Water-based moisturizers are non-sticky and gentle. The quick-absorbing formulas can influence sebum secretion and prevent clogged pores, breakouts, and acne. Also, they replenish the skin, improve moisture, and keep oiliness in check. These moisturizers contain natural extracts only and are devoid of harmful chemicals. However, it is not easy to pick the best one with so many products flooding the market. Well, we have your back! In this article, we have listed 9 amazing water-based moisturizers that can come to your rescue. Read on!

Top 9 Water-Based Moisturizers For Oily Skin – Reviews In 2022

1. Best Non-Comedogenic:Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel

Give your oily skin the hydration it deserves with this Neutrogena Hydro Boost water-based gel moisturizer. The water magnets and skin conditioners present in this gel work together to strengthen the moisture barrier. This product contains purified hyaluronic acid, which attracts and locks moisture into the skin. It is also formulated with glycerin, which hydrates and rejuvenates your skin, making them soft and plump from within. With its unique progressive release system, this formula seals in moisture for up to 24 hours, preventing dryness. Click on the video to find out the benefits of Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel and the right way of using it. Pros

Oil-free Non-comedogenic Long-lasting effect Provides 2x hydration Dermatologically tested Suitable for all skin types Temporarily relieves irritation due to rashes and eczema

Cons

Might not treat acne Doesn’t provide SPF protection

2. Best For Minimizing Pores:Alba Botanica Hawaiian Oil-Free Moisturizer

Does your skin feel extremely shiny and greasy after applying a moisturizing cream? Here is a water-based lotion for oily skin by Alba Botanica to solve this problem. With antioxidant-rich ingredients like green tea, papaya, Gotu kola, cucumber, and aloe vera extracts, it repairs skin damage, boosts collagen production, and keeps your skin healthy. Hyaluronic acid facilitates hydration to prevent acne, breakouts, and dryness. It also tones down oiliness, reduces the appearance of pores, and delivers an even-toned, smooth, and radiant complexion to your skin. Pros

Oil-free Sulfate-free Cruelty-free Paraben-free Phthalate-free Soothing effect Free of synthetic scents

Cons

The consistency might be slightly sticky.

3. Best Non-Greasy:L’Oreal Paris Hydra Genius Water-Based Cream

Are you looking for a mild water-based cream for oily skin? If yes, you should consider this one by L’Oreal Paris. This formula contains pure aloe water and 3 types of hyaluronic acid, which hydrates your skin for up to 72 hours. This revitalizing cream will amaze you by lending you a matte finish with a radiant glow that you always wanted for your skin! It also contains vitamins C and E, which repairs and rejuvenates dull, damaged skin while fighting against acne and breakouts. Watch an honest review of the Loreal Paris Hydra-Genius Water Based Cream. Pros

Oil-free Lightweight Reduces sheen Refreshing effect Non-greasy formula Rich in amino acids and antioxidants Delivers plump, fresh, and healthy skin

Cons

Some may find the scent overpowering.

4. Best Hypoallergenic:Palmer’s Coconut Water Facial Moisturizer

4.4 BUY ON AMAZON | $43.43
This one stands tall as one of the best moisturizers for oily skin on our list. It is enriched with coconut water and papaya enzymes, which infuses antioxidants into your skin and rehydrates it for a soft, silky, and nourished finish. The formula also includes hyaluronic acid, which acts as an excellent hydrating agent to boost moisture and radiance all day. Besides this, it also contains aloe juice, sunflower seed oil, and shea butter to attract and lock in extra moisture for an extended period. This moisturizer helps prevent acne, spots, blemishes, and breakouts while unclogging the pores. Click on the video to find out the benefits of the Palmer’s Coconut Water Facial Moisturizer. Pros

No GMOs Hypoallergenic Non-comedogenic Works on all skin types Dermatologically tested Free of parabens, phthalates, sulfates, and dyes

Cons

The consistency might be too watery.

5. Best Anti-Aging:Tatcha 一 The Water Cream

This Tatcha water-based moisturizer for your face is what you need for hydration and nourishment. The blend of Japanese wild rose and leopard lily will tighten your pores, smoothen your skin, to give you flawless skin you longed for. This formula also includes green tea, rice, and algae to help your skin look oil-free and glowing. This water-based cream hydrates and clarifies your skin by enhancing natural skin turnover. If you’re looking for a moisturizer to not only hydrate your skin but to also repair it,  this Tatcha water-based moisturizer has got your back. Pros

Purifies skin Fights aging Non-greasy formula Diminishes acne scars Deeply delivers treatment benefits

Cons

May not be suitable for dry skin

6. Best Lightweight:Natural Outcome Oily Skin Moisturizer

Don’t miss out on this vegan gel-type moisturizer for oily skin, which comes with many skin benefits! This skin care formula containing watermelon and aloe vera gel will leave you stunned with its amazing hydrating and healing properties. This mattifying moisturizer helps in cell regeneration, slows down aging, and gives you an oil-free look. This water-based lotion for oily skin infused with lime and apple extract is all you need for your skin to look glowing, young, and radiant. Pros

Oil-free Cruelty-free Fights aging Lightweight formula Sulfate, paraben, and dye-free

Cons

Might not reduce the sheen on the skin

7. Best Anti-Inflammatory:Klairs Fundamental Water Gel Cream

Are you looking for a deeply nourishing face moisturizer? If yes, this one from Klairs is one of the best water-based products for oily skin. This formula, with its advanced liposomes, directly penetrates your skin and delivers hydration and nourishment. The key ingredients green tea, panthenol, and hyaluronic acid reduce inflammation and help retain moisture. The delicate mix of jojoba extracts, rosemary leaves, and cica will not just give you a fresh look but will repair and rejuvenate your skin. Pros

Vegan Cruelty-free Deeply nourishing Refreshing effect Non-greasy formula Anti-inflammatory properties Suitable for all skin types

Cons

Consistency might be a little watery

8. Best Fragrance-Free:The Creme Shop Immersive Moisture Water Cream

4.5 BUY ON AMAZON | $35
Are you one among the hordes that are obsessed with Korean glass skin? Try this water-based facial moisturizer from The Creme Shop. It is infused with hyaluronic acid and citric acid and will restore your skin’s natural glow while helping you attain the glass skin you always wanted. If you’re someone who loves to travel but worries about the skin damage caused due to frequent climatic change, you must invest in this one made of Jeju water that strengthens the skin’s moisture barrier. It also contains antioxidant-rich citrus lemon fruit oil, which reduces the appearance of acne scars and other blemishes. Pros

Fights aging Cruelty-free Paraben-free Fragrance-free Diminishes acne scars Works on all skin types Dermatologically tested

Cons

The scent may be overpowering for some.

9. Best For Acne Scars:Florencia Sage And Citrus Lightweight Moisturizer

Do you worry about your skin looking dull and oily? This Florencia sage and citrus natural water-based moisturizer for oily skin will help your skin balance the oil production and give you a radiant glow. The key ingredients lemon bioflavonoid, sage extracts, and vitamins C and E will purify your skin, diminish acne scars, and protect your skin from damage due to exposure to pollutants. It also contains vitamin A and aloe vera extract to improve elasticity and hydrate parched skin. This water-based face moisturizer for oily skin protects your skin from further breakouts and helps clarify your complexion. Pros

Oil-free Lightweight Alcohol-free Cruelty-free Fragrance-free Non-comedogenic Non-sticky formula Long-lasting hydration

Cons

Might not be suitable for sensitive skin

Now that you’ve taken a look at the 9 best water-based moisturizers for oily skin, learn more about how to select the right one with the help of our buying guide. The following are a few essential factors to consider before choosing such a product.

How To  Choose A Water-Based Moisturizer For Oily Skin

Ingredients

Ingredients are a crucial factor in skin care. Oily skin requires hyaluronic acid, salicylic acid, retinol, glycerin, etc., to control excess sebum generation. For dry and combination skin, products with ceramides, antioxidants, and niacinamide work the best as they lock inadequate moisture to the skin. To treat and pamper your sensitive skin, look for products formulated with aloe vera, calendula, chamomile honey, green tea, or shea butter extracts.

Formula

When choosing a water-based moisturizer for oily skin, opt for an oil-free and non-comedogenic formula. It is helpful as they don’t clog your pores and thus, prevents acne and breakouts. They also ensure a mess-free finish without any product buildup or residue.

One that tones down the shine

Many moisturizers leave behind a white cast that may not complement your complexion. Hence, it is essential to use a water-based moisturizer with sebum-controlling components such as hyaluronic acid and niacinamide.

SPF formulation

Who doesn’t love an added benefit! Sunscreen is a crucial skin care step as it shields your skin against harmful UV rays from the sun. We suggest that you purchase a water-based moisturizer with at least 30 SPF with UVA/UVB protection to guard your skin from sun damage.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

Kirtana Divakar is a skin and hair care enthusiast who is passionate about recommending the most reliable and safe products to her readers. She has curated this comprehensive list of the best water-based moisturizers for oily skin. These products are gentle, control oil production, and help maintain well-nourished skin. She has also included each product’s specifications and a detailed buying guide to help you pick the right moisturizer for your skin. Which type of moisturizer is better for oily skin – gel or cream? Gel moisturizers are most suitable for oily skin due to their lightweight and water-based formulas. Thick cream moisturizer might clog pores and cause breakouts in oily skin. When do you use a water-based moisturizer – morning or night? There is no specific time to use a water-based moisturizer. You can use it in the morning, or at night, as a part of your skin care regime. Is salicylic acid good for oily skin? Yes, salicylic acid is great for oily skin. Water-based moisturizers containing salicylic acid can fight acne and breakouts while controlling sebum production. How can I apply a water-based moisturizer? Prepare your skin with a lightweight facial oil before applying a water-based moisturizer. Take four to five drops of the moisturizer on your palm. Apply it gently on your face without rubbing too much. If you need to go out, do not forget to pair the moisturizer with an efficient sunscreen.

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