IF you’re struggling with frequent blemishes and breakouts, choosing the right moisturiser is essential for keeping your complexion balanced.
That’s why we’ve carefully tested and reviewed eight of the best non-comedogenic moisturisers to help you achieve healthy, clear skin.
They’re especially beneficial during the colder months, when chilly winds and low humidity can strip the skin of moisture.
These formulas contain lightweight, breathable ingredients that won’t block your pores, making them ideal for preventing winter breakouts and keeping your complexion balanced.
No matter your skin type – oily, dry, combination, or sensitive – we’ve explored a variety of formulas tailored to different concerns.
These standout products provide hydration while allowing your skin to breathe, helping to keep your complexion smooth, balanced, and blemish-free.
Discover our top picks below and find the perfect non-comedogenic moisturiser to elevate your skincare routine.
Best non-comedogenic moisturisers at a glance
How we tested
The Sun Shopping team of experts tried out several non-comedogenic moisturisers for this guide.
We all have different skin types and concerns, but we all evaluated the effectiveness, the consistency, texture and how well it absorbed.
We also considered the ingredients, value for money, packaging and results of using each moisturiser.
If you’re looking for more expert product reviews, we have also tested the best moisturisers for dry skin, the best body moisturisers for dry skin, the best foundations for dry skin and the best face creams for all skin types.
Best non-comedogenic moisturisers reviewed
The Inkey List Bio-Active Ceramide Repairing and Plumping Moisturiser
The Inkey List Bio-Active Ceramide Repairing and Plumping Moisturiser, £19 at Boots
Pros: Lightweight, breathable, non-sticky, super hydrating, clean formula, soothing, and affordable
Cons: None
Rating: 5/5
The Inkey List creates clean, effective and affordable beauty products, and this ceramide moisturiser is one I often return to when my skin needs some TLC.
The formula is infused with bio-active ceramides as well as the signature Gransil Blur X-11, which works to hydrate the skin, soothe irritation, and boost the skin’s elasticity for a youthful and radiant complexion. It also targets the appearance of fine lines and ageing, protecting the skin’s barrier.
This moisturiser is instantly hydrating and is absorbed into the skin the moment you apply it, which is why I love to include it in my morning and evening routine as I don’t feel I am wiping the product off on my pillow at night.
After applying the moisturiser it leaves a velvety soft texture on the skin’s surface and makes applying any make-up on top effortless – and with no piling either.
Type: Cream – but as lightweight as a gel | Size: 50ml | Active ingredients: Blend of ceramides | How to use: Apply a small 20p size to clean skin, AM and PM. If using in the morning, follow up with SPF.
Dr Sam’s Flawless Moisturiser Intense
Dr Sam’s Flawless Moisturiser Intense, £36
Pros: Barrier-repairing, gentle, fast absorption
Cons: Intense version may not suit oilier skin types
Rating: 5/5
Discovering Dr. Sam’s was a turning point for my acne-prone skin.
A good moisturiser can make all the difference when you’re using serums and products with active ingredients.
Having tried all the variations – Light, Normal, and Intense – Flawless Moisturiser Intense quickly became my absolute favourite.
There’s something truly satisfying about how it locks in all my serums and treatments; my skin simply drinks it up.
Despite its rich, luxurious texture, this moisturiser is a dream for blemish-prone complexions. It’s thick and deeply hydrating, but crucially, it never clogs pores and absorbs super fast.
What truly sets it apart is its NAD+ boosting and barrier-repairing properties, making it an excellent choice if you regularly use potent actives or are looking to strengthen your skin’s natural defences.
The added bonus is it creates a flawless, non-pilling base for both SPF and makeup, making it an indispensable step in my daily routine.
Type: Cream | Size: 25ml / 50ml /100ml | Active ingredients: Sunflower Shoot Extract (SSE), Centella Asiatica & Madecassoside, Lactobacillus Ferment | How to use: Apply after cleansing and serums but before sunscreen and make-up.
S’able Labs Baobab Moisturiser
S’able Labs Baobab Moisturiser, £50 at Space NK
Pros: Lightweight, sinks into skin easily and doesn’t leave residue
Cons: Pricey, has a distinct smell
Rating: 3.5/5
I have thoroughly enjoyed using this S’ABLE Labs moisturiser. Although it is a very light formula, which I tend to avoid, it really does hydrate my skin and leaves it looking plump, without any greasy residue.
It is definitely more of a summer moisturiser for me because my general skin type is drier/dehydrated.
But it is worth highlighting that this moisturiser is packed with super hydrating ingredients like Niacinamide and Bakuchiol, a plant-based retinol that rejuvenates the skin.
The big star of the show is the Baobab (aka the ‘Tree of Life’) ingredient, which is packed with antioxidants and fatty acids to keep your skin looking radiant.
I normally cleanse and tone, and then, while my face is still clammy, dollop on a generous pump of the cream (slightly bigger than pea-sized). This amount fully covers my face and allows me to bring down some moisturiser to my neck and decolletage.
The clinically proven formula is non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog your pores and works well when I want to layer over a face oil at night if my skin is particularly thirsty.
Despite being marketed as fragrance-free, there is a slight earthy smell to the moisturiser when you first pump it. It’s not overpowering, and you do get used to it, but those who are sensitive to smells might not like it.
Type: Cream | Size: 30ml / 50ml | Active ingredients: Baobab, Niacinamide, Squalane | How to use: Massage on clean skin AM and PM, add SPF on top in the daytime.
Medik8 Total Moisture Daily Facial Cream
Medik8 Total Moisture Daily Facial Cream, £48 at Medik8
Pros: Hydrating, soothing, brightening, refillable, helped repair skin barrier
Cons: Expensive, thicker formula than others
Rating: 5/5
The Medik8 moisturiser was a saving grace in repairing my skin barrier and soothing my face after a hormonal breakout.
While the moisturiser feels slightly thicker in comparison to the Avene cream I also tested, it is super lightweight and does not clog my pores.
After just one use, I noticed my skin was brighter and hydrated, blemishes started to subside – and my skin drank it up.
While it did not leave a tacky or greasy texture, there was some light residue on my skin after use.
That didn’t bother me, especially as it made my skin look dewy and felt like it was continuing to rehydrate my skin, plus it made blending stick and liquid makeup products even easier.
The formula contains multi-weight hyaluronic acid, which is a huge tick for those with dry skin who need a mega boost of hydration.
With midweight hyaluronic acid, there are different particle sizes to nourish the skin topically and deep within the dermis.
It also contains prebiotic peptide, which is the hero ingredient to repair, soothe and support the skin’s barrier, as well as target blemishes and flare-ups.
I love that this moisturiser is refillable, so it’s a much more cost-effective and eco-friendly solution than other moisturisers.
Type: Cream | Size: 50ml | Active ingredients: Multi-weight hyaluronic acid, ceramides, lipids and prebiotic peptides | How to use: Apply a pea-sized amount onto cleansed skin both morning and evening.
Perricone MD HP Retinol Recovery Overnight Moisturiser
Perricone MD HP Retinol Recovery Overnight Moisturiser, £65.60 (was £82) at Look Fantastic
Pros: Feels great on skin, infused with retinol, light consistency
Cons: Price point not accessible for everyone
Rating: 4.5/5
For those who appreciate a touch of luxury in their skincare, the Perricone MD Retinol Recovery Moisturiser is a standout.
While it isn’t explicitly marketed as non-comedogenic, its formula is free from pore-clogging ingredients, making it a surprisingly excellent choice for my acne-prone skin.
What truly sets this moisturiser apart is the incredible feeling of calm and refreshed skin it delivers by morning.
I consistently wake up to skin that feels rested and soothed, without any hint of oiliness or inflammation.
Yes, it’s an investment, but the moment it touches your skin, you’ll understand why it’s worth every penny.
With three types of retinol, it’s a powerhouse for reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and I’ve personally found it incredibly effective at quickly diminishing inflammation from those stubborn, under-the-skin breakouts.
It layers beautifully over serums, though it’s potent enough to deliver impressive results on its own. Given its retinol content, it’s best reserved for your nightly skincare routine.
Type: Cream | Size: 59ml | Active ingredients: encapsulated retinol, retinol ester and phyto-retinol | How to use: Apply in the evening, massage onto cleansed face and neck using a gentle upward motion.
Paula’s Choice Oil-Free Moisturiser
Paula’s Choice Oil-Free Moisturiser, £33 at Amazon
Pros: Thick, Fragrance-Free, Absorbs quickly, Skin feels super hydrated
Cons: Expensive for size
Rating: 4/5
The Paula’s Choice Oil-Free moisturiser is a great option if you’re looking for something that won’t clog your pores, or if you have oily, acne-prone skin, as it still feels thick and leaves skin feeling nourished.
The almost gel-like consistency quickly absorbed into my skin, and I was amazed at how much my skin drank it up. It’s filled with skincare-loving ingredients such as Vitamin B3 and Blueberry, and I was seriously impressed by how my skin instantly felt nourished. When I woke up in the morning, my skin looked hydrated and refreshed.
The formula is lightweight, and you can also feel this as you apply, so it is great if you struggle with breakouts or clogged pores too, but it also won’t strip your skin leading to dryness.
It’s technically a night cream (although I did use it in the morning too), but due to the thickness, I think you’ll see the most benefits using it at night as part of your skincare routine as it feels thick and luxurious.
Reviews have called it one of the ‘best moisturisers I’ve ever used’ and I’d agree, it’s a must for oily skin, I just wish it wasn’t so pricey.
Type: Cream | Size: 60ml | Active ingredients: Niacinamide, pumpkin, blueberry | How to use: Apply as a night moisturiser as the last step of your skincare routine.
Avène Tolerance Hydra-10 Hydrating Cream
Avène Tolerance Hydra-10 Hydrating Cream, £21 at Boots
Pros: Lightweight, hydrating, soothing, and different versions for normal or sensitive skin
Cons: Milky consistency can run or flood out of the tube
Rating: 3/5
Avene’s Tolerance Moisturising Cream is a popular choice for many, as it is super lightweight, easy to blend into the skin and get absorbed while providing hours (even days) worth of hydration.
The moisturiser is more of a wet and milky consistency (due to the inclusion of mineral-rich thermal spring water), which can make the application a little bit of a nightmare as it rushes out of the bottle. But this consistency is what makes it easy to blend and provides a hydrating, non-sticky and absorbent finish.
It is formulated with natural ingredients, with another key ingredient being hyaluronic acid. I would recommend this moisturiser for those wanting a light, breathable and non-clogging moisturiser, that instantly hydrates the skin and leaves a dewy finish.
While I didn’t notice a huge difference in my skin – unlike Medik8 and Inkey List, which appeared to calm breakouts – it is very soothing and nourishing.
Type: Cream | Size: 40ml | Active ingredients: Hyaluronic acid | How to use: Apply to clean skin both morning and evening.
Kate Somerville Goat Milk Moisturising Cream
Kate Somerville Goat Milk Cream Moisturising Cream, £72 at Space NK
Pros: Lightweight, no scent, sinks into the skin easily, compact easy pump packaging
Cons: Pricey, probably not rich enough for drier skin types
Rating: 3/5
The Kate Somerville Goat Milk range gets lots of praise from beauty fans and industry insiders, and for good reason: the products really are effective.
I already love using the Goat Milk cleanser, and happily tested out the moisturiser. The texture of the cream is so light; perhaps a bit lighter than I would normally opt for, as someone prone to drier skin.
I normally pump about a pea size amount (don’t be too aggressive using the pump action, otherwise you will probably end up with more product than you need in one application) and I slather it over my face and neck.
The moisturiser is super absorbent and sinks into my skin very quickly and the clinically proven lactose and milk protein ingredients are great for sensitive skin or anyone prone to redness.
I think the non-comedogenic formula makes this a great option for anyone who has oilier skin or works out a lot, and needs something lightweight. Or as an everyday moisturiser to use on your summer holiday, as it is not greasy or heavy.
Type: Cream | Size: 50ml | Active ingredients: Lactose from Goat’s Milk, natural milk protein, Jojoba and Avocado | How to use: Apply a thin, even layer on clean skin AM and PM, and add SPF on top in the daytime.
Non-comedogenic moisturisers FAQ
What does non-comedogenic mean?
In a nutshell, non-comedogenic means a beauty product is formulated not to clog pores.
The ingredients used to make these products help maintain clear, healthy skin without causing breakouts.
If you’re looking for a good non-comedogenic moisturiser in the UK, there are countless options available.
For affordable options, head to high street shops like Boots and Superdrug.
Online beauty retailers such as Look Fantastic, Cult Beauty and Space NK are great options if you want a huge variety of brands, covering all price points.
Do non-comedogenic moisturisers help prevent acne breakouts?
Yes, non-comedogenic moisturisers can help prevent breakouts because they don’t block pores, which contributes to acne and congestion.
Heavy, rich moisturisers may contain occlusive ingredients that can trap sebum and dead skin cells inside pores, leading to breakouts forming, whereas non-comedogenic formulas use lightweight, breathable ingredients.
It’s important to moisturise, as when the skin becomes too dry it can overcompensate by producing excess sebum, which can cause breakouts.
Does moisturising help spots?
Non-comedogenic moisturisers are ideal if you’re prone to acne, blackheads or sensitive skin, as they provide essential hydration without causing breakouts.
On the budget-friendly end of our picks above, we found The INKEY List and Avene options effective.
In the mid to high price range, skincare brands like Medik8 and Paula’s Choice came out on top for offering high-quality formulations with lots of additional skincare benefits.
How do you know if a moisturiser is non-comedogenic?
You can tell if a moisturiser is non-comedogenic by simply checking its label.
Most brands will clearly state on a product’s label if it is non-comedogenic, which indicates it’s formulated with ingredients that won’t clog pores.
You can also check the ingredients list for common pore-clogging culprits like heavy oils (such as coconut oil), silicones and certain waxes.
Instead, you’ll want products that use lighter ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin and non-oily plant extracts.
Certifications or recommendations from dermatologists and trusted skincare authorities also provide extra reassurance that the moisturiser is designed to prevent breakouts and keep skin clear.
Researching the brand and reading reviews from others with a similar skin type to you will also help you evaluate if a product is right for you before making a purchase.
