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Best Face Moisturizer For Acne (2025 Updated)

If you're looking for a way to keep your skin hydrated while battling acne, a good face moisturizer for acne is just what you need. It can be challenging to find products that work well on acne-prone skin, but with the right moisturizer, you can nourish your skin while keeping pesky breakouts at bay.

Before buying any product, there are several factors to consider, especially when it comes to face moisturizers. First, take a look at the ingredients. You'll want to avoid any harsh chemicals or fragrances that can irritate your skin further. Look for moisturizers that contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and glycerin. These ingredients will help hydrate your skin without clogging your pores.

Another essential factor to consider is your skin type. Everyone's skin is unique, so what works for one person may not work for you. It's best to choose a face moisturizer for acne that's specifically designed for your skin type. If you have oily skin, for example, look for lightweight, oil-free formulas that won't leave your skin feeling greasy.

Are you tired of dealing with acne-prone skin? Are you looking for a way to keep your skin hydrated while preventing future breakouts? If so, a face moisturizer for acne may be just what you need. Keep reading to discover some of our top picks and learn how to choose the right moisturizer for your skin type.

10 Best Face Moisturizer For Acne

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for breakout-prone skin and uneven tone, this oil-free moisturizer contains salicylic acid and total soy complex.
2
This product is ideal for hydrating, purifying, smoothing, and softening the skin on a daily basis.
3
Ideal for hydrating and treating sensitive, acne-prone skin with its gentle formula and 0.5% salicylic acid.
4
Ideal for acne-prone skin, minimizes pores with niacinamide, soothes with antioxidants, and calms redness with ceramides.
5
This product is ideal for hydrating and moisturizing acne-prone and sensitive skin on a daily basis.
6
Ideal for daily moisturizing of all skin types, with ceramide and niacinamide to improve barrier function and texture.
7
It is an acne-prone skin moisturizer with time-released 2% mandelic acid and salicylic acid, suitable for daily use.
8
This product is ideal for individuals with acne-prone skin of all types and contains moisturizing and soothing antioxidants.
9
Ideal for hydrating and moisturizing oily or acne-prone skin, as well as providing moisture to dry skin.
10
This product is ideal for fighting wrinkles and acne on the face, neck, and décolletage using retinol, jojoba oil, and Vitamin E.
Ideal for breakout-prone skin and uneven tone, this oil-free moisturizer contains salicylic acid and total soy complex.
This product is ideal for hydrating, purifying, smoothing, and softening the skin on a daily basis.
Ideal for hydrating and treating sensitive, acne-prone skin with its gentle formula and 0.5% salicylic acid.
Ideal for acne-prone skin, minimizes pores with niacinamide, soothes with antioxidants, and calms redness with ceramides.
This product is ideal for hydrating and moisturizing acne-prone and sensitive skin on a daily basis.
Ideal for daily moisturizing of all skin types, with ceramide and niacinamide to improve barrier function and texture.
It is an acne-prone skin moisturizer with time-released 2% mandelic acid and salicylic acid, suitable for daily use.
This product is ideal for individuals with acne-prone skin of all types and contains moisturizing and soothing antioxidants.
Ideal for hydrating and moisturizing oily or acne-prone skin, as well as providing moisture to dry skin.
This product is ideal for fighting wrinkles and acne on the face, neck, and décolletage using retinol, jojoba oil, and Vitamin E.

1. Aveeno Clear Complexion Moisturizer – Fights Breakouts!

Aveeno Clear Complexion acne-fighting daily facial moisturizer is an ideal solution for those with breakout-prone skin. This 4-fluid ounce bottle of moisturizer contains 0.5% salicylic acid, which is recommended by dermatologists to fight acne. It helps prevent breakouts and visibly evens skin tone. Salicylic acid is an acne medication that clears up existing blemishes and also helps prevent future breakouts.

This daily face moisturizer features Total Soy Complex, which enhances the overall appearance of complexion by improving skin texture, leaving it feeling soft and smooth. The unique acne moisturizing lotion formula is oil-free, hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic, making it safe for sensitive skin. The moisturizer is fast-absorbing and gentle, making it a perfect fit for everyday use.

The Aveeno Clear Complexion collection is designed to clear skin without dulling your natural glow. Each product is enriched with soy, which is clinically proven to clear blemishes and reveal your skin's true radiance. This moisturizer helps to even out skin tone and improve skin clarity, making it a great choice for those looking for a brighter, more radiant complexion.

Pros

  • Contains recommended acne-fighting ingredient of salicylic acid medication that helps prevent breakouts
  • Features Total Soy Complex to improve overall complexion by smoothing texture and evening skin tone
  • Fast-absorbing and gentle, making it a perfect fit for everyday use
  • Oil-free, hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic, making it safe for sensitive skin

2. Hero's Clear Prebiotic Moisturizer For Radiant Skin.

The Clear Collective Clarifying Prebiotic Moisturizer is a pore-purifying daily moisturizer that keeps the skin clear, smooth, and balanced. This lightweight face cream is the final step in your daily routine for clear skin, brought to you by the brand that created the award-winning Mighty Patch. It handles three common acne-prone skin issues by purifying the skin, fueling good bacteria, and smoothing and softening texture.

This moisturizer is free of petrolatum, parabens, fragrance, artificial colors, silicones, and mineral oils, making it safe for all skin types. The unique probiotic formula supports the skin's healthy bacteria balance, giving it a smooth and luminous look all day long.

Pros

  • Pore-purifying daily moisturizer that keeps the skin clear, smooth, and balanced
  • Handles three common acne-prone skin issues by purifying the skin, fueling good bacteria, and smoothing and softening texture
  • Free of petrolatum, parabens, fragrance, artificial colors, silicones, and mineral oils, making it safe for all skin types
  • Unique probiotic formula supports the skin's healthy bacteria balance, giving it a smooth and luminous look all day long

3. Gentle Clear Skin Moisturizer

The Shine-Free Hydration with .5% Salicylic Acid is an excellent addition to the skincare routine for those with sensitive skin. Not only does it hydrate the skin without leaving any greasy residue, but it also clears and prevents breakouts while improving the skin's tone and texture. The botanical and prebiotic complex in the formula helps to nourish the skin and soothe any redness caused by acne. This product is dermatologist recommended, making it a trustworthy choice for those with sensitive skin. The product is also formulated to defend against five signs of skin sensitivity, including a weakened skin barrier, irritation, roughness, tightness, and dryness. The travel size toiletries make it easy to take with you on your next vacation or trip.

Pros

  • Hydrates the skin without leaving any greasy residue
  • Clears and prevents breakouts while improving the skin's tone and texture
  • Botanical and prebiotic complex helps to nourish the skin and soothe any redness caused by acne
  • Defends against five signs of skin sensitivity
  • Dermatologist recommended for sensitive skin
  • Travel size toiletries make it easy to take with you on your next vacation or trip

4. Clear Niacinamide Moisturizer For Acne-Prone Skin.

The CLEAR Oil-Free Moisturizer is an innovative night cream that has been specially formulated to deliver moisture and hydration to acne-prone skin without adding oil or shine. This non-greasy moisturizer is perfect for nighttime use and will leave your skin feeling soft and supple.

Infused with moisture barrier-repairing ceramides, pore-minimizing niacinamide, and antioxidant-rich blueberry & pumpkin extracts, this face moisturizer is designed to hydrate dry, flaky patches while visibly reducing redness, all without clogging pores. It is an oil-free night moisturizer that is perfect for blemish-prone skin.

Paula's Choice CLEAR Oil-Free Moisturizer should be used once or twice daily as the last step in your skin care routine. For daytime use, it is recommended to follow with SPF 30 or greater to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

Paula's Choice products are made with your skin in mind, and they have a treatment line for all skin types, from dryness to acne, fine lines, or sensitive skin. Their skincare products are effective, science-backed formulas that target any concern from wrinkles to breakouts. So, if you are looking for amazing skin care products that work, look no further than Paula's Choice Skincare.

Pros

  • This moisturizer is lightweight and non-greasy, making it perfect for nighttime use.
  • It is specially formulated to deliver moisture and hydration to acne-prone skin without adding oil or shine.
  • Infused with moisture barrier-repairing ceramides, pore-minimizing niacinamide, and antioxidant-rich blueberry & pumpkin extracts, this face moisturizer hydrates dry, flaky patches while visibly reducing redness, all without clogging pores.
  • Paula's Choice CLEAR Oil-Free Moisturizer is perfect for blemish-prone skin.

Cons

  • – The product may not be suitable for those with extremely dry skin.

5. Clearskin Hydrating Moisturizer For Acne & Sensitivity

The Facial Moisturizer is a lightweight, non-greasy formula that effectively nourishes and hydrates normal to oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin. It is specifically formulated to help clear discolorations caused by acne and breakouts. The moisturizer contains plant extracts that purify and soothe the skin, leaving it feeling refreshed and revitalized.

The moisturizer is enriched with powerful ingredients such as niacinamide, bisabolol, cucumber, and more that help balance moisture levels and provide a targeted, moisturizing effect. It is easy to apply, and a nickel-sized amount is all that is needed to cover the face. The moisturizer is suitable for use in the morning and at night after using cleanser and serums.

This Facial Moisturizer is an excellent choice for those with normal to oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin. It is gentle yet effective, providing the necessary hydration your skin needs without leaving any greasy residue. The plant extracts in the formula help to purify and calm the skin while the targeted, moisturizing ingredients provide the perfect balance of hydration.

Pros

  • Lightweight and non-greasy formula
  • Helps clear discolorations caused by acne and breakouts
  • Enriched with powerful ingredients such as niacinamide, bisabolol, and cucumber
  • Provides a targeted, moisturizing effect
  • Suitable for use in the morning and at night

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for very dry skin

6. Repair & Hydrate Daily Face Moisturizer

The Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer is a highly recommended product by dermatologists. It contains ceramide-3, niacinamide, glycerin, and La Roche-Posay Prebiotic Thermal Water. This moisturizer has a double action formula that helps repair the natural protective barrier of the skin within one hour and provides hydration for up to 48 hours. Its unique prebiotic action helps to restore healthy-looking skin by maintaining the skin's microbiome. The lightweight cream texture of this moisturizer is designed to absorb into the skin effortlessly and provide immediate comfort. It is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Additionally, this moisturizer is fragrance-free, paraben-free, oil-free, alcohol-free, and non-comedogenic. The ceramide-3 ingredient in this moisturizer helps to retain moisture and maintain a healthy skin barrier. Niacinamide helps to restore the skin's moisture barrier and visibly reduce skin discolorations. Lastly, the glycerin ingredient in this product hydrates the skin, leaving it feeling soft and supple.

Pros

  • Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin
  • Contains dermatologist-recommended ingredients
  • Has a double-action formula for repairing skin's natural barrier and providing hydration
  • Fragrance-free, paraben-free, oil-free, alcohol-free, and non-comedogenic
  • Contains ceramide-3 that helps to retain moisture and maintain a healthy skin barrier
  • Niacinamide restores the skin's moisture barrier and visibly reduce skin discolorations
  • Glycerin ingredient hydrates the skin, leaving it feeling soft and supple

7. Acne-Fighting Moisture Boost For Clear Skin

The Time Released A.H.A. + B.H.A. Moisturizer is a multi-tasking face moisturizer cream that is perfect for individuals with dry, oily, and combination skin. This maximum strength acne moisturizer comes in a large 3.4 oz/90+ day supply and contains time-released, medical-grade 2% salicylic acid and mandelic acid to remove acne, increase cellular turnover, and gently exfoliate the skin. The science-inspired formulation with patented, advanced oil control technology allows for quick absorption into the skin, deeply penetrating and removing excess oil trapped in pores. This helps to improve skin elasticity, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The fast-absorbing, hydrating face cream for acne-prone skin is beautifully lightweight and formulated to absorb quickly, allowing for layering of SPF and/or makeup as needed. Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, this multi-functional, oil-free acne moisturizer cream provides an all-in-one solution for several concerns. Save time and money by using this combination day moisturizer and acne lotion with anti-aging skincare benefits. Neutralyze, a family-owned business, guarantees your satisfaction. Neutralyze is a dermatologist-recommended treatment for acne vulgaris and related skin issues. Made in the USA in a certified cGMP/SOP compliant facility, this product is 100% cruelty-free and contains no parabens or sulfates.

Pros

  • Contains medical-grade 2% salicylic acid and mandelic acid to remove acne, increase cellular turnover, and gently exfoliate the skin.
  • Formulated with patented, advanced oil control technology to quickly absorb into the skin, deeply penetrating and removing excess oil trapped in pores.
  • Improves skin elasticity, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
  • Fast-absorbing, hydrating face cream that allows for layering of SPF and/or makeup as needed.
  • Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
  • Multi-functional, oil-free acne moisturizer cream provides an all-in-one solution for several concerns.
  • Dermatologist-recommended treatment for acne vulgaris and related skin issues.
  • Made in the USA in a certified cGMP/SOP compliant facility.
  • Cruelty-free and contains no parabens or sulfates.

8. Oil-Free Lightweight Moisturizer For Acne-Prone Skin.

The Humane Oil-Free Daily Lightweight Face Moisturizer is a gentle and non-irritating solution for all skin types, especially those with oily or acne-prone skin. It comes in a 4 FL. OZ. bottle and has been dermatologist-tested. The moisturizer is made with moisture-locking hyaluronic acid, which can absorb up to 1,000 times its weight in water, and soothing aloe vera. It also contains antioxidant-rich cucumber and grape seed extracts to protect the skin from environmental assault.

This oil-free moisturizer contains a blend of effective, skin-friendly ingredients that hydrate and soothe the skin. The hyaluronic acid helps stave off moisture loss, while the aloe vera combats acne and inflammation. The cucumber extract balances oil production and soothes irritation while supporting the skin's natural barrier. The grape seed extract is one of the most powerful antioxidants that promotes healing and collagen synthesis.

The lightweight and fast-absorbing formula layers under makeup easily, leaving the skin with a smooth, non-greasy finish. It can be applied daily to calm redness and irritation, strengthen the skin's natural barrier and fend off free radicals.

Humane products are simple, clean, safe, and effective. They harness the healing powers of potent ingredients to deliver real results with vegan and cruelty-free ingredients. The formulations do not contain parabens, phthalates, sulfates (SLS and SLES), alcohol, paraffin, formaldehyde, mineral oil, synthetic fragrance/color, petrolatum, DEA, triclosan, GMOs or animal byproducts. The Humane Oil-Free Daily Lightweight Face Moisturizer is a proud member of PETA’s Beauty Without Bunnies program and made in the USA.

Pros

  • Gentle and non-irritating for all skin types
  • Contains moisture-locking hyaluronic acid and soothing aloe vera
  • Antioxidant-rich cucumber and grape seed extracts protect the skin from environmental assault
  • Fast-absorbing and non-greasy formula
  • Free from harmful ingredients and vegan and cruelty-free

Cons

  • – May not provide enough hydration for extremely dry skin

9. Proactiv Moisturizer: Green Tea Hydration For All!

Proactiv Green Tea Moisturizer is a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer that is specially designed for blemish-prone skin. It contains mineral and botanical extracts, including the powerful antioxidant green tea, which helps to hydrate dry skin without clogging pores.

This moisturizer is enriched with hyaluronic acid that acts as a magnet to draw water to the skin, helping to maintain skin hydration. It is an excellent choice for irritated skin, providing lightweight and refreshing hydration to dry, acne-prone skin.

This hydrating moisturizer is perfect for giving dull and tired-looking skin a gentle rejuvenation. It is specially formulated for acne-prone and sensitive skin types, and it is a refreshing step towards achieving healthy and radiant skin.

Proactiv Green Tea Moisturizer is an excellent choice for those who want to maintain their skin's hydration without clogging their pores. It is ideal for those who have blemish-prone skin and want to achieve a healthy, glowing complexion. This moisturizer is from the company that started a skincare revolution, and it is designed to provide the best skincare solution for acne-prone and sensitive skin types.

Pros

  • Contains mineral and botanical extracts, including the potent antioxidant green tea
  • Enriched with hyaluronic acid that acts as a magnet to draw water to the skin
  • Provides lightweight and refreshing hydration to dry, acne-prone skin
  • Specially formulated for acne-prone and sensitive skin types
  • Ideal for achieving a healthy, glowing complexion

10. Baebody Retinol Cream: Ageless Beauty In A Jar.

Baebody Retinol Moisturizer is a lightweight product that helps improve the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, discoloration, and hyperpigmentation. It contains natural ingredients like retinol (Vitamin A) which boosts the skin's renewal process and aids in the growth of new skin cells, giving your skin a brighter appearance. This moisturizer is perfect for people who want to smooth and firm their skin.

The Baebody Beauty Innovation line of hair and skincare products aims to help you look and feel fabulous with innovative natural ingredients like hyaluronic acid, argan oil, activated charcoal, and tea tree oil. All of our products are dermatologist tested and are non-irritating, hypoallergenic formulas. You can use this clinically-tested retinol lotion every morning and night as part of your daily skincare routine.

Baebody Retinol Moisturizer's new formula is perfect for people who want to brighten their skin and get rid of dull, old skin cells. The product is suitable for all skin types and is perfect for people who want to improve the appearance of their skin without any irritation or sensitivity issues. Baebody Retinol Moisturizer is a great addition to your daily skincare regimen.

Pros

  • Contains natural ingredients like retinol (Vitamin A) which boosts the skin's renewal process and aids in the growth of new skin cells
  • Helps improve the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, discoloration, and hyperpigmentation
  • Lightweight formula that is suitable for all skin types

Best Face Moisturizer For Acne FAQs

Are there any face moisturizers for acne that also incorporate SPF protection?

Yes, there are many face moisturizers available in the market that are specifically designed for acne-prone skin and also incorporate SPF protection. These moisturizers are formulated with ingredients that not only hydrate the skin but also help to control excess oil production and prevent breakouts. Some of the common ingredients found in these moisturizers include salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, tea tree oil, and niacinamide.

When choosing a moisturizer with SPF for acne-prone skin, it is important to look for a non-comedogenic formula that won't clog pores or cause additional breakouts. Additionally, it is recommended to choose a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30 to protect the skin against both UVA and UVB rays.

It is best to consult with a dermatologist before trying any new skincare products, especially if you have severe acne or sensitive skin. They can recommend the most suitable moisturizer with SPF for your skin type and also provide guidance on how to incorporate it into your daily skincare routine.

Are there any face moisturizers for acne that are non-comedogenic or oil-free?

Yes, there are several face moisturizers available in the market that are specifically designed for acne-prone skin and are non-comedogenic or oil-free. These moisturizers are formulated to provide hydration to the skin without clogging the pores or causing breakouts. Some of the key ingredients in these moisturizers include salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and glycolic acid, which help to prevent acne and keep the skin clear. It is important to choose a moisturizer that is non-comedogenic and oil-free to avoid exacerbating acne-prone skin. Some popular brands that offer non-comedogenic and oil-free face moisturizers for acne include Neutrogena, Cetaphil, La Roche-Posay, and Aveeno. When selecting a moisturizer, it is also important to consider your skin type and any other skincare concerns you may have to ensure that you choose a product that is right for you.

Can a face moisturizer for acne actually help prevent breakouts?

Yes, a face moisturizer for acne can actually help prevent breakouts. When you have acne-prone skin, it's important to keep your skin well-hydrated to prevent excess oil production, which can lead to clogged pores and breakouts. Moisturizers containing certain ingredients such as salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and tea tree oil have been shown to be effective in preventing acne breakouts. These ingredients help to exfoliate dead skin cells, unclog pores, and reduce inflammation, which are all important factors in preventing acne. It's important to choose a moisturizer that is specifically formulated for acne-prone skin, as some moisturizers can actually make acne worse by clogging pores. Additionally, it's important to use a moisturizer that is lightweight and non-greasy, as heavy, oily moisturizers can also contribute to acne breakouts. Overall, using a face moisturizer for acne can be an effective way to prevent breakouts and keep your skin looking healthy and clear.

How often should I apply face moisturizer for acne-prone skin?

For people with acne-prone skin, finding the right skincare routine can be a challenge. Applying moisturizer is an essential part of any skincare routine, but how often should you apply it when you have acne-prone skin?

The answer to this question depends on your skin type and the type of moisturizer you are using. If you have oily skin, you may only need to apply moisturizer once a day. However, if you have dry or combination skin, you may need to apply moisturizer twice a day.

When choosing a moisturizer for acne-prone skin, it is important to look for one that is non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog your pores. You should also avoid moisturizers that contain fragrances or other irritants that could aggravate your acne.

Overall, it is best to consult with a dermatologist to determine the best skincare routine for your acne-prone skin. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your skin type and the severity of your acne.

What ingredients should I look for in a face moisturizer for acne-prone skin?

When it comes to choosing a face moisturizer for acne-prone skin, it's important to look for ingredients that will not clog your pores or exacerbate your acne. The ideal moisturizer for acne-prone skin should be oil-free and non-comedogenic, which means it won't block your pores. Also, it should contain ingredients that are specifically targeted to help treat acne and soothe your skin. Some of the ingredients you should look for in a moisturizer for acne-prone skin include salicylic acid, which helps to unclog pores and exfoliate dead skin cells, benzoyl peroxide, which kills acne-causing bacteria, and tea tree oil, which has antibacterial properties that can help to reduce inflammation and redness. Additionally, look for moisturizers that contain soothing ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, and green tea, which will help to calm your skin and reduce irritation. Remember to always patch test any new products before applying them to your entire face, and consult with a dermatologist if you have any concerns about your acne or skin care routine.

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