We’ve said it once, and we’ll say it again: Everyone needs a moisturizer—yes, even those with oily or acne-prone skin. But if you’re prone to breakouts, you’ll want to choose your formula carefully. The key lies in finding a non-comedogenic moisturizer that provides hydration without leaving your skin feeling heavy or greasy. If you’re not quite sure where to start your search, keep reading. Ahead, we’ll explain what a non-comedogenic moisturizer is, who they’re best for, and how to determine if a moisturizer is acne-safe or not. Then, we’ll introduce you to a dozen of our favorite formulas, from drugstore picks to luxury options. Your hunt for the best non-comedogenic moisturizer for your skin ends here.What Does Non-Comedogenic Mean? Non-comedogenic is a term used to describe a skincare or makeup product that is unlikely to clog your pores. These products are especially well-suited for those with acne-prone skin, as clogged pores are often the first step in the breakout cycle. If you’re prone to oiliness and breakouts, you may feel tempted to skip moisturizer entirely, but we’d caution against that: All skin needs hydration, regardless of how oily it is. In fact, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), skipping moisturizer can dehydrate your skin, leading it to over-produce oil to compensate for the lack of natural moisture. Plus, acne-fighting skincare products can sometimes be drying—using a non-pore-clogging moisturizer can help keep your skin feeling balanced and healthy.How To Choose a Moisturizer for Acne-Prone Skin While virtually everybody can benefit from a non-comedogenic moisturizer, the best formula for you will depend on your skin type and concerns. If your skin is oily, you’ll likely fare best with lightweight water- or silicone-based moisturizers that provide hydration and help reduce excess shine. Those with dry or sensitive skin, meanwhile, may fare better with slightly richer lotions or creams. For those with acne, we suggest sticking with oil-free formulas that hydrate without adding unnecessary weight or shine. And if you’re trying to determine whether a moisturizer may cause acne, always check the product label. If it’s been shown to be non-comedogenic, it should say so right on the packaging. Keep in mind that while it’s generally recommended to moisturize twice daily (once in the morning and once before bed), you don’t have to use the same moisturizer each time. In the morning, consider opting for a formula with sunscreen to help shield your skin from damaging UV rays. At night, you can skip the sunscreen—instead, consider giving your skin some extra TLC with a slightly richer formula to help nourish your skin while you sleep. A bouncy gel cream can be a great option for those who want tons of hydration without a slick or greasy feel.12 of the Best Non-Comedogenic Moisturizers for Acne-Prone Skin Now that we’ve gotten the basics out of the way, we’ll get to the good stuff—which moisturizers are worth your while. Below, we’re sharing a look at some of our favorite non-pore clogging moisturizers suitable for blemish-prone skin.1. CeraVe Oil Control Moisturizing Gel-Cream This budget-friendly pick from CeraVe is designed specifically for combination to oily complexions. The fast-absorbing formula delivers instant and all-day hydration without a greasy feel, while patented oil-absorbing technology helps to keep unwanted shine at bay. Slather it on as the final step of your skincare routine and enjoy fresh, healthy-looking (and -feeling) skin.2. Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream Whether your skin is dry, oily, sensitive, or balanced, this cult-favorite moisturizer can make for a helpful addition to your everyday routine. The iconic formula is packed with 4.5% squalane, glacial glycoprotein, and pro-ceramides and delivers up to 72 hours of hydration while visibly calming redness and reinforcing your skin barrier.3. L’Oréal Paris Collagen Moisture Filler Facial Anti-Aging Moisturizer This anti-aging moisturizer doubles as an acne-friendly hydrator, delivering 48 hours of intense moisture without clogging pores or leaving a greasy feel. Perfect for both your AM and PM routines, the refreshing gel formula absorbs quickly and leaves the skin smooth and bouncy-looking. Bonus: It’s gentle enough for sensitive and acne-prone skin, making it a solid pick for anyone looking to hydrate while keeping breakouts under control.4. La Roche-Posay Toleraine Double Repair Matte Face Moisturizer for Oily Skin Many moisturizers for oily skin simply hydrate—this one goes the extra mile and helps mattify unwanted shine. The unique formula absorbs quickly, providing all-day hydration while helping to visibly minimize the appearance of pores, unevenness, and fine lines. It’s also fragrance-free, oil-free, and suitable for sensitive, reactive skin.5. Lancôme Advanced Génifique Night Cream If you’re looking for a moisturizer that can help combat the visible signs of aging, this is a great one to choose. The indulgent cream is formulated with a powerful blend of hyaluronic, ceramides, and bifidus probiotic and helps lock in moisture while you sleep to help support your skin's natural moisture barrier. Slather it onto your clean face and neck before hitting the sheets each night, and enjoy smoother, plumper, more radiant-looking skin over time.6. Youth to the People Superfood Air-Whip Moisture Cream Get your glow on with the Youth To The People Superfood Air-Whip Moisture Cream. Perfect for acne-prone skin, it’s non-comedogenic, layers beautifully under makeup, and absorbs instantly with a cool, refreshing feel. Plus, thanks to the superfood blend of kale, spinach, green tea, and vitamins C & E, your skin will feel nourished, hydrated, and visibly plumped for up to 48 hours.7. IT Cosmetics Confidence in a Gel Cream Oil-Free Moisturizer Oily skin and large pores often go hand-in-hand. This unique moisturizer helps address both concerns while leaving the skin feeling deeply hydrated for up to 48 hours. The non-comedogenic gel-cream helps strengthen the skin barrier within one hour of application while visibly diminishing the appearance of pores over time. The unique formula also helps reduce excess surface oil within two weeks of use for a more balanced, fresh complexion.8. Vichy Normaderm Phytoaction Acne Control Moisturizer with Salicylic Acid If you’re navigating acne and looking for a moisturizer that hydrates without exacerbating your breakouts, this multitasking option needs to be on your radar. The ultralight lotion with 2% salicylic acid helps soothe and hydrate the skin while targeting blackheads, enlarged pores, and acne blemishes. After a few weeks of consistent use, you’ll notice your skin appears smoother and more even, with a healthy-looking glow.9. L’Oréal Paris RevitaLift Triple Power Anti-Aging Overnight Mask Sometimes, your skin needs a little extra TLC to look and feel its best. Enter: This budget-friendly overnight face mask. The rich yet non-greasy formula is powered by a trio of pro-retinol, vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid and works to visibly reduce wrinkles, firm skin, and even out tone—all without clogging pores or exacerbating breakouts.10. Good Molecules Hydrating Gel Moisturizer with Electrolytes If you’re looking for a budget-friendly moisturizer to help balance and restore dehydrated skin, give this option a try. According to Good Molecules, it’s made with a potent combination of electrolytes and osmolytes and provides intense hydration while helping to mattify the skin for a shine-free finish. It even helps address dark spots and discolorations to promote a more even-looking complexion over time.11. Tower28 SOS Recovery Cream Sometimes simple is exactly what your skin needs—especially when it’s sensitive, acne-prone, and easily overwhelmed. This moisturizer is a great pick for those occasions. According to Tower28, it’s clinically tested to reduce redness, boost hydration, and improve texture—without clogging pores or causing breakouts. We’re also fans of the moisturizer’s lightweight, cushiony texture that absorbs in seconds with zero greasy residue.12. Dieux Air Angel Daily Moisturizer This celeb-loved gel-cream is an excellent pick for all skin types. According to Dieux, it’s clinically tested to hydrate for up to 12 hours, plump and firm skin over time, and keep oiliness in check with a soft, slightly matte finish. If you have oily skin, you can wear it alone or underneath makeup to keep your skin hydrated and balanced. Those with drier skin, meanwhile, can layer it under a richer cream moisturizer for an added dose of non-comedogenic hydration. Next Up: Hydrating vs. Moisturizing: What’s The Difference?
