Fast-absorbing hyaluronic gel that hydrates without shine and layers smoothly under makeup and SPF.
We may earn a small referral fee
Combination skin has both oil-prone zones and drier areas, so one heavy cream can flood the T-zone while a bare-bones gel can leave cheeks tight. The right moisturizer should be lightweight and non-comedogenic, give water-binding hydration, and finish clean so makeup sits smoothly. Below are three owner-loved options that cover a water-light gel for oilier days, a balanced lotion for daily comfort, and a soft-matte option to steady midday shine.
Disclosure: This guide may contain affiliate links. If you buy through our links, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.
Quick picks
- Best water-light daily gel: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Fragrance Free. Bouncy gel-cream that hydrates fast and sets clean. Rating: 4.7/5
- Best balanced lotion for all-over use: CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion. Ceramides and niacinamide with a satin, non-greasy finish. Rating: 4.6/5
- Best for shine control on T-zone: La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat Oil-Free Mattifying Moisturizer. Soft matte finish that helps makeup grip. Rating: 4.6/5
Deep dives
1) Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Fragrance Free • Best water-light daily gel
What it is: A fragrance free gel-cream with hyaluronic acid that drinks in quickly and feels almost weightless.
Performance and feel: Cooling slip at application, then a clean, non-sticky finish that plays nicely under sunscreen and makeup. Ideal for humid weather or oilier phases.
How to use: Apply a nickel-sized amount on slightly damp skin. If cheeks feel tight, tap a second thin layer only on dry areas.
Who it is for: Combination or oily-combination skin that wants hydration without shine.
Who should skip: Very dry or peeling phases may want a richer night layer.
Pros
- Ultra lightweight with real hydration
- Fragrance free version is friendlier for reactive skin
- Makeup friendly with minimal pilling
Cons
- Jar format needs clean hands or a spatula
- May not feel rich enough overnight for dry cheeks
Rating: 4.7/5
2) CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion • Best balanced lotion for all-over use
What it is: A light, oil-free lotion with ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid that supports the barrier without heaviness.
Performance and feel: Absorbs to a soft satin finish. Layers well under SPF and makeup. Helps steady tricky zones so cheeks stay comfortable and the T-zone is not overloaded.
How to use: Two pumps after any leave-on treatments. In the morning, follow with broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher.
Who it is for: Most combination skins that want calm hydration with minimal film.
Who should skip: If niacinamide tingles for you, patch test first.
Pros
- Oil free, fragrance free, non-comedogenic
- Ceramides support barrier on dry areas
- Plays well with retinoids and salicylic acid routines
Cons
- Pump dispenses smaller amounts
- Some notice mild tingle with niacinamide at first
Rating: 4.6/5
3) La Roche-Posay Effaclar Mat Oil-Free Mattifying Moisturizer • Best for shine control on T-zone
What it is: An oil free mattifying moisturizer that helps reduce surface shine and refine the look of pores.
Performance and feel: Light cream that dries to a soft matte finish and doubles as a primer. Excellent as a T-zone step with a gentler lotion on cheeks.
How to use: Use a pea size across the T-zone or all over if you are oilier. Follow with SPF in the daytime.
Who it is for: Combination or oily-combination skin needing moisturization plus predictable shine control.
Who should skip: Very dry or actively irritated skin should use a gentler hydrator.
Pros
- Noticeably steadies midday shine
- Non-comedogenic, oil free
- Helps base makeup grip and wear longer
Cons
- Tube is small for the price
- Can feel tight if layered too heavily
Rating: 4.6/5
How to choose and layer for balanced skin
Pick by finish and zone
- All-over light hydration most days: Hydro Boost Water Gel Fragrance Free.
- Even balance morning and night: CeraVe PM as a single-step lotion.
- Shiny T-zone with normal cheeks: Effaclar Mat on T-zone, CeraVe or Hydro Boost on cheeks.
Layering tips
- Apply to slightly damp skin to boost hydration with less product.
- Zone your routine: soft matte on the T-zone, cushier lotion on dry areas.
- If using actives like salicylic acid or retinoids, moisturize after treatments to buffer.
- Morning order: cleanser, treatment if used, moisturizer, SPF 30+, then makeup.
FAQs
Do I need two moisturizers for combination skin
Not always. Many do well with one balanced lotion and targeted use of a mattifying step on the T-zone.
Will moisturizers make my T-zone shinier
Choose oil free, non-comedogenic formulas. Use soft matte on the T-zone only and a lighter gel or lotion on cheeks.
Can I use moisturizer with salicylic acid or retinoids
Yes. Apply treatments first, then a simple, fragrance free moisturizer to buffer irritation.
Why does my makeup pill over moisturizer
Usually too much product or rushing layers. Apply thinly, wait 60 to 90 seconds, then apply primer and foundation.
How much should I use
About a nickel size for the face. Use a little extra for neck and any dry patches.
See also
If oil control is the main headache, pair your moisturizer with a base that respects pores and stays put through the school run and work. Start with Best Primer for Oily Skin and choose a breathable base from Best Makeups for Acne-Prone Skin. If texture shows through around the nose or cheeks, compare smoothing options in Best Foundation for Large Pores.
For days when combination skin swings dry, build comfort with Best Moisturizer for Dry Skin and keep your cleanse kind from Best Facial Washes for Acne-Prone Skin. These five pages interlink neatly with this guide so readers can assemble a flexible routine that adapts to both zones.