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It’s a common misconception that people with oily skin don’t need moisturizer.
You need it to bring back the moisture lost during the cleansing process. Moisturizers are also a great way to introduce active ingredients that can help address your skin concerns.
Skipping moisturizer can make your skin dry or dehydrated, which encourages more oil production.
But as someone with oily skin, it’s not easy to find a moisturizer that will suit your skin type.
That’s where K-beauty comes in! They’re known for hydrating moisturizers that are gentle, lightweight, and won’t leave you looking greasy.
Ready to find the best Korean moisturizer for oily skin? Check out the list below!
- Gentle formula that doesn’t irritate or clog pores
- Free of additives and ingredients that can trigger oil, acne, and irritation
- A hydrating emulsion for oily skin
- Hydrating and soothing
- Reduces redness and irritation
- Suitable for oily, sensitive skin
- Light but with long-lasting moisture
- Has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory ingredients
- Suitable for oily, acne-prone Skin
How to Choose a Korean Moisturizer for Oily Skin
It’s important to choose the right type of moisturizer that will suit your oily skin. Otherwise, you might end up with a product that clogs your pores, irritates your skin, and promotes acne breakouts.
Before making that decision, here are important things to remember.
Texture
Water-based lotions or gel creams are ideal for oily skin. They have a lightweight texture that is easily absorbed by the skin. They also do not look too greasy or shiny.
Avoid heavy creams and ointments because they tend to sit on the skin for a long time. These occlusive moisturizers can clog your pores and cause acne breakouts.
Formulation
Choose moisturizers that are non-comedogenic so that they won’t clog your pores. It’s also better to choose one with an oil-free formula.
However, not all oil-based ingredients are harmful. Tea tree oil, rosehip oil, and hemp seed oil can soothe, cleanse, and hydrate the skin without clogging your pores.
Avoid moisturizers with artificial dyes and fragrances that irritate or sensitize the skin. These can also damage your skin barrier and cause acne breakouts.
Ingredients
Here are ingredients that are safe for oily skin:
- Hyaluronic Acid – Hydrates, refreshes, and plumps the skin
- Niacinamide – Soothes inflamed skin, absorbs excess oil
- Glycolic Acid – Removes dead skin cells, dirt, and oils
- Salicylic Acid – Dissolves oil, cleans pores, reduces inflammation
- Retinoids – Slows down oil production, brightens, reduces fine lines and wrinkles
- Zinc PCA – Prevents excess oil production, reduces redness and irritation
On the other hand, avoid moisturizers that have the following pore-clogging ingredients:
- Silicones
- Coconut oil
- Lanolin
- Alcohol
- Stearates
- Sulfates
- Mineral oil
- Petroleum
- Paraffin
- Beeswax
Here Are the Best Korean Moisturizers for Oily Skin
K-beauty moisturizers for oily skin have become so popular because of their gentle formulations and lightweight textures. They are also free of ingredients that can be harmful or triggering for those with oily skin.
If you’re on the hunt for something new, here are six Korean moisturizers to try out in 2022:
Korean Moisturizer for Oily and Sensitive Skin
I love this gel cream because it soothes my irritated skin and doesn’t cause breakouts.
A gentle and soothing moisturizer that provides long-lasting hydration to oily skin.
Features:
- Centella Asiatica and tea tree calm sensitive skin, reduce redness and irritations
- Niacinamide and adenosine brighten and smoothen skin
- Vitamin-rich sprout extracts that make skin soft and supple
The Iunik Centella Calming Gel Cream is a hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic moisturizer that keeps acne, redness, and irritation at bay.
For much-needed comfort during an acne breakout, consider the Iunik Centella Calming Gel Cream.
You can feel instant relief upon applying this lightweight moisturizer. It has 72% Centella Asiatica leaf water and 10% Tea Tree extract to soothe skin redness, irritation, or inflammation.
The gentle formula is suited for oily-sensitive skin. It does not aggravate the skin and cause further breakouts.
The cream also contains niacinamide and adenosine to rejuvenate the skin. Thus, giving you a brighter and smoother complexion.
In addition to its soothing properties, the Centella Calming Gel Cream helps keep oil at bay. The moisturizer dries to a matte finish and feels comfortable under makeup and sunscreen.
Pros
- Affordable;
- Calms and soothes the skin;
- Good oil control;
- Also suitable for sensitive, combination, normal skin
Cons
- Not as hydrating for dry skin or during winter;
- Contains faint scent (but not artificial fragrance)
Korean Moisturizer for Oily and Acne Prone Skin
I love this simple, no-frills moisturizer because it keeps my skin clear and hydrated.
A gel moisturizer with all-natural ingredients that soothe, brighten, and hydrate the skin.
Features:
- Aloe Vera leaf juice extract to moisturize and nourish the skin
- Propolis extract soothes and protects from free radical damage
- Polysaccharides strengthen the skin barrier
The Benton Aloe Propolis Soothing Gel keeps irritation and redness at bay. It’s also gentle so you don’t have to worry about acne breakouts.
Aloe is one of the best ingredients for soothing the skin. So, it’s no surprise that the Benton Aloe Propolis Soothing Gel is highly-rated among people with oily, acne-prone skin.
The water-based moisturizer contains 80% Aloe leaf juice to keep your skin calm and hydrated. It also has propolis extract that protects the skin from damage against irritants and the elements.
It does not contain alcohol, fragrance, and essential oils, so those with oily, acne-prone skin won’t have to worry about breakouts or irritations.
The transparent gel has a viscous consistency but does not feel heavy when applied to the skin. It has a cooling sensation and does not leave any residue.
Given the high-aloe content, this soothing gel is also great for sunburns or post-treatments.
Pros
- Unscented;
- No harmful ingredients;
- Vegan-friendly;
- Affordable;
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Not hydrating enough for dry skin;
- Natural formula may have a shorter shelf life
I love this watery cream because it keeps my skin hydrated all day long.
An intensely hydrating Korean moisturizer suited for oily skin types.
Features:
- Green tea extract is rich in antioxidants to protect and provide long-lasting moisture
- Lemon seed oil has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties
- Rosewood oil softens and rejuvenates the skin
The Tony Moly Chok Chok Green Tea Watery Cream gives you a brighter, healthier appearance.
Many people with oily skin hesitate to put on moisturizer because it can make their face look greasier. But, that is no longer a concern with this Korean face moisturizer for oily skin!
The watery cream contains 63% fermented green tea extract packed with antioxidants to nourish and hydrate the skin.
There is also lemon seed oil to clean-out pores and soothe inflammation, along with rosewood oil to soften and rejuvenate the skin.
I love this as part of my morning skincare routine because it gives me the hydration I need for the entire day. I also feel less oily throughout the day.
From the jar, the cream has a rich, fluffy texture that turns watery upon application. It applies easily and has no sticky residue. It feels comfortable under makeup and sunscreen.
Pros
- Good for hot and humid weather;
- Cruelty-free;
- No alcohol, parabens, fragrances
Cons
- Essential oils may not be suitable for sensitive skin;
- Not as hydrating for dry skin;
- On the pricier side
Best Korean Moisturizer for Oily and Combination Skin
I love this gel cream because it has an instant cooling effect that calms my skin.
Hydrating, soothing, and strengthening gel moisturizer absorbs quickly on the skin.
Features:
- Green tea leaf is soothing and hydrating for oily skin
- Panthenol maintains the moisture balance of the skin barrier and reduces irritation
- Allantoin smoothens and rejuvenates skin
It’s a lightweight cream that doesn’t feel too heavy on oily skin but is hydrating enough for any dry patches you might have. It also strengthens the skin for a fresh and healthy complexion.
The COSRX Hydrium Green Tea Aqua Soothing Gel Cream is another highly-recommended Korean Moisturizer for oily, combination skin.
It has green tea leaf extract that provides the hydration your skin needs. Green tea is also effective in reducing oil and acne breakouts.
In addition, panthenol helps maintain your skin barrier, making it less susceptible to irritation or inflammation. Allantoin also stimulates skin regeneration for smoother and healthier skin.
The jelly consistency feels cool upon application. So, besides a lightweight moisturizer, you can also use it for after-sun care. The texture means quick absorption but still leaves your skin feeling smooth and hydrated.
Pros
- No harmful ingredients;
- Can use as a skin refresher;
- Also suitable for sensitive, irritated skin
Cons
- Not recommended as standalone cream for very dry skin
Best Korean Moisturizer for Oily Skin with SPF
I love this sunscreen because it makes me feel protected and hydrated during the day.
A mild and non-irritating formula that packs a punch when it comes to sun protection and hydration.
Features:
- Cica and amino acids to soothe inflammation and repair damaged skin
- Galactomyces reduce oil production and minimize the size of pores
- SP50+ protects against UVA and UVB rays
The Suntique I’m Pure Cica Sunscreen can double as a day cream with its hydrating ingredients. As a physical sunscreen, it’s also less likely to cause irritation and clogged pores.
Sunscreen is another essential skincare product but a bit intimidating for those with oily skin.
However, not all sunscreens will clog pores and cause breakouts.
The Suntique I’m Pure Cica Sunscreen is a physical sunscreen with SP50+ that is safe from avobenzone, oxybenzone, and other chemical UV filters.
Instead, the sunscreen contains titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, which the FDA has deemed safe and effective.
The mild but strong formula makes it suitable for oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin types.
The sunscreen also features skin-loving ingredients such as cica, amino acids, vitamins, and galactomyces. These ingredients help soothe and repair the skin and reduce excess oil and clogged pores.
It has a creamy consistency but doesn’t feel too heavy on the skin. While there is still a white cast, it is minimal compared to other sunscreens.
Pros
- Non-irritating formula, free of artificial fragrance;
- Can use as a day cream;
- Ingredients that encourage skin repair and regeneration
Cons
- Minimal white cast
Best Korean Emulsion for Oily Skin to apply. Your skin will drink up
I love this hydrating emulsion because it’s so gentle and doesn’t aggravate my skin.
A non-irritating formula that hydrates, calms, soothes, and strengthens skin
Features:
- Panthenol hydrates and strengthens the skin’s moisture barrier
- Madecassoside soothes irritated skin
- Gentle formula with low pH and free from pore-clogging ingredients
If you want a gentle formula that won’t irritate your skin, the Etude House Soon Jung 10 Free Moist Emulsion is a must-try. You’ll get intense hydration without looking too oily.
Emulsions are also a great option when you’re looking for the best Korean moisturizer for oily skin.
These skincare products have rich ingredients but feel light on the skin. Thus, they’re suited for oily skin types.
In addition, Etude House’s emulsion contains 93% natural ingredients and is free from 10 additives that are known to irritate oily, acne-prone skin.
These are mineral oil, parabens, and silicone that can clog pores and cause acne breakouts.
The Etude House Soon Jung 10 Free Moist Emulsion contains Panthenol to soothe redness and irritation. It also strengthens your skin barrier to increase moisture retention.
Meanwhile, Madecassoside also calms and protects the skin from environmental irritants.
The emulsion is easy to apply. Your skin will drink up all the hydrating ingredients without leaving any sticky residue.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, dermatologically tested;
- Good to use in dry and humid weather;
- No harmful ingredients;
- Affordable
Cons
- None
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Is the Best Korean moisturizer for Oily Skin?
Many amazing Korean moisturizers are suited for oily skin. Just make sure to choose one with a lightweight texture with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, green tea, and niacinamide.
Because oily skin is prone to clogged pores and acne breakouts, you also want a Korean moisturizer that has a gentle, non-comedogenic formulation.
What Can I Do If My Skin Is Too Oily?
We recommend a proper skincare routine to address your specific concerns. A moisturizer will only work if you properly cleansed, toned, and treated your skin beforehand.
Here’s an easy guide for a day and night skincare routine that you can follow.
Is Aloe Vera Good for Oily Skin?
Aloe vera is good for oily skin because it is a naturally hydrating ingredient with high water content. It also has antibacterial properties that can fight acne-causing bacteria.
Does Oily Skin Need Moisturizer?
Yes. When you skip moisturizer, your skin will become dry or dehydrated. Without the moisture it needs, your skin will compensate by producing more oils. So the right type of moisturizer can help control excess oils.
What Makes Korean Moisturizers Special?
Korean beauty brands put hydration at the forefront of their skincare products. So regardless of your skin type, you will find a moisturizer that suits you best.
In addition, Korean brands use natural ingredients that soothe and heal inflammation and irritation, as well as avoid harmful chemicals that can clog pores and cause acne breakouts.
My Final Thoughts
It might not seem like it at first, but hydration is one of the best ways to control oily skin. It’s just a matter of finding the best moisturizer for your oily skin.
Look for something that has a lightweight texture, a gentle formulation, and is packed with hydrating ingredients.
That’s what makes Korean moisturizers the best – they tick all the boxes and are easy on the pocket, too!
Hopefully, with the recommendations above, you can find the best Korean moisturizer for your oily skin!
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