7 Korean Moisturisers That Hydrate Without Feeling Greasy

5 min read

Key Takeaways

Greasy-feeling moisturisers are often too rich for oily or combination skin.
Korean skincare offers lightweight, hydrating alternatives that don’t clog pores or sit heavily on the skin.
Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, centella asiatica, and green tea in gel or water-based creams.
Products from COSRX, Beauty of Joseon, Axis-Y, and IUNIK are excellent choices for non-greasy hydration.

If you’ve ever skipped moisturiser because it felt too heavy, too shiny, or made your makeup slide off by noon, you’re not alone. For those with oily, combination, or sensitive skin, finding a moisturiser that adds hydration without the greasy finish can be a real struggle.

The good news? Korean skincare excels at lightweight hydration. K-beauty formulations are known for layering moisture without clogging pores or feeling sticky. Whether you prefer a refreshing gel or a fast-absorbing cream, there’s something on the market that keeps your skin comfortably hydrated, without leaving it coated in shine.

Why Do Some Moisturisers Feel Greasy on the Skin?

Many moisturisers feel greasy because they contain thick emollients or occlusive ingredients that sit heavily on the skin. While these can be great for very dry or barrier-compromised skin, they’re often too much for oilier types. That said, skipping moisturiser entirely isn’t the solution. Dehydrated skin tends to overcompensate by producing more oil, leading to congestion, breakouts, and a compromised barrier. The key is to hydrate with the right ingredients in the right texture, and that’s where K-beauty shines.

What Ingredients Should You Look for in Lightweight Korean Moisturisers?

If your skin tends to get oily, sticky, or congested, look for ingredients that hydrate without suffocating your pores. Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and panthenol deliver moisture without weight. Soothing botanicals like green tea, centella asiatica, and heartleaf help calm inflammation and balance oil production. Gel-based or water-based creams absorb quickly, leaving your skin soft and balanced rather than glossy or heavy. You can explore our full range of options in the Korean moisturisers.

7 Korean Moisturisers That Won’t Leave You Feeling Greasy

Here are seven Korean moisturisers available at KBeauty Drop Zone that deliver hydration, comfort, and skin balance all without the greasy after-feel.

1. COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion (with Birch Sap)

A long-time favourite for oily and acne-prone skin, this lotion uses 70% birch sap to deeply hydrate while maintaining a lightweight texture. It sinks in quickly and feels refreshing, not sticky. Ideal for combination and sensitive skin types, it layers beautifully under sunscreen and makeup.

2. Beauty of Joseon Red Bean Water Gel

Formulated with red bean extract and a blend of humectants, this water gel helps control excess sebum while providing a fresh burst of hydration. The texture is smooth and airy, perfect for hot or humid days. It’s beneficial for those who find cream-based moisturisers too heavy.

3. Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Aqua Gel Cream

This gel cream uses five types of hyaluronic acid to hydrate multiple layers of the skin without overwhelming it. The light gel formula makes it a reliable daily moisturiser for oily and dehydrated skin. It also contains Centella asiatica for an added calming effect.

4. Axis-Y Cera-Heart My Type Duo Cream

Struggling with both dry and oily zones? This unique cream offers two textures in one jar, a thicker formula for drier areas and a lighter gel for oilier zones. It’s customisable, fragrance-free, and great for combination skin types.

5. Pyunkang Yul Moisture Serum

Although called a serum, this formula works beautifully as a moisturiser for oily skin. It features a blend of barberry root and humectants that absorb quickly while reducing shine. If your skin is reactive or prone to congestion, this minimalist formula may be a great match.

6. Purito Seoul Mighty Bamboo Panthenol Cream

Tube of Purito Mighty Bamboo Panthenol Cream on a white background

With its refreshing gel-cream texture, the Purito Mighty Bamboo Panthenol Cream deeply hydrates and strengthens the skin barrier. Powered by Panthenol, Bamboo, and Squalane, it locks in lasting moisture for a calm, radiant, and healthy-looking glow.

7. IUNIK Centella Calming Gel Cream

With 70% centella asiatica and 10% tea tree extract, this gel cream is a go-to for calming acne-prone and oily skin. It offers a cooling effect, helps soothe redness, and dries down to a matte finish. Lightweight but hydrating enough for daily use.

How Do You Know If a Moisturiser Is Too Heavy for Your Skin?

If your skin still feels oily hours after applying your moisturiser, or if makeup doesn’t stay in place, it could be a sign that the formula is too rich. You might also notice more breakouts or small bumps, especially around the forehead and cheeks. When this happens, it’s worth switching to a gel or water-based moisturiser and observing how your skin responds. Using the right product can help regulate oil production and reduce congestion, without sacrificing hydration.

Find Balance with the Right Moisturiser

Moisturising shouldn’t mean looking or feeling shiny. With the right formula, your skin can stay hydrated, calm, and balanced without the extra weight. Korean skincare offers a wide range of lightweight moisturisers that cater to different skin types, from oily and sensitive to combination and acne-prone. Explore our Korean moisturisers collection to find the one that suits your skin best. Still not sure? Contact us for a personalised recommendation.