Finding a face cream for both dry and oily skin feels impossible. You need hydration without the greasy shine, and that’s a tough balance to get right.
We know the struggle. You don’t want a heavy cream that clogs pores, but lightweight gels often aren’t enough. Your skin deserves better than that.
Our team tested dozens of moisturizers made for combination skin. We looked at ingredients, texture, and how they felt all day long. The results surprised us.
This review shares our honest findings. We’ll help you find a cream that truly works for your unique skin needs without the guesswork.
| Product Image | Product Name | Best For | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
CeraVe Oil Control Moisturizing Gel-Cream | Oil Control | PRICES |
 |
No7 Derm Solutions Daily Face Moisturizer | Skin Barrier Strengthening | PRICES |
 |
No 7 Protect and Perfect Advanced Fragrance Free Face Cream – Day and Night Bundle | Day Night System | PRICES |
 |
No. 7 Restore and Renew Face & Neck Multi Action Cream | Face Neck Cream | PRICES |
 |
No7 HydraLuminous+ Hydrating Whipped Day Cream | Whipped Texture | PRICES |
 |
TULA Skin Care 24-7 Hydrating Day & Night Cream | 24/7 Hydration | PRICES |
 |
NIVEA Nourishing Hydration Skin Firming Body Lotion | Skin Firming | PRICES |
CeraVe Oil Control Moisturizing Gel-Cream
This gel-cream is a game-changer for anyone with oily skin who still needs hydration without the shine.
It uses a special oil-absorbing technology to rebalance your skin. Key ingredients like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid work together to hydrate and improve texture.
The lightweight, gel-cream formula feels refreshing and absorbs quickly. It’s non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog your pores or cause breakouts.
Pros:
👍 Excellent oil control throughout the day
👍 Lightweight, non-greasy feel
👍 Contains beneficial niacinamide and hyaluronic acid
👍 Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic
👍 Provides hydration without adding shine
Cons:
👎 Gel texture might not feel moisturizing enough for some
👎 The oil-absorbing effect can be very mattifying
👎 Packaging can feel basic for the price
My Honest Opinion:
I think this is one of the best drugstore finds for oily skin. It truly delivers on its promise to hydrate while controlling shine, making it a reliable daily moisturizer.
No7 Derm Solutions Daily Face Moisturizer
This moisturizer is a game-changer for anyone who struggles with both dryness and excess oil.
It’s specially formulated for oily, blemish-prone skin but still delivers serious hydration. The lotion uses ceramides and niacinamide to strengthen your skin’s moisture barrier.
The texture is light and absorbs quickly without any greasy residue. I found it layers perfectly under makeup or sunscreen without pilling.
Pros:
👍 Strengthens skin barrier with ceramides
👍 Niacinamide helps control oil and redness
👍 Lightweight, non-greasy formula
👍 Absorbs quickly into the skin
👍 Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic
Cons:
👎 Bottle is smaller than some competitors
👎 Can be pricey per ounce
👎 May not be moisturizing enough for very dry climates
My Honest Opinion:
This is my top pick for combination skin. It truly balances hydration without causing breakouts or shine. If you’ve been stuck between dry patches and an oily T-zone, this lotion is worth trying.
No 7 Protect and Perfect Advanced Fragrance Free Face Cream – Day and Night Bundle
This No 7 bundle is a fantastic two-step system that simplifies your skincare routine.
You get a day cream with SPF 30 protection and a separate night cream for repair. It’s fragrance-free, which is great for sensitive or reactive skin types. The formula aims to protect and perfect your skin’s appearance.
The creams have a nice texture that isn’t too heavy or greasy. I found they absorbed well without leaving a sticky residue behind. The packaging is straightforward and makes the daily routine easy to follow.
Pros:
👍 Complete day and night system in one bundle
👍 Day cream includes broad-spectrum SPF 30
👍 Fragrance-free formula is gentle on skin
👍 Non-greasy texture absorbs quickly
👍 Helps simplify your skincare routine
Cons:
👎 Two separate jars might be less convenient for travel
👎 The SPF is only in the day cream, not the night
👎 May not be moisturizing enough for very dry skin
My Honest Opinion:
I really like how this bundle covers both daytime protection and overnight repair. It’s a smart set for anyone who wants a simple, effective routine without any added fragrance. The SPF in the day cream is a major plus for daily use.
No. 7 Restore and Renew Face & Neck Multi Action Cream
This day and night bundle tackles both dryness and oiliness with targeted formulas.
It includes a daytime cream with SPF 30 protection and a richer night cream. The fragrance-free formulas are designed to work for your face and neck. They aim to restore your skin’s balance over time.
The packaging is straightforward and hygienic with pump dispensers. I found the texture of the day cream lightweight and the night cream more nourishing. It’s a simple two-step system that’s easy to add to any routine.
Pros:
👍 Includes both day (SPF 30) and night creams
👍 Fragrance-free and suitable for sensitive skin
👍 Targets both the face and neck area
👍 Comes in a convenient, value bundle pack
👍 Day cream provides essential sun protection
Cons:
👎 The night cream might feel heavy for very oily skin
👎 Two-step system requires remembering both products
👎 Pricier than buying a single moisturizer
My Honest Opinion:
This is a solid set if you want a dedicated day and night routine. The SPF in the day cream is a major plus for daily protection. Just know it’s a commitment to using two separate products.
No7 HydraLuminous+ Hydrating Whipped Day Cream
This whipped cream is a hydration hero that won’t leave oily skin feeling greasy.
It’s packed with hyaluronic acid to pull moisture into your skin. The 2% niacinamide helps repair your skin barrier and balance oil production.
The whipped texture feels incredibly light and absorbs quickly. I found it layers perfectly under makeup without pilling.
Pros:
👍 Light, whipped texture absorbs fast
👍 Hyaluronic acid provides deep hydration
👍 Niacinamide helps control oil and strengthen skin
👍 Works well under sunscreen and makeup
👍 Fragrance-free and gentle formula
Cons:
👎 Jar packaging isn’t the most hygienic
👎 Some may find 1.69 oz size small
👎 Can be pricey compared to drugstore options
My Honest Opinion:
This is a fantastic pick if you have combination skin. It delivers serious moisture where you’re dry without clogging oily zones. The texture is a real standout—it feels like nothing on your skin.
TULA Skin Care 24-7 Hydrating Day & Night Cream
This cream is a true multitasker that hydrates dry patches without making oily zones greasy.
It’s packed with superfood extracts like watermelon and blueberry. These ingredients give your skin a healthy dose of antioxidants. You can use it both day and night for consistent moisture.
The texture is lightweight and absorbs quickly into your skin. It doesn’t leave a heavy or sticky feeling behind. I found it layers well under makeup or other skincare products.
Pros:
👍 Hydrates dry areas effectively
👍 Non-greasy formula for oily skin
👍 Contains antioxidant-rich superfood extracts
👍 Can be used 24/7, day or night
👍 Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture
Cons:
👎 Jar packaging isn’t the most hygienic
👎 Scent might be strong for sensitive noses
👎 Price point is higher than some drugstore options
My Honest Opinion:
I think this is a fantastic choice if you have combination skin. It balances hydration beautifully without causing breakouts. The dual day-and-night use also makes your skincare routine simpler.
NIVEA Nourishing Hydration Skin Firming Body Lotion
This lotion promises to firm your skin while delivering 72 hours of deep hydration, which is a dream for dry, flaky patches.
It’s packed with Coenzyme Q10 and Vitamin C. These ingredients work together to improve your skin’s elasticity and texture. You get a big 16.9-ounce pump bottle, making it a great value.
The formula is rich but absorbs surprisingly quickly. It doesn’t leave a heavy, greasy film behind, which is perfect if you dislike that sticky feeling.
Pros:
👍 Provides long-lasting 72-hour moisture
👍 Contains skin-firming Q10 and Vitamin C
👍 Absorbs quickly without greasy residue
👍 Large size with convenient pump
👍 Excellent value for the money
Cons:
👎 The fragrance might be strong for some
👎 Primarily for body, not formulated for facial skin
👎 Very rich texture may be too heavy for oily areas
My Honest Opinion:
This is a powerhouse moisturizer for tackling serious dryness. I love how it makes my skin feel supple and smooth all day without the grease. Just be mindful of the scent if you’re sensitive to fragrances.
Buyer’s Guide: 3 Key Factors to Consider
Skin Type & Formula Weight
For oily skin, look for “oil-free,” “non-comedogenic,” and gel-cream textures. Dry skin needs richer creams with ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Combination skin may need a balanced, lightweight lotion.
Key Active Ingredients
Niacinamide is a superstar for regulating oil and strengthening the barrier. Hyaluronic acid provides hydration without grease. For mature or dry skin, look for peptides, Q10, and SPF in your day cream.
Additional Concerns & Sensitivities
If you have acne-prone or sensitive skin, fragrance-free formulas are essential. For daytime, always choose a moisturizer with at least SPF 30. Night creams can be heavier and focus on repair.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the same moisturizer if I have both dry and oily skin?
Yes, but you need a balanced formula. Look for “oil-free” moisturizers that contain hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid to add water without adding oil.
Is a night cream really necessary?
It’s highly recommended. Night creams are often richer and contain reparative ingredients that work while you sleep, without the need for SPF or lightweight textures.
What’s the difference between a gel-cream and a lotion?
Gel-creams are usually water-based, feel lighter, and absorb quickly—ideal for oily skin. Lotions and creams are more emollient and better for normal to dry skin types.
Should my face moisturizer have SPF?
Your daytime moisturizer absolutely should. SPF 30 or higher is the single most effective anti-aging and skin-protecting step in any routine.
How long does it take to see results from a new moisturizer?
Hydration and comfort should be immediate. For improvements in oil control, barrier strength, or fine lines, give it at least 4-6 weeks of consistent use.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
For most people with oily or combination skin, the CeraVe Oil Control Moisturizing Gel-Cream is the best overall choice. It hydrates perfectly without shine and strengthens the skin barrier. If your primary concern is anti-aging and you have normal to dry skin, the No 7 Protect and Perfect Advanced Fragrance Free Face Cream bundle offers incredible value with SPF protection. For intense, all-over body hydration, the NIVEA Nourishing Hydration Skin Firming Body Lotion is a budget-friendly powerhouse.
Choosing the right cream is about matching the formula to your skin’s specific needs, but these top picks cover all the essentials.