The 14 Best Face Moisturizers for Oily Skin, Tested by Real People

Dotdash Meredith and Yahoo Inc. may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below.

Our favorite hydrating formulas start at just $7

<p>People / Jessica Juliao</p>

People / Jessica Juliao

We hear it all the time: Keep your skin moisturized. But when you moisturize naturally oily skin, there can be too much of a good thing. Maybe you aspire for glowing, dewy skin like Julianne Hough and Hailey Bieber, but when you’re working with natural oils, you have to balance hydration with shininess — a delicate art made easier by face moisturizers that are designed with oily skin in mind.



Dermatologists Say

“Lightweight moisturizers tend to work best for those with oily skin. Look for a noncomedogenic moisturizer with a light texture that absorbs well into the skin. A hydrating serum such as a hyaluronic acid serum may also be a sufficient moisturizer for those with oily skin.” — Dr. Rebecca Marcus, board-certified dermatologist and founder of MaeiMD



We gathered a group of testers who come by shine naturally to try out 39 moisturizers to see which ones left their skin glowing and nourished, and which ones made their faces downright reflective.

Best Overall: Tatcha The Water Cream

$72 at Amazon.com

$23 at Sephora.com

Star Qualities

  • Absorbs easily into the skin

  • Completely oil-free, adding hydration and glow without the shine

  • Slightly plumped and reduced the appearance of fine lines

Red Flags

  • Pricier than others on our list

If you’re prone to oils taking over your face, consider this Tatcha moisturizer that’s completely oil-free. This noncomedogenic formula protects against blocked pores, smooths and hydrates your skin, and is made from a blend of non-irritating botanical extracts to soothe and calm the skin. It’s a super lightweight mix between a gel and a cream (Water Cream is a perfect name) and instantly melts into the skin.

This moisturizer passed our tests seamlessly. It sunk into the skin instantly, leaving a hydrated (but not sticky, oily, or greasy) finish. There was even a slight plumping effect on the fine lines across our tester's forehead.

While the cost is higher than any others on the list, it’s a quality worth paying for if you're able to swing it. The sleek packaging — though not as portable — reflects the high quality of the product within. There’s also a golden spatula applicator to keep contamination to a minimum (although some may prefer dispensing from a tube versus a tub). Plus, a small dollop goes a long way, so it will last you a while.



Dermatologists Say

“This ultralight, water-based moisturizer hydrates without leaving the skin feeling heavy or greasy.” — Dr. Joshua Zeichner, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist



Size: 1.7 ounces | Key Ingredients: Japanese Wild Rose, Japanese Leopard Lily, glycerin, blend of green tea, rice, algae | Consistency: Cream

Best Overall (Cheaper): Paula's Choice Skin Balancing Invisible Finish Moisture Gel

$35 at Amazon.com

$35 at Paulaschoice.com

Star Qualities

  • Mattifies pores while softening and smoothing skin tone

  • Feels invisible and weightless on the skin

  • Left our skin feeling supple, moisturized, and shine-free

Red Flags

  • Added algae extract can be acnegenic for those prone to breakouts

When a formula is so light that you can barely feel it on your face, it earns the name “invisible” like this moisturizer from Paula’s Choice. Most notably, we found the feel of this product to be incredible: It’s hydrating, reduces oil, and left our skin feeling supple during testing. We also loved that it restored moisture without creating a shine.

Also made with hyaluronic acid, this moisturizer is extremely hydrating and aced the appearance and feel tests. It easily absorbed into the skin without leaving a sheen, instead making the skin look and feel glowy. It’s suggested to use this product in the morning followed by SPF, or as a moisturizing night cream.



Dermatologists Say

“I love that this contains antioxidants such as vitamin C, superoxide dismutase, and green tea. Niacinamide [helps balance] oily skin, [though] algae extracts can be acnegenic for those who are acne-prone, so beware if you are prone to breakouts.” — Dr. Rebecca Marcus, board-certified dermatologist and founder of MaeiMD



Size: 2 ounces | Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, algae extract, glycerin, grapeseed oil, green tea, superoxide dismutase, panthenol⁠ | Consistency: Gel

Related: The 9 Best Moisturizers with SPF of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Best Budget: The Inkey List Omega Water Cream

$12 at Amazon.com

$12 at Sephora.com

Star Qualities

  • At around $10, it’s one of the more budget-friendly options on our list

  • Lightweight formula doesn’t feel greasy on the skin

Red Flags

  • In humidity, it can feel sticky for the first hour after application

Niacinamide is one of the best skincare ingredients for targeting excess oil, so we were really excited to test out The Inkey List Omega Water Cream, which features niacinamide along with a hydrating ceramide complex and betaine for moisture barrier support.

While it takes a lot longer to absorb into the complexion in humid climates, we found that this was quick-absorbing in other climates and once soaked into the skin, you could barely notice it on the complexion, thanks to the lightweight, creamy formula.

Throughout the testing period, we never experienced any excess oil or grease caused by this formula, and we were thoroughly impressed by how well it helped blur the look of some of our pores and fine lines, too. The low price tag was also a major perk for us, especially considering how well it worked compared to some more expensive alternatives.

Size: 1.7 ounces | Key Ingredients: Ceramide complex, niacinamide, betaine | Consistency: Cream

Best Value: Aestura AtoBarrier365 Lotion

$32 at Amazon.com

Star Qualities

  • Ceramides provide moisture without feeling too heavy or oily

  • Lightweight, creamy texture feels amazing on the skin

  • One of the best values of the moisturizers we tested

Red Flags

  • Felt tacky for first few minutes after application

This skin cream features a lightweight texture that is enhanced with ceramides so you can get a major moisture boost without it feeling too heavy or oily on the complexion.

Throughout the testing period, we were most impressed by how well the formula locked in hydration on our complexion while still keeping excess oil at bay. After applying and waiting for it to fully absorb (it does feel a bit tacky initially, but that goes away after a few minutes), our skin felt so dewy and hydrated that it felt like we had just taken off a sheet mask.

Additionally, we loved how its creamy texture feels on the complexion — it goes on like butter for an even and fast-absorbing application.

Size: 5.07 ounces | Key Ingredients: Ceramides, polyacrylamide, triethanolamine | Consistency: Cream

Best for Acne-Prone Skin: PCA Skin Clearskin Lightweight

$59 at Amazon.com

$59 at Nordstrom.com

Star Qualities

  • Packed with blemish-fighting ingredients for a clearer complexion

  • Fully absorbs into the skin within five minutes of application

  • Skin immediately felt moisturized and smoother

Red Flags

  • Pricier than others on our list

We were also impressed by PCA Clearskin for oily skin types, as it features a creamy yet lightweight formula that absorbs into the skin easily and made our skin feel more moisturized and smoother immediately after the first application. It features a blend of marigold flower oil, lemongrass extract, and cucumber fruit extract to up the ante on purifying and calming the complexion.

This skin cream is relatively pricey — especially considering you only get around 1.7 oz. of product — so it’s a bit of a splurge. However, with ingredients such as vitamin A for evening skin tone and clearing the complexion and niacinamide for brightening dark spots caused by acne, we found that this formula is particularly great for those who experience more blemish-prone skin.

Size: 1.7 ounces | Key Ingredients: Bisabolol, niacinamide, vitamin A, marigold flower oil, lemongrass extract, cucumber fruit extract | Consistency: Cream

Best Mattifying: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer

$24 at Amazon.com

$24 at Target.com

Star Qualities

  • Mattifies the skin and reduces the look of pores

  • Thicker consistency still feels lightweight and absorbs quickly

  • Thermal water helps restore a healthy biome

Red Flags

  • Thicker consistency might not be suitable for everyone, especially in humid climates

This moisturizer is a favorite of both of the expert dermatologists we interviewed. With a blended consistency of gel and cream, this moisturizer is slightly thicker than the other standouts on our list, but testers said it still feels lightweight and absorbs quickly into the skin. The gel cream has a nice texture and consistency, spreads easily, and creates a cooling effect once applied.

The matte finish was evident from the first application, and despite the thickness of this cream, our tester said that it set pretty quickly. The mattifying effect is ideal for those with oily skin who are constantly fighting shine, because it still supports hydration without leaving residue that’s amplified by natural oils.

Clinically tested, in addition to our own tests, this moisturizer has been shown to work as a product for acne-prone skin, too, because it’s noncomedogenic and doesn’t clog pores. While it didn’t plump the appearance of fine lines like some others we tested, if you are most concerned with oil buildup, this is a solid choice.



Dermatologists Say

“The original Double Repair is one of my favorite moisturizers, and I am thrilled that [La Roche-Posay] came out with a mattifying version for oily skin. Glycerin is a top-choice hydrating ingredient, while niacinamide helps to regulate oil production and improve the appearance of pores. [It’s a] great choice for those with oily skin!” — Dr. Rebecca Marcus, board-certified dermatologist and founder of MaeiMD



Size: 2.5 ounces | Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, Ceramide NP, glycerin | Consistency: Gel-cream

Related: The 12 Best Moisturizers for Acne-Prone Skin of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Best for Dark Skin: Kopari Moisture Whipped Ceramide Cream

$30 at Amazon.com

$42 at Target.com

Star Qualities

  • Doesn’t leave any tint or chalky residue

  • Skin looked and felt hydrated without any oiliness (even on extra oily spots)

Red Flags

  • The jar was a bit small for the price

This whipped cream is a delicacy for your skin — it smooths and softens with hydrating ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid and uses whipped coconut milk to protect the barrier from free-radical damage. Dr. Marcus is a fan of the ingredients, too. “Hyaluronic acid is a fantastic ingredient for drawing moisture into the skin,” she said. “Ceramides are fabulous for repairing and maintaining the skin barrier.” She also appreciates that the formula is fragrance-free.

During testing, we loved how smooth this felt on the skin and how it added a cooling sensation once applied. It passed our absorption and appearance tests, absorbing quickly and evenly onto the face. Our tester not only felt hydrated, but she said her skin looked hydrated. And the oil stayed away: Her skin didn't not feel oily at all — not even her nose, which she said usually exhibits the most oil on her face.

One of our favorite aspects of this moisturizer was that it left skin looking completely natural with no tint or residue. It has a wonderful consistency and works well with Black skin without the worry of a pale look, leaving the skin feeling hydrated but without being ultra-shiny.

Size: 2.1 ounces | Key Ingredients: Ceramides, hyaluronic acid, vegan dessert milk, whipped coconut milk | Consistency: Cream

Best for Dark Skin (Cheaper): Mele Plump It Up Nourishing Facial Cream

$19 at Amazon.com

Star Qualities

  • Lightweight feel and leaves no greasy residue

  • Niacinamide soothes the skin and evens skin tone, while squalane hydrates and smooths

  • Designed for melanin-rich skin, this formula was co-created by dermatologists of color

  • Layers well with makeup

Red Flags

  • Smaller volume might not last long (but lower cost makes up for it)

  • Slight floral fragrance may not be everyone's preference

This compact moisturizer contains a gorgeous blend of niacinamide, amino acids, and squalane, which hydrates and smooths. “This cream moisturizes without being sticky or blocking the pores,” said Dr. Marcus. She added that the niacinamide helps “soothe and even skin tone.” These ingredients create a lightweight formula that absorbs into your skin rather than just sitting atop it. Our tester said it “feels sheer” and “refreshing” when applied.

There’s a light floral fragrance, which might bother some and suit others depending on sensitivity to smells. Once applied, though, this creamy moisturizer passed our appearance tests. After applying, our skin didn’t feel greasy or oily but was instead left feeling super hydrated. We also found it created a great base for makeup.

Thanks to the niacinamide, our skin felt soothed after applying this moisturizer. While the container isn’t large, and you may have to restock more often, it’s small enough for travel, and the low price makes regular replacements more feasible.

Size: 1.35 ounces | Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, amino acids, squalane | Consistency: Cream

Best for Fine Lines: Kopari Peptide Glow Hydrating Moisturizer with Tripeptides and Hyaluronic Acid

See at Ulta.com

See at Koparibeauty.com

Star Qualities

  • Hyaluronic acid peptides hydrate and plump the skin

  • Rose extract soothes blemish-prone and irritated complexions

  • Provides long-lasting hydration

Red Flags

  • Too heavy for humid climates

  • Higher cost per ounce than others on our list

As its name suggests, this moisturizer features a formula of peptides and hyaluronic acid to support skin hydration and suppleness while protecting against moisture loss and blurring the look of fine lines and wrinkles. The skincare formula also has coconut water, which provides amino acids, vitamins, and minerals that support overall skin health, as well as squalane for a glow effect and rose extract which can help calm blemish-prone or irritated complexions.

Throughout the testing period, we were very impressed by how well this hydrated the complexion — though we did find it a better fit for fall or winter weather, as it can be a little too heavy for more humid climates.

Size: 1.7 ounces | Key Ingredients: Coconut water, hyaluronic acid, peptides, squalane | Consistency: Gel cream

Best Lightweight: Shani Darden Skin Care Weightless Oil-Free Moisturizer

$50 at Amazon.com

$50 at Sephora.com

Star Qualities

  • Adds a glowy look without shine or residue

  • Hyaluronic acid, collagen, and red algae moisturize, hydrate, plump, and soften skin

  • User-friendly and hygienic pump design

Red Flags

  • Since it's recommended to use two to four pumps per application, you may go through this pretty quickly

When a product is created by a skin expert like esthetician Shani Darden, you know it’s going to have some incredible ingredients your skin can drink up: hyaluronic acid to boost moisture, hydrolyzed collagen to stimulate skin cell growth and plump the skin for a more supple appearance, as well as red algae extract to help both aims of hydration and softer skin.

This formula felt super-lightweight and milky, which the skin immediately drank up. It left our tester's skin feeling nourished and rejuvenated without leaving any residue on her skin. It’s suggested to use between two to four pumps of this product and massage it into your face and neck. When all was said and done, it left us with noticeably smoother skin that radiated a subtle glow. This moisturizer passed our oil tests, leaving our tester's skin hydrated and glowing without feeling oily or greasy.

Size: 2.5 ounces | Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, hydrolyzed collagen, red algae extract | Consistency: Cream

Best for Dull Skin: BeautyStat Cosmetics Universal Pro-Bio Moisture Boost Cream

$32 at Amazon.com

$32 at Nordstrom.com

Star Qualities

  • Ceramides provide hydration and glow

  • Bio-fermented Nutrient Complex soothes skin and reduces inflammation and puffiness

  • After regular use, we noticed a decrease in breakouts

Red Flags

  • Relatively expensive, but a little goes a long way

Oily skin can sometimes appear dull and lackluster. To combat this woe, we recommend trying this Beautystat cream, which features a potent blend of ceramides along with hyaluronic acid, vitamin F, pomegranate sterols, and a Bio-fermented Nutrient Complex to create a more hydrated effect and natural-looking glow.

While testing this formula, we found that it not only targeted dullness but also worked really well at keeping inflammation at bay, and it even helped clear up some breakouts. Additionally, we loved how lightweight the formula feels on the skin and that it can provide effective and long-lasting hydration without feeling too heavy. Albeit on the expensive side, you can actually make this formula last a long time since we found a little goes a long way.

Size: 1 ounce | Key Ingredients: Bio-fermented Nutrient Complex, hyaluronic acid, vegan ceramides, pomegranate sterols, vitamin F | Consistency: Cream

Best for Uneven Texture: Innisfree Green Tea Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Moisturizer

$29 at Amazon.com

Star Qualities

  • A little goes a long way

  • Green tea extracts and oils help calm the skin, while panthenol helps smooths the skin's texture

  • Absorbs quickly into the skin

Red Flags

  • Strong fragrance might be overwhelming to some

  • We noticed a slight shine after applying

If you have oily and uneven skin, it can be frustrating to find products that tame oils while addressing texture concerns. This rich formula is made with a blend of green tea extracts and oils, as well as panthenol, which softens skin for a smoother finish. We found that it absorbed into the skin right away during our tests.

In terms of feel and appearance, we did notice a slight shine, but it looked more fresh and hydrated rather than greasy or oily. The strong green tea scent surprised us, and we felt it was a bit overwhelming when first applied to the face. Nevertheless, the lightweight coverage dries quickly, and the scent fades throughout wear.

Size: 1.69 ounces | Key Ingredients: Jeju green tea extract, Jeju green tea seed oil, panthenol | Consistency: Cream

Related: The 13 Best Eczema Creams of 2024, According to Dermatologists and Our Own Tests

Best Texture: Earth Harbor Mermaid Milk Nutrient Glow Moisturizer

$35 at Amazon.com

See at Earthharbor.com

Star Qualities

  • Lightweight, whipped texture absorbs well

  • Creates a semi-matte effect on skin

  • Refreshing ingredients soothe oily skin types

Red Flags

  • Strong scent might bother those who are sensitive to fragrances

As far as texture is concerned, we were most impressed by the Earth Harbor Mermaid Milk Nutrient Glow Moisturizer. This skin cream features a lightweight, whipped texture that glides onto the skin easily and absorbs ultra-fast.

We love that it features tons of nourishing and refreshing ingredients — including some skincare superstars like spirulina, matcha, seaweed extracts, peptides, aloe, and hyaluronic acid — that soothe oily complexions and provide deep nourishment while also leaving behind a semi-matted effect once absorbed into the skin. On top of that, the formula is noncomedogenic, so despite its creamy texture, it won’t clog up pores, which is always a perk for those with oily skin.

Size: 2 ounces | Key Ingredients: Spirulina, matcha, seaweed extracts, vegan peptides, omega fatty acids, eggplant, ivy gourd, tulsi, vegan hyaluronic acid, aloe leaf juice | Consistency: Cream

Best Refillable: Tata Harper Water-Lock Moisturizer

$68 at Nordstrom.com

$62 at Sephora.com

Star Qualities

  • Absorbs well into skin and offers long-lasting moisture

  • Refillable packaging cuts down on plastic production

  • Soothes inflammation and softens skin’s texture

Red Flags

  • It's one of the more expensive options we tested

If you want to treat your skin to a long-lasting hydration surge that will keep the oil shine away, this creamy moisturizer will melt into your skin. Made without parabens and oils, we loved the consistency; it felt very soft on our tester's face, absorbing quickly without leaving behind any greasy residue.

With ingredients like niacinamide, this moisturizer soothes inflammation and softens the texture of skin. During testing, we found it didn't feel sticky on the skin, but rather soft and dewy, and created a refreshed, moisturized, and plumped look. Our skin’s texture definitely felt softer than usual, and it also looked brighter. We also found that the moisture lasted

The packaging is also refillable, which helps reduce plastic production and gives this product extra points in our book. Though on the pricey side, this moisturizer’s cost matches the value, so we say it's definitely worth the investment for anyone who can swing it.

Size: 1.7 ounces | Key Ingredients: Pomegranate spheres, orange blossom peptides, macro hyaluronic acid | Consistency: Cream

Related: The 10 Best CC Creams of 2024, Tested by Real People

Add to Cart

If you’re on the hunt for skincare products that will brighten and hydrate while keeping oil at bay, consider some of our skincare favorites. We test thousands of products to ensure we’re recommending the best on the market, and these two earned a spot in our skincare lineup.

Hyper Skin Hyper Even Cleansing Gel

<p>Sephora</p>

Sephora

We tested 30 face washes, and this cleanser from Hyper Skin was our favorite for oily skin. Willow bark extract exfoliates to remove excess oils, while mandelic acid and licorice root brighten the skin.

Glossier Super Bounce Serum

<p>Sephora</p>

Sephora

Hyaluronic acid serums maintain moisture without adding more oil to your skin, making it a great choice for boosting hydration. We tested 27 hyaluronic acid serums, and loved this lightweight formula for oily and acne-prone skin.

What to Know About Moisturizers for Oily Skin

Types of Moisturizers

There are three types of moisturizers: emollients, humectants, and occlusive.

  • Emollients are most common and work to restore cracks in the skin’s barrier. These are generally best for balanced, dry, or combination skin because they can be oil-based.

  • Occlusives are primarily for dry skin and are the super-thick cream moisturizers that help you when your skin is a desert screaming for hydration.

  • For oily-skin folks, humectants are where it’s at. These moisturizing ingredients are oil-free — hyaluronic acid and glycerin being two of the best. Dr. Zeichner tells PEOPLE, “If you have oily skin, stick to light, oil-free moisturizers. I typically recommend gel- or lotion-based products, because they hydrate without weighing down the skin.”

Ingredients

When it comes to ingredients, you should consider how each can affect your skin, especially when you have lots of natural oils. In moisturizers, the main ingredients are usually niacinamide (a form of vitamin B3) and hyaluronic acid.

“Hyaluronic acid and glycerin are two excellent humectants that will not contribute to excess shine or clog pores, so look for these,” said Dr. Marcus. “Non-comedogenic oils, such as squalane, rosehip oil, and jojoba oil, are balancing for oily skin and can even help fight acne.” These ingredients are also often found in high-quality face oils.

Dr. Zeichner echoes this sentiment. “Especially if you are oily, look for ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid,” he said. “These humectants help pull in water to the outer skin layer.” He adds that “Dimethicone is the occlusive ingredient typically used in oil-free moisturizers rather than petrolatum.”

Dr. Zeichner also prefers a gel for people with oily skin. “Gels are water-based products that don’t have an oil component, so they are a great option for people who are naturally oily,” said Dr. Zeichner. “Being oily does not necessarily mean that your skin is hydrated. And many of my patients have oily skin, yet are still dry and can benefit from a moisturizer.”

Frequency of Use

How often you use a moisturizer can also guide which one you buy. The frequency of use “depends on whether your skin feels dry or not,” said Dr. Marcus. “Since we all (hopefully) cleanse our skin twice daily and use daily sunscreen, the skin usually does require some sort of moisture replenishment. Most people will benefit from using a daily moisturizer. However, some days may require a richer cream, and other days may be better suited for a lighter serum or lotion.”

<p>People / Leticia Almeida</p>

People / Leticia Almeida

Behind the Scenes

We found a diverse group of testers to try out nearly 40 different moisturizers over the course of two separate testing periods. To start our testing process, we took off any makeup or buildup on the skin. We then noted our moisture levels by using a device to take the moisture and oil measurements on our faces. Using the applicator or freshly washed hands, we applied each moisturizer to our hands, and then onto our faces, lightly massaging it into our skin. Fifteen minutes after application, we used the measurement device again to get a new reading on our faces’ moisture levels.

After testing was complete, we rated each moisturizer on a scale of one to five (five being the best) against the following testing attributes:

  • Feel/Consistency: How did the product feel on the surface of our skin? Lightweight products that left no greasy residue earned top marks in this category.

  • Absorption: We preferred products that absorbed quickly into the skin, leaving behind a hydrated feeling.

  • Oiliness: Did the moisturizer kick oiliness to the curb? If it did, and if this effect lasted, it got top scores from our testers.

  • Appearance: The best products left behind a healthy-looking complexion. We made sure products lived up to their claims if they promised to leave skin dewy or matte.

  • Value: We considered product volume and price to make sure all our top picks were worth the buy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are gel or cream moisturizers better for oily skin?

In terms of applying makeup, those with oily skin should keep a few things in mind. “If you have oily skin, you're already used to producing enough oil versus being dry,” makeup artist Ashley Rebecca tells PEOPLE. “I prefer to use gel-type moisturizers for skin that tends to be more oily, as they hydrate the skin without leaving any excess slip that richer, thicker creams can tend to leave behind.”


Regarding general skin care, Dr. Marcus said, “A gel is lighter than a cream, which means that it’s less likely to sit on top of the skin and contribute to excessive shine. For oily skin, a gel moisturizer may feel more comfortable.”


“Combining hyaluronic acid with moisturizers is a great trick to hydrate skin without excess shine before applying makeup,” said Rebecca. The makeup artist said her “favorite product for this is Saro de Rue freeze-dried hyaluronic acid capsules — they absorb beautifully into the skin and pair well with other products, such as face primers. Oily skin will feel hydrated but not look excessively shiny.”

What ingredients should you avoid for oily skin?

While there are ingredients that help tame oils, there are also those that exacerbate them. “I would avoid anything that is not labeled noncomedogenic, especially,” said Dr. Marcus, meaning anything that might block your pores. “Also avoid rich creams, as these are usually too heavy for those with oily skin and can contribute to unwanted excess shine.”

Should you switch your moisturizer depending on the season?

Sometimes, this can help balance out your oils. “Many climates are more humid in the summer and drier in the winter, which means that your skin will naturally be drier in winter and may require a heavier moisturizer,” said Dr. Marcus. “In more humid environments, a lighter moisturizer will often be sufficient. It may be possible to use a light moisturizing serum in a humid environment, whereas a richer emollient cream would be more appropriate for drier weather. Ideally, it’s best to have a few different moisturizers on hand, monitor your skin daily, and adjust as needed.”

Why Trust PEOPLE?

Madison Yauger is a commerce editor at PEOPLE, covering beauty, home, travel, and other lifestyle topics. Her background includes news, lifestyle, and commerce journalism for publications like Food & Wine, Real Simple, Health, and Martha Stewart. Based on our testers’ input, she compared some of the most popular face moisturizers based on factors like price, ingredients, feel, absorption, and appearance. For additional insight into selecting and using face moisturizers, Yauger spoke with dermatologists and makeup artists.

PEOPLE commerce contributor Jessie Quinn updated this article to include six additional PEOPLE Tested winners, including Beautystat Universal Pro-Bio Moisture Boost Cream and The Inkey List Omega Water Cream.



Our Expert Panel

  • Dr. Rebecca Marcus is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of MaeiMD.

  • Dr. Joshua Zeichner is a board-certified dermatologist and the director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City.

  • Ashley Rebecca is a makeup artist based in New York City.



What Is PEOPLE Tested?

We created the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval to help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.

But we don’t stop there: We also regularly re-review the categories in which we’ve awarded the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval — because the best product of today might not be the best of tomorrow. And by the way, companies can never buy our recommendation: Their products must earn it, fair and square.

In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.

For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on People.