As a lifelong beauty enthusiast, I've always considered myself pretty knowledgeable about my combination skin type and the kinds of products that work best on it. I rotate through an artfully crafted regimen of cleansers, serums, moisturizers, and oils to combat the various zones of oiliness, dryness, and even the occasional sensitivity on my face. When I recently met with acclaimed celebrity dermatologist Dennis Gross, MD, he pointed to a small (but mighty) breakout I was experiencing and suggested a skincare swap I wasn't expecting. "You should think about using an oil-free moisturizer," he said plainly. "You want to hydrate, but oils can block the pores." I was shook.
Although it's no surprise that oil can clog the pores and lead to breakouts, I thought I was immune to such foolery since the slippery substance is among my favorite skincare ingredients. I love double-cleaning with an oil cleanser and even rely on several different types, especially during the winter months when the skin around my mouth gets straight-up parched. "Nowadays, technology allows for you to have great results without oils, and I think that's a good move for you," Gross explained.
Water-based moisturizers are a popular alternative to their oil-based counterparts. Simply put, they employ water as the main ingredient into which other water-attracting humectant ingredients are mixed. This helps to achieve hydration from within the skin as opposed to sealing in moisture from the outside. "It gives what's called internal hydration, so it doesn't sit on your skin like oils do. It gets inside the skin and brings water into the skin. Not only do you get hydration, but you get some plumping and this beautiful, dewy radiance without the possible side effects of excess oils," said Gross.
I was hesitant to fully jump on the oil-free train, but when the trusted dermatologist of stars like Zoë Kravitz and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley makes a suggestion, you listen. And so began my deep dive into this foreign skin territory. Ahead, see 8 water-based moisturizers to quench the thirstiest skin.
What Are Water-Based Moisturizers?
Water-based moisturizers are exactly what they sound like: they use water as their main ingredient, often in combination with other hydrating elements. They’re usually lighter than oil-based creams and tend to come in gel or gel-cream textures. The result is a refreshing, breathable feel that hydrates without the heaviness.
Water-based face creams are packed with humectants like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, ingredients that pull water into your skin and help keep it there. Their non-comedogenic (meaning they won’t clog your pores) and breathable formulas are designed to absorb quickly and leave no residue, making them a solid choice if you deal with breakouts or oily spots.
If your skin lacks water (not oil), a water-based moisturizer with ingredients like hyaluronic acid can help restore moisture levels without heaviness. Water-based face creams are ideal when your skin can’t decide. Look for fragrance-free, non-comedogenic formulas that absorb quickly and soothe without irritation. Many water-based moisturizers are made with gentle, skin-barrier-supporting ingredients.
Why Choose Water-Based Moisturizers?
The Summer Skincare Shift
Everything the light touches, will melt within minutes during the summer in Dubai. The last thing you need is a moisturiser that clings to your skin like an overly chirpy co-worker on a Monday morning. Not today Satan, not today - July to September, treat your skin with water based moisturisers. Hydration without the heaviness is the need of the hour - your skin needs to be soothed, not smothered.
The constant shuffle between outdoors and A/C rooms during summer can soak up the moisture from your skin faster than you can say the words, “can it get any hotter this year?” Your skin needs to stay plump, elastic and glowy: enter water-based products. It delivers the TLC your skin needs without weighing it down and making it feel uneasy. Humectants like hyaluronic acid and glycerin in water-based products help lock in moisture into the skin. Whereas, cream-based products do it via oils or occlusives, which is heavier on the skin.
Water-based moisturisers rely on humectants like hyaluronic acid and glycerin to draw moisture into the skin. Unlike heavier creams that rely on oils or occlusives to seal in hydration, these formulas are typically gel-like, cooling to touch, and perfect for layering. Think of it as cryotherapy but for your face.
Your winter skincare wardrobe and your summer one shouldn’t be identical. Just like you wouldn’t wear a thermal jumper to the beach, you shouldn’t layer heavy moisturisers when it’s 40°C in the shade. Water-based products adapt to your skin’s seasonal needs, offering hydration without congestion. Especially if you’re prone to breakouts, oiliness, or sensitivity, these lighter formulas help prevent that hot-weather domino effect of sweat, sebum, and stress.
More Than Just Moisturizer
It’s not just moisturiser anymore. While moisturisers are the main event, don’t sleep on the supporting cast. Hydrating mists are perfect for mid-day touch-ups or a post-sun cooldown (store them in the fridge for extra refreshment). Gel-based cleansers can remove sweat and grime without stripping the skin, and lightweight serums packed with hydration-boosting ingredients offer long-lasting benefits beneath your SPF.
Another perk? Many water-based products contain added ingredients like niacinamide, peptides, or antioxidants - so you’re getting hydration and treatment in one easy, sweat-proof layer. Bonus: they layer beautifully under makeup (if you’re still wearing any), keeping your base from melting into oblivion by lunchtime.
In a heatwave, your skincare should work smarter, not harder. Water-based moisturisers and their hydrating friends are the unsung heroes of summer routines - cool, comforting, and endlessly quenching. Whether you’re commuting through humidity, sunbathing on a rooftop, or just trying to make it through the day without your face slipping off, these lightweight heroes have your back (and your face).
Water-based serums, mists, and masks can supercharge hydration without weighing skin down. A spritz of a cooling mist mid-day or a hydrating gel mask post-sun can make all the difference. Think of them as your skin’s version of a cold drink on a sweltering afternoon.
The Best Water-Based Moisturizers
Best Overall: Tatcha The Water Cream
Conversations about water-based moisturizers truly start and end with this OG offering from Tatcha. The water-burst technology is supported by Japanese wild rose to balance the skin and refine pores, and Japanese leopard lily keeps oil production in check. The result is plump, clear skin. If you have extra dry skin, Who What Wear assistant beauty editor Sabrina Talbert swears by the brand's Dewy Milk Moisturizer for a radiant, dewy finish.
- Pro: Refines pores, lightweight
- Con: Pricey
- Key ingredients: Japanese wild rose and Hadasei 3
- Size: 1.7 oz
Customer review: "It doesn't feel like you're wearing moisturizer when you put it on-it's so light. I wear it twice a day under my makeup and before I go to bed."
Best Gel Formula: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel
This oil-free water-gel offering from Neutrogena feels refreshing and cool on application. Don't let the lightweight consistency fool you-hyaluronic acid and olive extract make it a deeply moisturizing option. Plus, this formula is noncomedogenic, meaning it won't clog your pores.
- Pro: Oil-free formula, doesn't clog pores
- Con: Not ideal for acne-prone skin
- Key ingredients: Glycerin and hyaluronic acid
- Size: 1.7 oz
Customer review: "I am shocked at how much I love this moisturizer! Even with oily skin, it's important to hydrate the skin so it doesn't overcompensate and produce more oil."
Best for Mature Skin: Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hyaluronic Cloud Cream
I mean, the name itself says everything you need to know about the heavenly concoction. A 30% concentration of hyaluronic acid at three different molecular sizes can hydrate the skin for up to 72 hours. Ceramides also help to lock in even more moisture.
- Pro: Treats fine lines, wrinkles, and dullness
- Con: Can irritate eyes for some
- Key ingredients: Pentavitin, ceramides, 30% hyaluronic acid complex
- Size: 1.7 oz
Customer review: "You cannot believe how good this is! I have extremely reactive dry skin. Popped this on over an oil serum and sprayed it with aerosol water."
Best for Sensitive Skin: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Ultra Sensitive Skin Face Moisturizer
The soothing prebiotic thermal water base is one of only a handful of ingredients in this formulation, which makes it perfect for sensitive skin. "As a sensitive skin girl, I appreciate moisturizers like this one that soothe the skin while adding moisture," says Talbert. "I like to put this on before layering up with the La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water."
- Pro: Not greasy, calms redness
- Con: Some say the tube is too small
- Key ingredients: Neurosensin, La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water, shea butter, glycerin, and dimethicone
- Size: 2.47 oz
Customer review: "My skin has never been smoother. There is a definite difference in my pores and skin texture. I've always had fairly decent skin but dealt with dry patches, flaky skin, and blackheads on my chin/nose area. It's gentle enough for my skin, no more drying or flaking skin, and I get compliments all the time on my skin at work!"
Best for Combination Skin: Belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb
It's not called "aqua bomb" for nothing. This moisturizer is super hydrating. It's packed with lady's mantle (a skin softener), glycerin, and ceramides. "I've been using this moisturizer for well over five years now, and I can't recommend it enough for people with combination skin," says Talbert. "It works for me year round without ever feeling too heavy or not moisturizing enough. Plus, it has minimal fragrance."
- Pro: Lightweight, fresh but subtle fragrance, soothing, primes for makeup
- Con: Doesn't absorb as fast as some other formulas
- Key ingredients: Napiers Aqua Formula, Napiers Original Formula, squalane, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide
- Size: 1.69 oz
Customer review: "Received a sample along with many other moisturizers, and this one is by far the winner. The smell is amazing, fresh, not overpowering, and it didn't break out my sensitive skin. My skin is also dry, and these types of moisturizers normally would be too dry for me, but not this one."
Other Notable Mentions:
Laneige Water Bank Moisture Cream EX
K-beauty brand Laneige is beloved for its oil-free offerings, and this one is no different. This hyaluronic-based water cream hydrates while protecting the skin's barrier. "As a lover of K-beauty, it doesn't surprise me how consistent Laneige is," says Talbert. It hydrates really well, and it never stings. It's perfect under makeup and as a day cream.
Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Pink Juice Moisturizer
This lightweight gel emulsion employs watermelon extract to soothe the skin, while hyaluronic acid carries water deep beneath the surface. It also smells good and looks so pretty sitting on your vanity.
- Pro: Treats redness, uneven texture, and dullness
- Con: May not be thick enough for extra dry skin
- Key ingredients: Glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and watermelon extract
- Size: 1.69 oz
Customer review: "I really like this moisturizer. It's lightweight but packs a punch of hydration. It also keeps my oily T-zone in check."
CeraVe Ultra-Light Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30
Hero ingredients hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and niacinamides make sure this noncomedogenic formula moisturizes all day long. Plus, the added SPF protects from the sun's harmful rays. "I'm admittedly not the best when it comes to applying sunscreen, which is why I love this lotion with SPF 30," says Talbert. "I know it's doing the double the work and truly protecting my skin."
- Pro: Absorbs fast, travel-friendly
- Con: Leaves a slight white cast
- Key ingredients: MVE Technology, InVisibleZinc Technology, niacinamide, and ceramides
- Size: 3.0 oz
Customer review: "My skin has become less textured, my breakouts have decreased, and the redness has significantly subsided."
TOP TIPS: How to find your BEST moisturiser | Dermatologist explains | Dr Nicole Dermatology
What Should I Look for in a Water-Based Moisturizer?
While there are hundreds of water-based moisturizers on the market, there are a few things to consider before making a purchase. Here's what to keep in mind:
Key Ingredients
Water-based formulas tend to have a few standout ingredients that boost hydration and protect the skin barrier. Some of these ingredients include hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and glycerin. There are also moisturizers that contain SPF, which is ideal if you specifically want a daytime moisturizer.
If you have dry or sensitive skin, you'll also want to think about fragrance, as it can be irritating and sometimes drying. In this case, opting for a fragrance-free formula will lower the chances of any unwanted skin reactions.
Size and Packaging
The size of your moisturizer can make all the difference depending on your needs. If you're a frequent traveler, you may want something on the smaller side or a container that is unlikely to spill or leak in your bag. We found that many customers also noticed certain containers like screw-off tops made it easy to use every ounce of product, while longer tubes and pump dispensers made it more difficult. Of course, this all comes down to personal preference.
How We Chose
As with all of our buying guides at Who What Wear, we compile our edits based on original testing and expert recommendations. To find the best water-based moisturizers, we leaned heavily on first-person testing and our knowledge as beauty experts. We also considered several factors, including key ingredients and size. We're aware of how important these factors are for a wide range of needs and preferences, so we made sure to list out all the helpful details. Of course, customer reviews were also kept in mind when creating this list.
Why Trust Who What Wear
Since 2006, Who What Wear has been a digital fashion, beauty, and lifestyle publication and community where people can discover the latest brands, trends, and must-have products to help define and evolve their personal style. Think of Who What Wear as your most trusted style and shopping resource.
tags: #best #water #based #skin #moisturizer