6 Lightweight Moisturizers That Are Perfect for Oily Skin Types

August 23, 2023

By: Jordan Julian | skincare.com by L'Oréal

We love a rich, creamy face cream as much as the next person, but we have to sing the praises of lightweight moisturizers, too — especially during the summertime. From refreshing gel textures that layer well under makeup to fast-absorbing formulas that deliver lots of hydration, lightweight moisturizers are the slept-on daytime option you need in your routine. Lightweight moisturizers are especially great for acne-prone and oily skin types. We’ve rounded up our favorites ahead, from a weightless drugstore pick to a water gel moisturizer we can’t stop raving about.

Our Favorite Lightweight Moisturizers

Vichy Aqualia Thermal Water Gel

If your skin is in dire need of hydration, try the Vichy Aqualia Water Gel — a hyaluronic acid-infused moisturizer that offers up to 48 hours of hydration. It also contains Vichy’s signature mineral-rich thermal water, which helps to strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier plus plant sugar to prevent water loss.

CeraVe Ultra-Light Moisturizing Gel

This weightless gel moisturizer from CeraVe effectively hydrates your skin without leaving it feeling greasy or sticky. It’s a perfect daytime moisturizer option, as it layers beautifully with makeup and sunscreen. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides and niacinamide promote softer, more supple skin.

Youth To The People Superfood Air-Whip Moisture Cream

Want plumper, healthier-looking skin? Add the Youth To The People Superfood Air-Whip Moisture Cream to your skincare routine. Formulated with hyaluronic acid and vitamins C and E, this face cream helps strengthen your skin’s moisture barrier function in just one hour while delivering 48 hours of lasting hydration.

Thayers Let’s Be Clear Water Face Cream

Developed for combination and oily skin, the Thayers Let’s Be Clear Water Face Cream is an oil-reducing, clarifying facial moisturizer that works to improve your skin’s texture. It also helps reduce redness and minimize pores for your clearest skin.

Kiehl’s Super Multi-Corrective Soft Cream

You’ll have to feel this anti-aging soft cream from Kiehl’s yourself to believe how featherweight it is. Enriched with proxylane and adenosine, it works to visibly firm and lift your skin while boosting the radiance of your complexion. It also targets common signs of aging like skin elasticity and wrinkles.

Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hyaluronic Cloud Cream Hydrating Moisturizer

Words like fluffy and cloud-like only begin to describe the texture of this hyaluronic-acid-packed gel moisturizer. There’s no better way to start your day than by giving your skin a refreshing burst of moisture with this silky water-based cream, which provides hydration for up to 72 hours.

Photographer: Chaunte Vaughn