When you’re dealing with acne, adding the right amount of moisture to your skin might be low down on your list of priorities. But the truth is, all skin types need to be moisturized—particularly acne-prone skin.
Why Lightweight Moisturizers?
The best moisturizer for acne-prone skin is whichever product will keep your skin soothed and hydrated without causing breakouts. A lightweight moisturizer should provide enough hydration to keep your skin’s moisture barrier healthy (which can help prevent breakouts) without overwhelming it with heavy ingredients that can exacerbate clogged pores and acne.
Often a little more substantial than the gel moisturizers we might gravitate to in the summer, the lightweight moisturizers listed below can be a goldilocks option if your skin feels slightly dry or tight from acne treatments like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or retinoids, but also tends to break out from heavier moisturizers.
If you are dealing with more severe dryness or irritation, you might have a damaged skin barrier and may need to scale back your treatments and use a barrier repair cream.
Best Moisturizers for Acne-Prone Skin
Here are our favorite lightweight moisturizers for acne-prone skin. They are non-comedogenic (meaning they won’t clog pores) and packed with ingredients that help soothe irritation or inflammation that often comes with acne.
To lock in even more hydration, consider applying your moisturizer when your skin is slightly damp.
Dermalogica Clear Start Skin Soothing Hydrating Lotion, Lightweight Moisturizer with Hyaluronic Acid and Squalane
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Sensitive Fluide Lightweight Protective Moisturizer with Niacinamide
Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer with Ceramides, Squalane, and Hyaluronic Acid
Uriage Bariederm CICA Daily Gel-Cream with Centella Asiatica and Hyaluronic Acid
ETUDE SoonJung 10 Free Moist Emulsion with Squalane, Panthenol, and Madecassoside
EltaMD Skin Recovery Lightweight Moisturizer for Damaged Skin Barrier with Amino Acids
Hada Labo Tokyo Skin Plumping Gel Cream with Super Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramides, and Collagen
Ingredients to Look For
When choosing a lightweight moisturizer for acne-prone skin, ingredients matter. Look for products with these acne-friendly components:
Hyaluronic Acid
This ingredient draws moisture into the skin and locks it in without feeling greasy, making it perfect for oily and acne-prone skin types.
Glycerin
This humectant also attracts water to the skin, providing hydration without clogging pores. It is gentle and effective for maintaining a healthy moisture balance.
Ceramides
These lipids are naturally found in the skin and help strengthen the skin barrier. A strong barrier is essential for preventing moisture loss and protecting against irritants that can worsen acne.
Squalane
A lightweight, non-comedogenic oil. It’s great for providing hydration without the risk of breakouts for most people and helps balance moisture levels in the skin.
Amino Acids
These building blocks of proteins help to hydrate and repair the skin while supporting a healthy moisture barrier. They’re lightweight, non-irritating, and a great option for sensitive, acne-prone skin.
