The Best Non Comedogenic Moisturizers for Acne-Prone Skin: Ultimate Guide & Review – If you have acne prone skin, you’re probably very hesitant to use moisturizers because you don’t want to put anything on your skin that can cause or worsen your breakouts.
And this much is true—moisturizers can be greasy and loaded with potentially irritating ingredients that can trigger acne. They are, however, essential in achieving balanced skin.
If you have acne-prone skin, the key is to use the right kind of products.
They should be hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic. This means that the product is less likely to clog pores or irritate the skin (Remember, irritated skin almost always equal acne). This should apply to all your products, from sunscreen to primers and foundation.
This applies not only to your moisturizers but all your basic skincare products.
For for those with oily skin, in particular, your skincare products should be lightweight so they’re easily absorbed by the skin. Products with thin, gel-like, or water-based consistencies are less likely to clog pores or worsen breakouts.
Disclosure: We independently research, test, and only recommend materials that we truly feel will deliver value to you. When you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more.
Table of Contents
- 1 Highest-Rated & Best-Selling: Non Comedogenic Moisturizers for Acne-Prone Skin
- 1.1 Eau Thermale Avène Tolérance Extrême Emulsion – Non Comedogenic Moisturizer for Acne Prone & Sensitive Skin
- 1.2 La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat - Oil-Free Facial Moisturizer for Oily Skin to Mattify Skin and Refine Pores
- 1.3 Acne.org 16 oz. Non Comedogenic Moisturizer with Licochalcone for Acne Prone Skin
- 1.4 Christina Moss Organic Facial Moisturizer
- 1.5 MDSolarSciences Daily Anti-Aging Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Moisturizer
- 1.6 Tatcha The Water Cream
- 1.7 Shiseido Essential Energy Moisturizing Gel Cream
- 1.8 Bioderma Sensibio Rich Soothing and Moisturizing Cream for Sensitive to Intolerant Skin
- 1.9 Hada Labo Rohto Gokujyn Hyaluronic Acid Lotion
- 1.10 Cetaphil Dermacontrol - Non Comedogenic Moisturizer for Acne Prone Skin
- 1.11 CeraVe Moisturizing Facial Lotion (AM or PM)
- 1.12 EltaMD SKINCARE UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 for Acne-Prone Skin, Rosacea, Hyperpigmentation
- 2 Comparison Chart of Non-Comedogenic Moisturizers
- 3 Things You Should Know About Non-Comedogenic Moisturizers
- 4 References:
How Often Should You Moisturize?
You should moisturize twice a day after cleansing in the morning and evening.
You can have only one you can use for morning and night, or have two with different ingredients:
- Daytime / AM Moisturizers – can contain sunscreen protection of at least SPF 30, or a stand-alone that you can pair with a non-comedogenic sunscreen
- Nighttime / PM Moisturizers – can contain antioxidants and vitamins like vitamin C, E, CO-Q10 to help with skin repair during the night.
Whichever you prefer, you should choose a moisturizer that works best to address your needs.
Buying Cheat Sheet:
- Best Non Comedogenic Day & Night Cream – CeraVe Moisturizing Facial Lotion (AM or PM)
- Best Non Comedogenic Face Cream – Tatcha The Water Cream
- Best Non Comedogenic, Hydrating Moisturizer For Dry Skin – Bioderma Sensibio Rich Soothing and Moisturizing Cream, Acne.org Non Comedogenic Moisturizer, Hada Labo Rohto Gokujyn Hyaluronic Acid Lotion
- Best Oil Free Non Comedogenic Moisturizer – La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat – Oil-Free Facial Moisturizer
- Best Non Comedogenic Moisturizer With SPF – MDSolarSciences Daily Anti-Aging Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Moisturizer
- Best Non Comedogenic Moisturizer For Oily Skin – La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat – Oil-Free Facial Moisturizer
- Best Non Comedogenic Moisturizer For Acne Prone Skin – Cetaphil Dermacontrol
- Best Non Comedogenic Moisturizer For Combination Skin – Christina Moss Organic Facial Moisturizer
- Best Non Comedogenic, Fragrance-free Moisturizer For Sensitive Skin – Eau Thermale Avène Tolérance Extrême Emulsion, Bioderma Sensibio Rich Soothing and Moisturizing Cream
- Best Drugstore Non Comedogenic Moisturizer – Cetaphil Dermacontrol
- Best Water Based Non Comedogenic Moisturizer – Hada Labo Rohto Gokujyn Hyaluronic Acid Lotion
- Best Non Comedogenic Gel Moisturizer – Shiseido Essential Energy Moisturizing Gel Cream
- Best Natural Organic Non Comedogenic Moisturizer – Christina Moss Organic Facial Moisturizer
Highest-Rated & Best-Selling:
Non Comedogenic Moisturizers for Acne-Prone Skin
These are some of the highest-rated and best-selling non comedogenic moisturizers in the market today.
Aside from considering formulation, ingredients, value for money, and consumer reviews; all the products listed are also explicitly labeled non comedogenic.
Make sure to choose a product that is best suited for your skin type and skin issues.
Best for: Acne-prone skin, Allergenic & sensitive skin, Post-procedure, Compromised skin barrier (burning, stinging, itching, irritation, dryness)
OUR REVIEW:
Non-comodogenic, hypoallergenic, paraben-free, preservative-free, fragrance-free, coloring agent-free.
These are a few of the many reasons Avène have stood the test of time. The French occult brand has remained one of the most recommended products for irritated, allergenic, and acne-prone skin by dermatologists worldwide.
Its keystone features are:
- PHYSIO-compatible ingredients – it mimics the function of healthy skin to improve hydration
- PHYSIO-fine texture – it has a refined texture to seamlessly sink into the skin
- Sterile Cosmetics – eliminates the need for preservatives and only contain the essentials for a healthy, hydrated skin
It’s also prescribed as a post-procedure treatment after laser skin resurfacing or chemical peels to facilitate healing and address side-effects like burning, stinging, itching, or dryness.
For acne, there are many underlying causes and even more that can aggravate it–fragrance, preservatives, and other irritants. Avène is free of all that and only contain ingredients that double down on hydration and re-balancing the skin.
This Emulsion, in particular, is lightweight and fast-absorbing; two crucial properties you need in a product if you have oily skin. It’s also great to use under foundation and doesn’t slide any of your makeup off (which can be the case with some emulsions). Moisturizers that leaves that tacky, sort of sticky feeling even after absorption can be a nightmare!
When you’re on acne medication, one of the usual side-effects is irritated skin with red and dry patches. It’s essential to have a moisturizer that will not only hydrate but also soothe any irritations and help recover your compromised lipid barrier. This is the key to bouncing back to healthy, clear skin.
If you have dry or dehydrated skin, you can get a slightly richer version of this with the Eau Thermale Avène Skin Recovery Cream. I had a bout of dermatitis a while back (complete with angry, scaly red patches!) and found the Recovery Cream much more soothing than the Emulsion.
The only one downside to this is the packaging. I always find myself squeezing out too much product at once. (Is it a trick to make us use more?! 😮 ) In any case, you’ll need to be careful and temper the pressure when handling the tube. Hopefully, they can come with a pump in future versions!
Best for: Acne-prone skin (especially if you’re on acne medication), Allergenic and sensitive skin, Post-procedure (laser skin resurfacing, chemical peels, etc.), Compromised skin barrier (burning, stinging, itching, irritation, dryness)
Best for: Oily skin, Enlarged pores or acne scarring, Sensitive skin, Rough or textured skin
OUR REVIEW:
If you’re like me and have very oily skin that has starts to demolish makeup as soon as you walk out the door, this one’s for you.
La Roche-Posay’s Effaclar Mat is light and fast absorbing. It doesn’t leave any residue behind and mattifies the skin flawlessly, which is crucial for controlling shine.
If you have acne-scarring or large pores as well, having a product that can sponge up oil on its own is a godsend. A matte complexion absorbs light and minimizes any flaws in the skin. If you can do this without having to cake layer after layer of foundation on, you achieve a more natural look and have a smooth, immaculate base to work on.
Extra tip: For large pores, use in tandem with a primer for a flawless finish.
This line, in particular, is formulated with Lipo-Hydroxy Acid (LHA), which are micro exfoliants that have the same core functions of the more common hydroxy acids but with the addition of it being antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory as well. It helps to visibly tighten pores and refine skin texture the longer you use it. It has antioxidants Vitamin E and C as well for an all around rejuvenating effect.
On the downside, that same feature makes this product unsuitable for those with sensitive skin. While this particular hydroxy acid is gentle in comparison to other acids, it can still be irritating to hypersensitive skin.
If you have irritated skin at the moment, it’s best to re-balance your skin first with something like the Eu Thermale Avene (shown above) before diving into this one.
Best for: Combination to Oily skin, Acne-prone skin, Acne-scarring or Large pores, Daytime moisturizer
Best for: Acne-prone, Irritated & sensitive skin; On acne-medication; Dry & flaky skin.
OUR REVIEW:
Step 3 of acne.org’s regimen. This product is made to counteract the extreme dryness that the benzoyl peroxide cream causes, so this formulation is guaranteed to provide intense hydration. It’s a lightweight non-comedogenic lotion that absorbs quickly and eliminates any flakiness or dry skin.
It features Licochalcone, a highly distinct and potent extract from licorice root. It is soothing and calming, helps control oil production, reduces inflammation, and keeps acne bacteria in check. Licochalcone is especially beneficial for acne-prone skin that’s irritated and sensitive.
Highly recommended if you’re currently on acne medication that causes dry, flaky skin.
Best for: Acne-prone, Irritated and sensitive skin, On acne-medication–particularly benzoyl peroxide; Dry and flaky skin
Best for: All skin types – Oily skin, dry skin, sensitive skin, combination skin.
OUR REVIEW:
Made with organic and all natural ingredients like aloe vera and organic oils. These botanical extracts are anti-inflammatory and provide intense moisturization. But more important than what they put in is what they don’t put in–chemical synthetic preservatives and petrochemicals which is something that some products use to increase shelf life but can be harmful for the body in the long run.
Made with certified organic ingredients.
Cruelty-free, no animal testing.
No harmful chemicals or preservatives: NO SLS, SLES, propylene glycol, propylene glycol derivatives, parabens, sulfates, dyes or synthetic chemical fragrance or preservatives.
Best for: All skin types – Oily skin, dry skin, sensitive skin, combination skin. If you’re looking for natural and organic products
Best for: All skin types, 2-in-1 sunscreen/moisturizer, Dull skin, Anti-aging.
OUR REVIEW:
This multi-tasking, lightweight moisturizer provides: continuous hydration, powerful skin repair, and broad-spectrum protection against the sun’s harmful rays.
- A blend of humectants (or elements that attract water) and time-released biomimetic moisturizers – so your skin is hydrated all the day long.
- Potent collagen repair peptides & antioxidants Vitamin C, Rose Hips, Grape, Rosemary & Green Tea Extracts – reduce signs of UV damage and minimize the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
- Calming agents include chamomile, niacinamide, seaweed extract, and caffeine – to help restore your skin’s radiance and promote an even-toned look.
- MDSolarScience’s patented SolSci-X stabilization gives solid broad spectrum SPF 30 without any of the contentious chemicals.
Non-Comedogenic — Won’t Clog Pores.
Natural Lavender Essence.
Paraben Free. Fragrance Free. Gluten Free. All products are rigidly tested and formulated without oxybenzone, octinoxate or aminobenzoic acid (PABA).
Animal Testing Free. EcoCert® Certified. Skin Cancer Foundation Recommended.
Best for: All skin types, those looking for a 2-in-1 sunscreen/moisturizer, Dull skin, Anti-aging
Best for: Normal to Oily skin, Large pores, Anti-aging
OUR REVIEW:
One of the most popular high-end moisturizers, The Water Cream provides nutrient-rich hydration with TATCHA’s signature Hadasei-3™, an anti-aging trinity of:
- Uji Green Tea – prized in Japan as the purest and finest source of green tea known to detoxify and prevent signs of premature aging
- Okinawa Mozuku Algae – rich in polysaccharides, essential for the skin’s water retention and renewal
- Akita Rice – the finest rice in Japan, also rich in essential proteins for a nourishing moisturizer
Additional Japanese botanicals include:
- Japanese Leopard Lily to clarify the skin and control excess oil
- Japanese Wild Rose smoothes skin texture and visibly tightens pores
Just for extra class, it gives a subtle, shine-free glow with real 23-karat gold. (A bit over the top but if you want to feel like a million dollars, why the hell not? 😉 )
Dermatologist tested. Oil-free. Non-comedogenic. Non-sensitizing. Non-irritating. Cruelty-free.
Formulated without: Mineral oil, synthetic fragrances, sulfate detergents, parabens, urea, DEA, TEA or phthalates.
Best for: Normal to Oily skin, Large pores, Anti-aging
Best for: All skin types
OUR REVIEW:
Another brand that precedes its reputation, Shiseido’s lightweight gel moisturizer carries its innovative ReNeura Technology™. This unique formulation rejuvenates the skin’s sensors to make it more responsive to your daily skincare regimen.
The key ingredients are:
- Active Response Powder (Detect) – an elastic micro-spherical powder that makes it easier for the skin to detect change
- Ashitaba (Transmit) – this plant is known for its ability to facilitate regeneration and protect the cell’s mitochondria from damage and boost the nerve cells
- Citrus Unshiu Peel Extract – known to aid the skin’s ability to generate moisture
This energizing gel cream deeply hydrates to get visibly smooth, dewy, fresh skin that glows. It counteracts dullness, dry skin, and appearance of fine lines.
The jars come in 64 different shapes inspired by pottery sued in Japanese tea ceremonies.
Dermatologist-Tested. Non-Comedogenic. Non-greasy. Paraben-Free. Mineral Oil-Free
After 3 days: 91% said it improved dryness
After 4 weeks: 98% said it moisturizes, 93% said skin felt smooth, 90% said it brightens skin tone
(Tested by 104 women)
Best for: All skin types
Best for: Dry to very dry skin, Sensitive to intolerant, reactive skin, Compromised skin barrier
OUR REVIEW:
Those with sensitive and acne-prone skin all know that a single sniff of irritation will equate to a breakout. And if you’re on any acne medication, the dryness that comes with it can be punishing. A compromised skin barrier only perpetuates the cycle of acne and ravages your skin as it does.
Bioderma’s Sensibio Rich is especially made for sensitive and reactive skin. This intensely nourishing treatment biologically strengthens the skin’s resistance to external elements and increases its tolerance threshold. It moisturizes and restructures the skin barrier to improve protection and prevent any further irritants from penetrating the skin.
The Toléridine™ patent is the brand’s breakthrough for sensitive skin. Boosted by the D.A.F. (Dermatological Advanced Formulation) complex, it works to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory molecules to make the skin less reactive.
Glycyrrhetinic acid instantly soothes any sensation of tightness and overheating to ensure immediate comfort.
Other active ingredients have been formulated and rigorously selected for their safety, and thus guarantees optimum tolerance.
This product doesn’t fluff and can serve as an excellent make-up base.
Best for: Dry to very dry skin, Sensitive to intolerant, reactive skin, Compromised skin barrier
Best for: All skin types
OUR REVIEW:
A millennial and gen-z favorite, with its affordable price point and heavy-duty hydration.
Japan’s #1 drugstore face lotion (aka. moisturizer as we call it), Hada Labo products are made around their SHA or Super Hyaluronic Acid. Regular hyaluronic acid hold 1000x its weight in moisture and works overtime to replenish the skin. Hyaluronic acid is also a key component in skin aging. As we grow old, our body produces less of it and results in drier, less elastic, less resilient skin.
Super Hyaluronic Acid, a patent pending key ingredient, replenishes the skin with twice as much moisture-retention capacity of Hyaluronic Acid.
Dehydrated skin often has a higher skin pH level (around pH 4.5). Hada Labo formulates their products with a PH level of 5.0-6.5 to balance it out and maintain a healthy, moisturized skin.
This is on the thin side, almost like a toner. It sinks into the skin and a little goes a long way. From experience, a bottle can last about 3-4 months.
Fragrance-free. Colorant-free. Oil-free. Alcohol-free.
Best for: All skin types
Best for: Oily to combination skin
OUR REVIEW:
It has a 4-in-1 formula: Clinically proven to absorb oil, reduce shine, provide hydration, and broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection.
Micropearl technology gives skin a matte finish. Oleosome technology™ uses a lower concentration of sunscreen filters for better hydration and less irritation.
One of my personal drugstore favorites. This formulation provides light hydration while leaving a matte finish—perfect for acne-prone and oily skin. It doesn’t irritate the skin (it’s Cetaphil!) and best of all, it provides sunscreen protection which makes it the perfect day moisturizer.
Best for: Oily, Combination, and Acne-prone skin
Best for: Normal to Oily skin
OUR REVIEW:
A light and silky moisturizer with an impressive blend of SPF 46 and UVA/UVB protection with several skincare superstars:
- 9% transparent micronized zinc oxide – Natural mineral compound that works as a sunscreen agent by reflecting and scattering UVA and UVB rays
- High purity Niacinamide (vitamin B3) – Anti-inflammatory that reduces redness and minimizes the appearance of dry or damaged skin and restores suppleness
- Sodium hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid) – Humectant that attracts and retains moisture, improving skin feel and restores suppleness
- Tocopheryl acetate (vitamin E) – Antioxidant that reduces free radicals to help diminish the visible signs of aging
This oil-free formulation also helps calm and protect skin types prone to breakouts, rosacea and pigmentation. It leaves no residue and can be worn alone or under makeup.
Fragrance-free, oil-free, paraben-free, sensitivity-free, and noncomedogenic.
The Skin Cancer Foundation recommended.
Best for: Acne-prone, Rosacea, Hyperpigmentation
AM: Day Moisturizer – Check for discounts & other customer reviews on Amazon
PM: Night Moisturizer – Check for discounts & other customer reviews on Amazon
Best for: Acne-prone skin, Rosacea, Hyperpigmentation
OUR REVIEW:
A light and silky moisturizer with an impressive blend of SPF 46 and UVA/UVB protection with several skincare superstars:
- 9% transparent micronized zinc oxide – Natural mineral compound that works as a sunscreen agent by reflecting and scattering UVA and UVB rays
- High purity Niacinamide (vitamin B3) – Anti-inflammatory that reduces redness and minimizes the appearance of dry or damaged skin and restores suppleness
- Sodium hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid) – Humectant that attracts and retains moisture, improving skin feel and restores suppleness
- Tocopheryl acetate (vitamin E) – Antioxidant that reduces free radicals to help diminish the visible signs of aging
This oil-free formulation also helps calm and protect skin types prone to breakouts, rosacea and pigmentation. It leaves no residue and can be worn alone or under makeup.
Fragrance-free, oil-free, paraben-free, sensitivity-free, and noncomedogenic.
The Skin Cancer Foundation recommended.
Best for: Acne-prone, Rosacea, Hyperpigmentation
Comparison Chart of Non-Comedogenic Moisturizers
| Brand / Product Name: | Product Image: | Jump to Review: | Consistency / Texture: | Key + Added Benefits: | Best for (Skin Type & Condition): |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eau Thermale Avène Tolérance Extrême Emulsion – Non Comedogenic Moisturizer for Acne Prone & Sensitive Skin |  | Read Review | Lightweight, milky texture. Fast-absorbing. | PHYSIO-compatible ingredients, PHYSIO-fine texture, Sterile Cosmetics. Also prescribed as a post-procedure treatment after laser skin resurfacing or chemical peels to facilitate healing. Non-comodogenic, hypoallergenic, paraben-free, preservative-free, fragrance-free, coloring agent-free. | Acne-prone skin - especially if you’re on acne medication. Allergenic and sensitive skin, Post-procedure - laser skin resurfacing, chemical peels, etc. Compromised skin barrier - burning, stinging, itching, irritation, dryness. |
| La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat - Oil-Free Facial Moisturizer for Oily Skin to Mattify Skin and Refine Pores |  | Read Review | Light, mattifying. | Dual action of reducing shine and large pores. Smoothens skin texture, can be used as make-up base. Formulated with micro-exfoliating, Lipo-Hydroxy Acid (LHA) | Oily skin, Enlarged pores or acne scarring, Sensitive skin, Rough or textured skin |
| Acne.org 16 oz. Non Comedogenic Moisturizer with Licochalcone for Acne Prone Skin |  | Read Review | Lightweight, absorbs quickly. | Made specifically to pair and counteract side-effects of acne medication: dry, flaky skin. Features Licochalcone, a potent extract that's soothing and calming, helps control oil production, reduces inflammation, and keeps acne bacteria in check. | Acne-prone, irritated and sensitive skin; On acne-medication, particularly benzoyl peroxide; Dry and flaky skin. |
| Christina Moss Organic Facial Moisturizer |  | Read Review | Quick absorbing, non-greasy. | Hypoallergenic. Made with certified organic ingredients. Cruelty-free, no animal testing. No harmful chemicals or preservatives: NO SLS, SLES, propylene glycol, propylene glycol derivatives, parabens, sulfates, dyes or synthetic chemical fragrance or preservatives. | All skin types – Oily skin, dry skin, sensitive skin, combination skin. |
| MDSolarSciences Daily Anti-Aging Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Moisturizer |  | Read Review | Lightweight, moisturizing sunscreen. | Continuous time-released hydration with biometric humectants. Provides broad spectrum 30 without controversial chemicals, with their patented SolSci-X stabilization system. Anti-aging with antioxidants and collagen repair peptides. Helps restore brightness and an even tone with calming and repair agents. | All skin types, those looking for a 2-in-1 sunscreen/moisturizer, Dull skin, Anti-aging. |
| Tatcha The Water Cream |  | Read Review | Light but rich, creamy but gel-like and weightless. | Provides nutrient-rich, balanced hydration using Tatcha's unique trinity of anti-aging superfoods: Uji Green Tea, Okinawa Mozuku Algae, Akita Rice. Oil-free. Non-comedogenic. Non-irritating. Non-sensitizing. Dermatologist tested. Cruelty-free. Formulated without: Mineral oil, synthetic fragrances, sulfate detergents, parabens, urea, DEA, TEA or phthalates. | Normal to Oily skin, Large pores, Anti-aging |
| Shiseido Essential Energy Moisturizing Gel Cream |  | Read Review | Dewy, fresh, non-greasy, absorbs quickly. Lightweight gel cream. | ReNeura Technology™ makes skin more responsive to daily skincare. Ashitaba, a Japanese green plant known for its regenerative powers. Non-Comedogenic. Dermatologist-Tested. Paraben-Free. Mineral Oil-Free. Jars come in 64 different shapes inspired by pottery sued in Japanese tea ceremonies. | For all skin types. |
| Bioderma Sensibio Rich Soothing and Moisturizing Cream for Sensitive to Intolerant Skin |  | Read Review | Nourishing, thick but non-greasy. | Made especially made for sensitive and reactive skin. Moisturizes and restructures the skin barrier, biologically strengthens the skin’s resistance to external elements and increases its tolerance threshold. Inhibits pro-inflammatory molecules to make the skin less reactive. Soothes any sensation of tightness and overheating to ensure immediate comfort. | Dry to very dry skin, Sensitive to intolerant, reactive skin, Compromised skin barrier |
| Cetaphil Dermacontrol - Non Comedogenic Moisturizer for Acne Prone Skin |  | Read Review | Watery, like a clear toner. | Japan’s #1 drugstore face lotion (aka. moisturizer as we call it). Preps skin for better absorption of other skincare products. Super Hyaluronic Acid, a patent pending key ingredient, replenishes the skin with 2x as much moisture-retention capacity of Hyaluronic Acid. Formulated with a PH level of 5.0-6.5 to balance it out and maintain a healthy, moisturized skin. Fragrance-free. Colorant-free. Oil-free. Alcohol-free. | All skin types. |
| CeraVe Moisturizing Facial Lotion (AM or PM) |  | Read Review | AM: Face lotion consistency; PM: Ultra lightweight, oil-free night cream | AM: InVisibleZinc™ Technology provides broad spectrum SPF 30 AM & PM: Features 3 essential skincare ingredients for healthy skin--ceramides, hyluronic acid, niacinamide. MVE Technology, a patented delivery system for continuous 24-hour hydration. Allergy tested, oil-free and fragrance-free. Recommended by The Skin Cancer Foundation. | Normal to Oily skin. |
| EltaMD SKINCARE UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 for Acne-Prone Skin, Rosacea, Hyperpigmentation |  | Read Review | Very lightweight, silky. | UVA/UVB sun protection + Antioxidant protection against skin aging. Helps calm and protect sensitive skin prone to acne and rosacea. Contains ingredients to promote healthy skin: niacinamide (vitamin B3), hyaluronic acid and lactic acid. Fragrance-free, oil-free, paraben-free, sensitivity-free. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommended. | Acne-prone skin, Rosacea, Hyperpigmentation. |
Things You Should Know About Non-Comedogenic Moisturizers
Video: What does non-comedogenic mean? – Ask the Derm with Dr. Stephen Schleicher | DermDox Dermatology Centers, PC
How Often Should You Moisturize?
You should moisturize twice a day after cleansing in the morning and evening.
You can have only one you can use for morning and night, or have two with different ingredients:
- Daytime / AM Moisturizers – can contain sunscreen protection of at least SPF 30, or a stand-alone that you can pair with a non-comedogenic sunscreen
- Nighttime / PM Moisturizers – can contain antioxidants and vitamins like vitamin C, E, CO-Q10 to help with skin repair during the night
Whichever you prefer, you should choose a moisturizer that works best to address your needs.
Moisturizers and Acne Medication
Dermatologists recommend moisturizers when using topical anti-acne creams like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, retinoids, antibiotics, and alcohol-based products.
They should always be used in conjunction because these medications are especially drying and irritating to the skin, which in turn can aggravate acne (It’s a horrible cycle that you shouldn’t fall into.)
Good formulations also prep your skin and make is susceptible to absorbing other products like serums and topical creams.
References:
- Acne.org Products – Cleanser, Benzoyl Peroxide, Moisturizer & More. (2019).
- Avène USA Eau Thermale Avène – Sensitive Skin Care. (2019).
- Barrett J. R. (2005). The ugly side of beauty products. Environmental health perspectives, 113(1), A24. doi:10.1289/ehp.113-a24 https://dx.doi.org/10.1289/ehp.113-a24
- CeraVe Skincare. (2019).
- Chealth.canoe.com. (2016). Zinc Oxide Cream – Uses, Side Effects, Interactions – Canoe.com.
- Christina Moss Naturals – Organic, Healthy, Non-Toxic Cosmetics. (2019).
- Cosmeticsandtoiletries.com. (2009). Comparatively Speaking: Humectants vs. Emollients vs. Occlusive Agents.
- Draelos, Z. (2010). Cosmetic Dermatology: Products and Procedures. Chichester, West Sussex: Wiley-Blackwell Pub.
- EltaMD® | Dermatologist Sunscreens and Skin Care Products. (2019).
- Gentle Skin Care Products | Cetaphil. (2019).
- Hada Labo. (2019).
- Purnamawati, S., Indrastuti, N., Danarti, R., & Saefudin, T. (2017). The Role of Moisturizers in Addressing Various Kinds of Dermatitis: A Review. Clinical medicine & research, 15(3-4), 75–87. https://dx.doi.org/10.3121/cmr.2017.1363
- La Roche-Posay Skincare, Sunscreen, Body Lotion Official Site. (2019).
- Chularojanamontri L, Tuchinda P, Kulthanan K, Pongparit K. Moisturizers for Acne: What are their Constituents? J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2014 May;7(5):36-44. PMID: 24847408; PMCID: PMC4025519. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24847408
- LifeCell Skin Care Products. (2014). What Does Hypoallergenic Skin Care Really Mean?.
- MDSolarSciences | DoctorDeveloped SunScreen & SunRepair. (2019).
- Nakhla, T. (2011). The Skin Commandments: 10 Rules to Healthy, Beautiful Skin. St. Louis, Missouri: Reedy Press.
- Nelson, F. P. and Rumsfield, J. (1988), Cosmetics Content and Function. International Journal of Dermatology, 27: 665-672. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-4362.1988.tb01258.x
- Papakonstantinou, E., Roth, M., & Karakiulakis, G. (2012). Hyaluronic acid: A key molecule in skin aging. Dermato-endocrinology, 4(3), 253–258. https://dx.doi.org/10.4161/derm.21923
- Saint-Léger, D., Lévêque, J. and Verschoore, M. (2007). The use of hydroxy acids on the skin: characteristics of C8-lipohydroxy acid. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 6(1), pp.59-65. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1473-2165.2007.00296.x
- Spada, F., Barnes, T. M., & Greive, K. A. (2018). Skin hydration is significantly increased by a cream formulated to mimic the skin’s own natural moisturizing systems. Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology, 11, 491–497. https://doi.org/10.2147/CCID.S177697
- SHISEIDO | Skincare, Makeup & Suncare. (2019).
- Tatcha | Japanese Beauty Products. (2019).
- Truthinaging.com. (2016). Niacinamide.
- Welcome to Bioderma International | Bioderma International. (2019).
