The 8 best oil-free moisturisers for lightweight hydration

Navigating the vast landscape of skin care products can often be overwhelming, particularly when searching for the perfect moisturiser. For those keen on maintaining a healthy complexion while avoiding oil-based products, the quest becomes even more specific. Oil-free moisturisers are a staple in many skin care routines, offering hydration without the heaviness or pore-clogging properties often associated with their oil-containing counterparts. These products are especially beneficial for those with oily, acne-prone, or sensitive skin types.

Nowadays, the variety of oil-free moisturisers available caters to a diverse range of skin care needs and preferences. From gels that feel light as a feather to rich creams that provide deep hydration without the greasiness, there's something for everyone. 

2024’s top 3 oil-free moisturisers

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Water Gel, $15.74, Amazon Australia
No7 Hydraluminous Water Surge Gel Oil-Free, $29.99, Priceline
Kiehl's Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel Cream, $62, MECCA

No7 Hydraluminous Water Surge Gel Oil-Free

Notable for its lightweight gel formulation, the Hydraluminous Water Surge Gel is designed to provide intense hydration without leaving a greasy residue. It's ideal for individuals with oily or combination skin. The key ingredient, hyaluronic acid, ensures your skin retains moisture throughout the day.

Key features:
- Antioxidants vitamin C, mulberry and vitamin E
- 50mL size
- Cruelty-free

Available at:
- $29.99 from Priceline

Go-To Skincare Very Lightweight Moisturiser

True to its name, this moisturiser offers a very lightweight and non-greasy feel. Ideal for daily use, it keeps the skin hydrated without clogging pores. It's enriched with antioxidants and skin-loving ingredients, making it a great choice for sensitive skin.

Key features:
- Cruelty-free
- Refillable
- 50mL size

Available at:
- $55 from Go-To
- $55 from MECCA
- $67.18 from REVOLVE

Cinch Sleep + Glow Overnight Skin Booster

Cinch's innovative overnight skin booster works wonders while you sleep. The 5-in-1 formula focuses on hydration, rejuvenation, and skin repair. It's a great choice for those who want a fuss-free skin care routine that delivers results by morning. 

Key features:
- Wash-off overnight mask
- Shimmery colouring
- Features hyaluronic acid, paw paw and pineapple enzymes
- 80mL size
- Cruelty-free

Available at:
- $39.95 from Adore Beauty
- $39.95 from Cinch
- $39.95 from Look Fantastic
- $39.95 from Oz Hair & Beauty
- $39.95 from a-beauty
- $39.95 from Amazon Australia

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Water Gel

Neutrogena’s Hydro Boost series is renowned for its deep hydration capabilities. The oil-free water gel contains hyaluronic acid, a powerful hydrator that absorbs quickly into the skin. It’s suitable for all skin types, particularly those looking for a moisture boost without the greasy feel.

Key features:
- 1 per cent natural moisturising factor (ingredients to mimic skin’s natural hydration) complex
- Features hyaluronic acid, amino acids and electrolytes
- 50g size
- Refillable

Available at:
- $15.74 from Amazon Australia
- $17.49 (50 per cent off) from Chemist Warehouse
- $24.50 (30 per cent off) from Coles
- $34.99 from Priceline

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel Cream

The iconic Ultra-Facial Cream is formulated in an oil-free version! Ideal for normal to oil skin types, the non-greasy texture ensures your skin feels comfortable and hydrated throughout the day.

Key features:
- Glacier glycoprotein to promote moisture retention
- 50mL size

Available at:
- $62 from MECCA
- $63 from Woolworths
- $66 from Kiehls

Synergie Skin HydroGel

Synergie Skin's HydroGel is another excellent oil-free option, particularly for those who prefer vegan and cruelty-free products. The lightweight formula provides hydration and soothes the skin, making it ideal for post-procedure care or sensitive skin types.

Key features:
- Cruelty-free
- pH 5.5 - 6.5
- Barosma betulina leaf extract to target sebum production

Available at:
- $120 from Synergie Skin 

Cosmedix brings an advanced formula that combines moisturising and anti-ageing benefits. The Skin Thirst cream is enriched with hyaluronic acid and other beneficial ingredients to nourish and hydrate the skin, while also addressing fine lines and wrinkles.

Key features:
- Hyaluronic acid and lecithin to hydrate
- Witch hazel to balance sebum
- 60mL size
- Cruelty-free

Available at:
- $56 from Activeskin
- $59.50 from Skinmart
- $70 from Adore Beauty

Dermalogica Active Moist

Dermalogica's Active Moist can be considered the bread and butter of moisturisers. It's formulated to provide effective hydration without an oily residue, making it a superb choice for those with combination skin. The lightweight formula also helps improve skin texture and tone.

Key features:
- Cruelty-free
- 50mL size (also available in 100mL)
- Prebiotic moisture complex to nourish skin barrier

Available at:
- $54.02 from Skinmart
- $64.35 from Adore Beauty
- $73 from MECCA
- $73 from Dermalogica

How do I know if a moisturiser is oil free?

If a moisturiser doesn’t specifically state its oil-free status, check the ingredients list and look out for ingredients such as lanolin or nut and plant oils.

Related articles:
- The 16 best moisturisers in Australia for any skin care routine
- 9 hydrating face masks to get skin glistening
- 8 dry skin tips that skin care experts swear by

Main image credit: @haileybieber