These 7 moisturisers will hydrate your skin without clogging your pores
Hydration minus the fear of breakouts
Navigating the world of skin care can often feel like walking through a labyrinth - with an overwhelming array of products, each promising radiant, healthy skin. Among these, a particular category that stands out for its skin-friendly promise is non-comedogenic moisturisers. The term "non-comedogenic" might sound complex, but its meaning is straightforward: these moisturisers are specifically formulated to not clog pores, making them a beacon of hope for individuals battling with sensitive, acne-prone, or oily skin types.
The concept of non-comedogenic skin care roots from understanding how blocked pores can lead to various skin issues, like blemishes. Each day, our skin is exposed to a myriad of elements – dirt, oil, makeup, and even certain skin care ingredients – all of which can contribute to clogged pores. This is where non-comedogenic moisturisers come into play. They are designed to provide the essential hydration your skin needs without adding to the problem of clogged pores. In essence, they offer a hydrating embrace to your skin, minus the fear of breakouts or irritation.
In this guide, we will explore some of the top non-comedogenic moisturisers available in the market.
2024’s top 3 non-comedogenic moisturisers
CeraVe Daily Moisturising Lotion, $13.39, Chemist Warehouse
Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Pink Juice Moisturiser, $63, MECCA
The Inkey List Omega Water Cream, $21, Sephora
The INKEY List Omega Water Cream
from $21 at Sephora
This lightweight, oil-free formula is a delight for those seeking hydration sans heaviness. The INKEY List Omega Water Cream is packed with omega fatty acids and glycerin, ensuring your skin stays supple and hydrated throughout the day - without clogging your pores!
Key features:
- 50mL size
- Infused with niacinamide
- Cruelty-free
Available at:
- $21 from Sephora
- $21 from ASOS
Cosmedix Skin Thirst Moisturising Hyaluronic Acid Cream
from $56 at Skinluxe
This cream stands out for its hyaluronic acid content, which is known for its incredible ability to retain moisture. The Skin Thirst Cream is perfect for hydrating the skin deeply while maintaining a lightweight feel.
Key features:
- 60mL size
- Cruelty-free
- Gel-to-cream formulation
- Infused with hyaluronic acid
Available at:
- $70 from Adore Beauty
- $56 from ActiveSkin
- $59.50 at Skinmart
- $56 at Skinluxe
Aesthetics RX Daily Moisturiser Combination
from $99 at Adore Beauty
The Aesthetics Rx Daily Moisturiser is designed for combination skin. It balances the skin's natural oils and hydration, ensuring a smooth and refreshed complexion without the risk of clogging pores.
Key features:
- Housed in an airless pump bottle
- 50mL size
- Contains SPF
- Cruelty-free
Available at:
- $99 from Adore Beauty
- $99 from Aesthetics RX
- $99 from SILK Laser Clinics
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat
from $35.99 at Priceline
This moisturiser is specifically tailored for oily skin. La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat not only hydrates but also helps in reducing the appearance of pores and controlling shine, making it an excellent choice for those with oilier complexions.
Key features:
- 40mL size
- Oil-free
Available at:
- $35.99 from Priceline
- $35.95 from Adore Beauty
- $35.95 at French Beauty Co.
CeraVe Daily Moisturising Lotion
from $13.39 at Chemist Warehouse
This cult favourite is renowned for its ceramides and hyaluronic acid, which help in restoring the skin’s natural barrier and maintaining hydration. Better yet, its lightweight formula is not at risk of clogging your pores.
Key features:
- 236mL size
- Pump packaging
- Fragrance-free
- Oil-free
Available at:
- $13.39 from Chemist Warehouse
- $16.99 at Priceline
- $16.99 at Adore Beauty
Image Skincare Clear Cell Mattifying Moisturiser
from $99.95 at Oz Hair & Beauty
This option is ideal for those looking to combat excess oil and shine. The Clear Cell Moisturiser not only moisturises but also helps in achieving a matte finish, perfect for those with oily skin types.
Key features:
- 57g size
- Paraben-free
- Enriched with vitamin B
Available at:
- $99.95 at Oz Hair & Beauty
- $99.95 at Skinmart
- $99.95 at Image Skincare
CeraVe Oil Control Moisturiser
From $21.99 at Chemist Warehouse
Key Features:
- Oil-controlling formula
- MVE Delivery Technology
- Dermatologically developed
- Formulated with three essential ceramides
Available at:
- $21.99 from Chemist Warehouse
What does ‘non-comedogenic’ mean?
At its core, a non-comedogenic product is designed to avoid the occlusion of pores. When pores are blocked, it can lead to blackheads, whiteheads, and acne. This blockage can be caused by various factors, including certain oils, dead skin cells, dirt, or makeup. Non-comedogenic moisturisers and other skin care products are formulated to provide essential benefits like hydration or sun protection without adding ingredients known to clog pores.
How to identify non-comedogenic products
While many products label themselves as non-comedogenic, there is no strict regulation or standard definition for this term in the beauty and skincare industry. Therefore, it becomes essential for consumers to be aware of the ingredients commonly known to clog pores (like certain oils and silicones) and those that are generally safer choices (like hyaluronic acid and glycerin). Reading ingredient lists and understanding your skin type and its reactions to different ingredients can help in making informed choices.
Related articles:
- The 16 best moisturisers in Australia for any skin care routine
- The best foundations for acne-prone skin
- How to unblock pores (and prevent them from getting clogged)
Main image credit: Laneige
Olga is BEAUTYcrew's Content Producer. When she's not writing about beauty, she's probably watching endless TikTok videos about the topic. Her extra one per cent of brain space is reserved for her two poodles. She can be easily bribed with a good blush or lip tint (take notes, please).
