The 15 Best Clean Moisturizers For Acne-Prone Skin + How To Pick

Coming in at first overall, we have the famous derm-developed gel cream. This spot wasn't easy to fill, but here's why this formula checks the box: It contains plenty of acne-healing ingredients like zinc and niacinamide, it's loaded with research-backed hydrators like hyaluronic acid and saccharide isomerate (another humectant) and it even has anti-inflammatory and healing superstar allantoin.

What our tester says:

I have fairly dry and acne-prone skin, but I love this lightweight formula for daytime use. The gentle 2% niacinamide boost helps to brighten the skin and ease redness while simultaneously regulating oil production. Plus, the air-tight pump ensures you never track bacteria into the jar (especially important for acne-prone skin).

For oily and acne-prone skin types, finding SPF can be a nightmare. Navigating the oily formulas and trying to mitigate shine on the skin while protecting it from sun damage is no easy task, unless you opt for this matte SPF from Supergoop. The mousse-like texture applies like a dream and instantly reduces excess shine, but never makes the skin look dry or dehydrated. Plus, it doubles as a primer.

More often than not, products designed for dry, sensitive, or aging skin having heavy, pore-clogging ingredients in them. Of course those skin types are less likely to have breakouts than oily skin, but still—finding a product that's ideal for acne-prone folks in the sensitive, aging, or dry skin categories isn't always easy. If you're sick of testing lackluster formulas, I'll let you know this splurge-worthy pick just might fit the bill. It's long-lasting, plumping, fast absorbing, and the ingredients are nothing short of unique and stunning. The combination of fatty acids, cholesterol, and ceramides ensures your skin barrier is taken care of and ready to repair itself from signs of aging, dehydration, wounds (like breakouts) and more.

What our tester says:

I was on isotretinoin (formerly referred to as Accutane) for 6 months due to treatment-resistant cystic breakouts, and my skin was beyond dry. I tested plenty of moisturizers during this period, and this formula was my favorite by far. If it can keep skin hydrated that would otherwise be flaking off, it's definitely fit for dry and extra dry skin types. Not to mention, it never irritated my skin like other fragrance-rich formulas.

If you carry blotting papers in every bag, your makeup melts off even in the winter, or setting powder is your most-used makeup product, then you probably have oily skin. This skin type can benefit greatly from mattifying moisturizers like this one, as they still hydrate while eliminating shine. Salicylic acid and lipohydroxy acids help to unclog pores and slough off dead skin cells, helping to manage breakouts 24/7. Those with combination skin may prefer to use this one on their T-zone and oily patches and another formula elsewhere. While the formula does contain algae, this ingredient is often deemed beneficial for acne-prone skin, with many experts deeming this ingredient not pore-clogging (contrary to the traditional scale).

This cult-favorite moisturizer sells every two minutes for a reason: It's the perfect lightweight formula for oily, acne-prone skin types. Rather than simply existing as a gel, the creamy yet bouncy formula adds a glisten and plump look to the skin post-application. A blend of hyaluronic acid and aloe vera hydrate the skin without weighing it down, while green tea provides a dose of antioxidants. While it does contain wheat germ extract, that ingredient won't break everyone out like more common cloggers (coconut oil and petrolatum, etc.).

What our tester says:

"I have a major pet peeve with water creams: Namely, when the gel consistency feels lovely upon application yet doesn’t actually sink in and hydrate my skin—it merely sits on top. As you can tell, I’m pretty picky with my gel-cream formulas, but I was delighted by Versed’s breathable number. As advertised, it’s airy and lightweight, but it effortlessly soaks into my skin and gets right to work." - mindbodygreen Beauty & Wellness Editor Jamie Schneider

Sick of trying different moisturizers with the same few ingredients? Well, you've come to the right place because this moisturizer from A.P. Chem is nothing short of cutting-edge. First off, the formula is free from fragrance, animal products, dyes, irritants, and gluten, so it's literally fit for everyone. What's more interesting is what you find inside the jar—eight different mushrooms that calm, hydrate, and protect your skin, hyaluronic and polyglutamic acid for a boost of hydration, baicalin to de-stress, Gaba to relax the face, and amino acids (just to name the hero ingredients). Altogether, you have a truly magical product (yep, it lives up to the bold name). While shea butter may be potentially pore-clogging for some, it can be incredibly healing for others, so don't deem the ingredient as acne-causing for your unique skin before testing it out.

What our tester says:

I recently had a damaged skin barrier due to overusing retinol (we all do it) so I put this cream to the test—if it was really as sensitive-skin friendly, healing, and nourishing as it claimed, my barrier should be healed by morning, right? Well, I was pleasantly mistaken—my skin was transformed within just two hours. No more stinging, redness, or discomfort. It may sound strange, but my skin just felt strong. In short, I'm obsessed.

Formulated by acne specialist Danielle Gronich (AKA The Acne Guru), this moisturizer is a next-level pick. Not only does it deeply hydrate and provide a visible dewy glow, but it works to increase cell turnover throughout the day or the night thanks to the lovely addition of bakuchiol. You can layer on this dewy moisturizer morning or night, and even mix it with your retinol. Stem cells and squalane will be working to repair the skin, combat free radicals, and improve skin texture while you make your way throughout the day with jello-like skin.

Say it for the people in the back: Aging skin can still break out. In fact, menopause creates a unique skin environment where breakouts, dryness, oiliness, and sensitivity can all happen at once. Luckily, the experts at Acaderma knew this was an area of skin care that needed advancements, and filled the gap. This faceted formula targets fine lines and wrinkles, deeply nourishes the skin, protects against free radicals, and supports collagen production—all without clogging pores. Plus, it's refillable.

If you have dry skin, you should have a barrier cream on hand. In short, this category of topical is designed to repair the skin barrier and sooth irritation that comes from damage. Not sure if you have a damaged skin barrier? Take redness, irritation, sensitivity, and discomfort as a few signs your barrier could use some help. For those with breakouts, barrier creams often sound intimidating, with pore-clogging butters and oils. However, this one plays on both teams: It's noncomedogenic, but it provides lasting hydrating and is clinically proven to repair the skin barrier in just one hour. Plus, it's an acne-safe first step to practice slugging in the evening.

What our tester says:

"I like to spot treat this moisturizer on drier, flakier regions of my face (I have combination skin, so multi-moisturizing is key). I tend to get especially red and splotchy on my neck and around my nose—one pass of this barrier cream, and my skin feels instantly soothed." —mindbodygreen Beauty & Wellness Editor Jamie Schneider

Super oily skin types might need a simple, lightweight gel formula to get through the day—especially in humid or hot weather. If this situation sounds familiar, consider this gel moisturizer your destined match. The formula has an aloe vera base that's equally as cooling as it is hydrating, with natural salicylic acid via willow bark extract, prickly pear extract for antioxidant protection, and olive leaf extract to soothe the skin. This formula does contain strong natural fragrance, so it may not be the best for those dealing with a damaged skin barrier or reactive skin.

If you want some coverage during the day but don't want to pack on the foundation, this tinted SPF can help. The mineral-based formula protects your skin from UV rays, which is essential for those with acne-prone skin who want their breakouts to heal without a dark spot left behind. It boosts moisture in the skin, gently corrects redness, and leaves less of a whitecast than many traditional mineral sunscreens. It does contain sorbitan oleate which is classified as a potential pore-clogger, but it's the very last ingredient, so it likely won't cause you to breakout.

What our tester says:

When I'm struggling with breakouts, the last thing I want to do is pack on heavy foundation. However, I'm not exactly ready to walk outside with zero coverage, either. If you can relate, then you should get this tinted SPF. It helps mask dark spots, acne scars, and uneven skin tone while protecting my skin from the sun.

Those with acne-prone skin often use ingredients like salicylic acid and retinol to clear their breakouts, but there's a downside to these ingredients as well: They can disrupt your microbiome. To balance out your skin, consider adding a product with pre- and postbiotics to your daily routine. This formula is A+ in my book: It contains ceramides and squalane to support skin hydration, niacinamide to regulate oil production, peptides for plumping, antioxidants to ease free-radical damage, and cica extract to boost collagen production. While it's on the pricer end of the spectrum, the formula is surely worth the price. Not to mention, it's fit for every skin type and every season.

Anyone prone to blackheads will want to be extra careful when it comes to comedogenic ingredients (i.e., look for fully noncomedogenic formulas like this one). Plus, frequent yet gentle exfoliation will help slough off dead skin regularly, decreasing the risk of clogged pores. One way to do so is by using salicylic acid daily, but not a fully potent serum. Instead, opt for this gentle moisturizer with a touch of SA, bakuchiol for cell turnover, tea tree to regulate oil production, all combined with squalane and ceramides to adequately hydrate at the same time.

Another cult-favorite moisturizer, thanks to the plush texture and seamless prep step for makeup lovers everywhere. The only way to describe the feeling of this moisturizer is to call it a glass of water for your skin. The unique formula is loaded with antioxidants for free-radical protection, bouncy glycerin for lightweight hydration, and unique Japanese botanical extracts that balance the skin and encourage radiance.

What our tester says:

"I don’t have oily skin any more (the joys of getting older!), but when I had combination skin, this was my go-to. The excellent formula keeps skin deeply hydrated, but not shiny, which is a tough balance. Even as someone with dry skin now, I still love using this formula—especially in the summertime when I’m not looking for a thick texture." mindbodygreen Beauty Director Alexandra Engler

If you haven't heard of mevalonic acid before, that's probably because Ameva is the first commercial skin care brand to use it. While it may not be as buzzy as other hero ingredients, it definitely deserves more hype as it boosts the skin capacity to produce its own collagen, hyaluronic acid, and growth factors, just to name one benefit. This nourishing cocktail contains ceramides and stem cells as well, encouraging healthier skin function and appearance. Lastly, sunflower and jojoba oils provide lasting hydration without weighing down your complexion.

What our tester says:

Many moisturizers make your skin feel better while they're used, but do nothing for the health of your skin long term—this formula is different. The unique addition of mevalonic acid encourage tighter, youthful-looking skin by helping it function to it's best ability. Still, the product does provide instant satisfaction as well because you're left with a healthy glow that's never too dewy, and never runs dry. Not to mention, the $38 refills will benefit the planet and your wallet. On a personal level, this is one formula I've come back to again and and again for the healthy, balanced complexion I get from using it daily.