Because of that, they work well “to keep skin moisturized without the greasy skin feel,” says Kobets. Plus, they can offer a lighter consistency, won’t clog pores, and may also feel more comfortable under makeup, she says.
Who should use a lightweight moisturizer?
Those with oily skin should reach for a lightweight moisturizer, and these formulations “have much lighter texture and hydrate the skin without clogging the pores, especially for acne-prone skin,” says Dr. Kim. That can be an advantage for those prone to congestion, for whom rich, oil-infused creams can inadvertently trigger breakouts.
That said, lightweight moisturizers aren’t only for those dealing with a surplus of sebum. They’re also “a better option for most skin types during the summer when it’s hot and humid,” says Dr. Kim. That’s because their weightless texture and quick absorption that can be more comfortable than more occlusive formulas that sit atop skin and feel sticky or overly dense in the warmer months. However, he warns, people with especially dry skin or those with mature skin may want to stick with a thicker or richer moisturizer, which typically has more ceramides and fatty acids and bolster the skin barrier to keep skin supple and plump.
How does a lightweight moisturizer different from a regular moisturizer?
It’s a matter of proportion. While the weight of a given moisturizer can be subjective, “the heaviness and consistency on these formulas will depend on the ratio of content of oil, or fats, versus water,” says Dr. Kobets. So, a lightweight moisturizer has more water than it does oil, whereas a richer formula may have more oil than water.
Are lightweight moisturizers good for oily skin?
Dr. Kim calls lightweight moisturizers a must-have for people with oily skin—as well as anyone who’s prone to acne. They can “deliver just the right amount of hydration to the skin without clogging the pore,” he says. And while it may seem counterintuitive, moisturizer still plays an important role among skin care for oily skin, as it can help rebalance moisture levels and minimize dehydration—so not only is a lightweight moisturizer good, it’s also necessary.