What are the most effective moisturizers for acne-prone skin. How can you choose the right product for your complexion. Which ingredients should you look for and avoid in moisturizers for acne-prone skin. What do dermatologists recommend for managing acne while maintaining hydration.

Understanding Acne-Prone Skin and Moisturization

Acne-prone skin presents unique challenges when it comes to moisturization. Many individuals with this skin type struggle to find a balance between keeping their skin hydrated and preventing breakouts. Contrary to popular belief, moisturizing is crucial for acne-prone skin, as dehydration can actually trigger increased oil production and exacerbate acne.

Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Azadeh Shirazi emphasizes the importance of skin minimalism for those with acne-prone skin. She recommends a simple three-step routine: cleanse, treat, and protect. This approach helps prevent over-layering of products, which can lead to clogged pores and increased breakouts.

Why is moisturizing important for acne-prone skin?

Moisturizing acne-prone skin is essential for several reasons:

• It helps maintain the skin’s barrier function
• It prevents excessive oil production caused by dehydration
• It can soothe irritation and inflammation associated with acne treatments
• It helps create a balanced environment for skin healing

Celebrity facialist Renée Rouleau points out that avoiding moisturizer can actually lead to more breakouts. When the skin becomes dehydrated, it triggers a response to produce more oil, creating an ideal environment for acne-causing bacteria to thrive.

Key Ingredients to Look for in Moisturizers for Acne-Prone Skin

When selecting a moisturizer for acne-prone skin, certain ingredients can be particularly beneficial. Dr. Marisa Garshick, a board-certified dermatologist, recommends looking for the following components:

• Ceramides: Support the skin barrier and minimize irritation
• Hyaluronic acid: A humectant that draws moisture into the skin
• Glycerin: Another effective humectant for hydration
• Niacinamide: Calms and soothes the skin, reduces redness and inflammation, regulates sebum production, and boosts ceramide production
• Salicylic acid: Particularly helpful for those with oily skin, as it can help unclog pores

These ingredients work together to provide hydration, support skin barrier function, and address common concerns associated with acne-prone skin.

How do ceramides benefit acne-prone skin?

Ceramides play a crucial role in maintaining skin health, especially for those prone to acne. They are naturally occurring lipids that help form the skin’s barrier, protecting it from environmental stressors and locking in moisture. For acne-prone skin, ceramides can:

• Strengthen the skin barrier, reducing sensitivity to irritants
• Help retain moisture without clogging pores
• Mitigate potential irritation from acne-fighting ingredients like benzoyl peroxide and retinoids
• Promote overall skin healing and repair

Ingredients to Avoid in Moisturizers for Acne-Prone Skin

While certain ingredients can be beneficial, others may exacerbate acne or clog pores. Dr. Shirazi advises avoiding the following:

• Silicone derivatives (e.g., dimethicone and cyclomethicone)
• Fragrances
• Mineral oil
• Lanolin
• Shea butter
• Comedogenic oils (e.g., coconut oil)

It’s important to note that not all potentially comedogenic ingredients will cause problems for every individual with acne-prone skin. The overall formulation of a product, particularly its water-to-oil ratio, plays a significant role in determining whether it will clog pores.

Can comedogenic ingredients ever be suitable for acne-prone skin?

While it’s generally advisable to avoid comedogenic ingredients, the reality is more nuanced. Some products may contain one or two potentially comedogenic ingredients but still maintain a noncomedogenic formula overall. The key lies in the product’s formulation and how these ingredients interact with others in the mix.

Factors that influence whether a product with comedogenic ingredients may still be suitable include:

• The concentration of the comedogenic ingredient
• The overall water-to-oil ratio of the formula
• The presence of other beneficial, non-comedogenic ingredients
• Individual skin sensitivity and reactivity

It’s always best to patch test new products and pay attention to how your skin reacts, regardless of the ingredient list.

Choosing the Right Texture for Your Moisturizer

The texture of your moisturizer can significantly impact its effectiveness and how well it suits your acne-prone skin. Dr. Dhaval Bhanusali, a board-certified dermatologist, recommends lighter formulations for acne-prone skin types.

What textures work best for acne-prone skin?

Optimal textures for acne-prone skin include:

• Gels: Lightweight and quickly absorbed, ideal for oily skin
• Lotions: Thinner than creams, providing hydration without heaviness
• Gel-creams: A hybrid offering the hydration of a cream with the lightness of a gel

These textures are less likely to clog pores and generally feel more comfortable on acne-prone skin, especially in warmer climates or for those who tend to be oily.

Top Moisturizers for Acne-Prone Skin in 2024

Based on expert recommendations and user reviews, here are some of the best moisturizers for acne-prone skin in 2024:

1. Vanicream Moisturizing Cream: Ideal for extremely sensitive skin, free from common irritants
2. La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat: Oil-free and provides a mattifying effect
3. Cetaphil Pro Oil Absorbing Moisturizer: Contains SPF and helps control shine
4. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel: Lightweight, hyaluronic acid-based gel moisturizer
5. CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion: Contains ceramides and niacinamide
6. Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream: Peptide-rich formula to support skin health
7. EltaMD AM Therapy Facial Moisturizer: Oil-free and suitable for daily use

These products have been formulated with acne-prone skin in mind, offering hydration without clogging pores or exacerbating breakouts.

The Role of Moisturizers in Acne Treatment

Moisturizers play a crucial role in a comprehensive acne treatment plan. They help maintain skin health while counteracting the potentially drying effects of acne medications.

How do moisturizers support acne treatment?

Moisturizers contribute to acne treatment in several ways:

• Balancing skin hydration to prevent excess oil production
• Soothing irritation caused by acne-fighting ingredients
• Strengthening the skin barrier to improve overall skin health
• Providing a smoother base for makeup application
• Helping to reduce the appearance of acne scars and hyperpigmentation

When used in conjunction with appropriate acne treatments, the right moisturizer can significantly improve skin comfort and the overall effectiveness of your skincare routine.

Incorporating Moisturizer into Your Acne-Fighting Routine

To maximize the benefits of your moisturizer and maintain clear skin, it’s important to use it correctly within your skincare routine.

When should you apply moisturizer in your skincare routine?

For optimal results, follow these steps:

1. Cleanse your face with a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser
2. Apply any prescribed acne treatments or serums
3. Wait a few minutes for treatments to absorb
4. Apply your moisturizer, using gentle, upward motions
5. If it’s daytime, follow with a non-comedogenic sunscreen

Consistency is key. Use your moisturizer twice daily, in the morning and evening, to maintain proper skin hydration and support your acne treatment efforts.

The Importance of Patch Testing

When introducing a new moisturizer to acne-prone skin, patch testing is crucial to avoid potential breakouts or allergic reactions.

How do you properly patch test a new moisturizer?

Follow these steps for effective patch testing:

1. Apply a small amount of the product to a discreet area, such as behind your ear or on your inner arm
2. Wait 24-48 hours and observe for any signs of irritation, redness, or breakouts
3. If no reaction occurs, apply the product to a small area on your face where you typically experience breakouts
4. Continue to monitor for any adverse reactions over the next few days
5. If your skin tolerates the product well, gradually incorporate it into your full skincare routine

Patch testing can save you from potential skin issues and help you identify products that work well with your unique skin type.

In conclusion, finding the right moisturizer for acne-prone skin involves understanding your skin’s needs, identifying beneficial ingredients, and avoiding potential irritants. By choosing a suitable product and incorporating it correctly into your skincare routine, you can maintain hydrated, healthy skin while managing acne concerns. Remember to consult with a dermatologist for personalized advice, especially if you have persistent or severe acne.

The 15 Best Moisturizers for Acne-Prone Skin

If you’ve ever struggled with acne, you know how frustrating it can be to find a moisturizer that works well for your skin. I’ve definitely been there and have only recently discovered what is best for my own complexion (like, “two months ago” recently). If you are struggling, don’t worry. I’ve asked dermatologists to weigh in on the subject.

Of course, it’s always a good idea to see your own dermatologist so they can help you find what’s effective for your particular skin, but you can think of this as a helpful guidebook for choosing the best moisturizer for acne-prone skin. Those who are acne prone have skin that’s more sensitive, so it’s important to keep that in mind when looking. Read what derms had to say below. They’re breaking down what ingredients to look for, which ones to avoid, and, of course, helpful recs. There’s something for every budget. Keep scrolling.

If you have acne-prone skin, derms want you to know a few things before purchasing your next moisturizer. Board-certified dermatologist Azadeh Shirazi, MD, says, “Be cautious of over-layering too many products. Skin minimalism should be your go-to when it comes to skincare. Keep it to three steps: cleanse, treat, and protect.” Shirazi also says that it’s important to avoid certain pore-clogging ingredients that might trigger more breakouts. “It’s best to avoid ingredients that form a film on your skin’s surface, like silicone derivatives (dimethicone and cyclomethicone). Also, avoid fragrances, mineral oil, lanolin, shea butter, or comedogenic oils like coconut oil,” she says.

As a quick note, I will say that not every potentially comedogenic ingredient will bother your skin. A product could be labeled as having one or two of these potentially comedogenic ingredients but could still be a noncomedogenic formula. Celebrity esthetician Renée Rouleau taught me that it’s all about the water-to-oil ratio in a formula. You really just have to find what works best for your particular skin. If your skin is extremely sensitive, however, you might want to go with a really simple moisturizer that includes no potential acne triggers whatsoever, like Vanicream, which board-certified dermatologist Marisa Garshick, MD, also recommended. I’ve used Vanicream personally and find it to be a great moisturizer for sensitive, acne-prone skin.

Garshick also has a bit more advice. When choosing the best moisturizer for acne-prone skin, you’ll want to look for certain key elements. “Those with acne-prone skin should look for ingredients that support the skin barrier, such as ceramides, to minimize irritation as well as hyaluronic acid or glycerin, which are humectants to draw moisture in,” she shares. “Niacinamide can also be helpful, as it helps to calm and soothe the skin, reducing redness and inflammation while also working to regulate sebum production and boost ceramide production. Some moisturizers may also have a mattifying effect and help to reduce the appearance of oil. Ingredients like salicylic acid may also be particularly helpful for those who are oily.” Ceramides and niacinamide are important to include if you use strong acne fighters like benzoyl peroxide, retinoid, and BHAs. These will help mitigate any potential skin irritation.  

The 20 Best Moisturizers for Acne-Prone Skin in 2023

You’ve tried the best spot treatments, adjusted your skincare routine, and even amped up exfoliation—all derm-approved ways to help deal with breakouts. While drying products may seem more favorable (especially if you have oily skin), it’s just as important to hydrate with one of the best moisturizers for acne-prone skin. “Did you know that not using a moisturizer can cause even more breakouts?” celebrity facialist and board-certified aesthetician Renée Rouleau explains. “Bacteria breeds in oil. When moisturizer is avoided, the skin dehydrates and sets off a response to produce more oil. This can make existing breakouts last longer and creates a hospitable environment for new breakouts to form.”

That being said, using a non-comedogenic, oil-free moisturizer morning and night is non-negotiable. “I tend to like lighter formulations, often gels, lotions, or more hybrid gel creams,” explains board-certified dermatologist Dr. Dhaval Bhanusali. To see which moisturizers the pros recommend—and check out some of our personal favorites—scroll on. We’ve rounded the best moisturizers for acne-prone skin, below. 

What to Look For

If you have acneic or acne-prone skin, there are a few boxes you’ll want your new moisturizer to check off. Most importantly, it needs to be non-comedogenic, which means it won’t clog pores and contribute to acne. While most products will call this out on the label, you can also do a quick scan to ensure your product is oil free. “I tend to recommend against heavier products and 100 percent pure oil blends,” says Dr. Bhanusali, urging people to look for lightweight formulations. 

It’s also a good idea to look for ingredients that can treat acne breakouts. While this isn’t a necessity if you’re using other acne treatment lotions, serums, or prescriptions, it can be a worthwhile addition if you’re looking to streamline your routine. “Salicylic acid is an ingredient that helps prevent future acne pimples and also treats current pimples by dissolving blackheads and whiteheads,” says New York-based dermatologist Rachel Nazarian, MD. In addition to salicylic acid, ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide, kojic acid, niacinamide, and AHAs like glycolic or lactic acid can be beneficial. 

The Best Moisturizers for Acne-Prone Skin

• The Best Mattifying Moisturizer for Acne-Prone Skin: Augustinus Bader The Light Cream
• The Best Lightweight Moisturizer for Acne-Prone Skin: SkinFix Barrier+ Skin Barrier Restoring Gel
• The Best Salicylic Acid Moisturizer for Acne-Prone Skin: Proactiv Complexion Perfecting Hydrator
• The Best Moisturizer for Sensitive, Acne-Prone Skin: Bioderma Sebium Mat Control
• The Best Drugstore Moisturizer for Acne-Prone Skin: La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat Face Moisturizer

The Best Salicylic Acid-Packed Moisturizer for Acne Prone Skin

Proactiv Complexion Perfecting Hydrator

“This is a wonderful choice for acne-prone skin because it’s lightweight, and doesn’t occlude or block pores, and it contains 0. 5 percent salicylic acid,” says Dr. Nazarian. “Salicylic acid is a bacteriostatic ingredient and targets the bacteria that live on the skin and play a role in acne formation. This product also contains licorice root extract and kojic acid: Both improve the pigmented and dark marks that acne leaves behind.”

Pros: Dermatologist-approved; Contains acne fighting ingredients

Cons: Might be drying; Not ideal for sensitive skin types

The Best Moisturizer for Sensitive, Acne-Prone Skin

Bioderma Sebium Mat Control

“Bioderma Sebium global is a great moisturizer for acne-prone skin,” New York-based dermatologist Lily Talakoub, MD, says. “This moisturizer contains AHA esters, salicylic acid, and citric acid to reduce blemishes while zinc gluconate, combined with enoxolone, soothes and reduces redness caused by inflammation.” What’s more, the moisturizer offers shine control and a matte finish. On the downside though, it’s not uber-hydrating, so it’s probably not the best option for really dry skin types.  

Pros: Dermatologist-approved; Great for sensitive skin; Contains salicylic acid

Cons: Needs to be reapplied often; Has a subtle scent 

The Best SPF-Packed Moisturizer for Acne Prone Skin

Differin Oil Absorbing Moisturizer with Sunscreen

You might already be familiar with Differin from their retinoid acne treatment. So, who better than them to deliver a moisturizer for acne-prone skin? New York-based dermatologist Melissa Levin, MD., raves, “The Differin Oil Absorbing Moisturizer SPF 30 is great for those with acne-prone skin because it has a lightweight formula that contains Micropearl technology, which absorbs surface oil for a matte finish, while also providing protection against harmful UV radiation including UVA/UVB rays.”

Pros: Dermatologist-approved; Contains SPF; Affordable 

Cons: Might pill under makeup; Heavy feel

The Best Buildable Moisturizer for Acne-Prone Skin

Rhode Peptide Glazing Fluid

Act quick—this moisturizer has been selling out on repeat. According to Dr. Bhanusali, who helped develop the Hailey Bieber-founded line, it’s “suitable for acne and oily skin,” because of its lightweight texture. But this isn’t just a great skincare product—it doubles as a natural highlighter too. Does the “glazed donut effect” ring a bell to anyone? While the reflective vibe can be achieved sans makeup, Bieber recommends tapping a little of this on top of foundation for an extra glow. 

Pros: Dermatologist-approved; Lightweight

Cons: Might not be hydrating enough for some 

The Best Mattifying Moisturizer for Acne-Prone Skin

Augustinus Bader The Light Cream

If excess oil is at the root of your acne breakouts, a mattifying moisturizer is going to be your saving grace. And leave it to the one and only Augustinus Bader to deliver a top-notch formula. This face cream, which is powered by something called Australian lemon myrtle extract, works to stop the overproduction of oil and control excess sebum. The biggest selling point however is the finish. It mattifies the skin and offers the perfect base for foundation—no primer necessary. 

Pros: Balances oil production; Doubles as a primer 

Cons: Expensive 

The Best Lightweight Moisturizer for Acne-Prone Skin

SkinFix Barrier+ Skin Barrier Restoring Gel

The brand’s peptide cream has a loyal following among dry skin types (it has over 2,000 reviews on Sephora), and its newly launched gel cream is a must for acne-prone people. It has a solid list of ingredients, including ceramides and peptides, that will deliver on the hydration front. What’s more notable though, is what the formula avoids. There is no silicone, dimethicone, lanolin, or fragrance, meaning it’s less likely to contribute to breakouts. 

Pros: Lightweight; Hydrating

Cons: A bit oily 

The Best Brightening Moisturizer for Acne Prone Skin

Trinny London Energize Me

With niacinamide as the star ingredient, this moisturizer is going to help regulate your oil production, and in turn, might minimize your acne breakouts. Succinic acid also comes into play here. While it’s not an ingredient you hear about every day, I promise it’s one worth mentioning. Essentially, it perks up dull, tired, and dehydrated-looking skin to give you a radiant and healthy-looking complexion. This moisturizer is definitely hydrating (thank you, hyaluronic acid), but it’s probably best for normal to oily skin types. My dry skin people might want to consider a different option. 

Pros: Regulates oil products; Brightens skin 

Cons: Not great for dry skin types; Has a scent 

The Best Water-Based Moisturizer for Acne Prone Skin

Neutrogena HydroBoost Water Gel

One of Dr. Bhanusali’s favorites, this cult-favorite, water-based moisturizer is a win for acne-prone skin types. It feels like air (don’t knock it ’til you try it), dries down in an instant, and feels breathable all day long. My personal favorite part about the product however is the finish. By and large, most moisturizers for acne-prone skin are going to have a matte finish. While that’s great for people with really oily skin, others are going to want a little glow—and that’s exactly what this moisturizer provides. 

Pros: Dermatologist-approved; Lightweight; Affordable 

Cons:  Short-term hydration; Slight scent 

The Best K-Beauty Moisturizer for Acne-Prone Skin

Belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb

I used this moisturizer for years when I was dealing with acne, so I’ll happily shout its praises. In the jar, it looks (and feels) like a bouncy gel. Because its so lightweight, intense hydration seems counterintuitive. But this little guy packs in serious moisture when it “bursts” on the skin. In fact, the ceramide- and glycerin-packed formula has been shown to increase skin’s hydration by 70 percent (!!). 

Pros: Lightweight; Redness reducing

Cons: Fragrance; Contains alcohol and not ideal for sensitive skin

The Best Anti-Aging Moisturizer for Acne-Prone Skin

Dr. Barbara Sturm Clarifying Face Cream

Just because you’re out of puberty, doesn’t mean you’ll never experience a breakout again—adult acne is really common. The good news is, this cream is specially designed to address aging skin prone to pimples. It’s packed with zinc to absorb excess oil and prevent breakouts, as well as a special complex of plant-based ingredients that tighten, firm, and even out the skin. It does have a pretty big price tag, but one jar should last you a few months. 

Pros: Absorbs oil; Addresses anti-aging concerns

Cons: Expensive 

The Best Shine Control Moisturizer for Acne Prone Skin

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat Face Moisturizer

It’s easy to see why this drugstore moisturizer is a dermatologist favorite. It leverages a proprietary lipo-hydroxy acid (aka an AHA) to clean out pores, control oil production, and mattify a slick complexion. You’ll have no shine—it stands up well past the midday mirror check. In addition to being oil-free (a must for acne-prone skin types), it’s also been formulated without any fragrance or parabens, so it shouldn’t irritate sensitive skin types. Per the 800 reviews left on Ulta’s website, it’s safe to say people love this hydrator for its fast-absorbing, non-greasy texture and long-lasting hydration. 

Pros: Available at the drugstore; Mattifying 

Cons: Might pill; Heavy 

The Best Moisturizer for Hyperpigmentation

TULA Skincare Breakout Star Oil-Free Acne Moisturizer

Treating acne is just half the battle—you also have to make sure that your breakouts heal properly. Keeping your hands away from your face is the best way to prevent scarring, but even then, you’ll probably still have to deal with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. That’s where this Tula moisturizer swoops in. It contains niacinamide and azelaic acid, both of which help to brighten hyperpigmentation. The formula is also oil-free and alcohol-free, making it a good option for sensitive skin types.  

Pros: Contains salicylic acid; Helps prevent scarring 

Cons: Tacky texture 

The Best Moisturizer for Red, Acne-Prone Skin

Biossance Squalane + Probiotic Gel Moisturizer

If you’re dealing with the trifecta of rosacea, redness, and acne, there’s no better option than this Biossance cream. In addition to being lightweight and non-comedogenic, it targets inflammation and irritation. Ginger extract and red seaweed tag team to calm the skin and create a more even tone. At the same time, it’s going to balance the skin barrier with a hefty dose of squalane, which in turn will make future flairs less likely.  

Pros: Good for redness and rosacea; Vegan; Hydrating

Cons: Expensive 

The Best Redness Reducing Moisturizer for Acne Prone Skin

Tata Harper Clarifying Moisturizer

While there are plenty of great treatment products on the market that you can pair with a non-comedogenic moisturizer, this specific option is a one-stop shop. It’s going to hydrate—yes. But it’s also going to offer gentle exfoliation and balance oil control with beta-hydroxy acids and saw palmetto. The result? Smaller-looking pores, a brighter complexion, and, fingers crossed, less breakouts. As an added bonus, the moisturizer contains an ingredient that will calm down redness associated with acne.

Pros: Contains BHAs; Balances oil 

Cons: Expensive 

The Best Acne-Preventing Moisturizer

EltaMD AM Therapy Facial Moisturizer

For a moisturizer that quite literally can do it all, reach for this EltaMD hydrator. In addition to having a non-comedogenic formula fortified with skin-brightening niacinamide, it has a host of anti-aging benefits. Rice protein peptides are responsible for boosting collagen and plumping up the appearance of fine lines. This product is best reserved for nighttime use though, so scoop up one of the others on this list to slather on in the A. M.

Pros: Lightweight; Multi-benefit

Cons: Shiny finish 

The Best Moisturizer for Oily Skin

Laneige Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Cream Moisturizer

We love water-based moisturizers for their lightweight, non-oily feeling along with the powerful shot of hydration they provide. This best-selling formula, which was recently reformulated, incorporates unusual ingredients like brussels sprout, lima bean, and artichoke extract. The result? An effective antidote to that horrible combination of flaky-oily skin that so many of us struggle with. Despite having loads of positive reviews, it’s worth noting that this moisturizer does have a pretty heavy rose fragrance. 

Pros: Lightweight 

Cons: Fragranced; Might cause pilling

Meet the Experts

Board-Certified Dermatologist and Founder of Hudson Dermatology and Laser Surgery

Dr. Bhanusali is a board-certified Dermatologist based in NYC.   After being accepted into medical school at 17, he completed his studies at the Michigan State University medical scholars program where he was also awarded the Spartan Scholarship and Arthur L Foley Memorial Scholarship. He went on to complete his Dermatology residency at Mount Sinai Hospital in NYC. He specializes in medical and cosmetic dermatology and looks to bridge the gap between cutting-edge technologies and established paradigms. Dr. Bhanusali was recently featured as the dermatologist behind Amazon’s first skincare line, launched globally in 2019, and currently serves as a medical expert for many companies in the field, including Johnson& Johnson (Neutrogena, ROC, Clean & Clear, Aveeno) and Solta (Fraxel, Clear & Brilliant, Pelo).

Board-Certified Aesthetician and Celebrity Facialist

A life-long skin enthusiast, Renée Rouleau has dedicated 30+ years to the art of skin perfection. She’s considered a complexion coach and blemish-busting hero by many thanks to her magical touch and ability to make skin concerns quickly disappear.   Renée knows that great skin is rarely achieved with a “one size fits all” viewpoint. Throughout her career, Renée has worked with clients who trust her and demand the utmost in skincare. This makes her the go-to expert for many of today’s most skin enviable personalities including Demi Lovato, Lili Reinhart and Madelaine Petsch. She is also on the advisory board for Woman @ Austin. This is an organization that is on a mission to advance women entrepreneurs striving to grow their companies; and she is a member of the Austin chapter of EO (Entrepreneurs’ Organization.)

Board-Certified Dermatologist

Dr. Rachel Nazarian joins Schweiger Dermatology after years of practicing various aspects of dermatology, including cosmetic treatments, skin cancer, general dermatology and dermatologic surgery.Dr. Nazarian has written many published articles in medical journals as well as widely respected dermatology textbooks, such as Treatment of Skin Disease.Dr. Nazarian serves as a faculty member at Mount Sinai Medical Center’s Department of Dermatology, where she completed her dermatology residency. While completing her medical degree at Tulane University School of Medicine, Dr. Nazarian was awarded a grant from the Women’s Dermatology Society. Dr. Nazarian is a board certified dermatologist and Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology.

Board-Certified Dermatologist

Known for her honesty and love for bespoke medical and cosmetic skin solutions, Dr. Levin has established a loyal following of patients from all walks of life – entire families, skincare enthusiasts, actors, designers, beauty editors, physicians, lawyers, teachers, and many more. As a native Californian, Dr. Levin graduated summa cum laude from the University of California of Los Angeles (UCLA) and earned her medical degree from the University of California of San Francisco (UCSF), as a member of the highest honor society, Alpha Omega Alpha. She completed her internship at the California Pacific Medical Center and dermatology residency at New York University Langone Health.

rating TOP 8 best lotions for problematic and combination skin

Contents

• Which tonic is needed for oily, problematic and combination skin
• Types of toners for oily skin
• Top 6 best toners for oily skin
• How to choose a toner for oily skin
• How to use toner for oily skin
• Summary

What kind of tonic is needed for oily, problematic and combination skin

Toner is the final step in skin cleansing and a very important part of your beauty routine. Among the main functions of the tonic are to restore the pH of the skin after washing (after contact with tap water), remove detergent residue, moisturize and prepare the skin for subsequent care.

What is the difference between the tonic for oily skin and its “colleagues”? Here is what the medical expert of the La Roche-Posay brand, dermatovenereologist Alexander Prokofiev says:

“Since oily skin is characterized by active sebum production, tonics addressed to it, in addition to their usual functions, are designed to reduce the amount of sebum on the surface of the epidermis and mattify the skin. Tonics for oily skin help cleanse the pores of the skin, remove dead cells.

Tonic for oily skin traditionally contains absorbent and mattifying ingredients, most often extracts of various herbs, as well as acids, if the product is addressed to problematic skin prone to imperfections. Also, a toner for oily skin may contain a small amount of alcohol for a drying effect.

“Alcohol can potentially dry out the skin, so if it’s in a toner, it’s got moisturizing ingredients added.”

Toner for oily skin can also be used by those with combination skin, however, as Alexander Prokofiev warns, you need to remember that with this type of skin, the T-zone area is more oily, and the cheeks are much drier. Therefore, tonic for oily skin is recommended to be applied only to the T-zone.

Can’t tell what type of skin you have? Our test will help you.

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Types of Toners for Oily Skin

Let’s look at the main types of toners for oily skin and find out what they contain and what they can do.

Mattifying

One of the hallmarks of oily skin is a greasy sheen caused by active sebum production. Therefore, such skin needs matting at all stages of care, including toning. For this purpose, plant extracts such as witch hazel, aloe, thyme, pumpkin, burdock, green tea, nettle, lemon, as well as minerals, such as perlite or clay, are introduced into the tonic, which solve the problem of oily sheen due to absorbent properties.

Cleansing

The word “cleansing” refers to the ability of the tonic to fight imperfections. Such tonics are often addressed to oily problematic skin prone to clogged pores. It is optimal that the composition contains salicylic acid and plant extracts such as witch hazel, calendula.

“If we are talking about not just oily skin, but problematic, acne-prone skin, then various acids are desirable in the composition. Ideally, if it is salicylic acid, which has a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect. There may also be AHA acids (lactic, glycolic and other fruit acids).”

Moisturizing

Moisturizing toners are usually addressed to dry skin and often contain oils, so those with oily skin should avoid such products. However, a moisturizing toner can be useful even for problematic skin that is faced with a state of dehydration due to too aggressive care. In such cases, you can switch to tonics with moisturizing and soothing ingredients. You will find them in our review.

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Top 6 best tonics for oily skin

Choosing a tonic for oily skin is not an easy task, because there are many formulas, and it is not possible to try everything. We would like to make the task easier and have collected in the review the best tonics for oily facial skin, according to Skin.ru. Let us immediately clarify that in our selection there are both products with the name “tonic” and products with the name “lotion”. Traditionally, “lotion” in this category referred to products containing alcohol. But now there is no such categorical division.

Clear Skin Cleansing Toner for Blackheads & Shine, Garnier

Kicking off our impromptu ranking is this purifying toner for oily skin that promises to tackle shine, shrink pores and prevent imperfections. Judging by the composition (salicylic acid, zinc), he has every chance of success.

Cleansing Thyme Perfecting Toner, Garnier Bio

Recommended for oily to combination skin, this toner has been formulated with organic ingredients: thyme essential oil (purifies) and barley water (moisturizes, soothes). The formula also includes salicylic acid to combat imperfections and even out skin texture. Perfume 100% natural origin.

Pore-reducing, cleansing lotion Normaderm, Vichy

The lotion promotes intensive cleansing of oily problematic skin, tightens pores, thus preventing their clogging. In the composition – salicylic and glycolic acids, as well as moisturizing, softening and restoring the skin thermal water.

Pore Reduction Lotion Effaclar, La Roche-Posay

If you are looking for a formula that helps to solve the problem of enlarged pores and prevent the appearance of imperfections on oily skin of the face (as well as on the shoulders and back), then pay attention to this lotion . It combines two acids: salicylic and LHA.

Ultra Facial Oil-Free Toner, Keihl’s

According to Skin.ru, this toner is a great option for oily skin in the summer. Judge for yourself: there are no oils in it, it cleanses the skin well, does not dry, moisturizes and refreshes at the same time.

Cleansing tonic against imperfections and signs of aging Blemish & Age Solution, SkinСeuticals

The product for problem skin with imperfections and age-related changes contains three types of acids in optimal concentration – for cleansing and gentle exfoliation.

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How to choose a toner for oily skin

The label and information on the packaging are a sure guide to choosing a toner for oily skin.

1. 1

   Find out which skin the product is intended for (oily, oily/combination, oily problematic).

2. 2

   For sensitive skin, be sure to check the label “suitable for sensitive skin”.

Ingredients:

1. 1

   if the skin is problematic, look for zinc, salicylic acid, LHA and other acids;

2. 2

   if she is dehydrated, then pay attention to moisturizing (glycerin, aloe, hyaluronic acid) and soothing (allantoin, panthenol, calendula, chamomile) components.

As for seasonality, the use of certain products depends on the climatic characteristics of a particular region.

“If we are talking about the inhabitants of central Russia, where there is a clear change of seasons, then climatic factors can affect the level of secretion of the glands and in winter the skin becomes drier, and in summer, on the contrary, fatter. But there are regions where there is no such fluctuation in weather, so the environmental factors are the same all year round. If the condition of the skin changes and it becomes drier, then the emphasis is on moisturizing, and if it is oilier, then on matting and additional cleansing.

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How to use oily skin toner

Using toner for oily skin is no different than using this product for other skin types.

1. 1

   Remove make-up, for example with micellar water.

2. 2

   Wash with foam or gel for oily skin.

3. 3

   Pat your face dry with a towel or paper tissue.

4. 4

   Saturate a cotton pad with tonic and wipe over face, paying particular attention to the T-zone.

5. 5

   Do not rinse off the tonic.

6. 6

   Apply Day/Night.

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Quick Summary

What is the function of toner for oily skin?

Toner for oily skin, like all tonics, removes detergent residue and prepares the skin for subsequent care, but it also has additional properties: mattifying, exfoliating. This is written in detail here.

Can I use a toner for oily skin as my main cleanser?

No, it is not worth cleansing the skin and removing impurities with tonic, there are special products for washing (gels, foams, micellar solutions). Toner/lotion for oily skin is used after cleansing, not instead of it. How to use it is written in this chapter. By the way, the Garnier collection also has Clean Skin micellar water for oily skin.

How to choose a toner for oily skin?

Care products, including tonic, should be chosen not only by skin type, but also by its condition. Oily skin can be both problematic (then it needs the appropriate formulas with acids) and dehydrated (it needs formulas with moisturizing ingredients). The marking and annotations of the manufacturer will serve as a guide. How to choose a tonic for oily skin and what composition to pay attention to in different cases is written here.

What are the ingredients in the toner for oily skin?

Traditional oily skin toner is water-based, enriched with botanicals that reduce oiliness, exfoliating acids and anti-inflammatory extracts. More details about this are written here.

Which toner is best for oily skin?

It is difficult to answer this question unambiguously, since there are many formulas, and although they have similar functions, they differ both in effectiveness and in composition.