One of the most common questions asked by oily skin types is, “Do I need a moisturizer?”. Some experts will tell you that all skin types require moisture. Others say that oily types don’t need to moisturize. I say let your skin tell you.

Trying to figure out whether or not you need to moisturize shouldn’t be difficult. Our skin gives us plenty of signs when it’s dehydrated. Tightness, cracking and flaking are all signs that you need to add moisture to your regimen or try a richer moisturizer.

While those with excessively oily skin may not need to moisturize at all, many oily types also suffer from blemishes and regularly apply aggressive acne medications which dehydrate the skin and create a demand for additional moisture. In fact, if your skin isn’t properly hydrated, it will produce increased amounts of sebum, making your skin even oilier.

Finding an effective moisturizer that doesn’t leave a heavy feel on oily skin is not easy. I have tried a zillion moisturizers for oily/acne prone skin and have discovered that only a handful are truly moisturizing but also very light.

If you want a basic moisturizer that won’t interfere with your topical acne treatments or if you want the moisture without anything else, my recommendation is MD Skincare Hydra-Pure Oil Free Moisture. I love how light this lotion feels on the skin. I can barely tell that anything is there. You can layer it with other treatments without the worry of additional irritation.

One of my favorite moisturizers, which also contains a gentle acne medication, is Murad Moisturizing Acne Treatment Gel. This gel hydrates the skin nicely but it absorbs instantly and leaves a nice matte finish on the face. It contains a light concentration of salicylic acid to treat and prevent blemishes without aggravating the skin.

Everyone knows how important it is to use daily sun protection. Boscia offers an outstanding protective moisturizer for oily skin, the Oil-Free Daily Hydration SPF 15. This is one of the few oil free sunscreen products I have ever tried that truly does not leave a greasy feel on the skin. It soaks in to moisturize nicely without any kind of residue. I also love how incredibly pure and gentle the product is. This is absolutely safe for sensitive skins.

When it comes to moisturizing, the most important lesson will come from your skin itself. You may need to experiment a little to figure out what your skin needs but in time, it will let you know.