Is Water-Based Moisturizer Right for You?

Moisturizing is an essential step in any skincare routine, regardless of your skin type or concerns. But depending on your skin type, you may not want to reach for a thick, heavy cream twice a day. That’s valid—and it’s where water-based moisturizers can come into play. These lightweight hydrators deliver a refreshing dose of moisture without leaving your skin feeling slick or greasy, helping to promote a balanced complexion that looks as good as it feels.

If you’re in the market for a new moisturizer and aren’t sure whether to reach for a rich cream or a light water-based lotion, keep reading. Ahead, we’re breaking down what water-based moisturizers are, how they work, and who they’re best suited for. Plus, we’ll introduce you to a few of our top picks for different skin types and concerns.

What Are Water-Based Moisturizers?

A water-based moisturizer is a lotion, gel, or cream that features water—rather than oils or silicones—as its primary ingredient. You can usually tell if a moisturizer is water-based by taking a look at the ingredient list; if it is, “water,” “eau,” or “aqua” will be listed as the first ingredient.

Like all moisturizers, water-based moisturizers are designed to hydrate the skin. They typically boast a lightweight texture and absorb into the skin quickly, making them ideal for those who don’t like the feel of heavier ointments or creams.

Key ingredients in water-based moisturizers

Though each formula is unique, many water-based moisturizers share common ingredients. Hyaluronic acid is a popular one—this widely used humectant is renowned for its ability to hold more than 1,000 times its weight in water while maintaining a lightweight, non-greasy feel. Many water-based moisturizers also contain glycerin, which, like hyaluronic acid, helps draw moisture into the skin. Other ingredients commonly found in water-based skincare products include aloe vera, niacinamide, and vitamin C.

Texture, characteristics, and finish

Typically, water-based moisturizers are lightweight and boast a refreshing, hydrating feel. They’re designed to absorb quickly without leaving behind an oily film or residue, which makes them a great option for those with oilier skin types. Water-based moisturizers are also ideal for layering under makeup for long-lasting hydration with a healthy-looking, dewy finish.

Who Should Use a Water-Based Moisturizer?

For the most part, anyone can use a water-based moisturizer. These formulas tend to be gentle, hydrating, and lightweight, characteristics that nearly anybody can benefit from. However, they’re particularly well-suited for oily, acne-prone, and combination skin types.

Oily skin

Those with oily skin may be tempted to skip moisturizing, assuming that their skin’s natural oils are enough to lock in moisture. This, however, is a misconception—your skin needs water, even if you have an oily complexion. In fact, skipping moisturizer can leave your skin dehydrated, which may prompt your body to produce more oil as a compensation measure, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). Water-based moisturizers provide the perfect amount of hydration to replenish the skin without making it look or feel greasy.

Acne-prone skin

Traditional moisturizers with oils or silicones can sometimes be too heavy for those with blemish-prone skin. Unless carefully formulated, heavy, oil-rich formulas can clog pores, leading to blackheads, whiteheads, and even deep cysts and nodules. To hydrate acne-prone skin without risking a breakout, reach for a non-comedogenic, water-based moisturizer. It’ll help replenish your skin without making your acne flare up.

Combination skin

Combination skin is dry in some areas and oilier in others, which can make finding the right moisturizer challenging (to say the least). Those with this skin type need products hydrating enough to balance their drier areas, but lightweight enough that they won’t leave the skin feeling slick or greasy. Water-based creams often fit the bill—just make sure that your chosen formula is non-comedogenic if you’re prone to clogged pores or blemishes.

Our Best Water-Based Moisturizers for Different Skin Types and Concerns

If you’re ready to add a water-based moisturizer to your routine, keep reading. Below, we’re spilling the details on three of our favorite formulas.

For dull, dehydrated skin: L’Oréal Paris Bright Reveal Vitamin C Glow Moisturizer

Dehydration can cause your complexion to appear flat and lackluster. To help banish dullness and secure a natural-looking glow, reach for this brightening day cream. The non-comedogenic formula is infused with vitamin C, niacinamide, and ceramides and provides up to 72 hours of lightweight hydration for healthy-looking skin. After one use, your skin will look radiant and renewed; with continued use over time, you’ll enjoy a brighter, smoother, and more even-looking complexion.

For oily skin: L’Oréal Paris RevitaLift Micro Hyaluronic Acid + Ceramides Line-Plumping Water Cream

The lightweight, gel-like texture of this water-based moisturizer is perfect for those with oily skin types. The hyaluronic acid and ceramide-infused formula helps attract essential moisture without making the skin feel heavy or greasy. Smooth it onto your face as the final step in your skincare routine to help plump your skin, diminish the look of fine lines, and lock in long-lasting hydration.

For mature skin: L’Oréal Paris RevitaLift Triple Power Moisturizer with SPF 30

As your skin ages, it loses its ability to hold onto moisture effectively, which can make fine lines and wrinkles appear more prominent. To help hydrate your skin—and target the visible signs of aging—reach for this potent day cream. It’s loaded with pro-retinol, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin C and works to smooth, firm, and brighten the skin, all while delivering up to 48 hours of hydration. As a bonus, the gentle formula contains broad-spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen to help shield your skin from the sun’s damaging rays.

Next Up: Should You Apply Sunscreen Before or After Moisturizer?

Photo courtesy of L’Oréal Paris