Do acne-prone skin types need moisturising?
- Natasha Venter
- Apr 21
- 3 min read
Acne-prone skin can appear oily, so many teens skip moisturiser, which can make breakouts worse.
So the short answer: yes. Acne-prone skin needs daily moisturising.
Moisturising supports the skin barrier, maintains hydration, and helps keep skin balanced and comfortable.
Why skipping moisturiser makes acne worse
Even though acne-prone skin can appear oily, it can still be dehydrated and requires moisturising to support the skin barrier.
When skin becomes too dry:
Water is lost from the skin
Oil production increases
Redness and irritation increase
Breakouts take longer to heal
This can create a breakout cycle of dry skin, excess oil and congestion.
What causes breakouts
Breakouts form when pores become blocked with oil and dead skin cells.
This leads to different types of acne:
Blackheads, open pores that appear dark
Whiteheads, closed bumps under the skin
Inflamed breakouts, red or irritated spots
These are all forms of acne.
Hydrated skin functions more effectively and is less likely to overproduce oil.
A lightweight moisturiser is part of managing acne-prone skin.
Why the skin barrier matters
The outer layer of the skin acts as a barrier. It keeps moisture in and protects against irritation.
When the skin is hydrated:
Water is retained more effectively
Sensitivity is reduced
Redness is reduced
Oil production is more balanced
How moisturiser works
A well-formulated moisturiser supports the skin in three ways:
It adds water to the skin
It retains moisture
It reduces water loss
This keeps skin hydrated without heaviness.
Daily use helps keep skin comfortable, balanced, and less prone to irritation.
Supporting the skin microbiome
The skin has a natural microbiome, a layer of beneficial microorganisms.
This helps protect the skin and maintain stability.
When the skin barrier is disrupted, this balance can shift.
Ingredients such as inulin and Aloe ferox act as prebiotics. They support beneficial microorganisms already present on the skin.
This helps maintain balance and supports overall skin health.
What to look for in a moisturiser when you have acne-prone skin
Choose a moisturiser suited to acne-prone skin.
Look for:
Lightweight gel or gel-cream texture
Non-comedogenic formulation
Fast absorption
No heavy or greasy feel
Key ingredients: Look for ingredients such as glycerin, panthenol, and niacinamide. These help attract and retain moisture, support the skin barrier, and improve overall skin balance.
Where moisturising fits in your routine
Keep the routine simple.
3 steps. Twice a day. Every day.
Remember to always apply sunscreen (broadspectrum SPF 50) when you head outdoors. Wear protective clothing and avoid exxcessive sun exposure, especially during the hottest time of day (noon). Reapply sunscreen at least every 2 hours (check your sunscreen for specific instructions) and ensure you use enough to offer adequate protection.
Common questions
Can I skip moisturiser if my skin is oily?
No. Skipping moisturiser can increase oil production and worsen breakouts.
Will moisturiser clog pores?
A well-formulated moisturiser should not clog pores.
Should I use oil-free products?
Lightweight formulations are usually better for acne-prone skin. The full formulation matters more than a single claim.
Do teens need moisturiser every day?
Yes. Daily use helps maintain balance and reduce irritation.
The Upenya approach
Upenya products are designed for acne-prone teen skin.
The Moisturising Gel includes:
Niacinamide
Panthenol
Prebiotic inulin
Marula oil in balanced amounts
The formulation is lightweight and supports hydration and the skin barrier without clogging pores.
Acne-prone skin needs hydration.
Skipping moisturiser can increase oil, irritation, and breakouts.
A simple routine with the right moisturiser helps keep skin balanced.
References
Chandan, Neha; Rajkumar, Jeffrey R.; Shi, Vivian Y.; Lio, Peter A. (2021). A new era of moisturizers. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 20(8), p. 2425 (Accessed 10 June 2026)
Gold, L.S., Kwong, P., Draelos, Z., Arekapudi, K.L., Levy-Hacham, O., Erlich, M. and Desai, S.R., (2023). Impact of topical vehicles and cutaneous delivery technologies on patient adherence and treatment outcomes in acne and rosacea. The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 16(5), p.26. (Accessed 10 June 2026)
Proksch, E., Brandner, J. M., and Jensen, J. M. (2008). The skin: an indispensable barrier. Experimental Dermatology. 17(12), pp.1063-1072. (Accessed 10 June 2026)
Rawlings, A.V. and Harding, C.R. (2004), Moisturization and skin barrier function. Dermatologic Therapy, 17: 43-48. (Accessed 10 June 2026)
Lodén, M. (2003). Role of topical emollients and moisturizers in the treatment of dry skin barrier disorders. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology. 4(11), pp.771-788. (Accessed 10 June 2026)
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