If there’s one skincare product oily-skinned girls (and guys) tend to veer away from, it’s definitely moisturizer. It’s a common misconception that oily and acneic skin is best without moisturizer. Why moisturize when you’re walking around already looking like an oil-filled pan waiting for something to fry, right?
The truth is, controlling excess oil production is not about drying the skin out. It’s the other way around. The key is to keep the skin hydrated and balanced because once the skin feels dry, it naturally rebounds by producing more oil. You, in turn, experience breakouts.
But, wait, that doesn’t mean you can literally pick up just any moisturizer.
For oily skin especially acne-prone, look for the following keywords: non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic, anti-inflammatory, gel, oil-free. Stay clear of pore-clogging ingredients such like petroleum, cocoa butter, alcohol, and mineral oils and reach out for those formulated with glycerin and hyaluronic acid that help retain moisture in the skin.
One of the best to try is Perricone MD Pre:empt Series Oil-Free Hydrating Cream. The name says it all: it’s an oil-free (check!) hydrating moisturizer (check!) that combats and prevents premature signs of aging (check!). It is formulated with a patented Nrf2 antioxidant support complex that protects the skin from free radicals and environmental aggressors, provitamin B5 and hyaluronic acid to keep the skin hydrated, and vitamin C Ester to brighten, lighten, and tighten the skin.
Its lightweight, buttery texture absorbs quickly and doesn’t leave any oily residue, perfect for a humid climate such as the Philippines’. It smells natural but not medicinal—something even guys would be comfortable with. The end product is a rose petal finish—velvety, plump, and dewy skin sans the grease and breakouts (after a week of testing).
The best part? It’s also good for all skin types!
Perricone MD Pre:Empt Series is available at Rustan’s Shangri-La and Rustan’s Makati.