One of the most popular myths about skin care is that oily skin doesn't need moisturizer because the skin produces a layer of oil within a few hours after washing it. But the truth is, oily skin often acts this way because it is dehydrated underneath the surface. Learning how to moisturize oily skin correctly is the first step to solving this.
Deconstruct — Oil-free Moisturizer for Oily Skin
Your skin makes more oil when it doesn't have enough water. That extra oil stays on the surface, making it shiny, blocking pores, and occasionally causing breakouts. A good moisturizer for oily skin balances skin oiliness, so it doesn't have to work as hard.
This article will tell you when to use oil-free moisturizer, how much to use, whether night use is necessary, and how to make an oily skin moisturizer work under makeup without making your skin too shiny.
For a deeper understanding of what constitutes an oil-free formula designed for oily and acne-prone skin, check out our guide on Understanding Oil-Free Moisturizers for Oily and Acne-Prone Skin.
When to Use an Oil-Free Moisturizer
The time of day you use your moisturizer is just as important.
Morning Routine
Apply your oily skin moisturizer after washing your face and before putting on sunscreen. This gives your skin the moisture it needs and makes a smooth surface for SPF and makeup. Even if your face feels greasy by noon, not using moisturizer in the morning can help your skin create more oil later.
Evening Routine
Your skin heals itself at night. Oily skin can benefit from getting more water during this time of healing. After washing your face, apply your treatments, use a mild, oil-free moisturizer to help your skin heal and keep it from being too dry.
Why oily skin still needs moisturizer
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Oily skin can still be dehydrated under the surface
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When the skin is dry, it compensates by producing extra oil
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Moisturizer for oily skin makes the skin barrier stronger and helps manage oil over time.
A study by M Lodén also found that moisturizers significantly strengthen the skin barrier and improve hydration levels, which helps regulate excess oil production.
How Much Moisturizer Should You Use for Oily Skin?
Usually, a pea-sized amount is adequate for the whole face but it also depends on the texture of your moisturizer. Moisturizers that are gel or water-based distribute quickly and provide you a lot of moisture with very little product.
Factors influencing amount
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Climate: You need less moisturizer in humid weather and a little more in colder or drier weather.
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Texture: Lightweight gels need less than gel-creams or soft creams.
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Additional treatments: If you already use hydrating serums, you may need a thinner layer of moisturizer.
|
Skin Condition / Climate |
Texture of Moisturizer |
Amount to Apply |
|
Humid |
Gel |
Very small, pea-sized amount |
|
Cold / Dry |
Gel-cream or soft cream |
Full pea-sized |
|
Using hydrating serums |
Gel |
Very thin layer |
|
Wearing makeup |
A lightweight formula |
Thin layer |
If you wear makeup, keep the layer thin so it does not interfere with your makeup. This is key to learning how to moisturize oily skin without increasing shine.
Is It Necessary to Moisturize Oily Skin at Night?
Yes. Your skin works on repairing and recovering at night, and moisture is a big part of that.
Why It's Good to Moisturize at Night
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Helps rebuild the skin's barrier while you sleep
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Stops too much moisture from leaving the skin while you sleep
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Helps control oil production for the next day
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Keeps the skin calm and less sensitive
If you use retinol or exfoliating acids, your skin may need a formula that is a little more moisturizing (but still light).
If you live in a highly humid area and your skin gets very oily, a lightweight oily skin moisturizer usually fits both needs.
Can Moisturizer Help Control Oil Production in Oily Skin?
Yes, sebaceous glands don't feel the need to make too much oil when oily skin is well-hydrated. Over time, your skin will look more even and less oily.
How Moisturizer Works
When your skin is properly hydrated, it stops your body from overcompensating with extra oil production. It helps with reducing breakouts, strengthens the barrier, and helps the skin work normally.
Things to look for in moisturizer for oily skin
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Niacinamide to control sebum
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Hyaluronic acid or glycerin for light hydration
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Non-comedogenic, oil-free formulas
How to Make Moisturizer Wear Better Under Makeup for Oily Skin
Even when you use makeup, you need to use moisturizer. The most important thing is to pick a formula that won't affect your makeup or make it shine.
Tips for layering your moisturizer
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Choose moisturizers that are either gel or water-based. These soak in immediately and leave the skin smooth without a greasy film.
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After putting on moisturizer, wait for one to two minutes before putting on primer or foundation.
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If needed, use a mattifying primer on your T-zone.
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Make sure that your moisturizer for oily skin and your makeup are non-comedogenic and oil-friendly.
Final Thoughts: The Right Way to Moisturize Oily Skin
Like all other skin types, oily skin needs moisture as well. The most important thing is to pick a formula that works for your skin and use it consistently. The more you understand how to moisturize oily skin, the easier it becomes to maintain a balance.
If you’re looking for a lightweight option that hydrates without adding shine, Deconstruct Oil-Free Moisturizer For Oily Skin contains 3% NMF Complex + 0.2% Panthenol formulated specifically for oily skin and works well for both day and night routines.
Always test new products on a small area of skin first and pay attention to how your skin reacts.
If you’re wondering how to pick the right moisturizer — which ingredients to prioritise and which to avoid — take a look at our detailed article: How to Choose the Best Moisturizer for Oily Skin: Ingredients, Benefits & Myths.
FAQs
If I stop using moisturizer, will my skin become less oily?
No, skipping moisturizer causes your skin to produce even more oil because it becomes dehydrated.
Can I use the same moisturizer during the day and at night?
Yes. As long as it is lightweight and oil-free and provides enough hydration, the same formula is suitable for both routines.
What if my T-zone is oily but my cheeks feel dry?
Use the same moisturizer, but apply a thinner layer on the T-zone. An oil-free oily skin moisturizer is a great choice if you have combination skin.
Do I need different moisturizers for summer and winter?
Sometimes. Gel moisturizers usually feel better in summer, while a light gel-cream may be more comfortable in winter or dry conditions.
