Those with oily skin should reach for a lightweight moisturizer, and these formulations “have much lighter texture and hydrate the skin without clogging the pores, especially for acne-prone skin,” says Dr. Kim. That can be an advantage for those prone to congestion, for whom rich, oil-infused creams can inadvertently trigger breakouts.
That said, lightweight moisturizers aren’t only for those dealing with a surplus of sebum. They’re also “a better option for most skin types during the summer when it’s hot and humid,” says Dr. Kim. That’s because their weightless texture and quick absorption that can be more comfortable than more occlusive formulas that sit atop skin and feel sticky or overly dense in the warmer months. However, he warns, people with especially dry skin or those with mature skin may want to stick with a thicker or richer moisturizer, which typically has more ceramides and fatty acids and bolster the skin barrier to keep skin supple and plump.