How Do I Choose the Best Cream for Oily Skin?

Choosing the best cream for oily skin will depend on a variety of factors including the specific type of cream, which could be designed to moisturize skin, reduce the oil on the skin's surface, or treat acne. Many people will want to consult a dermatologist or other licensed professional to find the right cream for oily skin. Those who want to purchase cream on their own should look for non-comedogenic creams, which don’t clog pores, and creams that do not contain irritants, excess oils, or heavy scents.

Moisturizing oily skin can sometimes be a difficult task because many moisturizers and lotions contain large amounts of oil. Individuals looking for lotions or creams for oily skin should try to avoid anything that will add additional grease to the skin’s surface. Not only will increased oil add shininess, it will also increase the potential for acne and clogged pores. There are a wide range of available moisturizing options for oily and combination skin that do not contain pore-clogging ingredients or excess oil, so you should look at the ingredients listed on the container to make sure that it doesn't contain too much oil.

Heavy scents used in some creams can also have the potential to irritate skin. This could potentially increase the amount of oil on the face as well as add redness, worsen acne, or create discomfort. Some synthetic materials present in cream for oily skin could also create irritation, so it’s best to look for natural creams or ones that are specifically labeled as non-comedogenic. Many moisturizers also contain sun protection factors (SPF), which can reduce skin irritation due to sunburn or excess ultraviolet (UV) light radiation. While sun damage is not necessarily linked to oily skin, it can worsen the symptoms, irritate acne, and decrease the skin’s overall health.

Some types of cream for oily skin are also designed to treat acne, a common side effect of excess oil. When choosing the best acne treatment, it’s best to begin with less harsh treatments and gradually move up in strength to initially avoid harsh side effects. Various chemicals, such as benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid, are used in different types of acne creams, and many can be purchased over-the-counter at weak to average dosage strengths. For stronger treatments, consulting a healthcare professional is wise because he or she will be able to evaluate your acne symptoms to determine the best treatment options.