If I Have Oily Skin, Should I Still Moisturize at Night?

When you deal with a greasy T-zone (think nose, chin, and forehead), or oily skin all over, the last thing you probably want to do is slather on more hydration. But having oily skin doesn’t mean you don’t need moisturizer. According to Gabrielle Harrison, esthetician and founder of SISH Beauty, people with all skin types should be using a moisturizer in their regular skin care routine.

In fact, not using one can actually make your greasy skin worse. “If oily skin isn’t properly moisturized, the skin will produce more oil to try to compensate for the dryness,” Harrison says. Even when skin is oily, it can still be dry. “Oily skin types should use moisturizers that are water-based, lightweight, and don’t contain any comedogenic ingredients,” Harrison adds. “Noncomedogenic” is basically a fancy word for “won’t clog pores.” This should be top of mind when choosing a moisturizer. 

Harrison says to look for ingredients such as “niacinamide, squalene, and lactic acid, which can help oily skin regulate production levels while also keeping it properly hydrated and aid in breakout prevention.” Lactic acid is especially key, since it will gently exfoliate dead skin cells and promote cell turnover to ensure your pores are not getting clogged, which can lead to further oil production. The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA 2% Exfoliating Serum is an affordable favorite.

When it comes to your p.m. moisturizer, slather on that water-based, noncomedogenic hydrator to help your skin absorb the nourishing ingredients overnight. Dieux Air Angel Collagen & Peptide Hydrating Gel Cream and Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel both have the right amount of hydration for oily and combination skin.