Is your skin thirsty, but you hate using thick creams that clog your pores? Consider switching to a water-based product. Dermatologists recommend water-based moisturizers for people with oily or acne-prone skin. Try one of the following moisturizers in three different price ranges, and your skin will be grateful.
Benefits of Water-Based Moisturizers
Water-based moisturizers won’t clog your pores or cause breakouts. However, they can help your skin lock in moisture and stay hydrated. When you’re shopping, look for water as one of the first ingredients and don’t buy products that list oil on the label.
“If your skin is prone to acne, you should try a lighter moisturizer. Instead of a cream, try a serum or hydrating gel that contains hyaluronic acid. Heavier lotions and creams can worsen congestion of pores and lead to increased oil production that can exacerbate acne breakouts. The label should say oil-free or non-comedogenic to be sure,” Dr. Corey L. Hartman told Southern Living.
Cheap
The Simple Water Boost Hydrating Gel Cream from Unilever costs $7.99 to $10 for 1.7 ounces. You can find this water-based moisturizer in most stores, including Ulta Beauty, Target, Walmart, Walgreens, CVS, and others. The cream works for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
Simple’s product is dye-free, fragrance-free, and doesn’t include harsh chemicals. Water is the first ingredient followed by glycerin. The Water Boost Hydrating Gel Cream also includes minerals and plant extracts.
The lightweight formula is easy to apply and absorbs quickly. Designed to moisturize and rehydrate dry skin without clogging pores, the cream also improves the look of dull skin.
Mid-Range
The Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel costs $19.99 for 1.7 ounces. The water-based moisturizer is also available at most retailers, such as Walmart, Target, Ulta Beauty, Walgreens, and CVS. The gel works best for dry skin, but anyone can use it.
The non-comedogenic formula won’t clog pores, and it’s alcohol-free. The Hydro Boost Water Gel has water and hyaluronic acid for an extra hydration boost. It’s also easy to apply right after washing your face, so your skin can absorb all the moisture.
Expensive
Peter Thomas Roth’s Water Drench Hyaluronic Cloud Cream costs $52 for 1.6 ounces. You can purchase the cream at authorized retailers, such as Sephora, Macy’s, Ulta and QVC. The product has concentrated 30% hyaluronic acid and leaves your skin moisturized for up to 72 hours.
Water is the first ingredient in the cream, but it also includes antioxidant elderberry, hydrolyzed silk, and olive leaf extract. The product is alcohol-free, oil-free, and fragrance-free.
You can apply the cream two times a day to the face and neck. It goes on smoothly and absorbs quickly, so there is no greasy feeling left on the skin.
If you’re looking for a water-based moisturizer, consider one of these three products. Make sure you apply the moisturizers when your skin is a little damp, like right after a shower, to get the most benefits.
