# The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + Beta Glucan for oily skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for oily skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-beta-glucan/for/oily-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for the United Kingdom.

Brand: [The Ordinary](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/brands/the-ordinary)
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/best/moisturizers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with oily skin: shine, enlarged pores, blackheads, and blemishes. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for oily skin; other moisturizers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate hydration for your oily skin, with beta-glucan and sodium hyaluronate supporting barrier resilience and overall skin health.
- Glycerin and sodium hyaluronate provide essential moisture, though the formula does not directly address your primary concern of controlling oily shine.
- The product is safe for your oily skin, as it contains no harsh ingredients that could cause irritation.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-beta-glucan/for/oily-skin): Average (this page)
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-beta-glucan/for/dry-skin): Superior
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-beta-glucan/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-beta-glucan/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-beta-glucan/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-beta-glucan/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-beta-glucan/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-beta-glucan/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Superior
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-beta-glucan/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Beta Glucan, Moisturizing Factors, Glycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Allantoin

## What the research says

- Skin care regimens containing beta-glucan improved hemoglobin index, skin hydration, and transepidermal water loss compared to vehicle control in 20 patients undergoing fractional laser therapy. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33128496/))
- Topical hyaluronic acid filler serum combined with Botulinum toxin type A lengthened the duration of the toxin's effect in reducing wrinkles compared to Botulinum toxin type A alone. ([Dermatologic Therapy, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36200921/))
- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- Treatment with topical formulations containing beta-glucan combined with nanofractional radiofrequency plus magnetic nanofractional radiofrequency showed the best efficacy and was tolerable and effective in Chinese women with abdominal stretch marks compared to control groups. ([Dermatology and Therapy, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37171578/))
- Topical beta-glucan mildly improved striae gravidarum, 1565-nm non-ablative fractional laser showed better results than topical beta-glucan, and the combined strategy further improved striae gravidarum atrophy compared to single treatment. ([The Journal of Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35570397/))
- Topical application of oat beta-glucan ameliorates epidermal hyperplasia and accelerates epidermal barrier recovery by promoting keratinocyte differentiation through dectin-1-mediated ERK and p38 signaling pathways that upregulate CaSR expression. ([International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34237364/))
- The emollient V0034CR significantly reduced TEWL compared to vehicle and vehicle plus glycerol, and significantly increased corneometry scores compared to vehicle and vehicle plus petrolatum in healthy volunteers with dry skin, demonstrating combined barrier function improvement from petrolatum and hydration improvement from glycerol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31532576/))
- Ten days of treatment with a cream containing 20% glycerin significantly increased skin hydration measured by corneometer values in 17 healthy volunteers compared to a placebo cream, but showed no influence on transepidermal water loss or skin sensitivity to an irritating surfactant. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498456/))
- Niacinamide/glycerin body moisturizers provided better rapid and prolonged improvement of cosmetic xerosis through functional improvement of stratum corneum barrier function compared to no treatment and conventional moisturizers in female subjects. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22206073/))
- Topical application of 0.1% hyaluronic acid formulations of different molecular weights led to significant improvements in skin hydration and elasticity, with low-molecular-weight formulations also significantly reducing wrinkle depth in seventy-six female subjects compared to a vehicle control. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/))
- Topical application of hyaluronic acid in conjunction with free gingival graft significantly reduced donor site postoperative pain until day 7 compared to normal saline, with no significant differences in graft dimensions or patient satisfaction. ([Clinical Oral Investigations, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34623507/))
- Treatment with a hyaluronic acid-containing mouth rinse or topical gel led to significant lesion reduction, pain relief, and normalization of lesion color in adult patients with minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis, with the gel formulation showing an earlier healing onset at 3 days. ([BMC Oral Health, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31311529/))
- Topical gel containing chitosan, 0.2% chlorhexidine, allantoin and dexpanthenol did not improve postoperative comfort regarding swelling and pain, but improved the wound's aesthetic appearance following impacted lower third molar extraction compared to no gel. ([Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27475700/))
- A topical gel containing chitosan, chlorhexidine, allantoin, and dexpanthenol significantly reduced postoperative pain, trismus, swelling, and analgesic consumption, while improving wound healing after third molar surgery compared to a placebo. ([Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32683390/))
- An overnight patch containing Allium cepa extract and allantoin safely promotes scar healing after dermatologic surgery, resulting in significantly greater reductions in observer- and patient-assessed POSAS scores compared to no treatment. ([Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29948103/))

## Why other moisturizers fit oily skin better

- A panthenol-enriched mask improved skin hydration, regulated sebum, and reduced redness and TEWL across dry sensitive, oily sensitive, and oily acne skin subgroups with excellent tolerance and no adverse reactions. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38366684/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this lightweight, clear gel moisturizer is widely praised by users with oily and acne-prone skin for providing hydration without clogging pores or leaving a greasy residue. Users with dry or dehydrated skin often find it insufficient, reporting that it lacks the occlusive properties needed to lock in moisture, sometimes leaving skin feeling tight.

- Liked: Lightweight and non-greasy (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Ideal for oily (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Insufficient for dry (often mentioned)
- Liked: Absorbs very quickly (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Cooling gel texture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Sticky or tacky (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Causes pilling (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Could be used as part of your AM or PM routine every day to keep your face fresh.
- Apply this moisturizer after cleansing and toning, but right before your SPF in the morning.
- Gently press a small amount into your skin and let it absorb fully.
- Apply on clean, slightly dry skin to help control that oily shine.
- Avoid the eye area and do a quick patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + Beta Glucan work for oily skin?

This moisturizer works reasonably well for oily skin by offering moderate hydration and keeping the skin calm, though it does not directly control oily shine. A moisturizer for this skin needs ingredients that manage shine without heavy oils, alongside light hydrating and soothing agents that do not clog pores or cause breakouts.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33128496/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Which ingredients make this cream a good fit for oily skin?

Beta-glucan and sodium hyaluronate help support your skin barrier, while glycerin provides essential moisture without causing irritation. However, because this cream does not control oily shine, an oily skin type needs a moisturizer that combines lightweight hydrating agents with ingredients that manage excess oil without heavy oils or clogged pores.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33128496/)

### What does Beta Glucan do for oily skin?

Beta-glucan helps keep oily skin calm and provides light moisture without feeling heavy. It supports the skin barrier and reduces irritation, which is great for skin that gets easily red or blemish-prone.
Sources: [Food Science & Nutrition, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40291929/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26654776/)

### What do Natural Moisturizing Factors do for oily skin?

Natural Moisturizing Factors help keep oily skin properly hydrated without feeling heavy. They support a balanced skin barrier by holding onto water and maintaining moisture levels.
Sources: [Dermatologic Therapy, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14728698/), [Molecules, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33809557/)

### Where does this cream go in a skincare routine for oily skin?

This moisturizer goes after your hydrating toner in the morning and after your treatment in the evening, though it does not directly control oily shine. Oily skin works best with moisturizers that include ingredients to manage excess oil.

### Can I use this cream with retinol, and in what order?

You can use this cream with retinol, applying it after your retinol treatment to help keep your skin calm and moisturized. Using a moisturizer with retinol is unlikely to cause irritation and may help support your skin barrier during treatment.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37276158/)

### How often should I use this cream?

This moisturizer is suitable for daily use to keep your oily skin hydrated and supported. Applying it morning and evening helps maintain skin barrier health, though this product does not directly control oily shine.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32141711/), [Health Science Reports, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34141902/)

### Can this cream clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for oily skin?

This cream is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts on oily skin, as it contains no harsh ingredients that could cause irritation. However, because it does not directly address your primary concern of controlling oily shine, an oily skin type needs lightweight or oil-controlling ingredients that balance moisture without feeling heavy or sticky.

### Can I use this cream around the eyes or on my body?

You can use this moisturizer around the eyes and on the body, as its gentle formula provides safe hydration with very good skin tolerance. A product of this type needs lightweight hydrators and soothing ingredients like beta-glucan and glycerin to keep thin or body skin soft and smooth without feeling heavy.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/), [Polymers, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37896378/)

### Is this cream fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for oily skin

- [COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/advanced-snail-96-mucin-power-essence/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — £12.21 at Amazon
- [Anua Heartleaf 78% Soothing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/anua/heartleaf-78-soothing-cream/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — £29.40 at Amazon
- [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/oily-skin) — High fit — £11.90 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — £8.29 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — £13.98 at Amazon
- SPF: [CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/am-facial-moisturizing-lotion-spf-30/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — £11.29 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.co.uk: £9.60 (https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0C5DHVP3R?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Lookfantastic: £12.00 (https://www.lookfantastic.com/p/the-ordinary-natural-moisturizing-factors-beta-glucan-100ml/14294365/)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Ppg-24-Glycereth-24, Propanediol, Betaine, Beta-Glucan, Arginine, Glycine, Alanine, Serine, Proline, Threonine, Glutamic Acid, Lysine Hcl, Glucose, Maltose, Fructose, Trehalose, Xylitol, Anhydroxylitol, Xylitylglucoside, Sodium Pca, Pca, Sodium Lactate, Urea, Allantoin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sphingolipids, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Acrylates C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Citrate, Citric Acid, Tocopherol, P-Anisic Acid, Aminomethyl Propanol, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-beta-glucan/for/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-beta-glucan/for/oily-skin (this page)
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-beta-glucan/for/oily-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-beta-glucan/for/oily-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-beta-glucan/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-beta-glucan/for/oily-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-beta-glucan/for/oily-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-beta-glucan/for/oily-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-beta-glucan/for/oily-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-beta-glucan/for/oily-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-beta-glucan/for/oily-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-beta-glucan/for/oily-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-beta-glucan/for/oily-skin