3 Best Face Moisturizers for Oily Skin: Tried and Tested by Me

As someone with oily skin, finding the perfect moisturizer has always been a challenge. For years, I believed that only water-based moisturizers were right for me, until I stumbled upon a few gems that transformed my skincare routine. Living in Dubai, especially during the winter months, my skin gets extremely dry, flaky, and even itchy. But oily skin doesn’t mean we don’t need hydration – we just need the right kind of hydration.

Here are three moisturizers that are perfect for every season and oily-skin-approved. These are not only pocket-friendly but also absorb quickly without leaving a white cast or patchy look, making them ideal to wear under foundation.

1. Minimalist Sepicalm 3% Face Moisturizer for Oily Skin

The Minimalist Sepicalm 3% moisturizer is a game changer for anyone dealing with oily skin. This product has a lightweight texture and absorbs quickly, leaving my skin feeling fresh and hydrated without making it greasy.

Why It Works:

• It’s packed with Sepicalm, which helps in soothing irritated skin and controlling oil production.

• Its non-comedogenic formula ensures that it doesn’t clog pores, a common issue with many moisturizers.

• Perfect for all seasons, it provides enough hydration during Dubai’s dry winters without making you shine like a disco ball in the summer.

Tip: Apply this moisturizer right after cleansing in the morning and before applying your sunscreen. It creates a smooth base for makeup too.

Challenge: Sometimes, oil-control products can make your skin feel too matte, but this strikes a great balance without drying out your skin.

Amazon Link: https://amzn.to/3XT7Xeq

2. Simple Hydrating Light Moisturizer

If you're looking for a moisturizer that delivers hydration without overwhelming your oily skin, the Simple Hydrating Light Moisturizer is a perfect match. This lightweight moisturizer is one of the most affordable, yet effective, options out there.

Why It Works:

• It’s packed with pro-vitamin B5 and vitamin E, which help restore the skin's natural moisture balance.

• The formula is non-greasy and quickly absorbed, making it perfect for oily skin types.

• It’s also fragrance-free, making it suitable for sensitive skin.

Tip: If you’re in a rush, this moisturizer is perfect because it absorbs so quickly and doesn’t leave any residue. Apply it as a base before makeup for a fresh, non-greasy finish.

Challenge: During extremely dry days, you may need to add a hydrating serum underneath for an extra moisture boost.

Amazon Link: https://amzn.to/3zqNeFD

3. Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer SPF 35

The Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer is a long-time favorite for those of us with oily skin, but what makes it stand out is the built-in SPF. In a city like Dubai, where the sun is always shining, protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is a must.

Why It Works:

• This moisturizer provides broad-spectrum sun protection with SPF 35, perfect for daily wear.

• It hydrates without clogging pores or leaving a white cast, which is a common issue with sunscreens for oily skin.

• The lightweight formula ensures it sits comfortably under makeup.

Tip: If you struggle with reapplying sunscreen over makeup, this moisturizer is a great way to get protection without layering too many products.

Challenge: Some sunscreens can leave a sticky feel, but this one absorbs well. Just make sure you don’t apply too much—one pump is usually enough.

Amazon Link: https://amzn.to/3ZuP038

Final Thoughts:

Oily skin doesn't mean you should skip moisturizing – it just means you need the right products. The three moisturizers I’ve mentioned above have been tried and tested by me, and each has earned its place in my skincare routine. They are affordable, absorb quickly, and keep my skin balanced, even under makeup.

Whether you’re dealing with Dubai’s dry winters or the constant heat, these moisturizers will help you maintain hydrated, healthy-looking skin without that greasy shine.

Let me know if you’ve tried any of them, or if you have other recommendations for oily skin!