The Best Lightweight Moisturisers for Combination Skin
Last Updated on March 20, 2025 by Amy
If you have combination skin, you know the struggle—your cheeks feel dry, your T-zone looks shiny by midday, and finding a moisturiser that balances both can feel impossible. You need something lightweight but hydrating, nourishing but not greasy, and ideally, something that won’t clog pores or cause breakouts.
I’ve tested my fair share of moisturisers over the years, and I know firsthand how tricky it can be to find the perfect one. That’s why I’ve rounded up some of the best moisturisers for combination skin—from lightweight gel-creams to barrier-supporting hydrators. Whether you need a non-greasy day cream or something richer for nighttime, these picks have got you covered.
How to use Lightweight Moisturisers
You should follow any instructions on the specific product you are using. However, there are some general tips which may help to further boost your skin hydration:
- Apply water-based moisturisers to damp skin to help lock in hydration. I like to use a mist to add an extra layer of moisture. They are so refreshing in warmer weather too!
- Add a facial serum to your routine. These daily morning skincare routine and morning vs night skincare routine posts offer some recommendations for my favourite serums.
- If you feel like your lightweight moisturiser isn’t giving you enough hydration you might want to consider adding a facial oil to your routine. Smooth into your skin after serum and before applying moisturiser.
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My Favourite Moisturisers for Combination Skin
Skin1004 Probio-Cica Enrich Cream (50ml, £15-£25)
Key Details:
- Formulated for dry and sensitive skin, but works wonders as a night cream for my combination skin
- Contains fermented centella, ceramides, and probiotics
- Strengthens skin barrier and provides deep hydration
- Rich texture that absorbs well
Why I Love It:
Despite its rich texture, it sinks beautifully into the skin and never feels greasy. I always reach for this moisturiser when I’ve used active ingredients like retinol on my skin. It delivers hydration and barrier support without clogging pores or causing excess oiliness. If you have combination skin but find yourself needing a more substantial nighttime moisturiser, this is definitely worth considering.
Buy it at YesStyle for only £15.35 (extra discount available with my code HURRYUP123)
Medik8 Total Moisture Daily Facial Cream (50ml, £45)
Key Details:
- Contains multi-weight hyaluronic acid, ceramides, peptides and squalane
- Lightweight yet cushiony texture
- Provides long-lasting hydration without clogging pores
- Works well under SPF and makeup
Why I Love It:
Medik8’s Total Moisture is an all-rounder—it hydrates without feeling heavy. It feels slightly richer than a gel-cream but still breathable, making it ideal for daytime wear under makeup. If you need extra nourishment without shine, this is a fantastic pick. You can read my full review of this product here!
Buy it here at Space NK for £45!
Skin Rocks The Moisturiser (50ml, £58)
Key Details:
- Created by skincare expert Caroline Hirons
- Contains Pro-Vitamin D3, ceramides, squalane, hyaluronic acid and antioxidants
- Designed to strengthen the skin barrier
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture
Why I Love It:
Despite its thick consistency, this moisturiser feels weightless and fast-absorbing on the skin. It provides hydration where needed without increasing oil production, making it a great option for combination skin. It’s a little more money than I like to spend on a moisturiser but I loved the texture so much that I’m tempted to re-purchase! If you’re looking for long-term hydration and skin barrier support, this is a fantastic staple. The heavy glass jar also feels very luxurious!
Buy it here at Space NK for £58!
APLB Glutathione Niacinamide Facial Cream (55ml, £13.45)
Key Details:
- Contains niacinamide, centella asiatica, and ceramides
- Helps regulate oil production and improve skin clarity
- Lightweight yet nourishing
- Suitable for both day and night use
Why I Love It:
This moisturiser strikes the perfect balance between hydration and oil control. It smooths the skin without feeling heavy or greasy, making it a fantastic choice for both AM & PM routines. I have a feeling it’s going to take over as my favourite morning moisturiser when the weather heats up a bit. If you struggle with breakouts but still need hydration, this is an affordable must-try!
It’s currently reduced on YesStyle for only £8.04 and you can get an extra 5% off using my link!
Clinique Moisture Surge (50ml, £42)
Key Details:
- Oil-free gel-cream
- Claims to provide up to 100 hours of hydration
- Contains hyaluronic acid, aloe vera bioferment, and vitamins C + E
- Lightweight and absorbs quickly
Why I Love It:
With its beautifully light texture, it absorbs effortlessly into the skin without leaving any greasy residue. On my combination skin, it provides just the right amount of hydration—soothing dry patches while preventing excess oil production or breakouts. If you’re after a fuss-free, deeply hydrating moisturiser that feels refreshing and weightless, this is an excellent choice, especially in warmer months.
Summer Fridays Cloud Dew (50ml, £45)
Key Details:
- Oil-free gel-cream
- Contains hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and amino acids
- Pineapple enzymes help brighten skin
- Slightly richer texture than Clinique Moisture Surge
Why I Love It:
I initially tested this moisturiser when my skin was feeling sensitive due to retinol use, and I did experience some stinging upon application. However, I later found that it helped restore my skin barrier and alleviated irritation. While it has a slightly richer texture and takes a little longer to absorb, it still feels lightweight and breathable. If you’re looking for a summer-friendly moisturiser that offers hydration and a boost of radiance, Cloud Dew is worth trying.
Buy it here at Space NK for £45! If you’re in the US, get it at Resolve at the link below:
Which Moisturiser is Right for You?
It’s hard to pick a favourite from this list—I can easily see myself repurchasing all of them multiple times. But if I had to choose, I’d go with Medik8 as my go-to winter day cream and APLB for summer. As for night creams, Skin1004 would be my pick year-round! Of course, everyone’s skin has different needs, but all the moisturisers I’ve included in this post are excellent choices for combination skin, offering the right balance of hydration without feeling too heavy or greasy.
💬 Have you tried any of these? Which is your go-to moisturiser for combination skin? Let’s chat in the comments!
