The Best Moisturizers for Acne-Prone Skin, According to Our Editors

if you have acne-prone or oily skinfind a moisturizer that does not cause breakouts or make your skin look very shiny can be a tricky feat. To keep your skin hydrated and balanced, and acne free, be sure to look for non-comedogenic formulas, light and fat free. To help you find a great moisturizer for acne-prone skin, we've listed six of our favorites.

What causes acne?

Before we dive into the best moisturizers for acne-prone skin, it's important to first understand why acne occurs on your skin. According to American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), acne is caused by many factors. When overactive sebaceous glands produce too much oil, it can mix with dead skin cells, dirt and debris on the surface of the skin and clog pores. Other factors include your genes, hormones, stress levels, and your period. Unfortunately, there isn't much you can do about your genetics, but choosing the right products formulated for your skin type is a good way to prevent acne. 

Our Favorite Moisturizers for Acne-Prone Skin 

Vichy Normaderm Acne Treatment

Vichy Normaderm's Anti-Acne Hydrating Lotion, formulated with salicylic acid, glycolic acid and micro-exfoliating LHA, fights blemishes. A non-greasy, non-comedogenic moisturizer formulated to fight acne and hydrate skin.

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat Moisturizing Face Cream

Improve the appearance of pores and shrink them by continuing to use La Roche-Posay's Effaclar Mat Face Moisturizer. The formula uses sebulyse technology to double target excess sebum while providing daily hydration. Plus, it has a light matte finish, making it the perfect choice to use before makeup.

Biossance Squalane + Probiotic Gel Moisturizer

This lightweight gel formula from Biossance soothes redness and tightens pores, making it a good choice if you have acne. It also contains squalane and probiotics to hydrate and balance the skin.

SkinCeuticals Retinol 1.0

Let me introduce SkinCeuticals Retinol 1.0 to you. This highly effective cleansing night cream contains 1% pure retinol. The best part? Suitable for most skin types, especially for photodamaged, problematic and hyperemic skin. For best practice, use this product after your skin has been prepped with lower concentration of retinol to reduce the chance of irritation. Combine your use with a broad spectrum daily SPF.

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel Cream

Since acne-fighting ingredients are notorious for their drying effect, it is very important to moisturize the skin adequately. Try an oil-free, non-comedogenic formula like Kiehl's Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel Cream. Unlike most moisturizers that leave a greasy residue, this oil-free gel-cream has a refreshing texture that intensely hydrates and conditions the skin.

CeraVe AM Moisturizing Face Lotion with Sunscreen 

This moisturizer is non-comedogenic and oil-free, so it won't clog pores or cause breakouts. We love this option because it's formulated with SPF 30 to protect your skin from the sun's harmful UV rays, but it will keep your skin hydrated with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide. We recommend using this product after cleansing with CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser. 

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