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
    Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel
    4,221 REVIEWS
    Dermatologist-developed oil-free face moisturizer softens, smooths, improves.
  2. 2
    Charlotte's Magic Water Cream

    Charlotte Tilbury

    1,094 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.
  3. 3
    Hydrating B5 Gel

    SkinCeuticals

    782 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Oil-free hydrating gel replenishes moisture and restores radiance for a smooth, supple complexion.
  4. 4
    Phyto Corrective Gel

    SkinCeuticals

    1,896 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
    1,382 REVIEWS
    A feather-light gel cream that renews skin’s youthful bounce for a firmer feel and balances sebum.
  6. 6
    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.
  7. 7
    Blemish Balm with Plant Based Salicylic Acid
    543 REVIEWS
    BestSeller
    Daily acne control moisturizer with 1% salicylic acid clears and prevents breakouts, while delivering nourishing hydration.
  8. 8
    Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel Cream

    Kiehl's Since 1851

    447 REVIEWS
    A shine-reducing, cooling gel moisturizer with 24-hour hydrating power for oily skin and normal skin types.
  9. 9
    Clarifying Moisturizer

    Tata Harper

    440 REVIEWS
    This is your soothing moisturizer for blemish-prone skin.
  10. 10
    Ultra Facial Oil-Free Moisturizer Refill
    438 REVIEWS
    A shine-reducing, cooling oil-free moisturizer gel for oily and normal skin types.

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.