10 Best Moisturizers for Acne-Prone Skin in the Philippines 2026 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
You might think you could skip moisturizers to avoid aggravating acne, but in skincare, moisturizers are a must, no matter what your skin type is! Acne is a bummer, especially if you're well past the age of puberty.
We're pretty sure you have conducted countless trials and errors on skincare products to find one that you would be hiyang to. If you still haven't found the right one for you, we're here to help! Check out our buying guide with tips and comments from a board-certified dermatologist, plus our picks for the best moisturizers for acne-prone skin you can get in Lazada and Shopee!
Quick List - Top Moisturizers for Acne-Prone Skin
Céleteque® DermoScience™
Clearer Skin With Lightweight Acne Care Gel
CeraVe
Hydrating Daily Moisturizer With Broad-Spectrum SPF 30
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz is the face behind Ask Your Derma. She is a board-certified dermatologist in Metro Manila. She is also an educator and digital creator on all things skin, hair, and nails. She is a Diplomate of the Philippine Dermatological Society and offers online video consultations. You can also catch her on her Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube channel.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
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How to Choose a Moisturizer for Acne-Prone Skin - Buying Guide
There are several important factors that influence how well a moisturiser works for acne-prone skin. Let our guide below walk you through the key points to consider when choosing the best moisturiser to keep your skin hydrated and clear.
Look for Ingredients Beneficial for Acne
Having acne-prone skin does not mean you skip out on skincare entirely in hopes of avoiding a breakout. You just have to look for ingredients that could soothe acne instead of irritating it.
Exfoliants May Help Improve Acne
Exfoliating ingredients could be used to improve the appearance of skin as it removes dead skin cells with a fresh layer. Notable ones include salicylic acid, also known as BHA, which is beneficial for acne-prone skin. It helps exfoliate skin and unclog pores to prevent the buildup of excess sebum and blackheads.
Alpha Hydroxy Acid, or AHA, is also helpful, as it helps remove dead skin, which can gently remove excess sebum and clogged pores. It is also great for improving fine lines and wrinkles. Glycolic acid or lactic acid are common types of this acid.
Retinol, touted as an anti-aging ingredient, is also helpful for acne. This helps in reducing breakouts by promoting cell turnover and preventing acne. It also cleans pores, which reduces the onset of blackheads and whiteheads.
Acne tends to definitely be quite stubborn! In order to understand what ingredients would work for it, here's a little summary of the mechanism behind acne. Acne is formed by a complex process following 4 factors:
- The buildup of oil or sebum
- Hyperkeratinization or development of clogged skin pores
- Bacteria (Cutibacterium acnes) in the skin
- Inflammation
Exfoliants, particularly chemical exfoliants, target factor #2, hyperkeratinization. Moisturizers have now been incorporated with ingredients such as salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and even retinol. Salicylic acid is particularly popular given it has comedolytic effects and anti-inflammatory capability. In addition, moisturizing ingredients reduce local adverse effects, such as irritation and dryness associated with topical acne medications.
Opt for Moisturizing Ingredients That Won't Aggravate Your Skin
Hyaluronic acid and glycerin are great humectant ingredients, which means they pull moisture to the surface of your skin. They moisturize the skin without irritating it or making it feel greasy.
Cica or Centella Asiatica is an ingredient known for its wound-healing properties. It also works as an excellent moisturizer for those with skin sensitivities such as eczema and psoriasis. It won’t irritate your acne while still offering moisturizing capabilities.
Good options for acne-prone and/or oily skin include water-based ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which hydrates the skin but also aids in skin healing and soothes inflammation, or glycerin, which draws in water from the deeper layers of the skin, keeping the skin hydrated.
Other options include emollients such as ceramides, which prevent transepidermal water loss and strengthen the skin barrier or linoleic acid. Some studies have shown that people with oily skin are deficient in linoleic acid in their sebum, so adding them to the regimen improves skin barrier function.
Check Its Texture: Go for Oil and Fragrance-Free Formulas
If you have acne-prone skin, you should avoid using anything too heavy as it could clog your pores and make you more prone to breakouts. In this regard, we advise you to opt for lightweight, non-comedogenic formulas and avoid ointment-type ones, as they are too heavy. Gel and lotion-based textures work best since they can be lightweight yet provide your skin with moisture.
Furthermore, avoid oil-based ingredients such as petrolatum and coconut oil, which can leave a greasy feeling on your skin. Go for fragrance-free products if you can, as fragrance could be a potential irritant and trigger acne, as well as parabens and sulfates.
Aside from the ingredients, it’s also important to choose the right texture spectrum: gel → hybrid → lotion → cream. Each serves a different purpose due to its substances, as well as the ratios of water and oil.
For acne-prone and/or oily skin, best to choose a gel moisturizer because you will get the hydration you need without any residue that will leave excess oil on your skin. They’re lightweight and don’t create that barrier on the skin (which isn’t needed since your skin produces enough of its own barrier with oil).
Simplify Your Routine With Moisturizers Containing SPF 30 or Higher
Sunscreen is an essential part of your daily skincare routine, but what if you could simplify your routine even further? Moisturizers with SPF offer a convenient solution – you can get the hydration your skin needs and sun protection in one step! Gone are the days when sunscreen meant a greasy mess; today's formulas are lightweight and comfortable to wear.
For optimal sun protection, choose a moisturizer with SPF 30 or higher. Dermatologists recommend this level of SPF because anything lower offers inadequate protection against harmful UV rays. If your moisturizer doesn't have SPF, be sure to layer a separate sunscreen on top for complete sun defense.
Sunscreen is a key part of the acne skincare regimen. If you're worried it might break you out more, the key lies in choosing the correct one. Sunscreen is important, especially for some treatments for acne, as these can predispose to photosensitivity. Not to mention, sunscreen can also assist in the prevention of residual hyperpigmentation.
A lot of moisturizers have been incorporated with SPF for added protection, making it dual-purpose: moisturizing and protecting. But make sure to take a look at that SPF amount; you need at least SPF 30 or up to protect yourself sufficiently.
10 Best Moisturizers for Acne-Prone Skin to Buy Online
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Key Ingredients for Acne | Key Moisturizing Ingredients | Oil-Free | Artificial Fragrance-Free | Texture | SPF | Net Weight | |||||
1 | Céleteque® DermoScience™ Acne Solutions Acne Clearing Facial Moisturizer Gel | | Clearer Skin With Lightweight Acne Care Gel | Acnacidol™ BG、Salicylic Acid (BHA) | Aloe Vera、Glycerin | Gel | 50 mL | ||||
2 | CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion with Sunscreen | | Hydrating Daily Moisturizer With Broad-Spectrum SPF 30 | Niacinamide, Phytosphingosine | Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid | Cream | 89 mL | ||||
3 | Oxecure Acne Clear Oil Control Moisturizer | | Lightweight Gel for Acne-Prone, Oil-Controlled Skin | Willow Bark Extract (BHA)、Salicylic Acid (BHA)、Tea Tree Extract | Aloe Vera、Glycerin、 Hyaluronic Acid | Gel | 75 mL | ||||
4 | La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat Moisturizer | | Mattifying Moisturizer That Controls Oil and Refines Pores | Salicylic Acid (BHA) | Glycerin、Pentylene Glycol | Cream | 40 mL | ||||
5 | COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion | | Lightweight Hydration With Soothing Birch Sap | Tea Tree Extract | Glycerin、Hyaluronic Acid、Panthenol | Cream | 100 mL | ||||
6 | Paula's Choice Clear Oil-Free Moisturizer | | Lightweight Hydration for Acne-Prone, Sensitive Skin | Niacinamide、Phytosphingosine | Glycerin、Hyaluronic Acid、Panthenol、Propanediol、Prunus Serotina (Wild Cherry) Fruit Extract、Sodium PCA、Sodium Gluconate | Cream | 60 mL | ||||
7 | Klued Double Oat Moisturizer | | Soothing Moisturizer With Oat Extract for Sensitive Skin | Niacinamide | Glycerin | Cream | 50 mL | ||||
8 | Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel | | Hydrating Gel for Long-Lasting, Lightweight Moisture | N/A | Glycerin、Hyaluronic Acid、Sodium PCA、Betaine、Caprylyl Glycol、Pentylene Glycol、Fructose、Sodium Lactate、Urea、PCA、Maltose、Trehalose、Glutamic Acid、Glucose | Gel | 50 mL | ||||
9 | Luxe Organix Cica Rescue Gentle Brightening Derma Relief Moisturizer | | Calming Moisturizer With Brightening and Barrier Repair | Niacinamide | Cica、Glycerin、Propanediol、Caprylyl Glycol、Pentylene Glycol、Hyaluronic Acid | Cream | 50 mL | ||||
10 | Benzac Microbiome Equaliser | | Daily Moisturizer That Balances and Soothes Acne-Prone Skin | Clover Extract、Lactobacillus Ferment | Glycerin、Panthenol、Caprylyl Glycol、Isopentyldiol、Pantolactone | Cream | 50 mL | ||||
Céleteque® DermoScience™Acne Solutions Acne Clearing Facial Moisturizer Gel
Clearer Skin With Lightweight Acne Care Gel
- Contains salicylic acid to help clear acne and unclog pores, reducing breakouts
- Includes Acnacidol BG to control sebum production and inhibit acne-causing bacteria
- Formulated with french spring water for smooth, hydrated skin without heaviness
- Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and oil-free, suitable for oily and combination skin
Reviews mention:
Users appreciate its lightweight, non-sticky gel texture that absorbs quickly and helps reduce acne over time. Many find it effective for oily skin without causing heaviness or irritation. Some suggest consistent use is needed for best results, while a few with sensitive skin report mild reactions or prefer more hydrating options.
| Key Ingredients for Acne | Acnacidol™ BG、Salicylic Acid (BHA) |
|---|---|
| Key Moisturizing Ingredients | Aloe Vera、Glycerin |
| Oil-Free | |
| Artificial Fragrance-Free | |
| Texture | Gel |
| SPF | |
| Net Weight | 50 mL |
Hydrating Daily Moisturizer With Broad-Spectrum SPF 30
- Provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection with SPF 30 to shield skin from sun damage
- Contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid to restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier and hydration
- Includes niacinamide to soothe skin and reduce redness or irritation
- Lightweight, non-greasy, and non-comedogenic formula suitable for normal to dry skin types
Many users appreciate its gentle, hydrating feel that works well for sensitive and eczema-prone skin, praising its moisturizing effect without heaviness. Some find it leaves a slight greasy finish or causes pilling when layered with makeup, and a few mention mild stinging or dryness especially during skin barrier recovery. Overall, it is valued for daily sun protection and skin barrier support but may require adjustment for makeup wearers or very oily skin types.
| Key Ingredients for Acne | Niacinamide, Phytosphingosine |
|---|---|
| Key Moisturizing Ingredients | Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid |
| Oil-Free | |
| Artificial Fragrance-Free | |
| Texture | Cream |
| SPF | |
| Net Weight | 89 mL |
Lightweight Gel for Acne-Prone, Oil-Controlled Skin
- Contains salicylic acid to unclog pores and reduce acne breakouts
- Niacinamide helps fade blemishes and minimize acne marks for clearer skin
- Infused with 8 dimensions of hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture and keep skin hydrated
- Includes tea tree leaf and botanical extracts to soothe and regulate excess oil production
Users like its light, non-sticky texture that absorbs quickly and controls oil without drying out the skin. Many find it effective in reducing breakouts and calming irritated skin. Some suggest consistent use for visible results, while a few with very sensitive skin note mild irritation initially.
| Key Ingredients for Acne | Willow Bark Extract (BHA)、Salicylic Acid (BHA)、Tea Tree Extract |
|---|---|
| Key Moisturizing Ingredients | Aloe Vera、Glycerin、 Hyaluronic Acid |
| Oil-Free | |
| Artificial Fragrance-Free | |
| Texture | Gel |
| SPF | |
| Net Weight | 75 mL |
Mattifying Moisturizer That Controls Oil and Refines Pores
- Sebulyse technology reduces sebum production more effectively than zinc, helping to mattify skin and control shine
- Lipo-hydroxy acid (LHA) gently exfoliates to smooth skin texture and visibly tighten enlarged pores
- Perlite and silica powders absorb excess oil for a long-lasting matte finish without clogging pores
- Enriched with La Roche-Posay thermal spring water to soothe and protect sensitive skin
Users appreciate its lightweight, non-greasy texture that effectively controls oil throughout the day and reduces pore visibility. Many find it a great base for makeup and note smoother, healthier-looking skin with regular use. Some mention a slight fragrance that may not suit very sensitive skin, but overall it is praised for balancing oily skin without dryness.
| Key Ingredients for Acne | Salicylic Acid (BHA) |
|---|---|
| Key Moisturizing Ingredients | Glycerin、Pentylene Glycol |
| Oil-Free | |
| Artificial Fragrance-Free | |
| Texture | Cream |
| SPF | |
| Net Weight | 40 mL |
Lightweight Hydration With Soothing Birch Sap
- Formulated with 70% birch sap to calm irritated and sensitive skin while providing deep hydration
- Oil-free, fast-absorbing gel-lotion texture that leaves no greasy or sticky residue
- Contains tea tree oil to help fight breakouts and balance oily, acne-prone skin
- Ideal pH 5.5 formula supports skin barrier health and works well under makeup
Users praise its lightweight, non-greasy feel that hydrates without clogging pores or causing breakouts. Many find it soothing for sensitive or irritated skin and appreciate how well it layers with sunscreen and makeup. Some with dry skin note it may need an additional moisturizer for extra hydration, while a few mention slight tackiness before full absorption.
| Key Ingredients for Acne | Tea Tree Extract |
|---|---|
| Key Moisturizing Ingredients | Glycerin、Hyaluronic Acid、Panthenol |
| Oil-Free | |
| Artificial Fragrance-Free | |
| Texture | Cream |
| SPF | |
| Net Weight | 100 mL |
Lightweight Hydration for Acne-Prone, Sensitive Skin
- Oil-free, non-greasy formula that hydrates without clogging pores or causing breakouts
- Contains niacinamide to minimize pores and soothe flaky, irritated skin
- Infused with ceramides, peptides, and antioxidants to restore skin barrier and improve skin texture
- Light lotion texture absorbs quickly, suitable for daily use under makeup or alone
Users appreciate its gentle, soothing effect on acne-prone and sensitive skin, noting improved hydration without added oiliness. Many find it helps reduce redness and pore size while calming irritation. Some mention it may feel light for very dry skin but works well for combination and oily types seeking moisture without heaviness.
| Key Ingredients for Acne | Niacinamide、Phytosphingosine |
|---|---|
| Key Moisturizing Ingredients | Glycerin、Hyaluronic Acid、Panthenol、Propanediol、Prunus Serotina (Wild Cherry) Fruit Extract、Sodium PCA、Sodium Gluconate |
| Oil-Free | |
| Artificial Fragrance-Free | |
| Texture | Cream |
| SPF | |
| Net Weight | 60 mL |
Soothing Moisturizer With Oat Extract for Sensitive Skin
- Contains double oat kernel extract to calm and soothe irritated, sensitive skin
- Niacinamide supports skin barrier repair and improves moisture retention
- Green tea leaf extract provides antioxidant protection and reduces inflammation
- Sweet almond oil nourishes and moisturizes deeply without heaviness
Reviews mention:
Users praise its lightweight, non-greasy texture that absorbs quickly and is suitable for oily and sensitive skin. Many highlight its calming effect on redness and irritation, with some noting it helps lock in hydration and improves skin texture over time. A few mention the convenient travel-friendly packaging but wish for a larger size for everyday use.
| Key Ingredients for Acne | Niacinamide |
|---|---|
| Key Moisturizing Ingredients | Glycerin |
| Oil-Free | |
| Artificial Fragrance-Free | |
| Texture | Cream |
| SPF | |
| Net Weight | 50 mL |
Hydrating Gel for Long-Lasting, Lightweight Moisture
- Formulated with hyaluronic acid to provide intense hydration and lock in moisture for up to 72 hours
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing gel texture that refreshes and cools skin without feeling greasy
- Strengthens the skin’s moisture barrier to improve skin resilience and suppleness
- Non-comedogenic and oil-free formula suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin
Reviews mention:
Users praise its refreshing, non-greasy feel that absorbs quickly and keeps skin hydrated throughout the day. Many find it ideal for combination and oily skin, appreciating how well it layers under makeup. Some note the presence of fragrance, which may not suit very sensitive skin, but overall it is highly rated for effective hydration and skin barrier support.
| Key Ingredients for Acne | N/A |
|---|---|
| Key Moisturizing Ingredients | Glycerin、Hyaluronic Acid、Sodium PCA、Betaine、Caprylyl Glycol、Pentylene Glycol、Fructose、Sodium Lactate、Urea、PCA、Maltose、Trehalose、Glutamic Acid、Glucose |
| Oil-Free | |
| Artificial Fragrance-Free | |
| Texture | Gel |
| SPF | |
| Net Weight | 50 mL |
Luxe OrganixCica Rescue Gentle Brightening Derma Relief Moisturizer
Calming Moisturizer With Brightening and Barrier Repair
- Formulated with centella asiatica to soothe and calm irritated, sensitive skin
- Niacinamide brightens skin tone and helps reduce dark spots for a radiant complexion
- 5x ceramide complex strengthens and repairs the skin’s protective barrier, locking in moisture
- Lightweight, non-sticky, fragrance-free, and free from parabens and alcohol, suitable for all skin types
Reviews mention:
Users highlight its gentle, calming effect on redness and irritation while providing lasting hydration. Many appreciate the brightening benefits and improved skin texture with regular use. Some note it absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue, making it comfortable for daily wear.
| Key Ingredients for Acne | Niacinamide |
|---|---|
| Key Moisturizing Ingredients | Cica、Glycerin、Propanediol、Caprylyl Glycol、Pentylene Glycol、Hyaluronic Acid |
| Oil-Free | |
| Artificial Fragrance-Free | |
| Texture | Cream |
| SPF | |
| Net Weight | 50 mL |
Daily Moisturizer That Balances and Soothes Acne-Prone Skin
Features and benefits:
- Probiotic-derived technology helps restore and maintain a healthy skin microbiome, reducing breakouts
- Light, non-greasy formula delivers 24-hour hydration while strengthening the skin barrier
- Contains soothing ingredients like panthenol and clover extract to calm redness and irritation
- Non-comedogenic and pH-balanced to prevent clogged pores and support skin clarity
Reviews mention:
Users find it gentle and effective for sensitive, acne-prone skin, appreciating its hydrating yet lightweight feel. Many report reduced redness and smoother skin texture with consistent use. Some note a mild fragrance but generally praise its calming and balancing effects on problematic skin.e day, offering lasting comfort and protection. Reviewers rave about its ability to minimize breakouts, fortify the skin barrier, and leave skin fresh and balanced.
| Key Ingredients for Acne | Clover Extract、Lactobacillus Ferment |
|---|---|
| Key Moisturizing Ingredients | Glycerin、Panthenol、Caprylyl Glycol、Isopentyldiol、Pantolactone |
| Oil-Free | |
| Artificial Fragrance-Free | |
| Texture | Cream |
| SPF | |
| Net Weight | 50 mL |
Apply Moisturizer the Right Way
Make the most out of your moisturizer by following these application tips to ensure its effectivity.
Use Gentle Tapping Motions
Too often, we forget to be gentle with our skin, especially when it comes to applying skincare products. Remember to use gentle tapping motions when applying moisturizer. This is because harsh tugging can cause your skin to sag. The tapping motion also lets you ensure the product is absorbed well into your face.
The key is being gentle with our skin. Best to avoid rubbing or scrubbing motions as the friction can irritate the skin. This is the concept behind maskne or acne mechanica, after all, where the friction with the mask leads to irritation and development of acne. Cotton pads and face wipes aren't necessary too. All the more avoid rubbing your face with a towel. Just pat dry, and tap in the moisturizer.
Apply in Upward Strokes
This is in connection to our first tip, as we age, gravity can cause our skin to sag. When applying your moisturizer, it is better to apply them in light, upward strokes. This is to help your skin absorb the product better as well.
As we age, gravity pulls our skin downward, causing sagging and wrinkles. To combat this, some experts suggest applying moisturizer in upward strokes. Now, there definitely aren't any studies to validate this claim, however, doing it doesn't hurt anyway.
Apply It Last to Seal in Moisture
Besides having the right products, it is also imperative to apply them in the right order to increase their efficacy. We're talking about layering your skincare products.
Moisturizer is usually applied last to seal in all the products that you have previously applied. However, if you are using actives in your skincare, such as a specific acne treatment, you could apply a moisturizer first to act as a cushion and prevent your skin from drying out.
Applying moisturizers last definitely will aid in sealing in the moisture. However, it would be good to talk to your dermatologist about this, especially if he/she has started you on medications for acne.
There are definitely no hard and fast rules when it comes to this. But for instance, have you heard of the sandwich technique? Some dermatologists can choose to advise their patients to apply the moisturizer first before, for instance, a retinoid (especially if it's your first time), as this can limit penetration and thus, limit chances of irritation.
Frequently Asked Questions Answered By Dr. Katrina Luz
If you still have some unanswered questions, you need not worry! Dr. Katrina is here to answer some of the internet's most asked questions.
Do Moisturizers Cause Acne or Do They Help Treat Acne?
Moisturizers help treat acne more than cause it. The key is finding the right one! First and foremost, moisturizers help restore the disrupted skin barrier typically present in acne. In addition, moisturizers enhance the efficacy of medications, alleviate dryness that may develop secondary to the medication, and improve skin comfort.
How Often Should You Moisturize if You Have Acne?
Ideally, I advise my patients to moisturize twice a day, especially if they are just at home. Practically speaking, once a day application of a moisturizer at night would suffice. Then in the morning, I suggest they apply a moisturizer with SPF of at least 30.
How Much Moisturizer Should You Apply if You Have Acne-Prone Skin?
Usually, a pea-sized amount of moisturizer is enough to cover the entire face. However, the goal really is to ensure that all areas of the face are equally applied with the moisturizer, without leaving out areas such as around the eyes and sides of the nose and mouth (where topical acne meds can deposit and cause drying or irritation).
Acne-Prone Skincare Products for You to Try
Do you still struggle with acne? Is your skin easily irritated? Don't worry! These items are geared towards acne-prone skin. This way, you don't have to worry about your face breaking out.
How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
Top 5 Moisturizers for Acne-Prone Skin
No. 1: Céleteque® DermoScience™｜Acne Solutions Acne Clearing Facial Moisturizer Gel
No. 2: CeraVe｜AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion with Sunscreen
No. 3: Oxecure｜Acne Clear Oil Control Moisturizer
No. 4: La Roche-Posay｜Effaclar Mat Moisturizer
No. 5: COSRX｜Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.