Can I use serum instead of moisturizer for oily skin?

Author: Breana Schuster  |  Last update: Wednesday, October 1, 2025

Heavy skincare products can make the skin feel oilier, so gels, serums, or lightweight lotions are optimal for oily skin, like CeraVe Oil Control Moisturizing Gel-Cream.

Is serum better than moisturizer for oily skin?

For oily skin, serums are generally a better option than creams because they are lightweight and absorb quickly without leaving a greasy residue. Serums with ingredients like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and salicylic acid can help control oil production, hydrate the skin, and prevent breakouts.

Can I use serum without moisturizer on oily skin?

It is not recommended to use serum without moisturizer because serums alone do not provide sufficient hydration to the skin. Serums are formulated to penetrate deeply into the skin and deliver active ingredients to the deeper layers of the skin, but they do not provide the hydration that your skin needs.

Is it OK to replace moisturizer with serum?

It is not recommended to use serum without moisturizer because serums alone do not provide sufficient hydration to the skin. Serums are formulated to penetrate deeply into the skin and deliver active ingredients to the deeper layers of the skin, but they do not provide the hydration that your skin needs.

Can you just use serum as a moisturizer?

It is not recommended to use serum without moisturizer because serums alone do not provide sufficient hydration to the skin. Serums are formulated to penetrate deeply into the skin and deliver active ingredients to the deeper layers of the skin, but they do not provide the hydration that your skin needs.

Dry Skin? Don’t Buy A Moisturizer (Here’s The ACTUAL Science)

Can I skip moisturizer for oily skin?

Oily skin is characterized by excess sebum production, which can lead to a shiny appearance, clogged pores, and a higher likelihood of developing acne. While it may be tempting to skip moisturizers to reduce perceived greasiness, this can actually do more harm than good.

Is serum good for oily skin?

Yes, face serum is good for oily skin unless you pick a face serum that is heavy, oil-based, and contains essential oils. We suggest you pick face serums that contain hydrating, such as hyaluronic acid, such as Mamaearth Flowers of Youth Essence Serum.

Is it mandatory to apply moisturizer after face serum?

Serums typically have more lightweight formulas; however, moisturizers create a protective barrier over the outermost layer of the skin to lock in moisture. As such, a serum should always be applied before a moisturizer, as this maximizes the contact it has with the skin, helping to achieve the desired effect.

Which moisturizer is best for oily skin?

Moisturizer for Oily Skin
  • Cica & Niacinamide Night Gel for Oily & Acne Prone Skin. ...
  • Watermelon + Glycolic Acid Matte Moisturizer. ...
  • JUST IN. ...
  • BESTSELLER. ...
  • BESTSELLER. ...
  • TOP PICK. ...
  • BESTSELLER. Retinol + Ceramide Night Cream, Pack of 2. ...
  • Cica & Niacinamide Night Gel, Pack of 2. Oily & Acne-Prone Skin.

What are the disadvantages of face serum?

Drawbacks Of Using Face Serum Every Day
  • Face serums can be more expensive than other skincare products.
  • People with sensitive skin may face irritation, redness or breakouts if the serum's formulation doesn't suit them. ...
  • Even when used daily, you should only use a small amount of serum.

What serums should I avoid with oily skin?

People with oily skin should avoid:
  • Petrolatum (petroleum jelly): It is a greasy ointment that clogs the pores of oily skin. Instead, use light lotions and creams. ...
  • Alcohol: Alcohol-containing serums, toners, and other skin care products eliminate excess skin oil but also cause irritation.

How many minutes after serum to apply moisturizer?

It's recommended to wait about one to two minutes after applying serum before moving on to your moisturiser. This brief waiting period allows the serum to fully penetrate your skin, delivering its active ingredients directly to the target areas.

Does oily skin still need moisturizer?

It may seem counterintuitive, but oily skin needs plenty of moisture, too. I usually advise my patients with oily skin to apply moisturizer twice per day (in the morning and at night) to their face and neck. For all-day shine control, I recommend looking for moisturizers that are designed to help absorb excess oil.

Does oily skin need moisturizer after serum?

So should you moisturize oily skin? YES, you need to moisturize your skin, even if it is oily and acne-prone. To understand why, let's take a closer look at what a moisturizer really does. Moisturizers don't add water to your skin, but rather help hold the water in the outer layer of your skin to keep it hydrated.

Can I skip serum in the morning for oily skin?

Pro tip: Face serums should be applied before thicker creams to absorb into the skin better, as moisturizers often create a barrier on the skin that these lightweight serums cannot penetrate. If you have oily skin and you think you can skip this step and jump to the next one, think again.

Can I just use a serum at night?

Ingredients in serums are fine to use day or night, except those that can make your skin sensitive to the sun such as AHAs and retinol. ¹⁷ But if you're looking to keep your serum usage as stress-free as possible, stick to using them at night and let them do their work while you sleep. Use the right amount.

Is hyaluronic acid good for oily skin?

In addition, hyaluronic acid benefits oily skin by helping to smooth out rough patches and uneven skin texture. By supporting the skin's natural repair processes, hyaluronic acid promotes a more even skin tone, reduces and prevents age spots and discolorations.

Can I skip moisturizer and use sunscreen for oily skin?

The answer is Yes, you can apply sunscreen without moisturizer (on occasion). But in the long run, it's not the best idea for your skin. However, for optimal skin health and sun protection, the ideal approach is to use both in tandem.

Can you skip moisturizer if you use serum?

You can also use serum alone without added moisturizer, but this may reduce the power of the serum's active ingredients. Serums contain active ingredients such as oat oil, vitamin E and hyaluronic acid that pull moisture into the skin for deep hydration.

Can a serum replace a moisturizer?

A serum is different from a moisturizer; serums tend to be thinner with a higher concentration of ingredients. Serums are typically applied to the skin after cleansing within a skincare routine but before moisturizing. Although, you can use a serum as a standalone product.

Can I leave serum overnight?

Can I leave serum overnight? Leaving a serum on over night is ideal! As stated above, serums need time to absorb and your skin is most receptive when you're asleep so having a serum on before you go to bed is a great way to have your skin get the most out of the serum.

What serum gets rid of oily skin?

Neutrogena Clear & Defend+ Daily Serum (1x 30ml), Refining and Clearing Face Serum with Salicylic Acid, AHA/PHA, Daily-Use Oil-Free, Suitable for Spot-Prone Skin to Help Defend Against Breakouts.

Why does my face look oily after applying serum?

If your moisturizer contains a lot of oils, your skin may feel greasy after application. The reason for this is that your skin does not absorb oils as quickly as other ingredients. As a result, the oil just sits on top of your skin for a while, making it feel greasy and look shiny.

How often should I use serum for oily skin?

Better yet, the serum also visibly improves the 10 signs of aging (such as skin texture skin tone fine lines and wrinkles) with just one bottle of use. Apply to your skin both morning and evening daily after cleansing to experience the benefits.

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