If you have dry skin, you know the struggle. You want deep hydration, but you don’t want a cream that feels heavy or greasy on your face.
Finding that perfect oily cream can be confusing. With so many jars and bottles on the shelf, it’s hard to know which one will actually work for you.
We tested seven popular oily creams made for dry skin. Some soaked in beautifully, while others just sat on top and felt sticky all day.
Our review breaks down what we learned. We’ll help you find a cream that gives your skin the moisture it craves without the unwanted shine.
| Product Image | Product Name | Best For | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
CeraVe Oil Control Moisturizing Gel-Cream | Oil Control Hydration | PRICES |
 |
No7 Restore & Renew Multi Action Night Cream | Crepey Texture Treatment | PRICES |
 |
No7 Derm Solutions Daily Face Moisturizer | Ceramide Barrier Strengthening | PRICES |
 |
Era Organics Tea Tree Cream Face Moisturizer for Oily Skin | Tea Tree Formula | PRICES |
 |
Cetaphil DermaControl Oil Absorbing Moisturizer with SPF 30 | SPF 30 Protection | PRICES |
 |
Boots No7 Restore & Renew Day Cream(SPF 15) 1.6 oz | SPF 15 Protection | PRICES |
 |
Natural Outcome Oil Free Daily Facial Moisturizer Gel | Oil-Free Gel | PRICES |
CeraVe Oil Control Moisturizing Gel-Cream
This gel-cream is a game-changer for anyone with dry skin that still gets shiny, as it hydrates deeply without adding any greasy residue.
It uses a special oil-absorbing technology to rebalance your skin. Key ingredients like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid work together to soothe and plump up dry patches.
The gel-cream texture feels incredibly light and sinks in quickly. You won’t feel like you’re wearing a heavy layer, which is perfect for daily use under makeup or sunscreen.
Pros:
👍 Provides serious hydration without feeling greasy
👍 Contains skin-loving niacinamide and hyaluronic acid
👍 Lightweight, fast-absorbing gel-cream texture
👍 Non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog pores
👍 Fragrance-free and oil-free formula is gentle
Cons:
👎 The oil control might be too strong for very dry skin
👎 Comes in a jar, which some prefer to avoid
👎 May not be moisturizing enough for extremely dry climates
My Honest Opinion:
I think this is a brilliant product for combination or oily-leaning dry skin. It solves the tricky problem of needing moisture without the shine, and CeraVe’s reliable formulas make it a safe bet.
No7 Restore & Renew Multi Action Night Cream
This rich night cream is a powerhouse for tackling dryness and the signs of aging while you sleep.
It’s packed with collagen peptides and hyaluronic acid to deeply hydrate and plump crepey skin. Ceramides help to restore your skin’s natural moisture barrier for lasting relief.
The texture is luxuriously rich and oily, which is perfect for very dry skin types. It absorbs well overnight without feeling overly greasy on your pillow.
Pros:
👍 Intensely hydrating for very dry skin
👍 Targets crepey texture and fine lines
👍 Strengthens the skin’s moisture barrier
👍 Rich, nourishing texture
👍 Good value for a multi-action formula
Cons:
👎 Might be too heavy for combination skin
👎 Jar packaging isn’t as hygienic
👎 Contains fragrance
My Honest Opinion:
This is a fantastic, treatment-level cream for mature or severely dry skin. If your skin feels tight and parched, this oily cream delivers the deep nourishment you’ve been craving.
No7 Derm Solutions Daily Face Moisturizer
This moisturizer is a game-changer for anyone with dry skin that also feels oily or gets clogged easily.
It’s specifically made for oily and blemish-prone skin, so it hydrates without feeling heavy. The formula uses ceramides and niacinamide to repair your skin’s moisture barrier.
The lotion texture is light and absorbs quickly. You won’t be left with a greasy film, which is perfect for wearing under makeup or sunscreen.
Pros:
👍 Lightweight, non-greasy hydration
👍 Strengthens skin barrier with ceramides
👍 Contains niacinamide for calming
👍 Won’t clog pores or cause breakouts
👍 Absorbs quickly into the skin
Cons:
👎 Bottle is smaller than some competitors
👎 May not be rich enough for extremely dry skin
👎 Scent-free, which some may find clinical
My Honest Opinion:
This is my top pick for combination or oily-dry skin. It delivers the moisture you need without the shine you don’t want. I think it’s a fantastic daily workhorse moisturizer.
Era Organics Tea Tree Cream Face Moisturizer for Oily Skin
This cream is a game-changer for anyone with oily, dry, or combination skin that feels tight and shiny at the same time.
Its “7X Balancing” formula uses tea tree oil and other natural ingredients. It aims to hydrate dry patches without adding greasiness to oily zones. I found it really targets that confusing in-between skin state.
The texture is light and absorbs quickly, living up to its non-greasy promise. It has a clean, herbal scent from the tea tree that isn’t overpowering. A little goes a long way, making the jar last.
Pros:
👍 Excellent for combination skin (dry yet oily)
👍 Truly non-greasy and fast-absorbing
👍 Natural formula with tea tree oil
👍 Soothes dry patches without clogging pores
👍 Helps balance overall skin moisture
Cons:
👎 Tea tree scent might not be for everyone
👎 Jar packaging isn’t as hygienic as a pump
👎 Can be a bit pricey for the size
My Honest Opinion:
If your dry skin still gets oily, this cream is worth trying. It solved that “tight but shiny” feeling I often had. It’s become a reliable part of my routine for balanced hydration.
Cetaphil DermaControl Oil Absorbing Moisturizer with SPF 30
This moisturizer is a smart pick if your dry skin still gets shiny and needs sun protection.
It’s designed to tackle two problems at once. It hydrates your dry patches while actively absorbing excess oil to reduce shine.
The formula includes SPF 30 and has no added fragrance, which is great for sensitive skin. It feels lightweight and doesn’t leave a heavy, greasy residue.
Pros:
👍 Absorbs oil and reduces shine
👍 Contains SPF 30 for daily protection
👍 Hydrates without feeling greasy
👍 No added fragrance for sensitive skin
👍 Lightweight, comfortable texture
Cons:
👎 SPF can leave a slight white cast on some skin tones
👎 The oil control might be too much for very dry areas
👎 Bottle size is smaller than some other options
My Honest Opinion:
I think this is a fantastic all-in-one solution for combination or oily-dry skin. It simplifies your morning routine by combining moisturizer and sunscreen in a formula that manages shine.
Boots No7 Restore & Renew Day Cream(SPF 15) 1.6 oz
This day cream is a fantastic two-in-one solution that deeply hydrates dry skin while providing essential sun protection.
It’s packed with nourishing ingredients designed to restore your skin’s moisture barrier. The formula is rich and creamy, offering that oily texture dry skin craves without feeling overly heavy or greasy on your face.
The SPF 15 is a great built-in feature for daily use. I found the cream absorbs well, leaving skin feeling soft and supple, not slick or shiny.
Pros:
👍 Combines intense hydration with SPF 15 protection
👍 Rich, oily texture ideal for very dry skin
👍 Helps restore the skin’s natural moisture barrier
👍 Absorbs well without a heavy residue
👍 Affordable price point for a quality day cream
Cons:
👎 SPF level is low for extended sun exposure
👎 Scent might be strong for some users
👎 The jar packaging isn’t as hygienic as a pump
My Honest Opinion:
This is a reliable, no-fuss cream that delivers serious moisture. It’s perfect if you want a simple, effective product that hydrates and protects in one step.
Natural Outcome Oil Free Daily Facial Moisturizer Gel
This gel moisturizer is a game-changer for anyone who thinks oily skin can’t handle extra hydration.
It’s packed with hyaluronic acid to pull moisture into your skin without any heavy oils. The refreshing blend of watermelon and aloe vera soothes and hydrates throughout the day. You get serious moisture in a completely weightless formula.
The gel texture feels incredibly light and absorbs in seconds. It leaves a smooth, matte finish that’s perfect under makeup. I found it didn’t clog my pores or cause any extra shine.
Pros:
👍 Truly oil-free and non-greasy
👍 Hyaluronic acid provides deep hydration
👍 Lightweight gel absorbs quickly
👍 Refreshing watermelon and aloe scent
👍 Won’t clog pores or cause breakouts
Cons:
👎 Gel texture might feel too light for very dry areas
👎 The 4 oz bottle may run out quickly with daily use
👎 Scent, while pleasant, might not be for everyone
My Honest Opinion:
This is my top pick for oily or combination skin that still gets dry patches. It delivers the hydration you need without the heaviness you don’t want. If you’ve been avoiding moisturizer because of shine, this one will change your mind.
Buyer’s Guide: 3 Key Factors to Consider
Skin Type & Ingredient Balance
Look for products labeled “oil-free” and “non-comedogenic” to avoid clogging pores. Key ingredients like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid help regulate oil production while providing essential hydration without heaviness.
Texture & Finish
The texture is crucial for oily skin. Gel-creams and lightweight lotions absorb quickly and leave a matte finish. Avoid thick, creamy formulas that can feel greasy and contribute to shine throughout the day.
Additional Benefits (SPF, Night Repair)
Decide if you need a daytime moisturizer with SPF for protection or a dedicated night cream for repair. Some formulas offer multi-tasking benefits, but using separate products can be more effective for specific concerns like anti-aging.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can oily skin still be dehydrated?
Absolutely. Oily skin often overproduces oil to compensate for a lack of water. Using a lightweight, hydrating moisturizer with ingredients like hyaluronic acid can help balance your skin.
Should I use a different moisturizer at night?
It’s a good idea. Night creams, like the No7 Restore & Renew, are often richer and contain targeted repairing ingredients like peptides that work while you sleep, without worrying about a shiny daytime finish.
Is SPF important in an oily skin moisturizer?
Yes, sun protection is essential for all skin types. Look for oil-free, non-comedogenic sunscreens or moisturizers with SPF, like the Cetaphil DermaControl, that won’t feel heavy or cause breakouts.
What ingredients should I avoid?
Avoid heavy oils, butters, and waxes that can clog pores. Also, be cautious with heavy fragrances, which can irritate sensitive, oily skin. “Fragrance-free” is often a safer bet.
How long does it take to see results?
Give a new moisturizer at least 2-4 weeks of consistent use. Your skin needs time to adjust its oil production in response to proper hydration, so patience is key.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
For most people with oily, dry, or combination skin, the CeraVe Oil Control Moisturizing Gel-Cream is the top choice. It perfectly balances oil control with essential hydration using trusted ingredients like niacinamide and ceramides. For a reliable option with sun protection, the Cetaphil DermaControl Oil Absorbing Moisturizer with SPF 30 is excellent. If your primary concern is anti-aging and nighttime repair, the No7 Restore & Renew Multi Action Night Cream delivers impressive results without greasiness.
Choosing the right formula can transform your skincare routine, providing the moisture your skin needs without the unwanted shine.