a lightweight night cream moisturiser suitable for any skin type, even oily ones. It has soothing components that help in replenishing the skin’s natural moisture barrier. It also contains niacinamide which can help calm the skin by reducing skin inflammation and redness. This is a great addition to the skincare routine which can soothe the skin during the night. To use this moisturising lotion, unlock the pump first by twisting to the left and pressing down until the lotion comes out. Apply the product to the face and neck.
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CeraVe Facial Moisturizing Lotion PM Advantages |
CeraVe Facial Moisturizing Lotion PM Disadvantages |
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Non-comedogenic, oil-free, fragrance-free |
Not alcohol-free |
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Developed with dermatologists |
Can be drying for some |
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Paraben-, alcohol-, dye-, fragrance-free |
Leaves a white cast |
5. SkinMedica Ultra Sheer Moisturiser
SkinMedica Ultra Sheer Moisturiser is a lightweight moisturiser that gives hydration and improves the appearance of the skin on the face. This moisturiser is ideal for any skin type from normal to oily skin type. It leaves the skin feeling hydrated and soft all day long without the heavy feeling on the skin. The vitamins that are infused in the moisturiser also help in protecting the skin from radical damage. Use just a quarter-sized amount and apply it to the skin using the hand. Apply this twice daily, morning and night, after cleanser, toner, and other treatment products.
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SkinMedica Ultra Sheer Moisturiser Advantages |
SkinMedica Ultra Sheer Moisturiser Disadvantages |
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Hydrates and softens skin |
People with sensitive skin did not experience a good effect |
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Paraben-free |
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Defends against free radical damage |
6. Differin Oil Absorbing Moisturiser
Differin Oil Absorbing Moisturiser is an oil-free lightweight moisturiser that protects the skin against the damage from the sun as it is also a sunscreen with SPF 30. This moisturiser claims to be great for people with acne-prone skin or those who are prone to breakouts. It is infused with micropearl technology, which absorbs the oil on the face, leaving a matte finish. Furthermore, it uses a low concentration of sunscreen filters to minimise irritation whilst supplying the skin with the maximum hydration it needs. Apply the moisturiser 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply on the skin for at least every two hours.
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Differin Oil Absorbing Moisturizer Advantages |
Differin Oil Absorbing Moisturizer Disadvantages |
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Absorbs on the skin easily |
Thick like a sunscreen |
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Hypoallergenic |
Does not absorb oil |
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Helps soothe the drying effects of some acne treatments |
7. PCA Skin Clearskin
PCA Skin Clearskin is a lightweight moisturiser that hydrates, calms, soothes, and nourishes normal to oily skin types, but it works great with skin that is prone to acne and breakouts mainly because it aids in giving the skin a bright complexion by reducing discolourations. It is infused with Niacinamide which prolongs the skin’s moisture retention, helps control sebum production, and reduces oil on the skin. Furthermore, it contains Borage seed oil which reduces redness due to breakouts, and cucumber extract which cleanse and soothes the skin’s texture. All these ingredients found in this moisturiser are all gentle for sensitive skin to avoid an allergic reactions. Apply this moisturiser after cleanser and toner in the morning and night.
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PCA Skin Clearskin Advantages |
PCA Skin Clearskin Disadvantages |
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Quick-absorbing, non-oily feel |
Gets dry and itchy |
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Targeted ingredients that balance moisture levels |
Stings for some |
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Plant extracts that purify and calm the skin |
Skin pilling |
8. Caudalie Vinopure Oil Control Moisturiser
Caudalie Vinopure Oil Control Moisturiser is a lightweight cream-based moisturiser that hydrates the skin all-day long, reduces excess oils, reduces appearance of discolourations like blackheads, and clarify skin’s texture. Customers have experienced their spots and blackheads have reduced after using this moisturiser. It is infused with Grape Seed Polyphenols which limits the sebum oxidation, Silica Powder and Java Tea Extract which regulates sebum production, and Natural Mediterranean Olive Squalane which moisturises and hydrates the skin. This makes this velvety moisturiser ideal for people with oily skin, which will leave a matte finish. Apply this moisturiser in the morning and evening to the face, and neck.
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Caudalie Vinopure Oil Control Moisturiser Advantages |
Caudalie Vinopure Oil Control Moisturiser Disadvantages |
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Non-comedogenic |
Caused acne breakouts for some |
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Hydrating |
Made skin oily for some |
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Vegan |
Not fragrance-free as it claims |
9. EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 is a lightweight oil-free sunscreen that aids in calming and protecting sensitive skin. It is infused with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and lactic acid which reduce skin’s inflammation and redness, hydrate the skin and cleanse the skin to make the skin look healthy. It can also serve as a moisturiser mainly because it locks moisture, improves skin feel, and replenishes suppleness. Apply the product on the face and neck before sun exposure and reapply for at least every 2 hours.
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EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 Advantages |
EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 Disadvantages |
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UVA/UVB sun protection |
Skin pilling |
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Calms and protects acne-prone skin |
Leaves residue |
10. Murad Oil and Pore Control Mattifier Broad Spectrum SPF 45
Murad Oil and Pore Control Mattifier Broad Spectrum SPF 45 is a lightweight moisturiser that claims to minimise the pores and absorbs excess oil and shine whilst protecting the skin from sun damage. It has oil-trapping microspheres that claim to give 10 hours of shine- or an oil-free finish. The avocado and African yellow wood bark are the ingredients responsible for reducing the appearance of the pores, thus cleansing the skin whilst making it less prone to breakouts. This moisturise is suitable for balanced, oily, combination, and sensitive skin. Before applying makeup, apply a small amount of the product to the face and neck to help absorb excess oil and leave a clear, matte base to work with.
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Murad Oil and Pore Control Mattifier Broad Spectrum SPF 45 Advantages |
Murad Oil and Pore Control Mattifier Broad Spectrum SPF 45 Disadvantages |
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Reduces pore size and excess oil |
Stings for some |
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Does not cause breakouts |
Skin pilling |
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Not sticky |
Formula changed |
11. Cetaphil DermaControl Oil Absorbing Moisturiser SPF 30
Cetaphil DermaControl Oil Absorbing Moisturiser SPF 30 is an oil-free lightweight non-greasy moisturiser that has broad sun protection that also hydrates the skin. The Micropearl Technology absorbs the oil on the surface of the face to reduce the shine and leave a matte finish. Furthermore, the Oleosome Technology present in the moisturiser reduces the irritation by having a lower concentration of the sunscreen filters as well. It is clinically proven to be suitable for oily and sensitive skin, as it is non-drying and does not irritate the skin. Before using the product, cleanse the skin with the cleanser in the morning and night. Follow up with the Cetaphil Moisturiser to maintain hydration.
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Cetaphil DermaControl Oil Absorbing Moisturiser SPF 30 Advantages |
Cetaphil DermaControl Oil Absorbing Moisturiser SPF 30 Disadvantages |
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Paraben-, Oil-, and Fragrance-free |
Left a white cast |
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Hypoallergenic |
Thick and sticky |
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Defends against 5 signs of skin sensitivity |
12. Vichy Mineral 89 Face Serum
Vichy Mineral 89 Face Serum is a fast-absorbing, hyaluronic acid-infused serum moisturiser that strengthens and repairs the skin barrier. It is a hydrating and plumping moisturiser that is suitable for all skin types. If the skin concern is having dry skin, this can be a great serum to combat that issue. The serum contains 11 ingredients that enhance the skin’s resistance to any signs of ageing due to sun exposure. It is accepted by the National Eczema Association, which is a UK charity for everyone impacted by eczema. This serum moisturiser can be used on its own by applying 2 drops of the serum on the skin after using a cleanser in the morning and night. Use outwards movement when applying and do not apply too much pressure.
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Vichy Mineral 89 Face Serum Advantages |
Vichy Mineral 89 Face Serum Disadvantages |
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Lightweight, fast-absorbing translucent booster |
Sticky/tacky |
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Clinically tested by 175 dermatologists |
Not moisturising enough |
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Hydrates & plumps skin |
Clog pores |
13. Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hyaluronic Acid Cloud Cream
Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hyaluronic Acid Cloud Cream is a lightweight moisturiser that is infused with 30% Hyaluronic Acid Complex and Pentavitin which aids in plumping the skin with moisture and provides hydration to the skin for up to 72 hours. This serum also contains Hydrolysed Silk, which will leave the skin soft and smooth. The ProHyal+ present in the cream is another component that enhances the hydration of the skin to make it appear healthier and smoother. This serum is suitable for dry, combination, and normal Skin Apply this cream to the face and neck in the morning and night.
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Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hyaluronic Acid Cloud Cream Advantages |
Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hyaluronic Acid Cloud Cream Disadvantages |
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Dries light as a cloud and feels weightless on the skin |
Dry patches |
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Fragrance-free |
Burning feeling on the skin |
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Hydrates & plumps skin |
Not for sensitive skin |
14. Kiehl’s Since 1851 Ultra Facial Cream
Kiehl’s Since 1851 Ultra Facial Cream is an ultra-lightweight moisturiser that hydrates all skin types for up to 24 hours, even the sensitive ones. It is infused with Squalene, which strengthens and restores the skin’s moisture barrier, Glycerin, which locks in moisture and softens the skin, and Glacial Glycoprotein, which deeply hydrates and keeps the skin moisture in balance. Furthermore, this cream protects the skin from sun damage with its SPF 30 broad-spectrum protection. It claims that in just one week the skin will be 18% smoother, 33% softer, and 11% healthier-looking. Apply a dime-sized amount to the skin in the morning and night after cleanser and toner.
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Kiehl’s Since 1851 Ultra Facial Cream Advantages |
Kiehl’s Since 1851 Ultra Facial Cream Disadvantages |
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Paraben-and fragrance-free |
Tiny product for its price |
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Provides instant and lasting 24-hour hydration |
Dried out the skin of some |
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Absorbs into the skin easily with an ultra-lightweight texture |
Skin pilling |
15. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel-Cream with Hyaluronic Acid for Extra-Dry Skin
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel-Cream with Hyaluronic Acid for Extra-Dry Skin is an oil-free moisturiser that leaves a dry-looking yet hydrated finish on the skin. It is a gel cream that absorbs quickly on the skin and has been clinically proven to hydrate the skin for up to 48 hours. This is considered to be the #1 Hyaluronic Acid skincare line in the United States that is infused with prebiotic technology, which can reduce allergic reactions like eczema. It also boosts the natural hyaluronic acid on the skin by 50%. The cream claims to achieve smooth, firm, and glowing skin. Apply the cream evenly to the face and neck after cleansing. Use it with other Neutrogena Hydro Boost products regularly to achieve a more effective and desired result.
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Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel-Cream with Hyaluronic Acid for Extra-Dry Skin Advantages |
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel-Cream with Hyaluronic Acid for Extra-Dry Skin Disadvantages |
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Does not clog pores |
Some experienced allergic reactions |
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Clinically proven to help strengthen skin’s moisture barrier |
Some experienced breakouts |
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Dye-free |
Not for sensitive skin |
16. La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat Mattifying Moisturiser for Oily Skin
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat Mattifying Moisturiser for Oily Skin is an oil-control moisturiser that is infused with micro-exfoliating lipo-hydroxy acid, which hydrates and soothes the skin texture whilst leaving a matte-finish. It minimises the oil production to reduce the shine and uses Sebulyse Technology to enhance the appearance of the pores by tightening them. Furthermore, the moisturiser contains Zinc Pidolate which counteracts the shine in the face of people with oily skin, Perlite, and Silica which also aids in absorbing the excess oil and Thermal Spring Water which has soothing and antioxidant properties. This moisturiser is best suited for people with oily, shiny, and sensitive skin, and those that have large pores. Apply this moisturiser after cleansing in the morning or the evening and avoid the eye contour. This is also considered to be an excellent make-up base or primer.
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La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat Mattifying Moisturiser for Oily Skin Advantages |
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat Mattifying Moisturiser for Oily Skin Disadvantages |
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Dermatologist Tested |
Skin pilling |
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Paraben-free |
The size of the product is way too small for its price |
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Non-comedogenic |
Despite its claim, it made the skin even oiler |
17. BalmLabs Serum Hydrator
BalmLabs Serum Hydrator is a lightweight serum moisturiser that soothes irritation, calms redness, smooths fine lines, and hydrates the skin. It was developed by Dr Robin Schaffran using plant-based, non-comedogenic, and gentle components which cleanse, balance, and smooth acne-prone skin. It is a fast-absorbing moisturiser which is infused with niacinamide, squalane, and broad-spectrum hemp-derived CBD which can treat dryness and itching. Using the fingertips, apply 1-2 pumps of this serum moisturiser to the face and neck in the morning and night before sunscreen or make-up.
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BalmLabs Serum Hydrator for Oily Skin Advantages |
BalmLabs Serum Hydrator Disadvantages |
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Non-greasy |
Required to wait for at least 30 days to see visible result |
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Dermatologist formulated |
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Fast-absorbing |
18. PanOxyl Oil Control Daily Moisturiser
PanOxyl Oil Control Daily Moisturizer is an all-in-one, oil-control moisturiser for acne-prone skin which nourishes the skin with antioxidants and protects from sun damage with its SPF 30. The Zinc Oxide present in the moisturiser helps in blocking the UVA and UVB rays. Furthermore, the moisturiser absorbs excess oil into the skin, which is the main cause of breakouts. This lightweight moisturiser is infused with hyaluronic acid, caffeine, and green tea extracts which lock in moisture and hydration on the face, and supplies natural benefits in nourishing and supporting the skin’s natural protection. Before using the product, shake it well, apply the moisturiser to the skin 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply for at least every 2 hours.
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PanOxyl Oil Control Daily Moisturiser Advantages |
PanOxyl Oil Control Daily Moisturiser Disadvantages |
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Paraben-free |
Leaves white cast |
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Gentle on Acne-Prone and Sensitive Skin |
Does not absorb and blend well on the skin |
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No Chemical Sunscreen Active Ingredients |
Drying for some people |
19. Nuori Bio-Catalyst Day
Nuori Bio-Catalyst Day is moisturising day cream that leaves all skin types plump, firm-looking, and dewy. This highly moisturising cream is infused with shea butter, jojoba oil, almond oil, and botanical squalane which provides nourishment by restoring the skin’s natural lipid balance, and preserves the skin’s natural barrier to leave the skin smoother and younger-looking. It also provides protection against stress and prevents signs of collagen breakdown and inflammation. Furthermore, the cream is infused with 0.2% NovHyal® Biotech G which enhances the skin’s production of hyaluronic acid, Kalpariane which stimulates collagen production, and Lipex SheaTris which prevents collagen breakdown. Drop 3-4 pumps of the cream on the finger and apply to the face and neck in the morning. Focus on the dryer areas of the face and increase the amount of the cream to apply. The noticeable advantages of this moisturiser are it protects, nourishes, firms, and revitalises the skin, and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
How do moisturisers help oily skin?
Moisturisers prevent oily skin from becoming dry and dehydrated, which can lead to wrinkles and untimely maturing of the face. One of the benefits of using facial moisturiser is to reduce wrinkles and other signs of ageing by keeping the skin smooth and soft. Moisturisers also create a defensive layer on the skin that is put under other skincare and cosmetic products. Before applying any other skin care products and make-up, apply moisturiser first to act as a protective layer to prevent the skin from drying. Moisturisers, when applied after cleansing the face, can remove the tight feeling by hydrating the skin and leaving it feeling soft. Furthermore, moisturisers can also control acne by unclogging the pores and controlling the production of excess sebum.
Is it necessary to use moisturiser for oily skin?
Yes, people with oily skin require moisturisers just like any other skin type because oiliness is different from the hydration of the skin. A general myth is that people with oily skin should not use moisturisers as they no longer require moisturisation. However, moisturisers do not add water to the skin, this will not make the skin feel oily or wet. Contrary to what people most believe in, moisturisers for oily skin aid in locking water in the outer layer of the skin to keep it hydrated and moisturised. People just have to know what type of moisturiser is best for their skin type.
Is it better to use serum than cream moisturisers for oily skin?
Yes, serum moisturisers are better to use than cream moisturisers for oily skin mainly because they are thinner and lighter, whilst cream-based moisturisers are usually thicker in consistency. Cream moisturisers may leave a sticky or heavy feeling for people with oily skin, unlike serum moisturisers. Serum moisturisers can also penetrate deeper than cream moisturisers because creamier moisturisers have larger molecules. Furthermore, serums are typically moisturisers that are fast-absorbing and can help with skin concerns like signs of ageing, acne, and discolouration which are more prone to people with oily skin.
Do moisturisers clog pores?
Yes, moisturisers can clog pores if people overuse them. Too much moisturiser, especially those heavy-formulated ones, can clog pores, resulting in the appearance of blackheads and whiteheads. In fact, clogged pores are one of the main signs of over moisturising the skin. To avoid this, make sure to apply the moisturiser evenly on the face. If the skin is oily, use an as little amount of moisturisers as possible to avoid overusing it and clogging the pores.
What are the best facial moisturisers for nourishing hydration?
The best facial moisturisers for nourishing hydration are Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel and Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hyaluronic Acid Cloud Cream. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel is an oil-free moisturiser which claims to leave the skin with a hydrated finish. The nourishing gel is absorbed by the skin quickly and the hydration is known to last for up to 48 hours. Furthermore, dermatologists claim that this gel moisturiser helps in strengthening the skin’s moisture barrier. Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hyaluronic Acid Cloud Cream is another nourishing and hydrating lightweight moisturiser which contains 30% nourishing Hyaluronic Acid Complex that is great for locking in and maintaining the moisture and hydration in the skin. And just what the name implies, the feeling of this moisturiser on the face is as light as a cloud.
What is the difference between serum facial moisturisers and cream moisturisers for oily skin?
There is a huge difference between facial moisturisers vs. facial creams. Serum moisturisers, as mentioned above, are lighter and thinner in consistency. They are usually made to fix skin concerns like wrinkles, fine lines, discolourations or dark spots, and acne. They are more expensive compared to cream moisturisers because they offer more benefits for oily skin. Most of the time, serums are used with cream moisturisers to further strengthen the effect or benefits of the products. Cream moisturisers, on the other hand, are thicker and creamier in consistency. They do not penetrate as deep and as quickly as serums can. They can also help with skin concerns, but demanding skin care problems require a stronger skin care product, which is a serum.