11 Best Facial Moisturizers for Acne-Prone Skin
Published July 13, 2023
If you have oily skin, being meticulous about moisturizing may seem contradictory. But, yes, it is still critical that you moisturize even if you have acne. By skipping this vital step, you risk developing rough, flaky, and red spots, which will draw more attention to your breakouts.
While it’s critical to select the appropriate moisturizer for your skin type, there is also an appropriate manner to apply it. Observe the following sequence: Acne treatments should be used first, followed by a moisturizer, sunscreen, then, if desired, makeup. However, it is suggested that if you use a retinoid-based product to control your acne (such as tretinoin or adapalene), apply it over a moisturizer or in combination with one to minimize discomfort. Now it’s time for you to choose the best facial moisturizer for acne-prone skin.
What Causes Acne?
Acne happens when dirt and bacteria get trapped in your pores and clogs them. The oil that your skin naturally secretes can’t get out into the surface because of the clogging. So it mixes in with the dirt and bacteria. This toxic combination causes your pores to get inflamed, leading to (you guessed it) an acne breakout.
This is why people with oily skin are much more prone to acne. But that doesn’t mean people with dry skin are immune to it. Dirt and bacteria can still irritate their pores and cause infection.
Genes, unhygienic practices, stress, and harsh skincare routine all contribute to acne breakouts. They make your skin too oily or too dry and your pores too sensitive.
Can Acne-Prone Skin Benefit From Moisturizers?
Contrary to popular belief, acne-prone skin needs moisturizers too. Remember that facial moisturizers keep the skin hydrated. It maintains the moisture level in your skin and keeps it from drying out. In addition, well-moisturized skin is much more tolerant of harsh chemicals, sun damage, and infections, among others. This, in turn, helps prevent acne.
Even if you have oily skin, you’ll still benefit from a moisturizer. In fact, your skin might be overproducing natural oils to compensate for the dryness. And if you’re using harsh chemicals to get rid of the oiliness, using a facial moisturizer can help counter its drying effects.
What to Look For in Facial Moisturizers
As we said, choosing a facial moisturizer when you have acne-prone skin can be difficult. As such, you can’t just walk into the skincare aisle and buy the first moisturizer you see. Instead, you need to carefully read the fine prints to determine if they have the following:
Non-Comedogenic Formula
Products marked with “non-comedogenic” mean that they are specially formulated not to block your pores. And if you’re prone to acne, a blocked pore is one of the first things you should avoid.
Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for some companies to claim that their products are non-comedogenic even if it isn’t. Unfortunately, no standard regulates the use of this word. So it’s up to your research skills and discerning eye as a consumer to tell which is which.
Oil-Free Formulas
Some types of oils can block your skin. Sad to say, many facial moisturizers have oil-based formulas. Meaning, they contain heavy oils that can clog your pores, such as shea butter and coconut oil. So if you want to avoid an acne breakout, make sure your skincare products, including your facial moisturizer, are oil-free.
Anti-Acne Components
Some facial moisturizers, particularly those formulated for oily skin, contain anti-acne components. This includes salicylic acid, sulfur, benzoyl peroxide, and alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs). So if you’re already suffering from acne, using moisturizers with the above ingredients can help.
Natural Ingredients
As mentioned, harsh chemicals can strip your skin of natural oils. So as much as possible, look for moisturizers with natural ingredients such as:
The Best Moisturizers for Acne Prone Skin
1. CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30
With SPF 30, you can rely on this as your morning moisturizer. Dry patches have no chance against this excellent blend of ceramides (naturally produced fats in the skin) and hyaluronic acid (a humectant), especially on sensitive acne-prone skin tones. Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, boosts the skin’s protective barrier even more.
2. Neutrogena Oil-Free Daily Facial Moisturizer SPF 35
If you need moisturizer in the morning, this one contains a broad range of SPF 35 to protect you against UV rays that worsen acne scars. Plus, it contains glycerin and dimethicone (a hydrating chemical that prevents water loss without blocking pores) to seal in moisture. Additionally, this moisturizer absorbs into the skin without leaving a chalky residue, as some sunscreens do.
3. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel-Cream
Specifically formulated for sensitive skin, this gentle formula is non-comedogenic, fragrance- and oil-free. Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and dimethicone form the ideal moisturizing trio in this lightweight gel suitable for dry and oily skin types because of its rapid absorption. With thousands of positive reviews, Neutrogena’s Hydro Boost has gained popularity.
4. La Roche-Posay Toleriane Sensitive Fluide
This fragrance- and oil-free moisturizer is ideal for oily and mixed skin types. In addition, it contains glycerin (a humectant that attracts water to the skin) and squalene (an emollient that forms a protective barrier) to provide additional hydration. Nonetheless, it absorbs swiftly and leaves a matte finish, so you won’t have to worry about sparkling patches.
5. Aveeno Ultra-Calming Daily Moisturizer SPF 15
This Aveeno moisturizer is officially known as “ultra-calming.” The non-comedogenic, oil-free composition contains oat extract, which soothes and hydrates red, irritated skin, which is a typical side effect of acne. Additionally, it swiftly absorbs, so you won’t have to struggle with that greasy sensation or midday shine.
6. Elta MD UV Elements Tinted Broad-Spectrum SPF 44
This two-in-one product from EltaMD is selected as one of our top tinted moisturizers with SPF. It combines zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to shield the face from sun damage and hyaluronic acid to moisturize and fill out fine wrinkles. The oil- and fragrance-free formula is non-comedogenic and has garnered wonderful reviews from multiple dermatologists for its natural tint and lightweight texture.
7. Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion
Cetaphil products are a legend for a reason. This non-greasy, fragrance-free lotion moisturizes the most sensitive skin types, like acne, psoriasis, eczema, and rosacea. It leaves skin feeling naturally soft and silky because of the presence of vitamin E, glycerin, and dimethicone.
8. Differin Oil Absorbing Moisturizer with Sunscreen
Are you looking for a product that is non-comedogenic, non-greasy, and fragrance-free? Double-check, triple-check, and quadruple-check! This non-clogging solution never appears oily on the skin and protects delicate regions with SPF 30.
9. La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat Face Moisturizer
A typical complaint among acne victims is a glossy, slippery complexion, particularly after moisturizing. This oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer absorbs excess oil for a matte look while hydrating and smoothing the skin.
10. First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Oil-Control Moisturizer
This silky-smooth product is an oily skin lover’s delight. It contains hyaluronic acid for plumping action and mineral powders and niacinamide to help manage oil throughout the day. Additionally, it absorbs rapidly, smoothes out pores, and moisturizes well without leaving a greasy behind.
11. Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hyaluronic Acid Cloud Cream
Peter Thomas Roth’s ultra-silky gel cream is ideal for oily, acne-prone skin since it is lightweight, fragrance-free (to minimize irritation), oil-free, and packed with hyaluronic acid and ceramides for enough moisture. Apply this one last in your skincare routine at night for healthier, calm, and relaxed skin in the morning.
There you have it! Purchase the best moisturizer for acne-prone skin now and enjoy smooth, silky, and healthy-looking skin that is acne-free.
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Meet Rei Bayucca, your go-to writer for thought-provoking and captivating articles. With a wealth of experience across various industries, she is passionate about educating and inspiring her readers through her well-crafted content. Get ready for a refreshing take on the topics you care about.
