Do You Really Need Moisturizer if You Have Oily Skin?

If you have oily skin, you’ve probably wondered this at least once in your life: “Why do I need a moisturizer when my skin already feels like it’s producing enough oil?” It’s a common misconception that people with an oily skin type don’t need to moisturize. In fact, it’s one of the biggest myths in the skincare world. Let’s unpack this, together.

In this post, we’ll cover:

- Why moisturizers matter (even for oily skin)

- What ingredients to seek out

- And how to pick the right moisturizer for your unique skin needs. 

We’re going to cover a lot — from hyaluronic acid to benzoyl peroxide — so stick with me!

 

Understanding Oily Skin and Its Challenges

Oily skin occurs when your sebaceous glands produce too much sebum, a waxy substance meant to protect and moisturize your skin’s surface. It’s an important role — sebum provides a natural barrier and maintains the skin’s hydration levels — but too much oil can lead to clogged pores, acne breakouts, and that shiny “oil slick” look by mid-day.

Although your skin feels “well-oiled,” that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s getting enough water. In fact, many people with oily skin types have dehydrated skin because the skin’s oil production doesn’t necessarily equate to proper hydration. Most of my new clients who come in complain of oily and dry skin, which tells me right away they are oily dehydrated, not dry!

⚡️ Dry skin = lack of oil
💧 Dehydrated skin = lack of water

If you skip moisturizer altogether, you risk making the problem worse. Your skin may ramp up its oil production in an attempt to compensate for a lack of moisture, creating an even oilier face. So, regardless of your skin tone or skin type — be it oily, normal skin, dry skin, or acne-prone skin — moisturizer is an important step in any routine.

Do People with Oily Skin Need Moisturizer?

Short answer: Absolutely.
Long answer: Definitely, and here’s why…

Your skin has a natural barrier that locks in moisture and protects against environmental factors like pollution, UV rays, and harsh cleansers. If you skip moisturizer or use improper skin care products (such as too much salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide), your skin may become dehydrated and irritated. This can lead to:

➕ Increased transepidermal water loss (moisture loss from the skin’s surface)

➕ Disruption of the skin’s natural barrier
➕ Excess oil production caused by dehydration

With the right moisturizer, you can maintain that delicate balance, reduce extra oil production, and even help ward off breakouts.

 

The Right Moisturizer for Oily Skin

Choosing the right moisturizer is all about finding a formulation that delivers enough moisture and hydration WITHOUT clogging pores. Here’s what to look for:

1. Gel Moisturizers

Look for gel-based formulas or oil-free formulas. These are ideal for extremely oily skin because they’re light, breathable, and don’t overwhelm the skin, and help maintain hydration levels throughout the day.

👉 Example: Our HylaVera Gel Moisturizer is a great option. Its gel-based formula is packed with humectants and skin-friendly ingredients that support a healthy barrier, making it ideal for acne-prone or oily skin types. 

Here’s a peek at its formulation:

• Hyaluronic Acid (Sodium Hyaluronate) — This powerhouse ingredient attracts water to the skin’s surface, providing extra hydration and making the skin appear plump and dewy — not oily.

• Glycerin, Sodium PCA, and Sodium Lactate — Humectants that draw moisture to the skin, keeping it plump and balanced.

• Hamamelis Virginiana Leaf Water (Witch Hazel) — Provides mild astringent benefits for oil control.

• Niacinamide — Supports a brighter, more even skin tone and can reduce the look of enlarged pores.

• Aloe Vera — Great for acne-prone skin. Aloe is a soothing and hydrating ingredient that provides skin moisture and calms sensitivity — ideal for sensitive skin or for those using treatments like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid.

Why this works for oily skin: Its lightweight, water-rich texture delivers extra hydration and supports your skin’s natural barrier — making it ideal for those prone to excess oil production or dehydration.

2. Cream Moisturizers

While oily skin often benefits from lightweight moisturizers, sometimes you need a richer option — especially when dealing with dehydration, transepidermal water loss, or sensitivity caused by treatments like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide.

👉 Example: Our NourishRX delivers deeper hydration and is ideal when you want to maintain a strong skin barrier. Its formulation contains:

• Magnesium Aspartate, Zinc Gluconate, and Copper Gluconate — Trace minerals that support skin health and balance oil production.

• Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil — A light oil rich in fatty acids that replenishes moisture and supports the skin’s lipid barrier without clogging pores.

• Caprylic/Capric Triglycerides and Glycerin — Emollients that prevent moisture loss and keep the skin feeling soft and supple.

• Tetrapeptide-17 and 1‑Copper Tripeptide — Peptides that support collagen and elastin. In fact, copper peptides are well‑known for promoting wound healing and supporting the repair of acne scars, making this moisturizer a great option if you’re dealing with post‑breakout marks or uneven texture.

• Hyaluronic Acid (Sodium Hyaluronate) and Inositol — Humectants that draw and hold water in the skin for long‑lasting hydration.

• Panthenol, Allantoin, and Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E) — Soothing and antioxidant-rich ingredients that protect the skin from environmental damage and help reduce fine lines. 

• Dimethicone, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Pentylene Glycol, and 1,3‑Propanediol — Form a smooth, breathable layer that locks in moisture while allowing the skin to breathe.

Why this works for oily skin too: Even oil‑prone complexions benefit from a well‑formulated cream when dehydration or barrier disruption occurs. Its balanced ingredients and copper peptide complex make it ideal for nighttime use or when hormonal shifts and harsh treatments compromise the skin. It supports the skin’s natural barrier, promotes recovery from acne scarring, and maintains a healthy, moisturized complexion.

 

What to Avoid in Moisturizers for Oily Skin

👉 Stay away from heavy creams and formulations with thick oils or waxes.👉 Avoid comedogenic ingredients that can clog pores.👉 Steer clear of too much moisturizer, which can overwhelm oily skin.

Your best bet? An oil-free moisturizer or non-comedogenic moisturizer. Products like Our HylaVera and NourishRX formulations are designed with oily and acne-prone skin in mind.

 

The Best Time to Moisturize

The ideal times are:
➕ After cleansing with a gentle face wash and lukewarm water.
➕ At night as your nighttime moisturizer, when your skin works to repair itself.
➕ In the morning as part of your daily routine, preferably one with added SPF.

Remember: Even if your skin feels oily, moisturizers play an important role in locking in water and restoring balance.

 

Understanding Your Skin’s Oil Production

Why does your skin produce oil?The skin produces oil (or sebum) as a natural defense mechanism. Hormonal shifts, improper skin care, or a poor diet can disrupt this balance, triggering the overproduction of sebum. The result? An oily face, clogged pores, and acne breakouts.

By using a good moisturizer suited for oily skin, you can help balance your skin’s oil production and reduce the risk of breakouts caused by dehydration.

Ingredients to Pair with Moisturizers for Oily Skin

If you’re tackling acne or trying to reduce shine, consider combining a non-comedogenic moisturizer with treatments like:

•  Salicylic acid – Exfoliates dead skin and unclogs pores.

•  Benzoyl peroxide – Reduces acne-causing bacteria.

• Lactic acid – Gently resurfaces the skin.

• Hyaluronic acid – Provides deep hydration.

• Aloe vera – Soothes and calms irritated skin.

Moisturizing Tips for Oily Skin

➕Use the right products: Choose a gel-based moisturizer or oil-free moisturizer.
➕Apply to damp skin: This helps seal in water for proper hydration.
➕Use enough moisturizer — too little can leave your skin dehydrated, too much can overwhelm it.
➕Exfoliate periodically: Removing dead skin cells allows moisturizers to penetrate better.
➕Check the ingredients: Avoid heavy occlusive agents like Shea Butter if your skin is prone to breakouts.

 

What Happens When You Skip Moisturizer?

If you skip moisturizer, especially if you have oily skin, you risk triggering:

👉 Excess sebum production
👉 A weakened natural barrier
👉 Increased transepidermal water loss
👉 Dry, tight, or dehydrated skin that’s prone to breakouts

In other words, skipping moisturizer doesn’t fix an oily face — it can make it worse.

 

Common Misconceptions About Moisturizers and Oily Skin

One common misconception is that people with oily skin don’t need moisturizers at all. The reality is that moisturizers — especially those tailored for oily skin types — can balance oil production, protect the skin’s surface, and reduce the risk of acne breakouts.

Another myth is that moisturizers cause clogged pores. Not true if you pick the right formula! Always opt for non-comedogenic products to maintain a clean and healthy skin barrier. 

Always check your products in our Online pore-clogging Ingredient Checker before you purchase!

The Final Verdict: Should Oily Skin Be Moisturized?

Yes — and choosing the right moisturizer can make a world of difference. By focusing on hydration, you can balance your skin’s oil production, protect its natural barrier, and create a smooth skin surface for better makeup application.

Remember, it’s not about adding extra oil to your routine, but making sure your skin has enough moisture and water content. The right daily moisturizer can help achieve that delicate balance.

Tips for Incorporating Moisturizer into Your Skincare Routine

1. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and lukewarm water.

2. Apply a serum with active ingredients (e.g., salicylic acid for acne or vitamin C 

3. Finish with an oil-free moisturizer or a gel-based moisturizer.

4. At night, use a nighttime moisturizer that supports skin repair

5. In the morning, apply an SPF moisturizer for sun protection.

Final Thoughts: Moisture is a Must, Even for Oily Skin

Having an oily face doesn’t mean you should skip moisturizer. The best way to support your skin’s health is to adopt a balanced routine that includes the right moisturizer. By focusing on hydration, using non-comedogenic products, and choosing formulations suited for oily skin, you can maintain a healthy skin barrier, control oil production, and reduce breakouts.