11 Best Korean Moisturizers for Acne & Oily Skin

From gentle exfoliation to soothing formulas, find the perfect moisturizer to elevate your skincare routine and unveil a healthier, more luminous complexion.

Korean Beauty Secrets: The Ultimate Moisturizer Guide

Navigating the realm of skin care can be challenging, especially when it comes to acne and oily skin. The misconception that moisturizers are something to be avoided can lead to a lack of care for your skin. For these skin types, finding the right face care products is key to maintaining a healthy and balanced complexion.

In this comprehensive guide, we've curated a list of the top 10 Korean moisturizers specifically designed for those struggling with acne and excess oil. Along with product recommendations, we'll unravel answers to frequently asked questions to help you in your quest for glowing, balanced skin.

Let's take a look at some common questions you may have:

Should I moisturize if I have oily skin?

Contrary to popular belief, moisturizing is important even if you have oily skin. Oily skin can still be dehydrated, and skipping moisturizer can lead to increased oil production as your skin tries to compensate for the lack of moisture.

Do I need moisturizer if I have acne?

Yes, people with acne-prone skin should use an appropriate moisturizer. Look for non-comedogenic options that won't clog pores, help maintain a healthy skin barrier, and prevent further irritation.

Can too much moisturizer cause oily skin?

While moisturizing is essential, overuse of heavy or occlusive moisturizers can contribute to a feeling of oily skin. Opt for lightweight, gel-based formulas that hydrate without overwhelming your skin.

How do I know if I am over-moisturizing my face?

Signs of over moisturizing include a persistent feeling of heaviness, increased breakouts, or a greasy appearance. If you notice these signs, adjust your routine and opt for a lighter moisturizer.

How often should I moisturize my face if I have acne?

For acne-prone skin, it's best to moisturize twice a day - mornings and evenings. Consistent hydration helps the skin heal and regulates oil production.

What moisturizer does oily and acne prone skin need?

It is best to use a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer and products labeled as oil-free or non-comedogenic. Look for key ingredients like hyaluronic acid for hydration, niacinamide for oil control, and centella asiatica for soothing properties.

Exfoliating ingredients like AHA (glycolic acid and lactic acid) and BHA (salicylic acid) help fight acne and remove excess oil and dead skin cells without being harsh on the skin. Avoid pore-clogging ingredients such as occlusives.

Are natural ingredients better for oily and acne-prone skin?

While natural ingredients can be beneficial, it's essential to focus on individual skin needs. Ingredients like tea tree oil and aloe vera can be soothing, but it's important to avoid potential irritants.

Should I skip moisturizing on the days I use acne treatments?

No, it's crucial to stay hydrated even when using acne treatments. Choose a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer to prevent dryness and flaking.

Is there a specific order to apply moisturizer in my routine?

In general, apply moisturizer after cleansing (+ toner, essence, serum) and before sunscreen or makeup. However, individual routines may vary based on specific product instructions.

Are sheet masks good for oily and acne-prone skin?

Yes, sheet masks can be beneficial. Look for masks with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or niacinamide to hydrate without clogging pores.

Can I use retinol with a moisturizer for acne-prone skin?

Yes, but introduce retinol gradually to avoid irritation. Layering it with a gentle, hydrating moisturizer can help alleviate dryness.

Should I exfoliate if I have acne-prone skin?

Yes, gentle exfoliation can help prevent clogged pores. Choose exfoliants with ingredients such as salicylic acid for effective yet gentle removal of dead skin cells.

10 Top Korean Lightweight Moisturizers

Some By Mi AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Cream

This innovative cream harnesses the combined benefits of AHA, BHA and PHA to gently exfoliate your skin, revealing a renewed and radiant complexion. The unique triple exfoliating action works synergistically to exfoliate dead skin cells, unclog pores and refine skin texture.

Targeted at acne-prone skin, it helps minimize breakouts, reduce blemishes and improve overall skin clarity. Its brightening action contributes to a more luminous complexion by fading dark spots and promoting even skin tone.

Klairs Midnight Blue Calming Cream

Enriched with the powerful soothing properties of guaiazulene, this calming cream effectively reduces redness and inflammation to promote a more even and balanced complexion. With a non-greasy, lightweight texture, the cream glides on effortlessly, leaving skin refreshed and nourished.

Purito Centella Unscented Recovery Cream

Powered by the potent healing properties of Centella Asiatica, this cream helps calm redness and support the skin's natural recovery process, providing essential moisture without clogging pores, leaving skin supple, moisturized and radiantly healthy.

The non-occlusive texture is comfortable to wear and allows the skin to breathe naturally while absorbing the nourishing benefits, making it perfect for daily use.

Pyunkang Yul Moisture Cream

The minimalist formula focuses on essential hydration without unnecessary additives, making it a gentle and lightweight option for daily use.  This cream deeply hydrates and provides a nurturing touch for supple, soft and radiant skin.

This cream has a soft and light texture that glides on effortlessly, leaving skin feeling refreshed without feeling heavy. Perfect for those who prefer simplicity without compromising effectiveness.

Benton Aloe Propolis Soothing Gel

Formulated with the potent combination of Aloe Vera and Propolis, this gel is a gentle yet effective solution for all skin types, especially beneficial for those seeking a soothing and balancing effect.

Utilizing the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of propolis, the gel provides protective benefits, fortifying the skin against environmental stressors and contributing to a healthier skin barrier.

The lightweight, non-sticky formula is comfortable to wear and absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving no residue.

iUNIK Centella Calming Gel Cream

Enriched with the powerful extract of Centella Asiatica, this lightweight and revitalizing solution is designed to soothe and hydrate, promoting a calm and balanced complexion, making it an ideal choice for daily hydration.

Known for its soothing and calming properties, Centella Asiatica actively works to reduce redness, inflammation and irritation, promoting a calmer complexion.

Cosrx Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion

The lotion's oil-free formula provides a burst of hydration without the weight, making it an ideal choice for those with oily or combination skin seeking a refreshing feel.

Its lightweight texture absorbs quickly and leaves no sticky or greasy residue, so it integrates seamlessly into your daily skincare routine.

Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing Cream

Powered by the revitalizing properties of birch sap, this cream is designed to replenish and revitalize, leaving your complexion with a radiant and healthy glow.

Known for its purifying, healing, antioxidant and hydrating properties, birch sap helps eliminate toxins and pave the way for clearer, brighter skin. It also helps to maintain a healthy oil and moisture balance, reduce inflammation, and soothe irritated skin.

Anua Heartleaf 70% Daily Lotion

Enriched with a high concentration of heartleaf extract, this lightweight yet deeply hydrating lotion delivers intense moisture to your skin, leaving it feeling refreshed and revitalized.

The heartleaf extract is known for its soothing and calming properties, making it ideal for sensitive and irritated skin.

With regular use, this daily lotion helps to strengthen the skin barrier, improve elasticity, and restore balance, giving you a healthier and more radiant complexion.

I'm From Vitamin-Tree Water Gel

The water gel formula contains 68% Vitamin Tree Leaf Water, extracted from infused Vitamin Tree Leaves, which ensures a deep and lasting infusion of enriched moisture, leaving your skin feeling hydrated, supple and rejuvenated.

Vitamin-rich ingredients such as Berry, Rose of Jericho and Snow Lotus extracts help to brighten and balance the skin's water and oil levels, promoting a brighter, more even tone for a radiant complexion.

Cosrx Snail Mucin 92% Cream

This moisturizer with an impressive 92% concentration of snail mucin deeply hydrates, plumps and revitalizes your skin for a radiant and youthful appearance.

The skincare powerhouse of snail mucin helps repair skin, working to diminish the appearance of fine lines, scars and imperfections, revealing a smoother, more youthful complexion. Perfect for addressing the signs of aging and restoring skin's vitality, it is suitable for all skin types.

Conclusion

Moisturizing is a fundamental step in any skin care routine, even for those with acne and oily skin. By choosing the right product, you can strike a balance between hydration and oil control to promote a healthier complexion.

Take the time to understand your skin's needs and let the right moisturizer be your ally in achieving clear, radiant skin.