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The Best Gel Moisturizers For Oily And Combination Skin, According To Dermatologists
If you have oily skin, moisturizing may be a touchy subject. You want to keep your skin hydrated, but not at the expense of feeling or appearing more greasy. That's where gel moisturizers come in. These moisturizers are more lightweight and thinner in consistency compared to their cream counterparts, and are better suited for oily skin types since they provide just the right amount of hydration without contributing to excess oil.
"In general, moisturizers should contain humectants, emollients and occlusives for optimal moisturizing properties," says Dr. Hadley King, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. "A good gel moisturizer should still have all of these components, but its occlusive properties will be lighter."
We spoke with three board-certified dermatologists about the best gel moisturizers and what to look for when shopping. We also put together a list of what to shop based on their recommendations and guidance.
SKIP AHEAD How we picked the best gel moisturizersThe best gel moisturizers in 2024How to shop for gel moisturizers
The best gel moisturizers should hydrate the skin without leaving behind a residue, according to our experts. To keep your skin well-moisturized, you'll need formulas with all three moisturizing components: humectants, emollients and occlusives, according to King.
Humectants like hyaluronic acid and glycerin bind water into the outermost layer of skin, according to King. Emollients, like squalane, fatty acids, fatty alcohols and ceramides, help with skin barrier function and can improve the texture of the skin, says King. And occlusives such as petrolatum, beeswax, mineral oil and silicone form a layer on the skin and physically block transepidermal water loss.
When curating gel moisturizers for this story, I looked for formulas with all three types of moisturizers, but had a light occlusive component, meaning it's typically listed further down on the ingredient list.
Cerave Ultra-Light Moisturizing Gel$16.18
$19.99
Amazon
$19.99
Ulta
$12.05
$16.18
Walmart
What we like
Dr. David Li, a board-certified dermatologist based in Massachusetts, is a fan of this affordable moisturizer for its lightweight texture and its inclusion of niacinamide, which he says can help with redness. "Many people who have oily skin are also prone to acne and redness, and having a gel moisturizer that can address redness without causing clogged pores or worsening acne is ideal," says Li. It also has ceramides and hyaluronic acid to hydrate and protect the skin barrier, according to the brand.
Biossance Squalane + Probiotic Gel Moisturizer$54.00
Amazon
$54.00
Sephora
$54.00
Biossance
What we like
Something to note
"Instead of using a thick, cream moisturizer in the summer, I love using this one because it's lightweight, cooling and hydrating without that super rich consistency," says NBC Select associate reporter Bianca Alvarez. "It also doesn't irritate my dry, eczema-prone skin since it has no fragrance, absorbs quickly and soothes any irritation — especially in the summer post-sun."
Vichy Aqualia Thermal Water Gel Moisturizer$34.99
Amazon
$35.00
Dermstore
$24.00
$32.00
Walgreens
What we like
Something to note
"This moisturizer has one of my favorite ingredients, hyaluronic acid, which helps to hydrate the skin," says Dr. Elizabeth Houshmand, a board-certified dermatologist based in Dallas, adding that it also has ingredients to help protect the skin from pollution, such as minerals and plant sugars. The gel formula is best for normal to combination skin types, according to Vichy Aqualia.
Murad Nutrient-Charged Water Gel$45.00
$50.00
Amazon
$50.00
Ulta
$50.00
Sephora
What we like
If your skin is part oily, part dry, this gel moisturizer, which comes recommended by Houshmand, could be a good option. It quickly absorbs into the skin, is great for moisture retention and keeps skin hydrated for an extended period of time, according to Houshmand. If you don't love the feeling of plumping or are sensitive to fragrance (it has a subtle rose scent), this might not be the best option for you.
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Moisturizer$9.99
$16.00
Amazon
$21.99
Target
$26.99
Walgreens
What we like
"This is a product that I have personally used in the past during periods of time when I felt like my skin was more oily," says Li. "It's surprisingly hydrating for a gel moisturizer and part of that may be the inclusion of dimethicone, a classic emollient." It's also oil-free and noncomedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores and is ideal for those with oily, acne-prone skin.
Malin's also a fan and has been using it for years: "When I started using Tretinoin it dried me out so much and almost every face moisturizer stung my raw, irritated, sensitive skin," she says. "I bought this on a whim and it was the answer to all my problems. It's super gentle and has a little bit of a cooling effect, which is so lovely when my skin is inflamed. It's lightweight, not oily at all and applying it feels like my skin is drinking a big cup of water. I noticed such an improvement in my skin texture and moisture levels once I started using this, and now I always keep it in my bathroom cabinet at all times."
Charlotte Tilbury Magic Water Cream$100.00
Sephora
$100.00
Charlotte Tilbury
$100.00
Ulta
What we like
A favorite of King's, this fragrance-free moisturizer is a hybrid between a gel and a cream, meaning you'll get the longwear moisture of a cream but the quick, nongreasy absorption of a gel. It has all the key ingredients our experts recommend looking for like glycerin and hyaluronic acid (humectants that hydrate and plump the skin) and squalane and sunflower seed oil (emollients) to support the skin barrier.
"I know so many people loveCharlotte Tilbury's original Magic Cream, but it was always too thick and too scented for me," says NBC Select associate updates editor Zoe Malin, who has combination skin. "The Magic Water Cream — which is a gel moisturizer variation of the OG — is lightyears better, in my experience. It's so lightweight and absorbs into my skin in seconds, so I can easily apply makeup over it. I also love that it's unscented, which is great for my sensitive skin. A little bit goes a long way so the high price tag hurts a lot less; I use my little pot for months. It's a luxe buy for me, but I think it's worth it."
Avène Hydrance Aqua-Gel Hydrating Cream-in-Gel$37.87
$40.00
Amazon
$40.00
Dermstore
$30.49
Target
What we like
If you're struggling with skin irritation, this gentle gel moisturizer can help calm the skin and soothe any discomfort. It's made with thermal spring water and cohederm, a patented lipid trio that helps restore skin barrier and prevent water loss, says Houshmand. It also has ingredients to help shield against environmental aggressors, according to the brand.
What is a gel moisturizer?
"Gel moisturizers are moisturizers that are thin in consistency and don't leave behind a residue," says Li. They're a great option for those with combination to oily skin types because they don't feel heavy on the skin. "Most gel moisturizers contain water-based compounds, such as glycerin, propylene glycol or hyaluronic acid, versus ingredients that increase the consistency and viscosity, such as emollients," says Li. Their lighter weight and less viscous formula more rapidly evaporates, so they absorb into the skin quicker. This is an attractive quality for someone with oily skin, as it ensures the formula doesn't make their already-oily skin appear oilier. Cream moisturizers, on the other hand, are thicker in consistency and better for those with dry skin, says Houshmand.
Do people with oily skin need moisturizer?
All skin types (apart from very oily skin in very humid conditions) need moisturizer, says King. "Moisturizers hydrate the skin, support the skin barrier and help to lock in moisture," says King. "Oily skin can use lighter moisturizers with lighter emollients and occlusives, but they still need a formula with these functions, particularly in drier environments."
Also, many skin types that are prone to oil are also prone to acne, which means they're more likely to use acne-fighting products with salicylic acid , retinoids or benzoyl peroxide, which can dry out the skin, increasing the need for moisturizer.
When shopping, our experts recommend looking at several factors, including the key ingredients in the formula and its main function. Below, we highlight their suggestions of things to consider.
Look for humectantsThe most common ingredients in a gel moisturizer you'll want to seek out are glycerin, aloe, hyaluronic acid, propylene glycol and panthenol, says Li. These ingredients attract water from the environment and around the skin's surface to help your skin retain that moisture, according to Li. You may also find dimethicone on the ingredient list of some gel moisturizers, which is usually classified as an emollient but also has humectant properties.
Go the noncomedogenic routeIf you're prone to oiliness, you'll want to look for a formula that won't clog your pores. "Noncomedogenic gel moisturizers hydrate the skin and support the skin barrier, but their occlusive properties are lighter, so that means they're less likely to trap oils and contribute to clogged pores and breakouts," says King.
Consider its secondary functionThe main function of a gel moisturizer is to hydrate the skin and prevent water loss. However, many of them come with secondary functions that can alleviate common skin care issues. For example, many gel moisturizers are formulated with inflammation-reducing, acne-calming ingredients that soothe the skin and restore the barrier. Some formulas are mattifying (great for oily skin types), while others leave you with a slight glow (better for combination to dry skin types).
You should apply your skin care products in order from lightest in consistency to heaviest. Houshmand recommends making sure your skin is still damp from cleansing when applying a moisturizer as this will help lock in that moisture.
To properly apply a gel moisturizer, remove your makeup, cleanse your skin, apply a serum, then apply a moisturizer and follow up with sunscreen if it's daytime. Houshmand recommends using circular motions until the moisturizer is completely absorbed, remembering to apply below the jawline as well. "For the neck and decolletage, which has more delicate skin, always apply in a gentle upward motion until it absorbs into the skin," says Houshmand.
At NBC Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.
Michelle Rostamian has more than 10 years of experience covering beauty and skin care topics. For this story, Rostamian spoke to board-certified dermatologists and included their direct recommendations and products based on their guidance.
Catch up on NBC Select's in-depth coverage of personal finance, tech and tools, wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and TikTok to stay up to date.
These Are The 15 Cleansers That Actually Help Acne-prone Skin
Best foaming cleanser for acne
Medik8 Clarifying FoamMedik8 doesn't mess around when it comes to busting blemishes: its Clarifying Foam can be found in many a beauty ed's cupboard because it genuinely does bits.
The light and airy formula is packed with AHAs and BHAs to gently exfoliate and decongest pores, while niacinamide helps to reinforce your skin barrier and keep irritation at bay.
An elite option that will humble any pimple that gets a bit too big for its boots.
Best budget cleanser for acne
The Inkey List Salicylic Acid CleanserNow 20% Off
Credit: The Inkey ListFind skincare ingredients an overwhelming, confusing beast? Then The Inkey List is flying to the rescue as its whole MO is about keeping things as simple as poss.
Take this cleanser. It's based around one key ingredient: salicylic acid. The chemical exfoliant is well-known for being an acne conqueror and has been given the seal of approval by Dr Ejikeme as a must-have in your routine if you're prone to breakouts.
CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser
Now 20% Off
Credit: CeraVeA literal godsend for dry acne-prone skin, CeraVe's SA Smoothing Cleanser features our favourite friend salicylic acid but is boosted with hard-working hydrators hyaluronic acid and ceramides to ensure you're left supple, not stripped.
Not just for your face, feel free to slather this cleanser on your body to say toodaloo to bumps and breakouts too.
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La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel Cleanser
Now 20% Off
Credit: Look FantasticWhen it comes to fighting acne, the Effaclar range is up there as one of the best known. The Purifying Foaming Gel has been specially formulated for oily skin, using some well known acne-fighting ingredients like zinc PCA to keep oiliness in check and citric acid to rid dead skin cells.
La Roche-Posay keeps its fragrances and ingredients to a minimum and steers well clear of parabens, so it's a goer even if you have sensitive skin.
Murad Clarifying Cream Cleanser
Now 20% Off
Credit: Cult BeautyIn Murad we trust, right? As one of the OG dermatologist-founded brands, there are so many products we rely on to tackle a host of concerns. But for acne? We're looking right at the Clarifying Cream Cleanser.
The milky formula gently dissolved makeup and grime without stripping the skin of moisture, while powerhouse actives like salicylic acid clear out those pores and prevent future breakouts. It lathers lightly too, so you know you're giving your face a good ol' scrub.
Best for sensitive skin
No7 Derm Solutions Calming Gel CleanserWhen fighting a battle with acne, it's not always about high-active formulas – your skin needs a break, too. This creamy and comfortable cleanser from No7 will purify your skin and remove daily grub while nourishing the delicate barrier.
Then, if you choose to, you've got a fresh canvas to apply your active ingredients. We know it's not the sexiest cleanser around, but you just can't argue with genuine results.
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47 Skin Everyday Cleanser
Whether you deal with frequent breakouts or rouge pimples, 47 Skin is the brand to know about. Each formula contains its patented Silver Chitoderm – a powerful antibacterial ingredient that targets the cause of acne: bacteria.
Not only is this cleanser made with silver to stop and prevent acne, but it also contains glycerin and hyaluronic acid which supports the skin barrier and increases hydration levels. Stay loyal to it and plump, smooth and clear skin will be yours.
Youth to the People Kale + Green Tea Spinach Vitamins
Now 20% Off
Credit: Cult BeautyYouth to the People is a science-led beauty brand that considers the environment as much as your skin.
Using antioxidant-rich leafy greens to purify skin, it's also fully vegan friendly and cruelty free. If you're looking for an effective cleanser with a serious eco-conscience then this needs to be added to your skincare routine pronto.
Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish
Now 20% Off
Credit: Look FantasticAn OG cleanser, nothing quite beats the feeling of a thick cream melting away makeup. This one from Liz Earle has one countless awards and draws on soothing ingredients like chamomile, rosemary and eucalyptus alongside hydrating cocoa butter to rebalance and even out skin.
For optimal exfoliation, use a muslin cloth and warm water. Your acne will wonder what's hit it.
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StriVectin Gentle Daily Clarifying Cleanser
Now 20% Off
Credit: BootsStriVectin's Gentle Daily Clarifying Cleanser is a lightly lathering face wash that removes makeup and gently cleanses the skin, but works exceptionally hard to prevent upcoming breakouts, too.
How's this all possible? It's all thanks to ingredients like salicylic acid, niacinamide and green tea extract that promote a clearer complexion while ensuring irritation stays away. That's right, this is one cleanser that knows how to show off.
Best hydrating cleanser for acne
Kiehl's Ultra Facial CleanserNow 20% Off
Credit: Kiehl'sA total classic, we've been recommending this cleanser to anyone who will listen for years now.
It's a solid choice for all skin types, but the acne-prone will love that it's pH-balanced, meaning it'll leave your skin barrier exactly as it wants to be: balanced, hydrated and clean.
Best body wash for bacne
Naturium The Perfector Salicylic Acid Body WashBreakouts on your face suck, but you know what's also a real nuisance? Bacne.
As those who have an acne-prone complexion are also more likely to experience bacne, we'd suggest keeping this clarifying body wash in your shower cubby too.
Packed with salicylic acid, glycerin and olive fruit oil, it'll gently resurface without the risk of stripping your skin and disrupting your moisture barrier.
What's more, the chunky bottle will keep you going for months so it's great value for money too.
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If you're breakout-prone, one of the best ingredients you can use to kill acne-causing bacteria is benzoyl peroxide. The Acnecide Face Wash contains 5% benzoyl peroxide to treat mild and reoccurring breakouts effectively and it's one of the most affordable out there too.
Just be warned that this key ingredient can stain things like towels and pillowcases to be sure to use old (but clean!) ones whilst this face wash is in your skincare routine.
Best gel cleanser for acne
Avène Cleanance Cleansing Gel Cleanser for Blemish-Prone SkinNot only is Avène's Cleanance Cleansing Gel great for use on the face, but it's also safe to use on the body. Whether your skin is feeling extra sensitive or you've got some irritation, the formula helps to soothe and reduce redness, without stripping the skin.
The formula also contains Avène's soothing thermal spring water which has been used for over 270 years to care for sensitive skin.
Best cleanser for oil absorption
Caudalie Vinopure Purifying Gel CleanserCaudalie's vinopure range is great for stressed-out and blemish-prone skin. Some of our favourite products in the range include the salicylic spot solution, the blemish control salicylic acid serum and last but by no means least, the purifying gel cleanser.
The rich gel texture lathers gently into the skin, helping to reduce the appearance of breakouts and excess oil. It truly is one of our favourite products to reach for when stressed-out skin strikes.
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What causes acne?As with a lot of things to do with our body, acne can easily get out of our control. Dr Ejikeme, Founder and Medical Director of Adonia Medical Clinic, explains: "Acne is primarily driven by genetics, but there are environmental aspects that can precipitate or aggravate it."
What could you be doing wrong when it comes to your skin? Turns out, quite a bit: "Using occlusive oils, over-exfoliation, stress, poor sleep, high sugar diets can all contribute. When spots do occur, touching and squeezing them can make things worse, too" says Dr Ejikeme.
And while we love all the skin transformation videos that creep up on our social media, remember it takes time and a lot of dedication to replenish the skin's delicate barrier, so don't expect results overnight.
Can cleansers make acne worse?Cleansing is a vital part of any skincare regime but overdoing it – especially with exfoliating acids – is going to cause more problems than it solves.
"Cleansers are very important, as effectively cleansing the skin can ensure make-up, sunscreen, sweat, pollution and debris are removed from the skin, reducing the risk of these leading to inflammation or occlusion of a pore," says Dr Ejikeme.
Although acids can aid us in our journey to flawless skin, it's important to pick the right one and at the right percentage. Dr Ejikeme's favourite? "Salicylic acid is a key ingredient for acne. Choose a cleanser containing around 2% salicylic acid and use it throughout the week."
There's also a skincare myth out there that if you're prone to oiliness, you should cleanse more often than your dry-skinned friends, but that's simply not the case. "Acne is not caused by unclean skin. If you have acne-prone skin you should cleanse just as much as everyone else: that's twice a day for 30 seconds," confirms Dr Ejikeme.
BTW, our Beauty Special dedicated to skincare is on newsstands on the 27th of August. Don't miss your chance to grab our beauty bible full of skincare tips and product recs for now to keep forever.
Clare Stephenson is a Beauty Ecommerce Writer for Cosmopolitan, Women's Health, Red and Good Housekeeping, covering all things makeup, skincare and hair care, as well as deals events including Black Friday and Amazon Prime Day.
Clare has been an ecommerce writer since 2022, writing matter-of-fact reviews such as deep dives into skin concerns and shopping pages filled with her favourite products for every budget and need.
Before working at Hearst UK, she received a BA degree in Multimedia Journalism at Bournemouth University, focusing her studies on the world of magazines and editorial. From there, she worked as an editorial assistant at Voir Fashion Magazine, covering events like Fashion Week and interviewing reputable brand founders, including Rea Ann Silva creator of Beautyblender.
When she's not testing the latest and greatest products, you can find Clare sifting through vintage clothing stores in the city or horseback riding in the countryside.
Follow Clare on Instagram @clarefrancesstephenson.
This 3-Step Kit Gave My Skin The Hydration Reset It Needed
While each product featured is independently selected by our editors, we may include paid promotion. If you buy something through our links, we may earn commission. Read more about our Product Review Guidelines here.Identifying products that work for my skin type has (historically) been pretty easy because it's been the same for so long. But this summer, I was thrown for a loop when my usually sensitive combination skin felt drier than ever. The increased exposure to sun, surf, and chlorine certainly didn't help, but it was clear that my go-to regimen for combination skin (which has previously been on the oilier side) was no longer working for my newly parched skin. So when Versed Skin announced it was launching a new Hydration Collection, I knew I wanted to give it a try. My skin needed all the moisture it could get, and the Hydration Trio ($41) looked like a promising — and affordable — way to reset my routine entirely.
The collection's trio features three Versed Skin products — the Soft Launch Gentle Hydrating Cleanser ($13), Water Rush Intensive Hydrating Serum ($15), and Water Rush Hydrating Eye Gel ($13) — that are said to provide the ultimate hydration boost when used together. To relieve my skin of the tightness and dryness I was experiencing, I tested the hydrating lineup. To see if the three products helped quench my skin's thirst, keep reading for my honest thoughts ahead.
Soft Launch Gentle Hydrating Cleanser
Water Rush Intensive Hydrating Serum
Water Rush Hydrating Eye Gel
About the Hydration Trio
What I Like About the Hydration Trio
First and foremost, I loved that Versed decided to bundle these three products when the new collection dropped. It took the guesswork out of overhauling my skin-care routine at a time when my skin was particularly vulnerable (AKA dry AF). With the exception of a moisturizer and SPF, my new, more-hydrating routine was basically set with just the trio.
When I started using the Soft Launch Gentle Hydrating Cleanser, I immediately noticed its creamy, gel-like texture. It didn't foam, have any fragrance, or strip my skin at all — which I appreciated as my previous cleanser often left my skin feeling tight and dry. After cleansing, I used the Water Rush Hydrating Eye Gel, which really impressed me because it reminded me of a more expensive eye gel that I had used previously — but without fragrance and less tacky. The Versed eye gel was lightweight, refreshing, and helped with the appearance of tired eyes in the morning.
As someone who had never consistently incorporated a hyaluronic acid serum in their routine before, I was curious to see if it would make a noticeable difference in my skin. After using the Water Rush Intensive Hydrating Serum, it became clear that this was the step I'd been missing all along. I applied the serum on freshly dampened skin (immediately after cleansing or after a rosewater toner), and my skin immediately drank it up. It was fast-absorbing, but helped lock in the moisture under my moisturizer. My skin felt bouncier, more supple, and refreshed.
Altogether, these three products helped to hydrate my complexion and retain moisture throughout the day. I had no more dry patches in sight — and despite continuing to swim and spend days in the sun, my skin felt more comfortable than ever.
How to Use the the Hydration Trio
Begin by washing your face with the Soft Launch Gentle Hydrating Cleanser (if you double cleanse with an oil or balm, Soft Launch will be the second cleansing product in your routine). Then apply the Water Rush Hydrating Eye Gel to your undereyes. Finally, use the Water Rush Intensive Hydrating Serum on your face and neck. Allow the serum to sit for two minutes before applying a moisturizer and sunscreen of your choice. The brand says all three products can be used in your morning and evening skin-care routines. Note: if you're wondering where to include retinol in your nighttime routine, I opted to use it after the Versed serum and before my moisturizer to prevent dryness as much as possible.
What To Consider Before Trying the Hydration Trio
I personally didn't have any reservations about trying the trio, especially because of its affordable price point. However, it's worth noting that reviews for each product vary on the brand's site. While I found the products to be hydrating and soothing, some users said the products felt either too heavy or not hydrating enough. Whether you like the products or not will be highly dependent on your skin type and any concerns you're trying to address.
Who the Hydration Trio Is Best For
This trio of products is suitable for all skin types, but the brand notes that it's made for aging skin and problem skin, and for addressing dryness or dullness. I would add that I found the hydrating products to be very gentle — which makes them a great option for anyone with sensitive skin.
Where Is the Hydration Trio Available?
The Hydration Trio is available to shop exclusively at the brand's site. You can also purchase the products individually at Target.
Rating
★★★★★
Alida Araica is a newsletter manager at PS, where she oversees and executes editorial and client email strategy and production. Occasionally, she lends her expertise to writing product reviews. Alida has over five years of marketing experience in digital media.
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