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Best Gel Moisturizer For Acne Prone Skin (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a moisturizer that’ll combat acne prone skin, then you’ve come to the right place. Skincare is essential for everyone, and when you have acne prone skin, it’s crucial to choose the right products. When it comes to gel moisturizers for acne prone skin, there are several factors you need to consider before making a purchase.

One of the main factors to consider is the ingredients. Look for products that contain ingredients that have soothing and hydrating properties. Avoid harsh ingredients, such as alcohol and fragrances, which can irritate your skin and make your acne worse. Also, consider purchasing products with salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide as these are effective ingredients in treating acne.

Are you tired of oily skin and breakouts? Are you exhausted from trying multiple products that just don’t work? Do you want to find a moisturizer that’ll help improve your skin’s appearance? If so, keep reading. We’ve researched and compiled a list of the best gel moisturizers for acne prone skin. Say goodbye to oily skin and hello to smooth and clear looking skin.

10 Best Gel Moisturizer For Acne Prone Skin

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for acne-prone skin, minimizes pores with niacinamide, soothes with antioxidants, and calms redness with ceramides.
2
This product is ideal for hydrating and calming sensitive, acne-prone, oily, and dry skin types with its plant-based formula.
3
The product is ideal for sensitive, acne-prone skin in need of restorative night moisturizing with hyaluronic acid.
4
It is ideal for individuals with acne prone and sensitive skin, providing gentle and soothing skin care for face and body.
5
Ideal for people with acne-prone and sensitive skin, looking for a moisturizer with sunscreen protection.
6
This product is ideal for hydrating and moisturizing all skin types, including sensitive, dry, oily, dull, and acne-prone skin.
7
This facial moisturizer is ideal for acne-prone skin care as it is oil-free, non-greasy and non-comedogenic.
8
Ideal for individuals with acne-prone and sensitive skin, in need of oil-free daily moisturizing gel enriched with aloe vera.
9
Hydrating face moisturizer suitable for dry, oily, acne-prone and sensitive skin, providing cool and soothing sensation.
10
This moisturizer is ideal for dry, acne-prone, and sensitive skin types. It is cruelty-free and free of harmful chemicals.
Ideal for acne-prone skin, minimizes pores with niacinamide, soothes with antioxidants, and calms redness with ceramides.
This product is ideal for hydrating and calming sensitive, acne-prone, oily, and dry skin types with its plant-based formula.
The product is ideal for sensitive, acne-prone skin in need of restorative night moisturizing with hyaluronic acid.
It is ideal for individuals with acne prone and sensitive skin, providing gentle and soothing skin care for face and body.
Ideal for people with acne-prone and sensitive skin, looking for a moisturizer with sunscreen protection.
This product is ideal for hydrating and moisturizing all skin types, including sensitive, dry, oily, dull, and acne-prone skin.
This facial moisturizer is ideal for acne-prone skin care as it is oil-free, non-greasy and non-comedogenic.
Ideal for individuals with acne-prone and sensitive skin, in need of oil-free daily moisturizing gel enriched with aloe vera.
Hydrating face moisturizer suitable for dry, oily, acne-prone and sensitive skin, providing cool and soothing sensation.
This moisturizer is ideal for dry, acne-prone, and sensitive skin types. It is cruelty-free and free of harmful chemicals.

1. 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.

2. Centella 70 Gel Moisturizer – Vegan & Calming!

The IUNIK Centella Calming Gel Cream is a moisturizer that provides all-day and night-long moisturization for the skin. It is formulated with botanical ingredients such as centella asiatica leaf water, tea tree extracts, niacinamide, and adenosine. This hydrating formula is easily absorbed into the skin in seconds without clogging pores or causing a heavy feeling. The gel cream is suitable for all skin types and is especially effective for irritated and sensitive skin types.

This facial lotion contains 72% of centella asiatica leaf water instead of purified water for maximum efficacy. It also contains well-known soothing ingredients such as centella asiatica extract and tea tree extract, which help to heal and strengthen the skin from irritation. Additionally, it contains 6 sprout extracts, including pak choi, broccoli, sprout wheat, clover, white radish, and cabbage, which help to moisturize dry skin and improve skin irritation.

The IUNIK moisturizer is free of artificial or synthetic fragrance, hypoallergenic, and non-comedogenic. It is suitable for women, men, and all skin types, including dry, sensitive, normal, acne-prone, and aging skin. This facial lotion is ideal to use in dry winter and leaves a smooth and soft texture upon the layer of the skin.

IUNIK Skin Care Products are formulated WITHOUT 1500+ Ingredients such as parabens, sulfates, synthetic fragrance, PEGs, petroleum, and formaldehyde releasers. The products are certified cruelty-free and vegan, making them an excellent choice for those who prefer clean beauty products.

Pros

  • Formulated with botanical ingredients such as centella asiatica leaf water, tea tree extracts, niacinamide, and adenosine
  • Provides all-day and night-long moisturization without clogging pores or causing a heavy feeling
  • Contains 72% of centella asiatica leaf water for maximum efficacy
  • Suitable for all skin types and especially effective for irritated and sensitive skin types
  • Free of artificial or synthetic fragrance, hypoallergenic, and non-comedogenic
  • Certified cruelty-free and vegan
  • Ideal to use in dry winter and leaves a smooth and soft texture upon the layer of the skin

3. Differin Hydrate: Acne-Safe Restorative Night Moisturizer

Achieve plump, hydrated skin overnight with this specially formulated hydrating cream. Infused with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and allantoin, this cream visibly improves skin texture by providing deep hydration to dry skin. Hyaluronic acid, a natural ingredient found in the skin, binds to water to help retain moisture and keep skin looking plump. Ceramides help restore and maintain the skin's barrier to lock in moisture for up to 24 hours. Allantoin soothes dry, flaky skin, leaving it feeling soft and supple.

This dermatologist-developed formula is gentle and non-irritating, making it safe for all skin types. It is also fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores or cause breakouts. The convenient travel size of under 3.4 fl oz makes it easy to take with you on your next vacation or trip. Keep your skin hydrated and healthy no matter where your travels take you!

Pros

  • Deeply hydrates dry skin overnight
  • Contains hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and allantoin to improve skin texture
  • Restores and maintains the skin's barrier to lock in moisture for up to 24 hours
  • Non-irritating, fragrance-free, and non-comedogenic
  • Convenient travel size for on-the-go hydration

4. Differin's Acne-Sensitive Moisturizer: Soothes & Softens Skin.

Differin Soothing Moisturizer is a fragrance-free, non-irritating moisturizer that provides 48-hours of hydration to soothe and soften dry skin. Dermatologists highly recommend using this moisturizer when using Differin Gel (0.1% Adapalene) to prevent dryness and irritation.

This gentle and pH-balanced formula is lightweight and won't clog pores. It helps to balance moisture in the skin, soothing and softening it. The formula contains no acne-fighting ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, adapalene, or lanolin which makes it suitable for all skin types.

Differin Soothing Moisturizer is a must-have for anyone looking for a gentle and effective moisturizer that will leave their skin hydrated and soft for up to 48-hours.

Pros

  • Fragrance-free and non-irritating formula
  • Provides 48-hours of hydration
  • Gentle and pH-balanced formula won't irritate skin or clog pores
  • Suitable for all skin types

Cons

  • – Contains no acne-fighting ingredients

5. Differin's Gentle Spf Moisturizer For Acne Skin

The Differin Oil Control Moisturizer is a dermatologist-developed product that provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB SPF 30 protection, making it ideal for use with Differin Gel (0.1% Adapalene). It is lightweight and mattifying, thanks to its Micropearl technology that absorbs surface oil for a matte finish. The oil-free, non-greasy, non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic and fragrance-free formula won't clog pores. The Oleosome technology used in this moisturizer helps in nourishing and moisturizing the skin as it uses a low concentration of sunscreen filters for minimal irritation while providing significant hydration. This product is perfect for those with oily or acne-prone skin who are looking for a moisturizer that will not aggravate their skin.

To use this product, apply liberally 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply at least every 2 hours to ensure maximum sun protection.

Pros

  • Provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB SPF 30 protection
  • Lightweight and mattifying
  • Oil-free, non-greasy, non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic, and fragrance-free formula
  • Contains Oleosome technology that helps in nourishing and moisturizing the skin
  • Ideal for use with Differin Gel (0.1% Adapalene)
  • Suitable for those with oily or acne-prone skin

6. Citrus Honey Moisture Gel For All Skin Types.

Introducing the perfect addition to your skincare routine for both men and women – the Citrus-Honey Aqua Glow moisturizer. This fast-absorbing moisturizer-meets-serum is infused with annatto seed, brightening grapefruit, and orange & lemon peel oils, making it suitable for all skin types. It quickly hydrates and soothes the skin, leaving it feeling soft and nicely hydrated without feeling too heavy. Its lightweight formula makes it a great option to use over serums, and it is ideal for those who want to keep their skin looking young and healthy.

The Citrus-Honey Aqua Glow is not only a great moisturizer but also has many other benefits. It contains honey extract, which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties that help with skin conditions such as acne or psoriasis. It also helps to prevent wrinkles from forming and stop age-accelerating skin infections, keeping the skin looking young and fresh.

The product also contains antioxidant-rich annatto seed extract, which helps fight wrinkles and soothe irritated skin. It also helps to heal minor skin wounds, sun damage, and other signs of aging. The Citrus-Honey Aqua Glow is made with a clean and cruelty-free formula that is alcohol-free, fragrance-free, and does not contain any harmful chemicals. This makes it a great option for those who are conscious about using clean and safe skincare products.

In summary, the Citrus-Honey Aqua Glow moisturizer is a great option for those who want to keep their skin looking young, fresh, and healthy. Its lightweight formula makes it suitable for all skin types, and its clean and cruelty-free formula makes it a safe and responsible choice for those who care about what they put on their skin.

Pros

  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Fast-absorbing and lightweight formula
  • Contains honey extract with anti-inflammatory properties
  • Contains antioxidant-rich annatto seed extract
  • Clean and cruelty-free formula

7. Hydrating Gel With Morning Burst For Acne Care.

Wake up to refreshed and hydrated skin with Clean & Clear Morning Burst Hydrating Gel Face Moisturizer. This daily facial moisturizer is specially formulated with water-based, oil-free ingredients that leave skin feeling hydrated and refreshed. It features a unique blend of cucumber and green mango extracts that help replenish skin, making it look and feel smooth and healthy.

The ultra-lightweight, non-greasy formula of this gel moisturizer makes it easy to apply and absorb quickly, leaving no heavy residue on the skin. This morning acne moisturizer is perfect for those who want to start their day with a burst of refreshing hydration for their skin. It is also non-comedogenic, so it won't clog pores and cause breakouts. Use this oil-free moisturizer as part of your daily skin care routine for a touch of moisture by applying after cleansing skin and smoothing evenly over face.

Clean & Clear Morning Burst Hydrating Gel Face Moisturizer is perfect for all skin types and is gentle enough for daily use. It is specially designed to leave your skin feeling soft, smooth, and hydrated all day long. Say goodbye to dull, dry skin and hello to refreshed, radiant skin with Clean & Clear Morning Burst Hydrating Gel Face Moisturizer.

Pros

  • Water-based, oil-free formula provides refreshing hydration for the skin
  • Features a unique blend of cucumber and green mango extracts to help replenish skin
  • Ultra-lightweight, non-greasy formula absorbs quickly and leaves no heavy residue
  • Non-comedogenic, won't clog pores and cause breakouts
  • Perfect for all skin types and gentle enough for daily use

Cons

  • – May not provide enough moisture for extremely dry skin

8. Aloe Vera Calming Gel For Sensitive Skin.

Looking for a daily moisturizer that can nourish sensitive, acne-prone skin? Try Clean & Clear Aloe Vera Calming Gel Facial Moisturizer! This lightweight, oil-free moisturizer is perfect for those who want to soothe and hydrate their skin without causing any further irritation. It contains 4.9 ounces of gentle aloe vera gel that can provide moisture for calm, clear, and stress-free skin. With a refreshing scent of aloe vera, this moisturizer is perfect for those who want to care for their skin in a natural way.

Clean & Clear Aloe Vera Calming Gel Facial Moisturizer is suitable for sensitive skin, and it is free of parabens, sulfates, phthalates, oils, and dyes. It is also vegan and not tested on animals, so you can use it with confidence. This gentle aloe vera moisturizer can be used as part of a complete sensitive skincare routine. Combine it with other products from the Clean & Clear Aloe Vera line, such as the Gentle Facial Cleanser, for best results.

If you're looking for a gentle, soothing moisturizer for your sensitive skin, try Clean & Clear Aloe Vera Calming Gel Facial Moisturizer today!

Pros

  • Lightweight and oil-free, perfect for sensitive, acne-prone skin
  • Contains gentle aloe vera gel for soothing and hydration
  • Free of parabens, sulfates, phthalates, oils, and dyes
  • Vegan and not tested on animals
  • Can be used as part of a complete sensitive skincare routine

9. Hydrating Gel For All Skin Types

OLIVIA QUIDO Clinical Skincare Hydrating Gel is a must-have for those who want to keep their complexion fresh and supple. This hydrating face moisturizer for men and women is specially formulated to soothe and cool your skin. It is perfect for different skin types, including sensitive, acne-prone, and oily skin. Cleanse your pores and achieve firm, supple skin with our water-based moisturizer for face and neck.

Our facial moisturizer is enriched with natural plant extracts, including seaweed, bladderwrack, ginseng, and more. These botanical extracts and herbs are known for their natural benefits, and they help to enhance your skin's health and beauty.

Make OLIVIA QUIDO Clinical Skincare Hydrating Gel part of your daily beauty regimen. Simply apply it once or twice daily after careful cleansing and toning. You may begin to enjoy visible results in the first few weeks.

OLIVIA QUIDO Clinical Skincare takes a holistic approach to beauty. Our passion for skin esthetics has allowed us to help countless women look and feel truly beautiful for the past 16 years.

Pros

  • Soothes and cools the skin
  • Suitable for different skin types, including sensitive, acne-prone, and oily skin
  • Enriched with natural plant extracts for enhanced skin health and beauty
  • Water-based moisturizer for face and neck helps cleanse pores and achieve firm, supple skin
  • Easy to use and integrate into your daily beauty regimen
  • Holistic approach to beauty

10. Snail Repair Cream: Korean Skincare For All Skin

Introducing the Daily Repairing Cream and Supercharged Repairing Moisturizer by COSRX, two multi-solution creams that are designed to soothe and moisturize the skin with the power of Snail Mucin. The Daily Repairing Cream contains 92% Snail Secretion Filtrate that helps to build a moisture barrier, plump, hydrate, and soothe the skin, leaving behind a radiant complexion. This cream is perfect for everyday use and glides easily onto the skin without leaving any sticky residue.

On the other hand, the Supercharged Repairing Moisturizer is a light-weight, gel-type cream that is ideal for those with sensitive and irritated skin. Formulated with Snail Mucin, Hyaluronic Acid, and Betaine, this cream helps to strengthen the skin's natural barrier by replenishing moisture and soothing irritated skin after breakouts like rosacea. All the key ingredients in these creams work together to provide effective moisturization and gentle exfoliation to all skin types, including sensitive skin.

The Snail Secretion Filtrate used in these creams is obtained in a safe and environmentally friendly way from snails' favorite environment and processed as a cosmetic material. It is an effective ingredient for enhanced moisturization and gentle exfoliation, and it instantly soothes damaged skin while delivering moisture deep into your skin. The key components of Snail Mucin include Collagen, Elastin, Glycolic Acid, and Allantoin, which provide numerous benefits to the skin.

All COSRX products are formulated with skin-friendly ingredients that alleviate irritated skin. These creams are hypoallergenic, dermatologist-tested, parabens-free, sulfates-free, and phthalates-free, making them safe for all skin types. Use these creams regularly to achieve healthy, radiant, and hydrated skin.

Pros

  • Contains Snail Mucin, Hyaluronic Acid, and Betaine that help to strengthen the skin's natural barrier.
  • Provides effective moisturization and gentle exfoliation to all skin types, including sensitive skin.
  • The Snail Secretion Filtrate used in these creams is obtained in a safe and environmentally friendly way.
  • Hypoallergenic, dermatologist-tested, parabens-free, sulfates-free, and phthalates-free.
  • Perfect for everyday use and leaves behind a radiant complexion.

Best Gel Moisturizer For Acne Prone Skin FAQs

Are there any gel moisturizers specifically formulated for oily or acne prone skin?

Yes, there are many gel moisturizers that are specifically formulated for oily or acne-prone skin. These moisturizers are lightweight and non-greasy, making them perfect for those with oily skin. They also typically contain ingredients that help to control oil production, such as salicylic acid or witch hazel. Additionally, many gel moisturizers for acne-prone skin contain anti-inflammatory ingredients like aloe vera or green tea extract to help calm and soothe irritated skin. When looking for a gel moisturizer for oily or acne-prone skin, it is important to choose one that is non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog your pores. Some popular options include Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel-Cream, La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat, and Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel. It is always best to consult with a dermatologist to determine which gel moisturizer is best suited for your individual skin type and concerns.

Can a gel moisturizer really help prevent breakouts on acne prone skin?

Yes, a gel moisturizer can definitely help prevent breakouts on acne prone skin. In fact, it is often recommended by dermatologists and skincare experts as an ideal moisturizer for people with oily or acne-prone skin.

Unlike heavy creams or lotions, gel moisturizers are lightweight and non-greasy, which means they won't clog pores or contribute to the formation of acne. They are also water-based, which helps to hydrate the skin without adding excess oil.

Moreover, gel moisturizers usually contain ingredients that can help fight acne and soothe inflammation, such as salicylic acid, tea tree oil, aloe vera, and niacinamide. These ingredients can help to unclog pores, reduce redness, and prevent the growth of acne-causing bacteria.

However, it's important to note that not all gel moisturizers are created equal. It's important to choose a product that is specifically formulated for acne-prone skin and is free from comedogenic (pore-clogging) ingredients. As with any skincare product, it's also recommended to patch test before applying it all over your face.

Can using the wrong moisturizer exacerbate acne or cause new breakouts?

Yes, using the wrong moisturizer can definitely exacerbate acne or cause new breakouts. Moisturizers that are too heavy or contain ingredients that are too oily can clog pores and lead to the formation of new pimples. On the other hand, moisturizers that are too light or contain ingredients that are too drying can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to increased oil production and the development of more acne.

To avoid exacerbating acne or causing new breakouts, it's important to choose a moisturizer that is specifically formulated for acne-prone skin. Look for a moisturizer that is labeled "non-comedogenic" or "oil-free," and avoid moisturizers that contain ingredients like lanolin, petroleum jelly, and mineral oil, as these can clog pores.

Additionally, it's important to use a moisturizer that is appropriate for your skin type. If you have oily skin, choose a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer, while if you have dry skin, choose a more hydrating moisturizer.

Overall, choosing the right moisturizer is an important step in managing acne-prone skin and preventing new breakouts.

How often should I be using a gel moisturizer on my acne prone skin?

As a content writer, I would suggest that the frequency of using a gel moisturizer on acne-prone skin depends on several factors. Firstly, it is important to identify the severity of the acne and the type of gel moisturizer that you are using. If you are using an oil-based gel moisturizer, it is recommended that you use it sparingly, as it may exacerbate the acne. On the other hand, if you are using a water-based gel moisturizer, you can use it more frequently.

Secondly, it is important to consider the climate and the level of humidity in the environment. If you live in a dry climate, you may need to use the gel moisturizer more frequently to prevent your skin from becoming dehydrated. Conversely, if you live in a humid climate, you may need to use the gel moisturizer less frequently to avoid clogging your pores.

Ultimately, the best way to determine how often you should use a gel moisturizer on your acne-prone skin is to experiment and listen to your skin. If your skin feels dry and tight, you may need to use the gel moisturizer more often. If your skin feels oily and congested, you may need to use it less often. Remember to always patch test new products before applying them to your entire face.

What are the best ingredients to look for in a gel moisturizer for acne prone skin?

When it comes to finding a gel moisturizer for acne-prone skin, there are a few key ingredients to look for. Firstly, you want to ensure that the product is non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog your pores and exacerbate acne. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which can provide lightweight hydration without feeling heavy on the skin. Niacinamide is another great option, as it can help regulate oil production and soothe inflammation. Tea tree oil is also known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making it a great addition to a gel moisturizer for acne-prone skin. Aloe vera is another ingredient to look for, as it can calm and soothe irritated skin. When shopping for a gel moisturizer, be sure to read the ingredients list carefully and opt for products that are specifically formulated for acne-prone skin.

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