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  • 10 Best Non-Comedogenic Moisturizers in the Philippines 2023 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist 1
  • 10 Best Non-Comedogenic Moisturizers in the Philippines 2023 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist 2
  • 10 Best Non-Comedogenic Moisturizers in the Philippines 2023 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist 3
  • 10 Best Non-Comedogenic Moisturizers in the Philippines 2023 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist 4
  • 10 Best Non-Comedogenic Moisturizers in the Philippines 2023 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist 5

10 Best Non-Comedogenic Moisturizers in the Philippines 2023 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist

Non-comedogenic moisturizers have become the norm in skincare and are especially useful for those who struggle with acne, blackheads, and clogged pores. This skincare must-have doesn't contain pore-clogging ingredients and is also touted as lightweight, gentle, and fast-absorbing. No matter what your skin type is, you deserve a product that will take care of your skin minus the risk of breakouts or blackheads. 


These days, there are many great choices for non-comedogenic moisturizers in the market. To help you narrow down your options, we've created a buying guide and a list of the top picks available. We also have some helpful comments and tips from dermatologist Dr. Maria Elinor Grace "Meg" Sison. Read on to get an idea of which formula works best for your skin!

Last updated 03/02/2023
Dr. Meg Sison
Expert
Dermatologist
Dr. Meg Sison

Dr. Sison is a board-certified dermatologist who practices in the Philippines and sees both medical and cosmetic dermatological cases on skin, hair, and nails.

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Editorial Team

Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.

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Experts featured in this article only reviewed the content of our buying guide. They had no part in the selection or ranking of products or services listed.
The products and services listed are ranked independently by the editorial team based on the points mentioned in our thoroughly researched buying guide (as of 01-16-2023).

Why Use a Non-Comedogenic Moisturizer?

Why Use a Non-Comedogenic Moisturizer?

Compared to other skincare items, moisturizers stay longer on the surface of your skin. Non-comedogenic moisturizers are the ideal option for everyday use. It has gentle ingredients that will not cause comedones. These refer to flesh-colored spots caused by pore blockage that are typically found on the forehead and chin. 


If you have acne-prone skin, you might also want to check out this kind of moisturizer for a safer choice. It won't target and clear acne, but it will avoid dirt and oil blockages that result in breakouts. However, also take into account that everyone has a particular skin type and might react differently to a product's formula.

Dr. Meg Sison
Dermatologist
Dr. Meg Sison's Comment

Non-comedogenic moisturizers are recommended for everyone not only because we live in a hot, humid climate but also they are less likely to block our pores and lead to the formation of closed comedones (whiteheads). 


Non-comedogenic moisturizers are less likely to aggravate acne because moisturizers with rich and thick formulas can make the skin more greasy and affect a patient's compliance with his/her skincare regimen.

How to Choose a Non-Comedogenic Moisturizer - Buying Guide

Here are some key points to consider:

  1. Determine which formula works best for your skin type.
  2. Look for the ingredients that can cater to your skin's needs.

For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.

① Determine Which Formula Works Best for Your Skin Type

The typical advice you'll hear from skincare enthusiasts is that a light moisturizer is suitable for daytime because you'll get exposed to different environmental aggressors. Meanwhile, a heavier moisturizer is best for nighttime so that the product can better seal in the moisture overnight. However, you should also consider which texture is more compatible with your skin type.

For Oily and Acne-Prone Skin, Go for a Lightweight Moisturizer

For Oily and Acne-Prone Skin, Go for a Lightweight Moisturizer

Having oily skin is accompanied by that pesky greasy feeling, which is why you need to carefully inspect the product to avoid clogged pores. Oil-free and non-comedogenic moisturizers are a particularly great pick for oily skin, as these retain your skin's essential moisture minus the malagkit feeling. Opt for a water-based facial lotion that feels lightweight on the skin. 

Dr. Meg Sison
Dermatologist
Dr. Meg Sison's Comment

Lightweight moisturizers in lotion or emulsion format, as well as gel moisturizers, are recommended for those with oily skin. Moisturizers that do not contain pore-clogging ingredients such as isopropyl myristate, isopropyl palmitate, and coconut oil (although not all forms of coconut extract are acnegenic) should be chosen for those with oily skin.

For Dry Skin, Go for Hydrating Creams to Address Roughness

For Dry Skin, Go for Hydrating Creams to Address Roughness

Having dry and dull skin has multitudes of causes such as cold climatic conditions, frequent showers, and fragrances. This is the effect if your skin lacks oil production. Can’t decide between lotions or creams? Creams are your best option when it comes to dry skin. These products have a thicker texture and are typically oil-based


Also opt for moisturizers that are infused with emollients, which help repair the skin barrier, as well as humectants for drawing and sealing in the moisture into the skin. These will keep your skin hydrated to improve rough and flaky skin.

Dr. Meg Sison
Dermatologist
Dr. Meg Sison's Comment

For those with dry skin, look for moisturizers in cream format with more emollients and occlusives that can prevent moisture from escaping the skin's outermost layer. The occlusive coating also provides an emollient effect, helps increase penetration of previously applied ingredients, and decreases transepidermal water loss. 


Look for ingredients like ceramides, squalane, cholesterol, fatty acids, paraffin, dimethicone, soybean oil, grapeseed oil, propylene glycol, lanolin, and beeswax.

For Sensitive Skin, Use Hypoallergenic Moisturizers

For Sensitive Skin, Use Hypoallergenic Moisturizers

If your skin reacts to the usual drugstore skincare products, it’s most likely you have sensitive skin. Opt for a hypoallergenic and fragrance-free moisturizer to avoid drying and redness that can irritate your skin.


Also, steer clear of products with sulfates, alcohol, and acids such as salicylic, lactic, and glycolic acids that can disturb the skin barrier. Meanwhile, you can consider instead soothing ingredients such as aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, and colloidal oatmeal.

Dr. Meg Sison
Dermatologist
Dr. Meg Sison's Comment

Those with sensitive skin should look for moisturizers that are fragrance-free with short ingredients list to minimize the chances of skin irritation. Soothing anti-inflammatory ingredients such as argan oil, chamomile, niacinamide, colloidal oatmeal, feverfew, licorice extract, green tea, and chamomile can also provide benefits for those with sensitive skin.

② Look for the Ingredients That Can Cater to Your Skin's Needs

When it comes to selecting a skincare product, it's always beneficial to check the list of ingredients. This will help you to get more familiar with the ingredients that are hiyang. to your skin type. At the same time, it allows you to watch out for pore-clogging ingredients that can cause acne and other skin woes.

Hyaluronic Acid and Glycerin Trap Moisture Into Skin

Hyaluronic Acid and Glycerin Trap Moisture Into Skin

Dubbed as a powerful humectant, hyaluronic acid soaks into the skin and ties water to your skin cells, intending to revitalize every skin layer. This ingredient is commonly found in moisturizers due to its impressive hydrating power. Add to that, it guards your lipid barrier, which makes it a beneficial choice for sensitive, acne-prone as well as mature skin to fight the signs of aging.


On the other hand, glycerin is a famous humectant that retains your skin moisture, alleviates dryness, and leaves your skin soft and healthy. This enhances the skin’s overall health, at the same time, allows the penetration of ingredients to other layers of the skin.

Dr. Meg Sison
Dermatologist
Dr. Meg Sison's Comment

Humectants are ingredients with high water absorption capabilities that are able to attract water from the atmosphere. They rapidly draw water into the skin, causing a slight swelling of the skin's outermost layer that gives the perception of smoother skin with fewer wrinkles. Examples are glycerin, sorbitol, hyaluronic acid, urea, propylene glycol, alpha hydroxy acids, and sugars. 


Hyaluronic acid is a glycosaminoglycan found in the extracellular matrix and is thought to give the skin its volume and plumpness. Aged skin, which is less plump than youthful skin, is characterized by decreased levels of hyaluronic acid. Studies have been conflicting about the penetration of hyaluronic into the skin on topical application, but the size of the molecule plays an important role.

Cica and Tea Tree Fight Stubborn Acne

Cica and Tea Tree Fight Stubborn Acne

Moisturizers nowadays are formulated with ingredients that tackle multiple concerns. If you’re on the quest for a hydrating and pimple-fighting product, take into consideration a cica-infused moisturizer. Cica, also known as Centella Asiatica, helps in speeding up the healing process while improving your skin's hydration.


Meanwhile, tea tree oil is another excellent choice when dealing with acne. This popular ingredient is packed with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that ease redness and inflammation as well as reduce acne scars. According to studies, tea tree oil works wonders on acne, just like benzoyl peroxide.

Dr. Meg Sison
Dermatologist
Dr. Meg Sison's Comment

Centella Asiatica has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which makes it a great addition to skincare products. In vitro studies showed the benefit of Centella Asiatica for acne, but more human clinical trials are still needed to prove its claim of treating acne. 


Tea tree oil is known to have antimicrobial properties, and an in vitro study showed that it has capabilities as an antimicrobial agent against Cutibacterium acnes bacteria. Further studies are still needed to confirm its activity and that of its components in isolates of the microorganism from patients with acne vulgaris.

Avoid Ingredients That Stimulate Oil Production

Avoid Ingredients That Stimulate Oil Production

In case the product's label does not directly indicate whether it is non-comedogenic or not. Simply steer clear of products with ingredients that stimulate oil production inside your pores. These include SD or denatured alcohol, menthol, camphor, as well as peppermint, eucalyptus, lemon, grapefruit, and lime.


If you’re the type of person who loves to inspect the ingredients list before buying a product, also consider reading an ingredients dictionary to grasp a better understanding of the ingredients, their functions, and how they will benefit or harm your skin. 

Dr. Meg Sison
Dermatologist
Dr. Meg Sison's Comment

Simple alcohols like denatured alcohol, SD alcohol, ethanol, and isopropyl alcohol are added to skincare products as a solvent, penetration enhancer, preservative, and to lighten the product's texture. They may cause skin irritation and dryness when used in high concentrations. Menthol, camphor, peppermint, and eucalyptus are added for their cooling effects, but these can also make the skin irritated as well, so it's best to avoid them


Lemon, grapefruit, and lime are citrus fruits that can cause skin irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin. Caution is advised in using them because, at high concentrations, they can cause blistering when the skin is exposed to sunlight, a condition called phytophotodermatitis.

10 Best Non-Comedogenic Moisturizers to Buy Online

The products we introduce below were carefully curated by the mybest team, from the best-sellers of E-commerce sites like Lazada, and using the points mentioned in our detailed and thoroughly researched buying guide.Disclaimer: These products are recommendations made by our team at mybest Philippines. Our expert, Dr. Maria Elinor Grace Sison, MD, MPM, FPDS, is not affiliated with, nor is she endorsing any of the brands we mention below.**Prices may vary depending on the website and their campaign period**
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Points
1

Khiel's

Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel Cream

Khiel's Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel Cream 1枚目

Non-Greasy Hydrating Gel That Leaves a Cooling Effect

2

La Roche-Posay

Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer 1枚目

Hypoallergenic and Oil-Free Moisturizer for Sensitive Skin

3

CeraVe

Moisturizing Cream

CeraVe Moisturizing Cream 1枚目

Cult-Favorite Moisturizer for Long-Lasting Hydration

4

Shiseido

Essential Energy Hydrating Cream

Shiseido Essential Energy Hydrating Cream 1枚目

Get a Healthy Glow From Within

5

Cetaphil

Moisturising Cream

Cetaphil Moisturising Cream 1枚目

Moisture Lock Technology for 24-Hour Hydrated Skin

6

Neutrogena

Oil-Free Moisture With SPF 15

Neutrogena Oil-Free Moisture With SPF 15 1枚目

A Fast-Absorbing and Lightweight Moisturizer With Sun Protection

7

Face Republic

Cica Gel Moisturizer

Face Republic Cica Gel Moisturizer 1枚目

Double the Benefits With Tea Tree and Cica

8

COSRX

Oil-Free Ultra Moisturizing Lotion

COSRX Oil-Free Ultra Moisturizing Lotion 1枚目

Infused With 70% Birch Sap to Soothe Redness

9

Origins

Ginzing Oil-Free Energy Boosting Gel Moisturizer

Origins Ginzing Oil-Free Energy Boosting Gel Moisturizer 1枚目

Kickstart Your Day With This Coffee-Infused Moisturizer

10

The Ordinary

Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA Moisturizer

The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA Moisturizer 1枚目

Natural Moisturizing Factors for Immediate Hydration

Product details
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No.1

Khiel'sUltra Facial Oil-Free Gel Cream

From ₱1,250

Non-Greasy Hydrating Gel That Leaves a Cooling Effect

Lightweight and refreshing. These are two words that best describe Kiehl's Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel. It is a non-comedogenic moisturizer that brings 24-hour hydration to your skin minus the greasiness. Beauty junkies love cooling products as they deliver good benefits to the skin while leaving a fresh feeling. And yes, this gel moisturizer ticks all the boxes!


It is loaded with glacial glycoprotein and desert plant extract to maintain the skin's moisture barrier. Also, it blends easily and treats drier areas of the skin. This moisturizer is ideal for your day and night skincare routines for supple skin throughout the day.

No.2

La Roche-PosayToleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer

From ₱1,337

Hypoallergenic and Oil-Free Moisturizer for Sensitive Skin

Dry patches are no match with this oil-free moisturizer from La Roche-Posay. With just a few applications, you'll be impressed with the intense hydration it provides, thanks to Thermal Spring Water and glycerin in its formulation. It also includes ceramides to create a barrier and lock in moisture and extra protection against environmental stressors. 


This holy-grail is one of the most recommended moisturizers for sensitive skin, as it is hypoallergenic and has no artificial perfumes or any harsh chemicals that can exacerbate skin conditions. If skin reactions are your concern, this moisturizer is definitely worth trying.

No.3

Cult-Favorite Moisturizer for Long-Lasting Hydration

Enriched with hyaluronic acid and glycerin, this cult-favorite moisturizer will surely target any dry skin woes without clogging your pores. The CeraVe Moisturizing Cream can be applied to both the body and the face to enhance your skin's barrier, thanks to the three essential ceramides in its formulation.


One of the highlights of this gentle product is the use of MVE technology, which delivers 24-hour hydration to your skin. Aside from keeping your skin soft, the formula is fast-absorbing and does not cause a greasy finish. It's also oil-free, fragrance-free, and hypoallergenic. 

No.4

ShiseidoEssential Energy Hydrating Cream

From ₱3,450

Get a Healthy Glow From Within

The Shiseido Essential Energy Hydrating Cream takes pride in its ability to provide intense hydration that lasts for 24 hours. It uses hyaluronic acid to strengthen your skin's moisture barrier and retain more moisture. It is complemented with ginseng root extract to support your skin's ability to produce hyaluronic acid naturally and thus nurture your skin from within.


This product makes big claims, but delivers them without a doubt. In fact, compared to other moisturizers, it produces quick and long-lasting results. According to tests done on a group of women, a whopping 92% said that this cream kept their skin hydrated indeed. It also sustains this success even after several weeks of use, giving your skin long-term rejuvenation. 

No.5

Moisture Lock Technology for 24-Hour Hydrated Skin

If you're seeking the right moisturizer for daily use, the Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream promises to enhance skin moisture from day one. It has a non-greasy, creamy formula infused with powerful emollients and humectants to retain the natural moisture barrier. You can also apply this not just on your face, but also on your hands, feet, elbows, and other areas.


Also fragrance-free and paraben-free, this dermatologist-recommended moisturizer will make you bid goodbye to your dry and sensitive skin concerns. Not surprisingly, many beauty enthusiasts love how the formula plumped up their skin without the fragrance frills. 

No.6

NeutrogenaOil-Free Moisture With SPF 15

From ₱779

A Fast-Absorbing and Lightweight Moisturizer With Sun Protection

Given that UV rays contribute to skin aging, it's important to include a product with sun protection in your routine. This moisturizer from Neutrogena not only replenishes skin moisture but doubles as your sunscreen as well. It is formulated with SPF15 to help prevent the early signs of skin aging.


The lightweight and non-sticky texture can be immediately absorbed by the skin, revealing a mirror-like shine and youthful, glowy skin. This is an excellent pick for all skin types, as it is hypoallergenic, alcohol-free, and non-comedogenic. If you're always on the go and seeking a multitasking skincare product, this moisturizer does wonders on the skin. 

No.7

Double the Benefits With Tea Tree and Cica

The Face Republic Cica Gel Moisturizer feels soft like a feather when applied to your skin. Featuring an intensely hydrating formula, this moisturizer combats skin troubles in no time. It is packed with cica, a tried-and-tested ingredient for speeding up the healing of small wounds and acne scars, as well as tea tree oil for relieving redness and inflammation.


If you're curious whether this moisturizer has a sticky residue, you'll be happy to know that it's non-sticky and leaves a cottony finish. This lightweight and cruelty-free gel is a reliable companion that can help you achieve nourished and supple skin. 

No.8

COSRXOil-Free Ultra Moisturizing Lotion

From ₱935

Infused With 70% Birch Sap to Soothe Redness

Dehydrated skin is often accompanied by dullness, and this Oil-Free Ultra Moisturizing Lotion from CosRx is a good solution for both issues. It comes with a combination of vitamins and antioxidants that make your skin feel extra silky and look fresh and hydrated.


It contains 70% birch sap that calms redness and improves the skin condition, as well as panthenol to strengthen the skin barrier. Aside from that, it also has hyaluronic acid for an extra dose of moisture. The best part is that it heals spots and keeps excess sebum at bay. It also features a non-greasy formula, so there is no reason to worry about your skin feeling oily.  

No.9

OriginsGinzing Oil-Free Energy Boosting Gel Moisturizer

From ₱1,695

Kickstart Your Day With This Coffee-Infused Moisturizer

Whether you're a coffee lover or simply love smelling its fresh aroma, here is something you'll enjoy from Origins. This oil-free gel moisturizer is infused with coffee, a naturally-derived ingredient famed for recharging the skin. It also has ginseng, which aids in increasing natural energy and rejuvenating the skin.


It also features a patented Hydra-Hug Technology to seal in long-lasting moisture throughout the day. The Origins Energy-Boosting Gel Moisturizer also contains no parabens, phthalates, and mineral oil. Hence, you can rest easy knowing that it won't aggravate your skin or cause irritation. Flaunt that fully-recharged skin in every selfie!

No.10

The OrdinaryNatural Moisturizing Factors + HA Moisturizer

From ₱410

Natural Moisturizing Factors for Immediate Hydration

This vegan and cruelty-free moisturizer from The Ordinary has a blend of potent ingredients to improve dry skin. It is packed with natural moisturizing factors like 11 amino acids, phospholipids, and alpha/beta/gamma fatty acids. With continued use, you'll get both immediate and lasting results.


Users love how this non-greasy moisturizer helps treat flaky and itchy skin, and how just a dime-sized amount of it can certainly go a long way. It's also free of parabens, oil, fragrance, and alcohol, so it's safe even for sensitive skin. No wonder this product is popular across a wide range of users! 

Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Dr. Meg Sison

Choosing a new product to add to your routine is never easy, especially when there are so many unanswered questions on your mind. To help you even just a little bit, we asked Dr. Meg Sison some of the most asked questions on the web. Here are her answers!

Can Non-Comedogenic Moisturizer Cause Acne?

It actually depends on the individual using the product. The overall formulation of a product is very important because everyone will react differently. Some products can trigger comedone formation in certain individuals while others will not react at all.

Does Non-Comedogenic Mean Oil-Free?

Not necessarily. Oil-free means that the formula is lighter, but it does not mean that it is non-comedogenic. Non-comedogenic means that a product will not clog pores and will not lead to the formation of whiteheads or comedones.

More Tips From Dr. Meg Sison

Always consult a board-certified dermatologist for guidance in your skincare regimen, most especially if you have skin concerns like acne, fine lines, enlarged pores, to name a few. Keep your skincare routine simple and gentle, and avoid trying out multiple products at the same time.

Healthy and Glowy Skin in a Snap!

Author: B. Tan 

How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations

Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.

Top 5 Non-Comedogenic Moisturizers

No. 1Khiel'sUltra Facial Oil-Free Gel Cream

No. 2La Roche-PosayToleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer

No. 3CeraVeMoisturizing Cream

No. 4ShiseidoEssential Energy Hydrating Cream

No. 5CetaphilMoisturising Cream

View Full Ranking

When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.

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