If you have combination skin that is prone to acne, finding the right moisturizer can be a challenge. You want a product that will hydrate your skin without clogging your pores or exacerbating your breakouts. Here are five key points to keep in mind when searching for a moisturizer that works for your skin type:
1. Look for lightweight, oil-free formulas: Heavy creams and lotions can leave oily areas feeling greasy and contribute to acne formation. Opt for lightweight, oil-free moisturizers that won't weigh down your skin.
2. Ingredients matter: Look for moisturizers that contain ingredients like salicylic acid, which can help unclog pores and prevent breakouts. Avoid products that contain potentially irritating ingredients like fragrances or alcohol.
3. Don't skip the SPF: Sun protection is important for all skin types, but it's especially crucial if you're prone to acne. Look for a moisturizer with at least SPF 30 to keep your skin safe from harmful UV rays.
4. Patch test before using: Even if a moisturizer is marketed for "acne-prone" skin, it's still possible to have a negative reaction. Always patch test new products before applying them all over your face.
5. Consistency is key: It can take time to find the right moisturizer for your skin, so don't give up if you don't see results right away. Stick with a consistent skincare routine and give new products at least a few weeks to work before deciding if they're a good fit.
10 Best Moisturizer For Combo Acne Prone Skin
# | Product Image | Product Name | Check Price |
---|---|---|---|
1
|
|
||
2
|
|
||
3
|
|
||
4
|
|
||
5
|
|
||
6
|
|
||
7
|
|
||
8
|
|
||
9
|
|
||
10
|
|
1. Paula's Choice C5 Super Boost Moisturizer: Lightweight Hydration For Discoloration, Uneven Tone, Fine Lines & Acne-Prone Skin. Contains 5% Vitamin C, Polyglutamic Acid & Squalane. Fragrance-Free & Paraben-Free. 1.7 Fl Oz.

Paula's Choice C5 Super Boost Moisturizer with 5% Vitamin C is a daily face lotion designed to provide lightweight hydration while targeting discoloration, uneven tone, fine lines, and acne-prone skin. This fragrance-free and paraben-free moisturizer is formulated with high-quality, science-backed ingredients that work together to provide powerful results.
The moisturizer contains 5% pure stabilized Vitamin C, which is a dermatologist's favorite anti-aging antioxidant in its most effective form, l-ascorbic acid. This ingredient brightens dullness, evens tone and visibly firms the skin. It helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and other signs of aging, making the skin look more youthful and radiant.
In addition to Vitamin C, this moisturizer also contains peptides, squalene, and a double-encapsulated lipid blend. These ingredients work together to repair the skin's barrier, lock in moisture, and leave the skin bouncy and supple. The moisturizer provides all-day hydration, ensuring that the skin stays moisturized and healthy-looking all day long.
The unique air-tight, opaque container used to package this moisturizer protects and maintains the potency of the Vitamin C over time. This ensures that the product remains effective for a long time, even after opening.
The Paula's Choice C5 Super Boost Moisturizer with 5% Vitamin C is suitable for all skin types, including normal, oily, combination, dry, and acne-prone skin. It is a daily multi-active face moisturizer that provides effective results for all skin types.
Paula's Choice Skincare is a brand that makes science-backed products that work. They do not use any fragrance, parabens, or fluff in their formulas. Their products are cruelty-free and target any concern from wrinkles to breakouts. With the Paula's Choice C5 Super Boost Moisturizer with 5% Vitamin C, you can be sure that you are using a high-quality, effective moisturizer that will provide you with the results you are looking for.
2. Aveeno Clear Complexion Daily Face Moisturizer Fights Acne And Evens Skin Tone With Salicylic Acid And Total Soy Complex. It's Oil-Free, Hypoallergenic, And Non-Comedogenic In A 4 Fl Oz Bottle.

Aveeno Clear Complexion Salicylic Acid Acne-Fighting Daily Face Moisturizer is a dermatologist-recommended product that helps prevent breakouts and visibly evens skin tone. This 4-fluid ounce bottle contains 0.5% salicylic acid, a proven acne-fighting ingredient that helps clear up existing blemishes and prevent future breakouts.
The daily facial moisturizer features Total Soy Complex that improves the overall look of the complexion by visibly evening skin tone and smoothing texture. This formula is oil-free, hypoallergenic, and non-comedogenic, making it safe for sensitive skin. The fast-absorbing formula is gentle and won't clog pores, leaving the skin feeling soft and smooth.
The Aveeno Clear Complexion collection is designed to clear skin without dulling the natural glow. Each exclusive soy-enriched skincare product, with clinically proven acne medication, clears blemishes and helps reveal the skin's true radiance.
This moisturizer is an essential part of any skincare routine for those with breakout-prone skin. The acne-fighting ingredient, salicylic acid, deeply penetrates the pores, unclogging them and preventing future breakouts. The Total Soy Complex helps to even out skin tone, leaving the skin looking clear and healthy.
The oil-free formula of the Aveeno Clear Complexion Salicylic Acid Acne-Fighting Daily Face Moisturizer is perfect for those with oily skin. The lightweight formula absorbs quickly, leaving the skin feeling fresh and clean. The hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic properties make it safe for those with sensitive skin, ensuring that it doesn't cause any irritation or breakouts.
In conclusion, the Aveeno Clear Complexion Salicylic Acid Acne-Fighting Daily Face Moisturizer is an excellent product for those with breakout-prone skin. The blend of salicylic acid and Total Soy Complex helps to prevent breakouts and even out skin tone, leaving the skin looking clear and healthy. The formula is oil-free, hypoallergenic, and non-comedogenic, making it safe for those with sensitive skin.
3. La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Matte Moisturizer: Oil-Free, Non-Comedogenic, Moisturizing For Sensitive Skin With Niacinamide.

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Matte Face Moisturizer is a daily gel moisturizer specially designed for oily skin control. This product provides all-day hydration without the shine, while helping to repair the skin barrier within an hour. It is formulated with a high concentration of La Roche-Posay prebiotic thermal water, ceramide-3, niacinamide, and glycerin to restore healthy-looking skin.
The lightweight gel texture of this moisturizer quickly absorbs into the skin, providing a unique double-action benefit. It hydrates the skin while reducing shine, making it perfect for those with oily skin. It also helps to improve skin texture, reduce fine lines, and decrease the size of visible pores.
This oil-free moisturizer has been dermatologist-tested and is non-comedogenic, making it suitable for those with sensitive skin. The high concentration of La Roche-Posay prebiotic thermal water helps to soothe and protect the skin from external aggressors.
Niacinamide is a key ingredient in this product, and it helps to visibly fade skin discolorations, making it ideal for those with uneven skin tone. It also helps to reduce inflammation and redness, making it perfect for those with sensitive skin.
Perlite and silica are also included in this moisturizer to help absorb excess oil, giving a matte finish to the skin. This ingredient combination makes it an excellent choice for those with oily skin, as it helps to control excess oil production.
Overall, La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Matte Face Moisturizer is a highly effective product that provides all-day hydration without the shine, while also helping to improve skin texture, reduce fine lines and visible pores, and control excess oil production. It is formulated with high-quality ingredients that are gentle on the skin, making it an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin.
4. Cerave Acne Set: Wash, Serum, Am & Pm Moisturizers (5oz Cleanser + 1oz Serum + 2oz Am Lotion + 2oz Pm Lotion) For Acne Treatment With Benzoyl Peroxide & Retinol, Spf In Am Moisturizer.

CeraVe Acne Skin Care Set is a comprehensive solution for those seeking an effective acne treatment routine. The set includes a full-size 5oz CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser, a full-size 1oz CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum, and 2oz CeraVe AM & PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion.
The acne face wash contains benzoyl peroxide, an ingredient that helps clear pimples, whiteheads, and blackheads from the skin's surface. It also helps prevent new acne from forming and visibly reduces the appearance of post-acne marks. The acne scar treatment with retinol helps to resurface the skin, improve texture and tone, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
The Cerave AM & PM face cream contains hyaluronic acid to help retain skin's moisture and niacinamide to calm the skin. The use of MVE Technology ensures hydration throughout the day and night. The AM lotion also contains SPF, providing a sunscreen to protect the skin from harmful UV rays.
All CeraVe products are formulated with three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II), which are naturally found in the skin and make up 50% of the lipids in the skin barrier. The ceramides help to maintain the skin's natural barrier, keeping it hydrated and healthy.
Developed with dermatologists, CeraVe Skincare has products suitable for all skin types, including dry, sensitive, oily, and acne-prone skin. The Acne Skin Care Set is a complete package that provides a daily acne treatment routine to help clear and prevent acne while keeping the skin hydrated and healthy.
In summary, the CeraVe Acne Skin Care Set is an effective and comprehensive solution for those seeking an acne treatment routine. With its combination of acne face wash, acne scar treatment, and AM/PM moisturizers, it provides a complete package to clear and prevent acne while keeping the skin hydrated and healthy. Developed with dermatologists and formulated with essential ceramides, this skincare set is suitable for all skin types.
5. Tatcha Dewy Skin Cream – Hydrating, Plumping, And Protecting Moisturizer For Dry And Combo Skin – 50ml/1.7oz.

TATCHA The Dewy Skin Cream is a luxurious and rich cream that provides intense hydration and plumps up the skin, giving it a healthy and dewy glow. This cream is specially formulated for dry skin, but can also be used on combination skin for those who prefer a richer texture.
The cream is infused with Japanese purple rice, which is packed with antioxidants that help protect the skin from environmental stressors. It also contains a fermentation of Japanese anti-aging superfoods such as green tea, rice, and algae, which help to rejuvenate the skin and make it look more youthful and radiant.
In addition to these key ingredients, the cream also contains a blend of botanical extracts and oils from ginseng, wild thyme, and sweet marjoram. These nourishing ingredients help to enhance the skin's natural ability to retain and release moisture, leaving it hydrated and glowing.
The TATCHA The Dewy Skin Cream is ideal for firming, smoothing, resurfacing, and plumping the skin. It is perfect for those looking to achieve a youthful and radiant complexion.
Beyond its powerful skincare benefits, every Tatcha purchase supports education equality worldwide. Since 2014, Tatcha has been supporting the Girl's Education Program in Asia and Africa through the Beautiful Faces, Beautiful Futures fund, which helps girls stay in school. As of 2021, your purchases also bring diverse books to underserved communities in the United States through Room to Read’s U.S. Literacy Initiative.
In conclusion, TATCHA The Dewy Skin Cream is a luxurious and powerful cream that hydrates, plumps, and protects the skin. With its unique blend of Japanese anti-aging superfoods, botanical extracts, and oils, this cream is perfect for those looking to achieve a youthful and radiant complexion. Plus, with every purchase, you can feel good knowing that you are supporting education equality worldwide.
6. Proactiv 3-Step Acne Treatment Kit – Complete 60 Day Skin Care With Benzoyl Peroxide, Repairing Spot Treatment, And Exfoliating Toner For Face And Body.

Proactiv 3 Step Acne Treatment is a comprehensive skincare system that has been designed to effectively address acne-prone skin. This product is the original acne kit that has brought about a skincare revolution in the industry. It delivers finely-milled benzoyl peroxide deep into the pores to stop acne-causing bacteria in their tracks and prevent future breakouts.
The Proactiv Solution is a powerful, three-step acne treatment system that goes deep into the skin to remove impurities and prevent future flare-ups. Each kit includes Proactiv Solution Renewing Cleanser, Proactiv Solution Revitalizing Toner, and Proactiv Solution Repairing Treatment.
The Renewing Cleanser is a benzoyl peroxide face wash that helps remove dirt, oil, and dead skin cells from the skin's surface. It deeply cleanses the pores and helps prevent new breakouts from forming. The Revitalizing Toner is an exfoliating toner that helps remove any remaining impurities and dead skin cells. It also helps to balance the skin's pH levels and prepare the skin for the next step.
The Repairing Treatment is a benzoyl peroxide acne spot treatment that helps to target and heal existing acne blemishes. It also helps to prevent new breakouts from forming by killing acne-causing bacteria deep in the pores. The three-step system is easy to follow and can be used by people of all ages and skin types, including those with sensitive skin.
The Proactiv 3 Step Acne Treatment is a complete acne skin care kit that can help you achieve clear, radiant skin in just 60 days. The kit is easy to use, and it is recommended that you use it twice a day to get the best results. The Proactiv Solution is a trusted brand that has been recommended by dermatologists for over 20 years. It has helped millions of people around the world to achieve clearer, healthier-looking skin.
In conclusion, if you are looking for an effective acne treatment system that is easy to use and safe for all ages and skin types, then Proactiv 3 Step Acne Treatment is the perfect choice for you. Its powerful, three-step formula is designed to deliver results in just 60 days. So, say goodbye to acne and hello to clear, radiant skin with Proactiv.
7. Cetaphil Hydrating Face Lotion With Hyaluronic Acid, 24 Hr Hydration, Combo Skin, Fragrance-Free, Non-Comedogenic, 3 Fl Oz.

CETAPHIL Daily Hydrating Lotion for Face is a specially formulated moisturizer designed to hydrate and protect the skin from dryness. This product is perfect for individuals with combination skin, as it provides immediate and intense hydration that lasts up to 24 hours.
The lotion contains hyaluronic acid and powerful moisturizing agents that work together to lock in moisture and keep the skin hydrated all day long. Its fast-absorbing, lightweight formula ensures that the lotion does not leave a greasy residue or clog pores, making it ideal for daily use.
CETAPHIL Daily Hydrating Lotion for Face is fragrance-free and hypoallergenic, making it gentle on sensitive skin. It has been clinically tested to be effective yet non-irritating, ensuring that those with sensitive skin can use it without any concerns.
This product is perfect for individuals who are always on the go, as it comes in a travel size of under 3.4 fl oz. This makes it easy to take with you on your next vacation or trip, ensuring that your skin remains hydrated and protected even when you're away from home.
Overall, CETAPHIL Daily Hydrating Lotion for Face is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a moisturizer that provides long-lasting hydration without clogging pores or causing irritation. Its fast-absorbing, lightweight formula makes it ideal for daily use, while its fragrance-free and hypoallergenic properties ensure that it is gentle on even the most sensitive skin.
8. Cosrx Oil Free Lotion With Birch Sap, 3.38 Fl.oz / 100ml – Hydrating Moisturizer For All Skin Types, Korean Skincare, Paraben Free.

COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap is a daily acne facial moisturizer that hydrates all skin types. This Korean skincare product is paraben-free and contains 3.38 fl.oz / 100ml of nourishing lotion that is perfect for anyone with oily or combination skin. The lotion is recommended for both day and night use and provides instant nourishment to the skin.
The lotion is easy to use and can become a simple everyday staple for anyone who wants to keep their skin hydrated and nourished. It has a light and non-greasy consistency that penetrates deeply to calm and treat irritated skin while recharging it with necessary antioxidants and vitamins.
The key ingredient of this ultra-moisturizing lotion is 70% natural willow bark water or birch sap. This ingredient is effective for restoring moisture and maintaining the skin's hydration level. The lotion is fast and smooth to absorb, unlike other lotions that just sit on your skin with no benefits. It instantly penetrates the skin, leaving it fresh, soft, and silky smooth.
All COSRX products are formulated with skin-friendly ingredients that alleviate irritated skin. This lotion is hypoallergenic, dermatologist-tested, animal testing-free, parabens-free, sulfates-free, and phthalates-free. This ensures that the lotion is safe for all skin types and won't cause any irritation or allergic reaction.
In conclusion, if you're looking for a daily moisturizer that quenches your skin without the grease, COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap is the perfect solution. Its nourishing ingredients, fast absorption, and light consistency make it an essential skincare product that will leave your skin feeling hydrated, refreshed, and rejuvenated.
9. La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat Oil-Free Mattifying Moisturizer For Face Is A Facial Moisturizer For Oily Skin That Reduces Oil, Minimizes Pores, And Provides Shine Control For Sensitive Skin.

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat Oil-Free Mattifying Moisturizer for Face is a specially formulated facial moisturizer designed to target excess oil and minimize pores. This product is ideal for individuals with oily skin and sensitive skin that is prone to breakouts.
The key ingredient in this mattifying moisturizer is micro-exfoliating LHAs (lipo-hydroxy acid) that helps to reduce oil and refine pores. The oil-free formula is also designed to provide hydration to the skin while leaving it looking and feeling matte.
This facial moisturizer for oily skin is an excellent base for makeup and is dermatologist tested, paraben-free, non-comedogenic, oil-free, and allergy tested. The product features Sebulyse technology that provides dual action targeting by reducing shine and large pores.
The mattifying moisturizer visibly reduces the look of pores and pore minimizer, while also smoothing skin texture. A 4-week consumer test showed that 96% of users felt skin was immediately mattified and less oily, while 94% felt skin texture was refined.
The formula is also enriched with Lipo Hydroxy Acid (LHA) that has exfoliating and skin-renewing properties, Perlite that helps to absorb excess oil for a matte finish, Silica that provides a soft focus effect, and glycerin that hydrates the skin.
The La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat Oil-Free Mattifying Moisturizer for Face helps neutralize shine for lastingly matte, clear, and balanced skin. The product helps to tighten pores and make them less visible, leaving the skin looking fresh and revitalized.
The light, oil-free formula is designed to clear sebum-clogged pores at the source without causing any irritation or breakouts. The non-comedogenic formula ensures that the product will not clog pores, making it safe for use on sensitive skin.
Overall, the La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat Oil-Free Mattifying Moisturizer for Face is an excellent choice for individuals with oily skin who are looking for a product that will help to control oil, minimize pores, and leave skin looking and feeling matte and fresh.
10. Oil-Free Moisturizer For Oily Skin, Containing 2% Salicylic Acid And Hyaluronic Acid For Acne Control.

Vichy Normaderm PhytoAction Acne Control Salicylic Acid Moisturizer for Oily Skin is a revolutionary product that helps to clear acne, visibly improve skin tone and texture, and provide much-needed hydration to the skin. This moisturizer is designed specifically for oily and acne-prone skin and is formulated with carefully selected ingredients, including maximum strength 2% salicylic acid, pure hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and Vichy 15 mineral-rich volcanic water.
Clinically tested, this formula targets acne blemishes, blackheads, and enlarged pores, while also helping to visibly improve uneven skin tone and rough skin texture. The refreshing lightweight texture of the moisturizer easily glides on the skin and is absorbed quickly, leaving no greasy or drying finish. Instead, it leaves the skin feeling soothed, hydrated, and refreshed.
To use, simply apply 1-2 pumps of the moisturizer onto clean skin in the morning and at night, avoiding the eye area. The moisturizer can also be used under makeup for a flawless finish. With regular use, this product can help clear acne blemishes, reduce the look of enlarged pores, and visibly refine skin texture, resulting in a smoother, more even complexion.
Vichy Normaderm PhytoAction Acne Control Salicylic Acid Moisturizer is suitable for adult acne and is a must-have for anyone struggling with oily skin, acne, or uneven skin texture. With its powerful formula and carefully selected ingredients, this moisturizer is sure to become a staple in your skincare routine.
Best Moisturizer For Combo Acne Prone Skin FAQs
Are there any ingredients I should avoid in my moisturizer if I have combination acne-prone skin?
As someone with combination acne-prone skin, it's important to be mindful of the ingredients in your moisturizer to avoid exacerbating your skin concerns. Look for non-comedogenic moisturizers that are lightweight and oil-free to prevent clogging pores. Avoid ingredients such as lanolin, mineral oil, and petrolatum, as they can cause breakouts and clog pores. Additionally, steer clear of heavy fragrances and synthetic dyes, as they can irritate the skin and lead to further breakouts. Instead, opt for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and niacinamide, which can help hydrate the skin without causing excess oil production. It's also a good idea to consult with a dermatologist to determine the best moisturizer for your specific skin concerns.
Can moisturizers help prevent acne breakouts on combination skin?
Yes, moisturizers can help prevent acne breakouts on combination skin. Combination skin is characterized by having both oily and dry areas, and using the right moisturizer can help balance out the skin's oil production. Look for lightweight, oil-free moisturizers that are non-comedogenic, which means they won't clog pores. Moisturizers with ingredients like salicylic acid and glycolic acid can also be beneficial as they can help unclog pores and exfoliate dead skin cells.
It's important to note that while moisturizers can help prevent acne breakouts, they should be used in conjunction with a proper skincare routine that includes cleansing and exfoliating. Additionally, if you have severe acne or are experiencing persistent breakouts, it's important to consult with a dermatologist for personalized treatment options.
How do I choose a moisturizer that won't make my acne worse?
Choosing a moisturizer that won't make acne worse can be a tricky task, but there are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for one. Firstly, look for non-comedogenic moisturizers that are formulated to not clog pores. Secondly, consider the ingredients in the moisturizer – avoid those that are known to trigger acne, such as heavy oils and fragrances. Instead, opt for lightweight, oil-free formulas with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, which help hydrate the skin without causing breakouts. Additionally, it's important to choose a moisturizer that's suited to your skin type – if you have oily skin, for example, look for a moisturizer that's specifically designed for oily skin. Lastly, consult with a dermatologist if you're still unsure about which moisturizer to choose – they can recommend products that are best suited to your skin type and acne concerns.
How often should I apply moisturizer to my combination acne-prone skin?
As a rule of thumb, it is recommended to use moisturizer twice a day, once in the morning and once at night. However, for individuals with combination acne-prone skin, it is important to choose a moisturizer that is specifically formulated for their skin type. This means that the moisturizer should be lightweight and non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores or aggravate acne.
If you have oily skin in certain areas and dry patches in others, it might be helpful to use different moisturizers for different areas of your face. For example, a gel-based moisturizer might work better for oily areas, while a cream-based moisturizer could be used on dry areas.
It's also important to note that moisturizer should be applied after cleansing and toning, as it helps to lock in the moisture and nutrients from the previous steps. Additionally, if you are using any acne-fighting products, it's important to wait at least 5-10 minutes after applying those products before applying moisturizer to ensure maximum effectiveness.
Ultimately, finding the right moisturizer and frequency of use will depend on your individual skin type and concerns. It's always a good idea to consult with a dermatologist or skincare professional for personalized recommendations.
What are the best moisturizers for combination acne-prone skin?
There are a few key ingredients to look for in a moisturizer for combination acne-prone skin. Non-comedogenic formulas that won't clog pores are a must, as well as those that contain salicylic acid, which helps to unclog pores and prevent breakouts. Lightweight, oil-free formulas are also ideal for combination skin types.
Some recommended moisturizers for combination acne-prone skin include:
1. Cetaphil Pro Oil Absorbing Moisturizer – contains SPF 30 and helps mattify oily areas while still providing hydration.
2. La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat Daily Moisturizer – non-comedogenic formula with sebum-regulating ingredients that keep skin matte and clear.
3. Neutrogena Oil-Free Moisture for Combination Skin – lightweight formula that provides hydration without clogging pores, and contains salicylic acid to prevent breakouts.
4. Aveeno Clear Complexion Daily Moisturizer – non-comedogenic formula that contains salicylic acid and soy to even out skin tone and prevent breakouts.
Overall, it's important to find a moisturizer that addresses both hydration and acne prevention for combination acne-prone skin.