What to look for in gel moisturizers for oily skin

Choosing the right gel moisturizer can help hydrate oily skin without causing excess shine or clogged pores.

1. Oil-Free Formulation

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Look for moisturizers labeled as oil-free or non-comedogenic, which are specifically designed not to clog pores or contribute to excess oil production.

2. Lightweight Texture

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Gel moisturizers are typically lighter than creams, making them ideal for oily skin. A fast-absorbing, water-based formula will provide hydration without feeling heavy or greasy.

3. Key Hydrating Ingredients

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Ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin attract and retain moisture without adding oil. These ingredients help keep skin hydrated and balanced throughout the day.

4. Mattifying Properties

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Some gel moisturizers include mattifying agents, such as silica or niacinamide, which help control shine and reduce the appearance of pores for a smoother, more matte finish.

  1. 1
    Ultra Facial Cream Refill

    Kiehl's Since 1851

    7,045 REVIEWS
    Face cream formulated with 4.5% Squalane and Glacial Glycoprotein to strengthen your skin's moisture barrier for softer, smoother skin.
  2. 2
    Moisture Surge 100H Auto-Replenishing Hydrator
    5,699 REVIEWS
    Oil-free gel-cream moisturizer.
  3. 3
    Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel
    4,220 REVIEWS
    Dermatologist-developed oil-free face moisturizer softens, smooths, improves.
  4. 4
    Phyto Corrective Gel

    SkinCeuticals

    1,890 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Oil-free corrector gel that promotes a fresher, clearer complexion by soothing irritated skin and diminishing the appearance of brown spots.
  5. 5
    The Moisturizing Fresh Cream
    1,373 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    A feather-light gel cream that renews skin’s youthful bounce for a firmer feel and balances sebum.
  6. 6
    Charlotte's Magic Water Cream

    Charlotte Tilbury

    1,093 REVIEWS
    A fragrance-free gel water cream that immediately drenches the skin in hydration, refines the look of pores, and visibly reduces redness over time.
  7. 7
    Hydrating B5 Gel

    SkinCeuticals

    775 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Oil-free hydrating gel replenishes moisture and restores radiance for a smooth, supple complexion.
  8. 8
    Active Moist

    Dermalogica

    652 REVIEWS
    Sheer, oil-free, lightweight moisturizer that contains a Prebiotic Moisture Complex, unique blend of plant extracts and helps improve skin texture.
  9. 9
    Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel Cream

    Kiehl's Since 1851

    441 REVIEWS
    A shine-reducing, cooling gel moisturizer with 24-hour hydrating power for oily skin and normal skin types.
  10. 10
    Clarifying Moisturizer

    Tata Harper

    436 REVIEWS
    This is your soothing moisturizer for blemish-prone skin.

What to look for in gel moisturizers for oily skin

Choosing the right gel moisturizer can help hydrate oily skin without causing excess shine or clogged pores.

1. Oil-Free Formulation

Citrus catapult arrow

Look for moisturizers labeled as oil-free or non-comedogenic, which are specifically designed not to clog pores or contribute to excess oil production.

2. Lightweight Texture

Citrus catapult arrow

Gel moisturizers are typically lighter than creams, making them ideal for oily skin. A fast-absorbing, water-based formula will provide hydration without feeling heavy or greasy.

3. Key Hydrating Ingredients

Citrus catapult arrow

Ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin attract and retain moisture without adding oil. These ingredients help keep skin hydrated and balanced throughout the day.

4. Mattifying Properties

Citrus catapult arrow

Some gel moisturizers include mattifying agents, such as silica or niacinamide, which help control shine and reduce the appearance of pores for a smoother, more matte finish.