The 14 best moisturizers for acne prone skin that soothe and protect

Are you looking for the best moisturizers for acne that will not disappoint you? Don’t worry. I’ve got you covered. Looking for the right moisturizer that hydrates acne-prone skin without exacerbating breakouts or causing discomfort is challenging. That’s why we’ve spent time researching the greatest solutions on the market and picking some of the best. So, scroll down and check out  the 14 best moisturizers for acne-prone skin below.

Does moisturizer help with acne?

Yes, moisturizers can play a beneficial role in managing acne. While they don’t directly treat acne lesions, a good moisturizer can help maintain the skin’s hydration balance. Some acne treatments, such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, may cause dryness or irritation. Using a moisturizer helps counteract this dryness and prevents the skin from overproducing oil in response, which can contribute to acne.

It’s crucial to choose a non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores) and oil-free moisturizer, especially if you have acne-prone skin. Look for products labeled as “non-comedogenic” or “oil-free” to reduce the risk of worsening acne. Additionally, some moisturizers contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin, which can help hydrate the skin without clogging pores.

Always consult with a dermatologist to determine the best skincare routine for your specific acne concerns.

The 14 good moisturizer for acne

Selecting the best face moisturizer for acne-prone skin may pose a challenge, but fear not. Keep scrolling to explore dermatologist-trusted, best-selling products. These products are made to give your skin the right amount of moisture and ingredients that fight acne. They help you get clear, healthy-looking skin. It doesn’t matter if your skin is oily, combination, or dry – we’ve got what you need.

Paula’s Choice CLEAR Oil-Free Moisturizer

Paula’s Choice Oil-Free Moisturizer is our top pick because it’s great for skin that tends to break out. Paula’s Choice has a special line just for acne-prone skin, and this moisturizer does a lot – it hydrates, makes pores smaller, and calms redness. It has helpful stuff like niacinamide for better skin tone, pumpkin and blueberry to soothe redness from acne, and ceramides to make your skin stronger. Just so you know, the biggest size is only two ounces.

Tiege Hanley ACNE Cream 

The Tiege Hanley ACNE Cream is great at keeping your skin moisturized without making acne worse. It’s made to not clog your pores, which helps treat existing acne and stop new pimples from forming. Since the cream is strong, it’s a good idea to be patient and do a small test on your skin, especially if it’s sensitive. This cream does more than just basic acne care – it targets current pimples and prevents new ones. It won’t clog your pores, which is important for people who often get acne. Also, it gives your skin moisture without making it greasy, which can make acne worse. Keep in mind, though, that it’s a bit expensive, so think about that when deciding if you want to buy it.

The Inkey List Omega Water Cream

This light gel moisturizer gives your skin hydration that lasts all day without feeling greasy. The main ingredient is the brand’s omega ceramide complex, full of good omegas that hydrate and fix your skin barrier. It also makes your skin more elastic and firm. With a lot of glycerin, it brings moisture into your skin without making it too wet. Niacinamide in it helps control oil and reduces redness. It takes a bit of time to soak into your skin completely.

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Water Gel Face and Neck Moisturizer 

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Water Gel for Face and Neck is a good option if you have acne. It’s a light, not oily moisturizer that soaks in fast, leaving your skin feeling soft. It has hyaluronic acid, a natural moisturizer in your skin, which makes your skin softer and smoother by holding onto water. The unique gel formula is quick like a gel but moisturizes like a cream. It’s oil-free, won’t clog pores, and works for all skin types. Remember that this product might not provide sufficient moisture for extremely dry skin, may not be effective for severe acne, and the packaging can differ.

Sunday Riley C.E.O. Afterglow Moisturizer

For those of us dealing with acne-prone skin and dull complexion, Sunday Riley’s moisturizer is a great choice. Packed with brightening vitamin C, it tackles uneven skin tone and moisturizes with antioxidant-rich ingredients. Although it might look a bit greasy by the end of the day, it creates a radiant base for makeup and keeps your skin soft and hydrated, thanks to sodium hyaluronate. The added allantoin helps acne-prone skin stay healthy, but be cautious if you have very sensitive skin, as vitamin C can be irritating.

La roche posay moisturizer

If you want a moisturizer that keeps your skin safe from the sun, stays light on your skin, and won’t make you break out, check out La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair UV SPF Moisturizer. We’ve been using it for a few weeks and it’s really good. It’s light and doesn’t make your skin oily, and dries quickly, so you can put on makeup right away. We like that it has niacinamide and glycerin, which are good for soothing and moisturizing your skin, especially if you have acne. It also protects your skin from the sun with SPF 30, which is important. But, there are a couple of things to know. It has a bit of a chemical smell that not everyone might like. Also, if your skin is very dry, this might not be hydrating enough on its own. And if you use too much, it might make your skin look a bit white, so use a little bit at a time.

Fresh Black Tea Advanced Age Renewal Cream

Acne doesn’t care how old you are, and if you have mature skin with clogged pores, you know that well. The Fresh Black Tea Anti-Aging Moisturizer is made with ingredients that won’t cause pimples. It has ceramides to make your skin stronger and squalane to keep it protected and moisturized. The hero ingredient, BT Matrix, is like retinol and comes from black tea and rambutan leaf extracts, helping your skin that’s weakened as you get older. The result is a great moisturizer that’s also anti-aging and doesn’t make your skin oily. However, it has a natural smell from the herbal ingredients and may not be suitable for everybody. 

Mighty Patch Hero Cosmetics Clear Collective Clarifying Prebiotic Moisturizer

We really like the Mighty Patch Hero Cosmetics Clear Collective Clarifying Prebiotic Moisturizer for people with acne-prone skin. It’s full of good stuff, doesn’t have any irritating colors or fragrances, and is easy on your skin. You can use it after cleansing and toning, and it’s great under makeup because it’s light and won’t cause breakouts. Just keep in mind that it might make your skin a bit oily, the tube might not be completely filled, and the product might come out too quickly.

TATCHA The Water Cream

Tatcha creates products that give your skin a lovely, radiant appearance without causing greasiness. The Water Cream is among these fantastic products, suitable for combination skin because of its light gel-cream formula that won’t clog pores. It contains Japanese leopard lily, which helps manage oil and soothe redness, promoting balanced skin renewal. The Hadasei-3 complex, featuring algae, green tea, and rice, fortifies your skin to retain moisture – like quenching your skin’s thirst. A noteworthy point is that the cream is packaged in a jar, which might not be the most hygienic option.

COSRX Snail Mucin 92% Moisturizer

The COSRX Snail Mucin 92% Moisturizer is a light and gel-like cream that works well for repairing your skin. It contains snail mucin, hyaluronic acid, and betaine, all working together to make your skin less red and reduce fine lines. The snail stuff forms a barrier that makes your skin plump, hydrated, and calm. It’s an everyday cream that goes on smoothly and makes your skin look radiant. The main thing in this cream is snail secretion filtrate, which has “mucin” that’s excellent for keeping your skin extra moisturized. It helps fix damaged skin and adds moisture deep into your skin, making it perfect for dry or damaged skin. They get the snail stuff in a safe and eco-friendly way in a place where snails like to be, and then they use it to make the cream. However, it might not be suitable for you if you’re allergic to snails. Some people might find it feels a bit slimy, and it might not be strong enough for serious acne.

Cerave moisturizer for acne

This lightweight and oil-free lotion is designed to make your skin feel good. It has hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, which are like special ingredients that help keep your skin hydrated and calm. They won’t block your pores, which is a good thing. The lotion also has ceramides, which are like little helpers that strengthen your skin and make sure it doesn’t lose moisture. But, here are a few things to keep in mind: Some people might feel that it’s a bit slimy when they put it on, and if your skin is really, really dry, this lotion might not be enough for you. So, it’s good to know these things before you decide to use it.

Cetaphil gentle clear mattifying acne moisturizer

We’ve been using Cetaphil Face Moisturizer for a few weeks and our skin looks much better. The moisturizer is light and dries quickly, making our skin not shiny. It is good for sensitive skin and has 0.5% Salicylic Acid to stop breakouts and make skin better. With plant things and a prebiotic complex, it feeds our skin and soothes redness. This moisturizer, suggested by dermatologists, protects against five signs of sensitive skin: weak skin barrier, irritation, roughness, tightness, and dryness. But, it does have a smell and might not be good for really oily skin. Some people might find it makes their skin too dry.

Peach Slices Acne Oil-Free Moisturizer

This formula is proven by doctors and has fast-acting 0.5% salicylic acid. It helps clear and stop breakouts by cleaning the skin, getting rid of extra oil, and reducing whiteheads, blackheads, and swelling. Also, it has super moisturizing hyaluronic acid that doesn’t feel heavy. It’s great for making wrinkles and age lines look smaller, fixing the skin, and hiding acne scars. It works for all skin types, even if your skin is sensitive. The formula is clean, made from plants, and doesn’t have sulfates, alcohol, fragrance, parabens, gluten, and it’s vegan and cruelty-free. While it’s effective, it may leave your face a little shiny, similar to sunblock after a couple of hours. Also, it may not be the most moisturizing option for those with super dry skin.

Aveeno Clear Complexion Daily Face Moisturizer

Considering a daily facial moisturizer is helpful for preventing breakouts and improving your skin, Aveeno Clear Complexion Daily Facial Moisturizer is a good choice. We noticed a clear improvement in how our skin looked and felt. The formula is light and absorbs quickly, leaving our skin soft and smooth. It’s oil-free, non-comedogenic, and hypoallergenic, suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. This moisturizer has 0.5% salicylic acid, which helps control and prevent acne blemishes. The Total Soy Complex in it evens skin tone and improves complexion for a healthier look. Despite having a mild scent, it could still irritate those with sensitive skin. While this formula generally works well for most people, it may not be effective for everyone, and some might still experience acne.

Considerations for Acne-Prone Skin Moisturizers

When picking a moisturizer for skin prone to acne, pay attention to a few things:

Ingredients

Check for non-comedogenic ingredients that won’t clog your pores. Good choices include hyaluronic acid, glycerin, aloe vera, niacinamide, salicylic acid, and benzoyl peroxide.

Texture

Pick a light, oil-free moisturizer. Stay away from thick creams because they can block your pores, and that can lead to acne. 

SPF

If you’re often outside, get a moisturizer with at least SPF 30 to protect your skin from the sun.

Fragrance

Choose a fragrance-free moisturizer to avoid irritating your skin and causing breakouts.

Price

Think about your budget, but investing in a good-quality product can really help your skin. Balance cost with quality when making your choice.

FAQ

1. Is face moisturizer good for acne?

Yes, doctors might suggest using moisturizers alongside treatments for acne, especially when prescribing things like benzoyl peroxide or a retinoid. Also, there’s some evidence suggesting that moisturizers on their own can help improve signs and symptoms of acne.

2. Should I moisturize my face everyday if I have acne?

Yes, you should moisturize your face every day if you have acne, as long as you choose a non-comedogenic moisturizer. Put it on two times a day after washing your face. Don’t use things like astringents or rubbing alcohol because they can make your skin even drier.

3. Can acne be 100% cured?

Even if the medicine your doctor suggests helps your skin get better, it doesn’t cure acne. You have to keep using it regularly, even when your skin looks good, to stop acne from coming back. There’s no cure for acne, and products that say they can cure it are not telling the truth.

4. What age is acne the worst?

Almost 90% of teenagers, between 14 and 19 years old, deal with acne. If someone has a lot of acne that’s considered moderate to severe, they usually need extra help with acne treatments.

5. Does drinking water help with acne?

Drinking more water, about 68 extra ounces each day, really helps your skin stay hydrated. Being well-hydrated also boosts your immune system, helping your body fight infections, which can stop acne from happening.

Conclusion

Finding the right moisturizer for acne-prone skin is crucial for maintaining a healthy and clear complexion. Personal preferences, skin type, and specific needs should guide the choice of a moisturizer, ensuring it strikes the right balance between hydration and acne prevention. The best moisturizer is one that not only nourishes the skin but also complements an individual’s skincare routine, promoting overall skin health and well-being.

10 BEST FACE MOISTURIZERS WITH SPF THAT WILL MAKE SUN PROTECTION

Sun protection is crucial for maintaining healthy, youthful-looking skin. But finding a moisturizer with SPF that doesn’t feel greasy or heavy can be a challenge.  Here’s the good news: there are a ton of fantastic options out there that offer both hydration and sun protection! Whether you have dry, oily, or sensitive skin, there’s a perfect face moisturizer with SPF for you.

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SPF MOISTURISER AND FACIAL SUNSCREEN

A moisturizer with SPF typically combines hydration with sun protection. It’s designed to provide moisture to the skin while also offering some level of sun protection factor (SPF). However, the SPF level in moisturizers may not be as high as standalone sunscreens. SPF moisturizers are suitable for daily use, especially for individuals who spend limited time outdoors or are exposed to minimal sunlight during their daily activities.

Facial sunscreens are specifically formulated to provide high levels of sun protection for the face. They often have higher SPF levels compared to moisturizers with SPF. Facial sunscreens may have different formulations tailored to the delicate facial skin, such as being non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores) and lightweight, making them suitable for wearing under makeup. They provide stronger protection against harmful UV rays, making them more appropriate for extended periods of sun exposure, such as during outdoor activities or when spending time in direct sunlight.

OUR TOP PICKS 

CERAVE AM FACIAL MOISTURISING LOTION SPF50

The effectiveness of your skin’s barrier directly impacts the extent of sun damage it may encounter. Therefore, this moisturizer is essential due to its inclusion of ceramides, hyaluronic acid, SPF, and its affordable price. Whether or not SPF is a factor, this moisturizer unequivocally stands as one of the best options available.

Katie Thomas, Senior Beauty Editor says: “This is my everyday SPF moisturiser. It doesn’t sit on the skin, it hydrates my dehydrated skin and adds nourishment to drier areas. All the while protecting me everyday.”

NEUTROGENA HYDRO BOOST MOISTURIZER

This SPF product combines hyaluronic acid with extra moisture, making it better than our usual moisturizer. It gives our skin a nice glow without leaving any white marks. It also protects from the sun with SPF 50, keeping our skin safe from harm.

However, even though it says it doesn’t have a smell, it does smell a bit like sunscreen. People with oily skin might find it makes them look too shiny. It’s not easy to make a product with SPF because it has to be just right. The Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer does a great job. It has SPF 50 and sinks into the skin easily, giving even more hydration than our usual moisturizers. The hyaluronic acid makes our skin feel fresh, and it looks nice even with makeup on. Some people with oily skin might find it a bit too much, but the sunscreen smell isn’t too strong, considering all the good things it does.

OARS + ALPS EVERYDAY FACE MOISTURIZER

The Oars + Alps Everyday Anti-Aging Face Moisturizer with SPF 37 is better than other options because it has a hydrating formula without any smell, and it has a higher SPF. This moisturizer is light and keeps your skin hydrated all day because of hyaluronic acid. It also has vitamins E and B5 to help prevent aging signs.

When we put it on our skin, it felt nice and made our skin look plump and soft, especially around our eyes. It even helped reduce the small lines under our eyes and made our skin feel more hydrated overall. Although it felt a bit thick when we first applied it, it absorbed quickly into our skin without leaving any white marks or stickiness. We could wear it all day and even during workouts comfortably.This product is a bit thick when you first put it on, but it absorbs into your skin within two minutes.

AVÈNE ANTIROUGEURS DAY CREAM SPF30

This product is ideal for those with sensitive skin, particularly if you’re experiencing redness or have rosacea. Avène is known for its expertise in sensitive skin care, even launching a range tailored specifically for rosacea sufferers. The moisturizer has a green tint to help neutralize redness, and its gentle formula is designed to avoid irritating the skin further. While the packaging might not be the most attractive, the effectiveness of this product makes it a worthwhile purchase.

CAY SKIN ISLE GLOW FACE MOISTURIZER

If you’re looking for an all-in-one solution that combines daily sun protection with a dewy glow, Cay Skin Isle Glow Face Moisturizer with SPF 45 is worth checking out. This lightweight, pearlescent formula is packed with island-inspired ingredients like sea moss for hydration and niacinamide to smooth skin texture. It also contains an illuminating nude pearl blend that flatters all skin tones and leaves you with a natural, radiant finish. Plus, it’s vegan, silicone-free, and reef-friendly, making it a good choice for those with sensitive skin and environmental concerns.

MDSOLAR SCIENCES DAILY PERFECTING MOISTURIZER

MDSolarSciences Daily Perfecting Moisturizer with SPF 30 is a great option for daily use, especially if you have sensitive skin. This fragrance-free, chemical sunscreen  boasts broad spectrum protection to shield your skin from UVA and UVB rays. It also packs a hydrating punch with hyaluronic acid, leaving your skin feeling dewy and nourished.  While not advertised specifically for a radiant finish, some users report a subtle glow.  This moisturizer is particularly appealing because it’s gentle enough for all skin types, including those prone to acne and rosacea.

ULTRA VIOLETTE SUPREME SCREEN HYDRATING FACIAL SKINSCREEN SPF50+

The Ultra Violette Supreme Screen Hydrating Facial Sunscreen with SPF50+ is a one of top-notch products for keeping your skin protected from the sun. This sunscreen provides superior sun protection with its high SPF 50+ rating, shielding your skin from harmful UV rays. Not only does it offer excellent protection, but it also hydrates your skin, keeping it moisturized and healthy throughout the day. The lightweight formula absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving a greasy or sticky residue, making it comfortable to wear under makeup or on its own. With its hydrating properties and powerful sun protection, the Ultra Violette Supreme Screen is a must-have for anyone looking to maintain healthy, glowing skin while staying protected from the sun’s harmful effects.

SHISEIDO ESSENTIAL ENERGY HYDRATING DAY CREAM

This fancy moisturizer works wonders for naturally dry skin. Even a small amount leaves your skin feeling soft and smooth, without making it oily or leaving white marks. It’s like your skin drinks up its special formula of hyaluronic acid and ginseng root extract, which also has SPF 20 to protect you from the sun. While it’s not the highest SPF, experts suggest SPF 30 or more for the best protection. But because of its broad-spectrum protection and how good it is for your skin, it’s worth the higher price. Some people like the light, flowery smell, but others don’t. Either way, this Shiseido SPF moisturizer is a winner, especially because you only need a little bit each time you use it.

THE BODY SHOP SKIN DEFENCE MULTI- PROTECTION LIGHT ESSENCE SPF 50 PA +++

The Body Shop Skin Defence Multi-Protection Lotion with SPF 50+ PA++++ is a great choice to keep your skin safe from the sun. It has a high SPF 50+ and PA++++ rating, which means it gives really good protection against the sun’s harmful rays that can cause sunburn and aging. This lotion feels light on your skin and soaks in quickly, without leaving it oily or sticky. It’s also full of good stuff like antioxidants that protect your skin from pollution and keep it hydrated, so it feels soft and smooth all day long.

ORIGINS A PERFECT WORLD AGE-DEFENSE MOISTURIZER

The Body Shop Skin Defence Multi-Protection Lotion with SPF 50+ PA++++ is a great choice to keep your skin safe from the sun. It has a high SPF 50+ and PA++++ rating, which means it gives really good protection against the sun’s harmful rays that can cause sunburn and aging. This lotion feels light on your skin and soaks in quickly, without leaving it oily or sticky. It’s also full of good stuff like antioxidants that protect your skin from pollution and keep it hydrated, so it feels soft and smooth all day long.

THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE BUYING MOISTURIZERS WITH SPF

Before buying moisturizers with SPF, there are a few things to think about. First, consider your skin type. Some moisturizers might be too heavy for oily skin, while others might not be moisturizing enough for dry skin. Make sure to pick one that suits your skin type.

Next, look at the SPF level. SPF measures how well the moisturizer protects you from the sun’s harmful rays. Higher SPF numbers mean more protection, but SPF 30 is usually a good choice for everyday use.

Check if the moisturizer offers broad-spectrum protection. This means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Both types of rays can harm your skin, so it’s important to have protection against both.

Consider the ingredients in the moisturizer. Some may contain chemicals that could irritate your skin, so it’s a good idea to test a small amount on your skin before using it regularly.

Lastly, think about how the moisturizer feels on your skin. You want something that absorbs well and doesn’t leave your skin feeling greasy or sticky. Finding a moisturizer with SPF that feels comfortable to wear every day is key to protecting your skin while keeping it healthy and hydrated.

CONCLUSION

Finding the right face moisturizer with SPF is important for protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. With so many options available, it’s essential to consider factors like your skin type, SPF level, broad-spectrum protection, ingredients, and how the moisturizer feels on your skin. By choosing one of the top 10 best face moisturizers with SPF, you can ensure that you’re not only keeping your skin hydrated but also safeguarding it against sun damage. With proper sun protection, you can enjoy healthier and more radiant skin for years to come.