Oil Control Moisturizing Gel-Cream

Oily skin is caused when your skin produces an excess of sebum (your skin’s natural oils). Sebum plays an important role in helping your skin retain moisture, but too much of it can leave your complexion looking shiny and greasy. The amount of sebum your skin produces is largely determined by genetics. However, other factors can influence how oily your skin looks and feels—these include hormones, age, stress, and warm, humid weather. Improper skincare may also play a role in triggering excess oiliness.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), washing your face with a harsh, alcohol-based cleanser can irritate your skin and potentially lead to increased oiliness. Instead, the AAD recommends a skincare routine for oily skin that includes a gentle cleanser and an oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer and sunscreen.¹ To learn more about the causes of oily skin, head to this article: Why Is My Skin So Oily?

Moisturizing is an essential skincare step for all skin types, including oily skin. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to “dry out” your skin if it’s on the oilier side. Skipping moisturizer or using drying skincare products can cause oily skin to become dehydrated—meaning it lacks water (rather than oil) in its uppermost layer. According to the Cleveland Clinic, when your skin becomes dehydrated, it can cause your sebaceous glands to produce even more oil. Keeping your skin hydrated may help keep oiliness at bay, since your sebaceous glands won’t have to work as hard to compensate for lost moisture, per the Cleveland Clinic.²

Instead of foregoing moisturizer, CeraVe recommends choosing a lightweight, non-comedogenic formula that’s designed for oily skin—like our Oil Control Moisturizing Gel-Cream. This facial moisturizer is an excellent option for those with combination to oily skin. It helps rebalance your skin (so that it’s neither too oily nor too dry) and delivers all-day hydration while helping to restore the skin’s protective barrier.

This product is an ideal pick for anyone with oily skin or combination skin. The lightweight, mattifying formula leaves your skin feeling hydrated without clogging your pores. Although it’s formulated for combination to oily skin, our Oil Control Moisturizing Gel-Cream is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin and acne-prone skin.

Developed with dermatologists, this fragrance-free moisturizer can be used by anyone 13 years of age or older. It’s also suitable for use on all skin tones and layers well under makeup. If you have any questions or concerns about whether CeraVe Oil Control Moisturizing Gel-Cream is right for your skin’s needs, we recommend consulting a board-certified dermatologist.

Both of these products can help support hydrated, healthy-looking skin when used as part of a daily skincare routine. They are both suitable for all skin types (including sensitive skin) and feature lightweight formulas that don’t leave your skin feeling greasy or sticky upon application. Both moisturizers contain CeraVe’s three essential ceramides and other beneficial ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide.

When deciding between these two products, it can be helpful to consider your skin type, skincare goals, and the texture of each formula. Our Oil Control Moisturizing Gel-Cream features a gel-cream formula and a matte finish that’s ideal for those with oily skin and combination skin. This product features oil-absorbing technology that can help reduce shine and balance your complexion.

On the other hand, CeraVe Ultra-Light Moisturizing Gel features a gel texture and a weightless feel on the skin. This formula makes a great option for anyone who prefers a lightweight, refreshing moisturizer feel. Still not sure which is right for you? Head to our Skincare Solution Finder for more advice on the ideal products for your daily skincare routine.

1. “How To Control Oily Skin.”American Academy of Dermatology Association. 13 March 2018.
2. “8 Tips for Getting Rid of Oily Skin.” Cleveland Clinic, 21 May 2023.
3. “Skin Care Tips Dermatologists Use.” American Academy of Dermatology Association, 2024.