If you have oily skin, you’ve probably wondered, Do I even need a moisturiser? The idea that adding hydration will make your skin even greasier is a common myth that causes many to skip this crucial skincare step. But the truth is oily skin needs moisture just as much as any other skin type - maybe even more!
Not using a moisturiser can actually cause your skin to produce even more oil, leading to breakouts, irritation, and an out-of-balance complexion. In this blog, we’ll dive into what causes oily skin, explain why skipping moisturiser is a mistake, and help you choose the best moisturiser for your skin.
What Causes Oily Skin?
Genetics:
If your parents have oily skin, there’s a good chance you will too.
Hormonal fluctuations:
Puberty, pregnancy, menstruation, menopause, and stress can all increase sebum production.
Climate:
Hot, humid weather can make oiliness worse, while dry air can trigger overproduction of sebum.
Skincare habits:
Over-cleansing or using harsh, drying products can strip the skin, causing it to overcompensate by producing more oil.
Diet:
Some studies suggest that high-glycaemic foods (like white bread, sugar, and dairy) may contribute to excess oil production.
No matter what’s causing it, the solution isn’t to strip away all your skin’s natural oils, it’s to balance them.
Does Oily Skin Need Less Moisturiser?
The short answer? No! In fact, skipping moisturiser can make your skin even oilier. When your skin lacks hydration, it goes into panic mode and starts overproducing oil to compensate. This can lead to clogged pores, more breakouts, and an even shinier complexion.
The solution is to use the right kind of moisturiser. A good moisturiser will not only hydrate your skin, but also regulate oil production, prevent breakouts, and keep the skin barrier strong. Rather than making your skin oilier, hydration actually helps control excess shine and keeps your skin feeling fresh and balanced.
How to Choose the Right Moisturiser for Oily Skin
Finding the right moisturiser for oily skin can make a huge difference in balancing hydration without adding excess shine. Here’s how to choose the right one:
1. Opt for lightweight, oil-free formulas
Heavy creams can feel greasy and clog pores, so look for gel-based or water-based moisturisers. These absorb quickly and provide hydration without weighing down your skin.
2. Check for non-comedogenic labels
Products labelled non-comedogenic are specifically designed not to clog pores, making them ideal for oily and acne-prone skin. Always check the packaging to make sure your moisturiser won’t contribute to breakouts.
3. Look for hydrating yet oil-regulating ingredients
The right ingredients will keep your skin hydrated while helping control excess oil production. Look for ingredients like:
- Hyaluronic Acid: Attracts and retains moisture without making skin greasy.
- Niacinamide: Reduces oil production, calms redness, and strengthens the skin barrier.
- Glycerine: A lightweight hydrator that helps lock in moisture without clogging pores.
4. Avoid heavy, occlusive ingredients:
Some ingredients can sit on the skin and trap oil, making breakouts more likely. Avoid thick creams, petrolatum, mineral oil, and heavy oils like coconut oil, as these can lead to congestion and shine.
5. Test the texture and absorption
Apply a small amount of moisturiser to your skin and check how quickly it absorbs. If it feels heavy, sticky, or leaves a greasy residue, it may not be the right choice for oily skin.
How MiQuest Can Help
Finding the perfect moisturiser when you have oily skin can be a challenge. Some products leave you feeling greasy, while others strip away too much moisture and make your skin even oilier. That’s where MiQuest comes in. Our AI-empowered dermatology takes the guesswork out of your routine, so instead of wasting time and money on products that may not work for your skin type, MiQuest customises a prescription just for you.
Ready to take control of your oily skin? Start your MiQuest consultation today for just £2.99/month and get skincare that works for you.
AI-Empowered Dermatology, Personalised For You.
