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12 Intensely Hydrating Moisturizers That Won’t Clog Pores
Minimize breakouts and quench your thirsty skin at the same time.
Some bad news for those battling acne: Combatting breakouts isn’t solely limited to the best acne face washes or retinol serums. Treating acne requires an army of effective, reparative formulas across the board, including non-comedogenic moisturizers.
“Comedogenicity refers to the potential of certain ingredients to cause clogged pores in the skin,” explains Dr. Renata Khelemsky, a New York-based double board-certified and fellowship-trained facial cosmetic surgeon. “This occurs when there is an abnormal proliferation of dead skin cells lining the sebaceous duct, as well as overproduction of oil.” She goes on to explain that the accumulation of debris can cause a blockage within the pores, which leads to—you guessed it—open comedones (blackheads) and closed comedones (whiteheads).
So now you see why non-comedogenic skin care is important. “The term ‘non-comedogenic’ refers to products that are specially formulated to avoid clogging pores, helping to prevent comedones and promoting clearer, healthier skin,” says Khelemsky, MD.
While there are many different types of comedogenic ingredients, according to Acne.org, some of the most common are lanolins, fatty acids, oils, and silicones. For Sofie Pavitt, an acne specialist and esthetician based in New York City, figuring out if something is non-comedogenic can be tricky. “There are many nuances to consider when deciding whether something is going to break you out,” says Pavitt. Varying factors include the formulation, the amount of a specific ingredient within a product, and so much more. “As a general rule to make things easier for my acne-prone clients, I tell them to avoid traditionally ‘comedogenic’ ingredients. I have the best success with my clients when they use non-comedogenic products when we’re clearing their breakouts,” says Pavitt.
Shop our favorite non-comedogenic moisturizers of 2024
It can be difficult to look at an ingredient list and determine if something is non-comedogenic. For this story, we checked products against celebrity esthetician Biba de Sousa’s beloved Pore Clogger Checker, which allows you to easily decipher whether a product is comedogenic. We also combed through our favorite items in our bathroom cabinets and read online customer reviews to find the 12 best non-comedogenic moisturizers on the market.
Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer
Pros
- Fast-absorbing
Cons
- Some users note it can feel sticky
Featuring some of the most soothing, nourishing ingredients, this cream is basically a salve for tired, stressed-out skin looking for relief. Hyaluronic acid provides hydration, while ceramides moisturize and strengthen the skin. The formula also contains extra conditioning ingredients, such as glycerin and squalane, to plump and smooth as it hydrates.
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, ceramides, glycerin, squalane
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
Our expert says: “This nourishing, lightweight lotion uses key ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides to support the skin barrier. The cream absorbs easily and won’t clog the pores. Plus, it is fragrance-free, paraben-free, lanolin-free and sulfate-free, making it especially good for those with sensitive skin.”—Dr. Marisa Garshick
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat Mattifying Face Moisturizer
Pros
- Reduces shine
Cons
- Some users note it can pill
If you prefer your moisturizers on the matte side, La Roche-Posay’s cult-favorite iteration dials down the dew and amps up moisture without weighing down the skin. This formula is especially great for oily/sensitive skin because of exfoliating lipo-hydroxy acid, culled from salicylic acid, which gently improves textures and renews skin.
Key ingredients: Lipo-hydroxy acid, glycerin
Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars
Our expert says: “This lightweight, non-comedogenic gel moisturizer is especially great for those with oily skin. Effaclar Mat helps to replenish moisture without leaving the skin looking shiny and repairs the skin barrier. It also contains a combination of ceramides to help strengthen the skin barrier and niacinamide to soothe the skin.”—Dr. Marisa Garshick
Pros
- Lightweight
Cons
- May not be suitable for super sensitive skin
Dieux Skin has consistently launched products that skin-care lovers quickly obsess over, and their new Air Angel moisturizer is no exception. With the lightweight consistency of a gel, but the glow and hydrating factors of a night cream, this is the perfect non-clogging moisturizer for anyone who still wants deep hydration.
Key ingredients: Glycerin, ceramides, urea
Dieux Skin rating: 5/5 stars
An expert reviewer says: “I’m wary of gel creams in general because they’re oftentimes watery and not hydrating enough for my dry skin. This new product completely changed my tune. Not only does it deeply nourish and soften my skin, but it also leaves behind a healthy sheen that I’m obsessed with.”–Tatjana Freund, luxury and commerce editor
Pros
- Safe for very sensitive skin
Cons
- Small size
All of Tower 28’s cosmetics and skin care are approved by the National Eczema Association for being gentle and safe for sensitive skin. Like their viral SOS Spray, this moisturizer helps calm, hydrate, and heal even the most breakout-prone skin.
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, ceramides
Tower28 rating: 4.8/5 stars
An expert reviewer says: “In my experience, many moisturizers created for very sensitive skin can lack when it comes to exciting formulations and texture. This one breaks that mold. It’s a thick cream, which I love, but it has an uber-soft texture that feels like my skin is getting a big hug. My only issue with it is that I wish it came in a gigantic size so I could use it as a body cream, too.”—Tatjana Freund, luxury and commerce editor
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Water Gel
Pros
- Easy to find
Cons
- Contains fragrance
When it comes to drugstore moisturizers, Neutrogena cornered the market and isn’t letting go. Their must-have Hydro Boost Water Gel is the ideal lightweight moisturizer for anyone who wants a dose of hydration, without a greasy residue.
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, glycerin
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
Our expert says: “This lightweight water gel-cream is a great moisturizer that can be used daily, combining the benefits of a gel as it absorbs easily and a cream, as it maintains long-lasting hydration. It contains hyaluronic acid to help hydrate and lock in moisture, keeping the skin feeling moisturized.”—Dr. Marisa Garshick
Kiehl's Since 1851 Ultra Facial Cream
Pros
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Takes time to melt into skin
This no-fuss moisturizer has been beloved for years, and there’s a clear reason why. With a lightweight yet hydrating texture, no added fragrance, and an accessible price point, this product deserves all the love it’s gotten.
Key ingredients: Squalane, glycerin
Ulta rating: 4.7/5 stars
An expert reviewer says: “This moisturizer quickly absorbs into your skin and leaves it looking hydrated and plump. If you have dry or dehydrated skin, I highly recommend this product. It also seems to work well for those with a simple skin-care routine or sensitive skin. The formula plays well with other products and brands and doesn’t pill.”—Danielle James, beauty expert
Pros
- Heals damaged skin
Cons
- Works best on damp skin
COSRX is one of the most beloved K-Beauty brands on the market. With an emphasis on repairing skin barriers that have been damaged by over-using harsh ingredients or scrubs, this cream uses snail mucin to gently envelop the skin in healing ingredients.
Key ingredients: Snail mucin
Ulta rating: 4.7/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “There’s nothing I love more than dewy glass skin, and this moisturizing cream gives me that every time. This cream is amazing when used with the entire line but it also works really well with my other skincare products. I have naturally dry skin and this silky texture absorbs beautifully and keeps my skin feeling moisturized all day.”—Tasha Nicole Smith, beauty assistant
Shani Darden Skin Care Weightless Oil-Free Moisturizer
Pros
- Sinks into skin instantly
Cons
- Some say it's too light for dry skin
This moisturizer is so lightweight, it feels like you have nothing on your skin at all. The formula is packed with hyaluronic acid and hydrolyzed collagen, both of which help visibly plump and add moisture to your skin.
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, hydrolyzed collagen, red algae extract
Sephora rating: 4.1/5
An ELLE editor says: “Shani Darden’s Weightless Oil-Free Moisturizer is, in my opinion, the ultimate summer moisturizer. When the humidity gets unbearable in New York, I don’t want anything heavy on my face, but I still need moisture. This formula solves that by sinking into skin instantly but still giving my skin a lot of hydration.”—Katie Berohn, beauty editor
Eadem Cloud Cushion Plush Moisturizer
Pros
- Brightens dark spots
Cons
- Some don't like the texture
This moisturizer has an incredibly airy, almost whipped texture. It’s made with ingredients like ceramides and peptides that help repair the skin’s moisture barrier. Plus, it also has niacinamide to brighten skin.
Key ingredients: ceramides, peptides, snow mushroom, niacinamide
Sephora rating: 4.7/5
An expert reviewer says: “The minute I saw the name “Cloud Cushion,” I was excited to try. The formula is rich, but not heavy. It sinks into my skin well and leaves a hydrated, dewy finish. I have normal-to-dry skin and this works well for me.”—Danielle James, beauty expert
Pros
- Multi-use
Cons
- Can be hard to store the big size
CeraVe’s classic face and body Moisturizing Cream has been used by thousands of people to treat everything from eczema to breakouts. Deeply hydrating and non-comedogenic, this is the all-purpose cream everyone needs in their medicine cabinet.
Key ingredients: Ceramides, hyaluronic acid
Ulta rating: 4.6/5 stars
An expert reviewer says: “Middle school, high school, and college me used this cream as my sole skincare product beyond face wash—and counted that as a routine. It goes on pretty thick, so it’s a lifesaver in the winter and a frenemy in the summer, but it’s just an overall must-have for anyone who likes to keep it simple. My skin looks amazing all these years later, and I owe it all to my first skincare love, this moisturizer.”–Bianca Rodriguez, commerce expert
Pros
- Intensely hydrating
Cons
- An investment
Formulated with U Beauty’s Siren Capsule Technology, this moisturizer is able to deliver hyaluronic acid deep into the skin. In fact, in a clinical trial, 86 percent of people felt that their skin was more hydrated up to 48 hours after initially applying. It’s also super gentle on skin thanks to a blend of oat extract, peptides, shea butter, and more.
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, shea butter, vitamin E
Dermstore rating: 4.8/5
An ELLE editor says: “In the winter, my dry skin becomes even drier (blame the cold air and New York City heating systems). When my barrier is compromised, I always reach for U Beauty’s moisturizer. It works wonders to make my skin plump and smooth again.”—Katie Berohn, beauty editor
Pros
- Good for easily irritated skin
Cons
- Some don't like the smell
Elta MD doesn’t just make incredible sunscreens—the brand also has some incredible skin-care products. This sensitive skin-friendly moisturizer helps repair your skin’s barrier thanks to a blend of ceramides, enzymes, and lipids.
Key ingredients: Vitamin E, ceramides, enzymes
Amazon rating: 4.6/5
An Amazon reviewer says: “This product is great for year-round use, but I find that I absolutely need it in the winter. The cold air really tears up my skin, to the point of feeling raw and burnt. This is the only thing that can help soothe and heal my face.”
Meet the Experts
Sofie Pavitt is an acne specialist, esthetician, and founder of Sofie Pavitt Face and Sofie Pavitt Skin Studio in New York City, New York.
Biba de Sousa is a celebrity esthetician and founder of Biba Los Angeles, based in Los Angeles, California.
Dr. Marisa Garshick is an NYC-based dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology
What is your definition of “non-comedogenic”?
When it comes to defining “non-comedogenic,” it sadly isn’t an easy question to answer. “My definition of a non-comedogenic product would be a product that won’t cause pore clogging and consequently acne breakouts,” says de Sousa.
As a general beauty rule, it’s always important to remember that what works for one person might not work for others.
Why might someone prefer to use a non-comedogenic moisturizer?
Non-comedogenic moisturizers can work for all skin types, but certain groups may be more inclined to try them than others. “Someone who is blemish prone or has dealt with acne in the past would be a great candidate for a non-comedogenic moisturizer,” says Pavitt.
Even if you personally don’t experience breakouts, a family history of acne might still be a reason to switch to a non-comedogenic face cream, adds de Sousa.
Why are moisturizers often comedogenic?
“Moisturizers–and all cosmetic products for that matter–are often comedogenic because of the pore-clogging ingredients in the formulation,” says de Sousa. Unfortunately, skin care is often the biggest group of products in your routine that can contain comedogenic ingredients.
“Moisturizers are common products that contain comedogenic ingredients such as shea butter and coconut oil,” says Pavitt. She adds, “The reality is lots of people can use these ingredients with no issue whatsoever. It’s when your are predisposed to acne and are blemish prone that you have to be careful around traditionally comedogenic ingredients in moisturizers.” If you have successfully used moisturizers with comedogenic ingredients without an adverse reaction, there’s no reason to stop. However, if you’ve been unable to pinpoint the cause of your breakouts, your face cream may be the culprit.
If a product is non-comedogenic, does it never cause breakouts?
Switching to a non-comedogenic moisturizer is sadly not a guarantee that your skin will clear up overnight. “If a product is non-comedogenic, it means that it is less likely or unlikely to cause acne breakouts. Non-acne-prone people–anyone, for that matter–could experience follicular irritation from the random product. If that happens, they should stop using the product that is causing the irritation. However, this is not acne, though it might seem like acne to the untrained eye,” says de Sousa.
“Everyone reacts differently to products and someone might be sensitive to even a non-comedogenic ingredient. I think it’s a good baseline to avoid comedogenic ingredients if you’re acne-prone,” says Pavitt.
It’s also important to remember that any product you come in contact with regularly–including your shampoos, makeup, and detergents–could contain comedogenic ingredients that could cause breakouts. That’s why its very important to investigate your products if you’re having a hard time pinpointing the cause of your acne.
How can you find out if a product is non-comedogenic?
While reading ingredient lists is a fantastic way to learn more about your skin’s preferences and what you’re using, not all acne-causing ingredients are obvious. Both Pavitt and de Sousa have created tools to help people discover which products contain comedogenic ingredients. “My Pore Clogger Checker tool is based on Dr. J.E. Fulton’s seminal list of pore-cloggers, and I—to this day—keep adding product ingredients that I personally observed as comedogenic in my practice. I had the pleasure of studying under Dr. Fulton and deeply learned about acne genesis,” says de Sousa.
“I actually built a website with a tool to help you check your products for comedogenic ingredients. You can copy and paste your products ingredient list into the search engine, and it will highlight the comedogenic ingredients in that product,” says Pavitt. Pavitt also has a Shop My Shelf of products she recommends to her acne-prone clients that you can shop for suggestions.
Why trust ELLE Beauty?
As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, ELLE.com is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items. For this piece, ELLE beauty editors and contributers spoke with skin experts about the absolute non-comedogenic moisturizers that will not clog pores and cause breakouts. Freund personally tested several of these products and scoured reviews for the top-rated products on the market.
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