As much as the world of skincare has evolved, some myths just won’t quit—like that clingy ex who refuses to take a hint. Yes, you need sunscreen even on cloudy days. No, drinking water alone won’t solve all your skincare woes. And yes, you still need moisturiser, even if your skin is oily.
We get it: layering on hydration when your skin already feels greasy can sound counterintuitive. But skipping moisturiser could be the reason your dehydrated skin is producing even more oil to compensate. The good news? The best moisturisers for oily skin are designed with you in mind. With lightweight textures, oil-free formulas and mattifying ingredients, they’re like a love letter to your complexion—keeping it balanced, hydrated and comfortable without the unwanted shine.
“I’ve always been a fan of French pharmacy finds because of their no-fuss, result-oriented formulas—and honestly, this one’s no different. It hydrates my dry cheeks while controlling the oiliness in my T-zone. I love how gentle and nourishing this cream feels. It has also made my skin more resistant to flare-ups over time. I use it on my face and neck, and often on my hands too when they’re feeling a little too dry. It also works great under makeup and preps my skin well.”
Fast-absorbing yet rich, this French favourite nourishes dry skin from the very first use. Infused with niacinamide, ceramides and omegas, it helps restore balance without leaving any residue. Whether you’re building your first routine or upgrading your winter kit, this one offers lasting comfort with a velvet-soft finish.
The short answer? Yes. The long answer? Still yes. Your skin might be producing enough sebum to rival an oil well, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t dehydrated. In fact, when your skin lacks water, it can overcompensate by producing even more oil. That’s where moisturisers come in—they help your skin retain hydration for longer, keeping it balanced rather than greasy.
Dehydrated skin is also more prone to visible signs of ageing. Regular use of a good moisturiser won’t turn back the clock entirely, but it will help delay the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, keeping skin soft, supple and healthier in the long run.
Now that we’ve cleared up the myth, let’s talk about choosing the right product. Thick butters and rich creams aren’t your only options—in fact, they’re not what oily skin needs at all. Today’s new generation of moisturisers are lightweight, oil-free and designed specifically to keep shine under control. Here’s what to look out for:
“Oil-free” should be the first phrase you hunt down when shopping for moisturiser. But don’t stop there—keep an eye out for “non-comedogenic,” which means the formula won’t clog pores or trigger breakouts.
The last thing oily skin needs is a heavy layer sitting on top. Skip rich creams, butters and balms, and instead reach for lightweight lotions and gels that absorb quickly and feel breathable on the skin.
Not all hydrating ingredients are equal. Rich emollients like shea butter, lanolin and mineral oil can weigh skin down, but lightweight hydrators like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and glycerin deliver moisture without heaviness.
If shine control is your top priority, mattifying moisturisers are your best bet. These formulas help absorb excess oil while keeping skin hydrated. Look for ingredients like silica, kaolin clay and niacinamide, often found in lightweight gels or lotions.
If you prefer a streamlined routine, hybrid moisturisers are your go-to. Look for options that combine hydration with SPF protection to cut down on extra layers and keep oily skin comfortable throughout the day.
The short answer? Yes. The long answer? Still yes. Your skin might be producing enough sebum to rival an oil well, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t dehydrated. In fact, when your skin lacks water, it can overcompensate by producing even more oil. That’s where moisturisers come in—they help your skin retain hydration for longer, keeping it balanced rather than greasy.
Dehydrated skin is also more prone to visible signs of ageing. Regular use of a good moisturiser won’t turn back the clock entirely, but it will help delay the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, keeping skin soft, supple and healthier in the long run.
Now that we’ve cleared up the myth, let’s talk about choosing the right product. Thick butters and rich creams aren’t your only options—in fact, they’re not what oily skin needs at all. Today’s new generation of moisturisers are lightweight, oil-free and designed specifically to keep shine under control. Here’s what to look out for:
“Oil-free” should be the first phrase you hunt down when shopping for moisturiser. But don’t stop there—keep an eye out for “non-comedogenic,” which means the formula won’t clog pores or trigger breakouts.
The last thing oily skin needs is a heavy layer sitting on top. Skip rich creams, butters and balms, and instead reach for lightweight lotions and gels that absorb quickly and feel breathable on the skin.
Not all hydrating ingredients are equal. Rich emollients like shea butter, lanolin and mineral oil can weigh skin down, but lightweight hydrators like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and glycerin deliver moisture without heaviness.
If shine control is your top priority, mattifying moisturisers are your best bet. These formulas help absorb excess oil while keeping skin hydrated. Look for ingredients like silica, kaolin clay and niacinamide, often found in lightweight gels or lotions.
If you prefer a streamlined routine, hybrid moisturisers are your go-to. Look for options that combine hydration with SPF protection to cut down on extra layers and keep oily skin comfortable throughout the day.
The short answer? Yes. The long answer? Still yes. Your skin might be producing enough sebum to rival an oil well, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t dehydrated. In fact, when your skin lacks water, it can overcompensate by producing even more oil. That’s where moisturisers come in—they help your skin retain hydration for longer, keeping it balanced rather than greasy.
Dehydrated skin is also more prone to visible signs of ageing. Regular use of a good moisturiser won’t turn back the clock entirely, but it will help delay the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, keeping skin soft, supple and healthier in the long run.
Now that we’ve cleared up the myth, let’s talk about choosing the right product. Thick butters and rich creams aren’t your only options—in fact, they’re not what oily skin needs at all. Today’s new generation of moisturisers are lightweight, oil-free and designed specifically to keep shine under control. Here’s what to look out for:
“Oil-free” should be the first phrase you hunt down when shopping for moisturiser. But don’t stop there—keep an eye out for “non-comedogenic,” which means the formula won’t clog pores or trigger breakouts.
The last thing oily skin needs is a heavy layer sitting on top. Skip rich creams, butters and balms, and instead reach for lightweight lotions and gels that absorb quickly and feel breathable on the skin.
Not all hydrating ingredients are equal. Rich emollients like shea butter, lanolin and mineral oil can weigh skin down, but lightweight hydrators like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and glycerin deliver moisture without heaviness.
If shine control is your top priority, mattifying moisturisers are your best bet. These formulas help absorb excess oil while keeping skin hydrated. Look for ingredients like silica, kaolin clay and niacinamide, often found in lightweight gels or lotions.
If you prefer a streamlined routine, hybrid moisturisers are your go-to. Look for options that combine hydration with SPF protection to cut down on extra layers and keep oily skin comfortable throughout the day.