Which moisturizers work best for men with oily skin?

Men's skin is thicker by 20 to 30 percent compared to women’s, which helps maintain a plump, healthy appearance as women combat crow's feet and frown lines with anti-aging creams. However, thicker skin also means more hair follicles and oil-producing glands. Testosterone triggers these glands, making men’s skin oilier than that of women [source: Sine].

Oily skin is prone to clogged pores, which can lead to acne and blackheads. Beyond teenage zits, oily skin also causes shine, which has led to a surge in skin care products that mattify the skin, providing a shine-free finish. According to The New York Times, 36 new 'mattifying' moisturizers were expected to enter the market in 2010 [source: Newman].

Having oily skin may make you think that moisturizers will make it worse. However, there's a distinction between adding oil to your skin and providing moisture. A quality moisturizer works by pulling water into the skin’s surface cells, shielding them from the drying effects of sun, wind, shaving, and pollutants without clogging pores or leaving a greasy residue.

Before purchasing a moisturizer for oily skin, confirm that oily skin is indeed your type. The best approach is to consult a licensed dermatologist. You can use the search tool on the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) website to find one nearby. Don’t rely on the skin care specialists at the department store—those white lab coats aren’t a substitute for proper credentials [source: Sine].

On the next page, we’ll break down the two main categories of moisturizers and highlight which ingredients are suitable for oily skin and which ones should be avoided.

Types of Moisturizers for Men With Oily Skin

As a general guideline, men with oily skin should seek moisturizers that are oil-free, water-based, and noncomedogenic, meaning they won’t clog pores [source: Mayo Clinic]. However, it’s important to note that these terms are not always supported by scientific evidence. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classifies moisturizers as cosmetics and does not test products for health claims before they reach the market. It’s up to the consumer to carefully review ingredient lists and identify safe products for oily skin.

Moisturizers can be divided into two main types: occlusives and humectants. Occlusives use oils such as petrolatum, lanolin, coconut oil, and other fats—both artificial and plant-derived—to form a protective layer on the skin that locks in moisture. Because occlusives are oil-based, they should be avoided by men with oily skin.

Humectants, on the other hand, attract moisture from the air into the skin. Ingredients like glycerin (glycerol), alpha hydroxy acids (AHA), and urea are commonly used in humectants [source: Kraft]. Most moisturizers combine both occlusives and humectants to draw in moisture and seal it in. For men with oily skin, products that rely solely on humectants are ideal.

To enhance the effectiveness of a humectant-based moisturizer, apply it right after cleansing when your skin is still slightly damp. This allows your skin to absorb the extra moisture more effectively [source: Mayo Clinic].

The latest generation of mattifying moisturizers uses a new set of ingredients to absorb excess oil while replenishing moisture. For example, the Matte for Men Complete Face and Head Care Lotion takes advantage of oats’ natural oil-absorbing properties [source: Newman]. Jack Black's All-Day Oil-Control Lotion features China clay (Kaolin), cotton, and Nylon 12—an artificial polymer—designed to 'absorb facial oils,' according to its product description.

Whatever moisturizer you select, ensure it includes at least SPF 15 for sun protection. If you have fair skin or spend extended time outdoors, opt for SPF 30. Also, make sure the sunscreen offers 'full-spectrum' protection, guarding against both UVA and UVB rays. While oily skin is a concern, skin cancer remains a major epidemic, with 1 million new cases annually—8,000 of them fatal [source: Sine].