Best oil-free moisturisers for oily skin in summer: 8 non-sticky options for you

With summer almost there, your skin needs non-sticky moisturisers and here are the top 8 oil-free moisturisers for people with oily skin.

If you have been skipping moisturiser, thinking that your oily, shiny skin does not need it, you’ve been doing it all wrong. A moisturiser is a must, regardless of your skin type. However, if you have oily skin, the goal is to control excess sebum, keep pores clear, and prevent acne without over-drying the skin. That is where an oil-free moisturiser comes into the picture.

Best oil-free moisturiser for oily skin (Freepik)

By Shweta Pandey

Shweta Pandey is a Senior Content Writer at Hindustan Times, with over 12 years of experience in beauty and wellness journalism, specialising in makeup, skincare, and hair care.

She began her professional writing journey in 2011, entering the evolving world of digital lifestyle journalism as beauty and wellness content rapidly transformed in India. Over the years, she has worked with reputed digital media houses like India Today, the Times of India and Skymet Weather, steadily building credibility through well-researched features, product reviews, and trend analyses. Her career reflects consistent growth, moving from content contributor to senior writer. She now plays a key role in shaping editorial strategy, social media content, and ensuring high-quality, reader-focused content that aligns with evolving audience needs.

Shweta’s core expertise spans makeup, skincare, hair care, and holistic health and fitness. She specialises in in-depth beauty product reviews, ingredient analysis, skincare routines, and evidence-based wellness advice. Known for her analytical and data-driven approach, she relies on verified sources, dermatological insights, and expert consultations to ensure credibility. Her field experience includes interviewing Bollywood celebrities, beauty and makeup professionals, tracking consumer trends, and simplifying the top picks.

Shweta holds a Master’s degree in Mass Communication, Advertising, and Journalism and has done Bachelor’s in Commerce from Delhi University. She believes in delivering reader-first insights that empower informed decisions while maintaining transparency, credibility, and trust.

Beyond her writing desk, Shweta enjoys exploring new destinations, experimenting in the kitchen with delightful recipes, and staying in tune with the latest beauty and wellness trends.

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Most of these oil-free moisturisers are formulated with vitamin C, salicylic acid, niacinamide, tea-tree oil, and hyaluronic acid, which help control excessive oil production and keep your skin shine-free while also moisturising it. For people with extremely oily skin, a gel-based moisturiser works wonders.

8 oil-free moisturisers for oily skin

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Get an even-toned, supple skin with Aqualogica Illuminate + Hydra Gel Moisturiser. It delivers lightweight hydration and enhances your skin's brightness. Its fast-absorbing gel formula combines vitamin C, papaya extract, and hyaluronic acid to moisturise your skin without leaving an oily residue. This moisturiser is great for oily or combination skin types and helps maintain moisture balance while also improving skin clarity. Its formula spreads easily, absorbs quickly, and leaves a fresh glow.

Reasons to buy

Lightweight gel texture ideal for oily skin

Hydrates without a greasy feel

Contains brightening vitamin C

Absorbs quickly and works well under sunscreen or makeup

Reason to avoid

Fragrance may not suit sensitive skin

Vitamin C may not suit extremely reactive skin

Customer Feedback: Users like the lightweight texture and glow that they get from using the moisturiser. It works well in humid weather. Many users also appreciate its non-sticky finish. However, some feel that its moisturisation is mild.

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Dr Sheth's Ceramide & Vitamin C Oil-Free Moisturiser hydrates your skin while supporting the skin barrier and improving skin’s dullness. This cream’s formula blends ceramides, vitamin C, and hydrating ingredients that lock in moisture without clogging pores. This moisturiser has a lightweight consistency which absorbs easily and suits oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. Its regular application helps strengthen the barrier, maintain hydration, and promote a brighter-looking complexion.

Reasons to buy

Ceramides support the skin barrier

Oil-free hydration for acne-prone skin

Helps brighten dull skin Non-sticky texture

Reason to avoid

Slight fragrance may not suit sensitive users

Brightening results may take time

Customer Feedback: Most customers appreciate this moisturiser for barrier repair benefits. Most users have noticed smoother skin after using this moisturiser. It is a good option for combination skin.

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Need a hydrating moisturiser that works wonders for oily skin? Then, you can try the Derma Co 1% Salicylic Acid Oil-Free Moisturiser. It hydrates acne-prone skin while helping control excess oil and clogged pores. The moisturiser has salicylic acid and hydrating ingredients to maintain moisture balance without heaviness. Its lightweight texture spreads smoothly and absorbs quickly, making it suitable for oily and combination skin. Its non-greasy finish makes it comfortable for everyday use.

Reasons to buy

Contains salicylic acid for acne care

Controls oil without dryness

Lightweight and fast absorbing

Suitable for oily and acne-prone skin

Reason to avoid

May feel slightly active for very sensitive skin

Mild tingling is possible initially

Customer Feedback: Users like the oil control benefits of this moisturiser. It is helpful for acne-prone skin and absorbs quickly without stickiness. However, some users find it slightly drying.

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Re'equil Oil Free Moisturiser offers lightweight hydration, designed for oily and acne-prone skin. The formula focuses on balancing moisture levels while keeping skin comfortable and non-greasy. This moisturiser absorbs quickly and leaves a matte finish that works well for people with oily skin. Its gentle formula fits easily into daily skincare routines and pairs well with sunscreen and makeup.

Reasons to buy

Matte, non-greasy finish

Suitable for oily skin types

Lightweight everyday hydration

Layers well with sunscreen

Reason to avoid

Limited brightening or treatment ingredients

Some users prefer gel textures

Customer Feedback: Customers praise this moisturiser for its lightweight feel. It is perfect for daily summer use and works well under makeup. However, some users preferred stronger hydration.

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Pond's Super Light Gel Oil Free Face Moisturiser provides refreshing hydration with a lightweight gel formula. This moisturiser is enriched with hyaluronic acid and vitamin E and helps maintain skin moisture while keeping the skin feeling fresh and non-oily. The best part is that this moisturiser’s fast-absorbing gel suits oily and combination skin types, especially in humid conditions. Regular use of this moisturiser helps keep skin soft, smooth, and hydrated without heaviness. Its cooling texture and quick absorption make it a popular everyday moisturiser.

Reasons to buy

Budget-friendly option

Cooling gel texture

Quick absorption

Works well in hot climates

Reason to avoid

Contains fragrance

Jar packaging may feel less hygienic

Customer Feedback: Customers feel this is a popular option for lightweight hydration. Users love its refreshing feel, and it is a good value-for-money product. However, some sensitive skin users dislike the fragrance.

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Deconstruct Oil-Free Moisturiser hydrates skin with a lightweight formula designed for oily and combination skin types. This moisturiser focuses on maintaining hydration balance without clogging pores or leaving a greasy finish. It absorbs quickly and leaves the skin feeling comfortable and smooth. Regular use of this moisturiser supports moisture retention while keeping skin fresh throughout the day.

Reasons to buy

Minimalist formulation

Lightweight hydration

Non-sticky finish

Reason to avoid

Limited brightening ingredients

Results mainly focused on hydration

Customer Feedback: Users like the simple ingredient list in this moisturiser. They like its lightweight and comfortable feel, and it works well for combination skin. However, some users prefer richer hydration.

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Plum Green Tea Oil-Free Face Moisturiser hydrates skin while helping manage excess oil. This moisturiser is infused with green tea extracts, helps maintain fresh-looking skin and support oil balance. This lightweight lotion texture absorbs quickly without clogging pores, making it suitable for oily and acne-prone skin types. Its regular use helps keep skin soft, hydrated, and comfortable throughout the day. Its non-greasy finish makes it ideal for daily skincare routines, especially in warm and humid weather.

Reasons to buy

Green tea helps control oil

Suitable for acne-prone skin

Lightweight daily moisturiser

Vegan and cruelty-free brand

Reason to avoid

Fragrance may not suit everyone

Hydration may feel light for dry skin

Lotion texture may feel basic

Customer Feedback: This moisturiser is popular among oily skin users and is appreciated for its non-sticky texture. This lotion helps with mild oil control, and some users prefer a gel consistency.

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Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Daily Moisturiser provides lightweight hydration designed for sensitive skin. Its gentle formula focuses on maintaining moisture without heavy oils or irritation-prone ingredients. This moisturiser spreads easily, absorbs quickly, and leaves skin soft and comfortable throughout the day. It is suitable for daily use, works well for normal, combination, and sensitive skin types.

Reasons to buy

Suitable for sensitive skin

Gentle lightweight hydration

Trusted skincare brand

Non-greasy finish

Reason to avoid

May feel basic for targeted concerns

Slightly higher price than drugstore options

Limited brightening or active ingredients

Customer Feedback: Most users like its gentle formula, claiming that it is good for sensitive skin and adds a comfortable daily hydration. Some users, though, wanted stronger moisturization.

Comparison Table

Product Name	Finish	Benefits
Aqualogica Illuminate + Hydra Gel Moisturizer	Fresh dewy gel finish	Hydration + brightness support
Dr. Sheth's Ceramide & Vitamin C Oil-Free Moisturizer	Lightweight natural finish	Barrier repair + glow
The Derma Co 1% Salicylic Acid Oil-Free Moisturizer	Lightweight matte	Oil control + acne support
Re'equil Oil Free Moisturizer	Matte finish	Everyday hydration for oily skin
Pond's Super Light Gel Oil Free Face Moisturizer	Cooling gel finish	Budget hydration + freshness
Deconstruct Oil-Free Moisturizer	Soft natural finish	Simple hydration + layering
Plum Green Tea Oil-Free Face Moisturizer	Light lotion finish	Oil balance + daily hydration
Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Daily Moisturiser	Soft natural finish	Gentle hydration for sensitive skin

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FAQ: Oil-Free Moisturiser

What is an oil-free moisturiser?

An oil-free moisturiser hydrates the skin using water-based ingredients instead of heavy oils. It helps maintain moisture without clogging pores or leaving a greasy feel.

Who should use an oil-free moisturiser?

People with oily, acne-prone, or combination skin benefit most because these moisturisers hydrate without increasing shine.

Can dry skin use oil-free moisturisers?

Yes, but people with very dry skin may need richer formulas or layered hydration products.

Do oil-free moisturisers clog pores?

Most are designed to be non-comedogenic, meaning they are less likely to block pores.

Can I use oil-free moisturiser with active ingredients?

Yes. They often work well with ingredients like salicylic acid, niacinamide, or vitamin C.

Should oily skin skip moisturiser?

No. Even oily skin needs hydration to maintain the skin barrier and balance oil production.

Disclaimer: This article has been created in partnership with Honasa(MamaEarth). The first two products listed in this article are sponsored, and the others are in no particular order of priority. At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, concerning the products. Consult a doctor before using any products.