16 Best Moisturizers For Combination Skin, According To Reviews
Eliminate all your skin care woes and improve the skin barrier with only one product.
Wyvetta J BowlesBoard-Certified Cosmetologist 
Wyvetta J Bowles is a board-certified cosmetologist and the founder and CEO of Crown of Glory Beauty Salon Inc. She has over 30 years of experience in the beauty industry and specializes in working with all textures of hair, styling techniq... more
krati darakMBA, Certified Skin Care Coach Experience: 3 yearsKrati is an associate commerce editor, a certified skin care coach, and a beauty enthusiast. She has a master’s degree in advertising and publishing relations from DAVV University and three years of ... more
medha debIntegrated MA Experience: 5 yearsMedha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in ... more
shiboli chakrabortiMA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor,... more
Image: Shutterstock
Moisturizers are often thought to be suitable for dry skin alone, but in reality, all skin types need hydration. Yes, even combination skin demands moisturization. So, before you look for the best moisturizer for combination skin, let us see why it is important to use a moisturizer. A moisturizer aids in locking in moisture and acts as a barrier to prevent moisture loss to maintain your skin and give it a healthy and radiant look. Your skin requires constant care to eliminate all the skin care woes.
If you do not take care of your skin, it may lead to skin breakouts, dehydration, dullness, blackheads, premature aging, and a lot more. So, to retain water and improve the skin barrier function, you need to use a moisturizer. Here, we have listed the best 15 moisturizers for combination skin. Scroll down to check them out.
In This Article
16 Best Moisturizers For Your Flawless Combination Skin
1. Best For Skin Healing:Garnier SkinActive Moisture Rescue Face Moisturizer
Help your skin look smooth with this fantastic product that is oil-free and suitable for all skin types. Try Garnier SKinActive Moisture Rescue Face Moisturizer. It is formulated with the antioxidant complex, which consists of vitamin C, fruit water that protects and heals your skin. With continued use, you can strengthen your skin’s moisture barrier and make it look more radiant and healthy. This antioxidant-rich product does not clog your pores and hence does not allow dirt to remain trapped in your skin. Protect your skin from stress and external factors that can harm you and strip your skin. Get vital hydration for 24 hours with one of the best products you can find.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Prevents dryness
- Makes skin look supple
- Smells great
- Clears the skin
Cons
- Might cause an allergic reaction.
Pro Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product is so liked by shoppers that it has gained over 11,275 great reviews on Amazon.
2. Best For Acne-Prone Skin:COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion With Birch Sap
Are you looking for a 2-in-1 moisturizer? The one that can be used both day and night? Here is the best option available just for your combination skin. Buy COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion With Birch Sap which has a light, smooth texture and consists of willow bark water or birch sap. Birch sap is a skin-friendly ingredient that is naturally found and is rich in vitamins and minerals. It is highly effective in making your skin nourished, calm and also treats your skin from irritation. You get everything you need in this product that is also safe to use. It allows your skin to absorb the liquid instantly and retains the moisture and keeps your skin hydrated.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Dermatologist tested
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Non-greasy
- Good for acne-prone skin
Cons
- Might not smell good.
Did You Know?Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has received 901 reviews from customers on Amazon, indicating its popularity and reliability.
3. Best Anti-Aging Benefits: Obagi Clinical Kinetin+ Hydrating Cream
If you are looking to offer optimal hydration for your skin, pick the Obagi Clinical Kinetin+ Hydrating Cream. This product is formulated with the clinically-proven kinetin+ complex which helps reduce the signs of aging and protect the skin from further aging. Vitamin E in this formula is an antioxidant which defends the skin against free radicals and provides it with good nourishment.
Panthenol, rich in pro vitamin B, provides the skin with extra conditioning. Regular use of this vitamin-enriched cream keeps the skin moisturized and gives it a youthful and refreshed appearance. The creamy formula minimizes sun damage and provides softer, smoother skin.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Scientifically-proven ingredients
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
- Dermatologist-tested
Cons
None
Garnier SkinActive Moisture Rescue Face Moisturizer Best For Skin Healing | COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion With Birch Sap Best For Acne-Prone Skin | Obagi Clinical Kinetin+ Hydrating Cream Best Anti-Aging Benefits | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 2.48 x 2.48 x 3.63 inches | - | 1.3 x 1.37 x 5.62 inches |
| Weight | 1.7 Ounces | - | 4 Ounces. |
| Skin Type | - | All | - |
| Dimensions | - | 6.3 x 2.76 x 2.76 inches; 6 Ounces | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 11,275 | 901 | - |
| Price | $15.98 | $18.1 | $60 |
4. Best Fragrance-Free:Olay Retinol 24 Max Face Moisturizer
The Olay Retinol 24 Max Face Moisturizer is enriched with retinol complex and niacinamide. The retinol complex helps reduce the appearance of dark spots, fine lines, and wrinkles, and improve skin texture. Niacinamide in the formula helps control oil production in the skin. The rich, creamy moisturizer gets absorbed into the skin quickly without leaving a greasy feeling behind. This lightweight product is best suited as a night cream on a cleansed and dry face. Follow it up with sunscreen in the morning to see visible results.
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested
- Provides 24-hour hydration
- Feels weightless
- Brightens skin tone
- Mineral oil-free
- Phthalate-free
- Dye-free
Cons
- May not suit sensitive skin
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has made it to our top favorite list with more than 2,675 rave reviews on Amazon.
5. Best Lightweight:Neutrogena Combination Skin Oil-Free Moisture
Image: Neutrogena Combination Skin Oil-free Moisture Neutrogena Combination Skin Oil-Free Moisture is the perfect option if you wish to moisturize your skin dry skin and control the excess shine in the oily areas. This moisturizer has been clinically- proven to provide oil-control, especially in the T-zone or wherever your skin is oily the most. This product gives you a matte finish that lasts all day and makes your skin smooth and soft. This fantastic product can be used during the day and even at night. It also protects your skin and keeps it clean by getting rid of makeup, oil or dirt found on your skin. It also acts as a toner and a serum as it can help prepare your skin for treating itself to look healthier.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Fragrance-free
- Alcohol-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Dermatologist-recommended
Cons
- Might melt away in warm temperature.
6. Best Skin Soothing:Mary Kay TimeWise Age Fighting Moisturizer
We all wish that our skin must look young forever, but how do we make that happen? Try Mary Kay TimeWise Age Fighting Moisturizer with anti-aging effect and allows your skin to look youthful and flawless no matter how old you are. This oil-free product helps in reducing fine lines and wrinkles found on the skin. This clinically-tested formula also helps in keeping your skin hydrated and allows it to retain its moisture. The antioxidant present in this product helps your skin fight against free radicals and prevent aging. You can now get a matte-finish and bless yourself with a silky and soft skin in no time with this mattifying moisturizer.
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested
- Suitable for all skin types
- Does not cause skin irritancy and allergy.
- Oil- and fragrance-free
- Hypoallergenic
- Non-comedogenic
Cons
Might not stay on the skin for long due to its thin consistency.
7. Best Cruelty-Free:Whitening Labs Beautiful Brightening Dark Spot Corrector Face Body Cream
Are you tired of the spots on your face? It is not always possible to cover it up with makeup as that isn’t the solution we are looking for. We want to bring a permanent change and hence Whitening Labs Beautiful Brightening Dark Spot Corrector Face Body Cream is the go-to option if you wish to get rid of your spots. It is formulated with hyaluronic acid that allows your skin to be radiant, hydrated and nourished. The vitamin B5 and E work on your skin’s healing process and protects it from free radicals. The licorice found in this moisturizer helps your skin to look bright. Get a spotless and flawless skin with one of the best moisturizers available just for you. However, ensure that the product is patch tested beforehand for safe and effective use.
Pros
- Safe to use
- Free from paraben, silicones and additives.
- Cruelty-free
- 100% vegan
- Does not contain hydroquinone.
Cons
- Might bleach your skin.
"This spot corrector works well as a moisturizer. It rejuvenates my skin and makes it appear softer. It absorbs without a greasy feel or overpowering scent."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
There are more than 2,038 Amazon reviews attesting to the quality of the product and endorsing its value.
8. Best Pore Minimizing:Belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb Moisturizer
Get the hydration your face always craved for with this Belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb Moisturizer. This clinically-tested formula helps in improving the elasticity of your skin and also minimizes the appearance of pores. It consists of nutrients that protect your skin from free radicals that damage your skin. Try this oil-free gel-cream that provides your skin with a cooling effect, makes it look refreshed and allows it to stay hydrated all day. Reward your skin with a burst of moisture and feel younger and fresh. You can use this pore-refining product during the day and even at night. Try one of the best dermatologist-tested and most promising moisturizers made for your combination skin.
Pros
- Lightweight moisturizer
- Cruelty-free
- Free of mineral oil, synthetic fragrance,
- No synthetic dyes added.
- Offers all-day hydration
- Dermatologically tested
Cons
Might give a burning sensation.
9. Best Creamy Texture:AHAVA Essential Day Moisturizer
Here is the best way to lock in your skin’s moisture and stay hydrated, hence preventing your skin from dryness. Try this AHAVA Essential Day Moisturizer that is non-greasy and offers a long-lasting, deep and nourishing formula that is essential for your skin. This moisture-locking product consists of 21 minerals such as calcium, potassium and magnesium, to name a few. It consists of 21 minerals such as calcium, potassium and magnesium, to name a few. It also consists of Pro vitamin B5 and E that help your skin to stay soft and smooth. This product is further enhanced with the infusion of aloe vera, allantoin and bisabolol that soothe your skin and prevent it from irritation. Hydrate, moisturize and smoothen your skin but this great product is made just for you!
Pros
- Ultra-light
- creamy texture
- Gets absorbed easily
- Hypoallergenic
- Vegan
- Paraben-free
- Dermatologist-tested
Cons
- Might be a bit greasy.
10. Best Oil-Free:Estee Lauder DayWear Multi-Protection Anti-Oxidant 24-H Moisture Creme
We hate it when we get breakouts, we dislike our skin when we see dark spots but what scares us and disappoints us the most is when you see dryness on the skin. The dehydration you see makes you feel like a malnourished person who does not look fresh and energetic. It brings down all your energy. Hence, we have this Estee Lauder DayWear Multi-Protection Anti-Oxidant 24-H Moisture Creme that prevents and diminishes aging signs. It offers visible results and reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, dullness, dehydration and dryness. It improves your skin’s look by making it radiant, soft, smooth and fresh. This product is rich in vitamins C, and E and the greatness of kinetin and ALA, it is a moisturizer for combination skin with SPF protection and hence provides your skin with moisture retention and rejuvenation.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Soothing
- Oil-free
- Non-greasy
- Oil-free
Cons
- Might have a strong scent.
11. Best Antioxidant-Rich:Plum Green Tea Mattifying Moisturizer
The Plum Green Tea Mattifying Moisturizer keeps the skin clear and oil-free. It contains glycolic acid that gently exfoliates the skin for a smoother skin tone. The facial cream is also formulated with green tea extracts that are rich in antioxidants and protect the skin from oxidative damage and prevent acne formation. The non-greasy formula of the moisturizer makes it a perfect choice for oily, combination, and normal skin types. You can use this lightweight moisturizer daily for hydrated, nourished, and youthful skin. Additionally, you can opt for testing the moisturizer on a patch of your skin to determine its overall effectiveness.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Non-comedogenic
- Non-greasy
- Vegan
- Paraben-free
- SLS-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Not suitable for cystic acne or extremely sensitive skin
12. Best Vegan:Youth To The People Superfood Air-Whip Moisture Cream
Are you one of those who have tried all kinds of moisturizers but nothing ever worked? It is time to introduce you to the greatest moisturizer that not just keeps your skin hydrated but also restores its moisture and balances your skin too.
This product consists of hyaluronic acid and blends of spinach, kale, green tea, vitamin C, K, E and alfalfa. These superfoods are antioxidants that fight against the environmental factors that can cause premature aging. Kale consists of lutein, and this ingredient helps improve the collagen production in your skin hence allowing it to look healthy. With these effective ingredients, you can’t get disappointed. Clear your skin, unclog your pores, provide it with the hydration it needs, with one of the best moisturizers for your mature skin.
Pros
- Free of paraben, phthalate and sulfate
- No dimethicone and mineral oil
- 100% vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Lightweight
Cons
- Might not work on sensitive skin.
13. Best For Oily Skin:Cetaphil Daily Oil-Free Hydrating Lotion
CETAPHIL is a well-renowned dermatologist-recommended skincare brand. The Cetaphil Daily Oil-Free Hydrating Lotion is the perfect moisturizer for those who struggle with combination skin. It helps strengthen the skin barrier, thereby reducing signs of sensitivity, including dryness, roughness, tightness, and irritation. This clinically-proven formula is enriched with hyaluronic acid that instantly hydrates the skin and locks in moisture throughout the day without feeling heavy. This sebum-balancing lotion hydrates the dry areas of your skin and controls excess oil production.
Pros
- Ultra-hydrating
- Lightweight
- Hypoallergenic
- Non-comedogenic
- Fragrance-free
- Paraben-free
- Oil-free
- Dermatologist tested
Cons
None
14. Best Versatile:Boscia Cactus Water Moisturizer
Boscia Cactus Water Moisturizer is ideal for rejuvenating and hydrating your skin.
It is made up of Queen of the Night Cactus and Aloe Vera that nourish and replenish your skin. This formula gets instantly absorbed in your skin and allows it to remain moisturized all day. You can wear it during the day or even at night! This gel is very lightweight and leaves your skin smooth and soft. Improve your skin’s moisture level with the greatness of other essential ingredients such as South African resurrection plant infusion and peptide complex. The Queen of the Night, Cactus Succulent, imparts hydration to the skin and prevents it from dryness. Get soft and supple skin with this quick-absorbing facial moisturizer for combination skin.
Pros
- Vegan
- Cruelty-Free
- Gluten-free
- Suitable for all skin types
- No artificial fragrance or color
Cons
- Might be a bit sticky.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has garnered over 168 positive reviews on Amazon, and the number continues to grow.
15. Best Matte Finish:Lavo Daily Moisturizer Cream
Are you looking for a solution for your acne-prone skin? Is acne not the only issue you have? Do you need a moisturizer that works well on your combination skin? Then we must present to you this Lavi Daily Moisturizing Cream that works well on all skin types. Vitamin A, B, C, D present in this product helps block out the bacteria present on your skin and releases mineral salts and pollutants, thus preventing clogging of pores. It strengthens the protective barrier of your skin and prevents it from damage too. Calm the redness and inflammation of your skin with the help of the greatest moisturizer you have ever used. This also helps in removing blackheads and whiteheads and keeps your skin non-greasy all day long. This daily moisturizer for combination skin has the essence of vitamin E, avocado oil, safflower, wheat germ, hazelnut, aloe vera and azulene that nourish your skin and keep it super hydrated.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Provides matte finish
- Soothes the skin
- Cruelty-free
Cons
16. Best Dermatologist-Developed:Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion
The Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion contains NMF to retain the skin’s moisture balance. It is also infused with barley, sunflower, and cucumber, which soothe and nourish the skin. The quick-absorbing lotion glides on the skin and provides soft, smooth, and hydrated skin. This moisturizer also helps strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier to a great extent within hours of its use. Using this lightweight lotion twice a day will help you replenish your skin’s oil-water balance for a healthy glow. However, test the formula on a small patch of skin prior to proper application to keep future skin irritations at bay.
Pros
- Provides 8-hour hydration
- Non-acnegenic
- Fragrance-free
- Allergy-tested
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- SLS-free
- Sulfate-free
Cons
None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 7,034 Amazon users have vouched for this amazing product.
Let’s follow the buying guide given below to make the right purchase of moisturizer for your combination skin and understand the right way to use it.
How To Choose Moisturizer For Combination Skin
The moisturizer you choose for your skin depends on the skin type. You will have to pick a product that caters to your skin’s dryness and oiliness for your combination skin. You must look for water-binding properties of an ingredient such as hyaluronic acid; this will help treat your dry areas. The moisturizer you choose should be light lotion-based as you need to reduce the shine and stay grease-free due to the oily areas. You must ensure that the product you use provides a moisture barrier, so it retains the moisture and prevents your skin from getting dehydrated. Apart from these properties, you must also ensure that the product you buy stays for long and does not damage your skin. Also, you should invest in professional-grade products that cater to your skin’s needs specifically!
How Do You Apply Moisturizer To Combination Skin
Here are a few steps that you must follow before you apply the moisturizer to your combination skin:
Step 1: Wash your face, hands and body before you apply any product on it.
Step 2: Pat dry with a soft towel or leave a little moisture on your skin.
Step 3: Take a small amount of moisturizer on your fingertips and rub it on your face and hands
Step 4: Massage the moisturizer and let it relax. You can massage in a circular motion to improve blood circulation too.
Your skin is now ready to give you the glow you have been looking for. You can also apply the makeup over the moisturized skin without worrying about the damage.
The Bottom Line
Regular cleansing and exfoliation alter the natural moisture levels of your skin and lead to moisture loss. Whether you have dry, oily, or combination skin, your skin needs moisturization to keep it hydrated all the time. The best moisturizers for combination skin listed prevent moisture loss and make the skin soft and supple. You can explore a variety of products including the Garnier SkinActive Moisture Rescue Face Moisturizer which improves skin vitality and keeps dryness at bay, the Obagi Clinical Kinetin+ Hydrating Cream which combats free radicals and provides maximum sun protection, and the Mary Kay TimeWise Age Fighting Moisturizer which reverses premature aging and infuses hydration. In addition, some moisturizers enhance the glow, protect your skin from external aggressors, and some work on the skin’s healing process. But consider products free from harmful chemicals to keep the skin nourished and healthy. Always stay away from products loaded with chemicals, especially the ones with a strong fragrance, as they might irritate your skin. Additionally, look for reviews and people’s experience with the product to gain a better understanding and make the right choice!
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author of this article, Krati Darak, is a skin care enthusiast who loves reviewing different beauty products. She has curated this list of moisturizers for combination skin after carefully researching, checking reviews online, and going through multiple forums for user feedback. Her well-researched article ensures that the listed products prevent skin breakouts and dehydration. These products also help get rid of premature aging, are non-greasy, and good for acne-prone skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does combination skin need moisturizer?
Yes, you must use a moisturizer for your combination skin as it too deserves to get hydrated and nourished. Ensure that the product you use is made up of light and oil-free ingredients to benefit from it.
Are gel moisturizers good for combination skin?
Gel moisturizers are lightweight as they are water-based lotions. These get easily absorbed into your skin and are hence good for combination skin.
What are the benefits of moisturizers for combination skin?
Moisturizers for combination skin prevent acne, soothe sensitive skin, and hydrate dry areas.
How often should you use moisturizers for combination skin?
For most skin types, apply moisturizers twice a day, once in the morning and once at night, for best results.
Is moisturizing cream better than moisturizing lotion?
Moisturizing lotions are more watery and lightweight than moisturizer creams, which makes them easy to absorb. Moisturizer creams are a better option for people with dry skin.
Does moisturizer cause oiliness?
Yes, oil-based moisturizers can cause oiliness.
How do you identify if you have combination skin?
If you have combination skin, you will notice an oily T-zone, while the rest of your face will feel dry.
