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Summers can be quite harsh on your skin, especially when you have acne-prone and oily skin. But skincare experts and beauty influencers shout at the top of their voices to let you know the significance of moisturization even when the heat outside is completely unbearable!
The same creamy, thick moisturizer that worked like magic on your skin in winter makes you sweat like anything and also leads to breakouts in the summer months.
So, you prefer ditching your moisturizer altogether from your everyday skincare routine, right, girl?
Babe, if you think you do not require a skin-perfect moisturizer in summer, then you are horribly wrong. Your skin does need a dose of hydration but from a gel moisturizer.
Yes, ditch your winter moisturizer and get yourself a featherlight formula that hydrates your skin and also gets absorbed into your skin in no time.
So, here are 17 Best Moisturizers for Summer to Get That Instant Hydration!
Our Top Picks
Best Overall:
COSRX Advanced Snail 92 All-in-One Cream
Best budget:
CeraVe Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30
Most Luxurious:
Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream
Best for oily skin:
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Water Gel
Best For acne-prone skin:
COSRX Oil-Free Moisturizing Lotion
Best for Mature skin:
Olay Regenerist Whip
Best for dry skin:
Embryolisse Lait – Creme Concentre
Best for sensitive skin:
The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factor + HA
1. Embryolisse Lait – Creme Concentre
What I Like:
- Thin, lightweight formula
- Improves skin texture
- Intensely hydrating
What I Don’t Like:
- Not for day time
- Has fragrance
Guys, if you are anywhere between dry to sensitive skin types and want an ultra lightweight moisturizer that INTENSELY nourishes your skin like nobody’s business, this is it.
Babe, you will never want to go back to your old sticky summer cream after trying Embryolisse Lait – Creme Concentre!
It packs a punch with a fierce hit of hydrating power. The formula is like a thin cream, but don’t let that fool you. It’s lightweight and perfect for regular use, ensuring that your skin stays smooth and nourished. Plus, it even helps to improve skin texture over time!
When you apply this summer moisturizer, your skin will transform into a silky smooth sensation with a radiant glow. It’s a moisturizing dream come true!
Oh, and here’s a pro tip: dab on a thin layer of the moisturizer before bed for perfect pouty lips when you wake up!
2. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Water Gel
What I Like:
- Water-gel like consistency
- Oil-free, fragrance-free, non-comedogenic
- Makes your skin instantly plum[
What I Don’t Like:
- Not for dry skin types
If you don’t already know, I am high-key obsessed with hydro boost and I am yet to find an identical drugstore moisturizer for oily skin in summer that works the same.
It is such a unique formula that it absorbs into the skin like a gel but hydrates like a cream.
Thanks to the power of hyaluronic acid, your skin will feel oh-so-plump, soft, and nourished after each use. This is one of my all-time favorites, I never leave home without it in my tote bag!
Perfect for wearing under makeup and on the hottest day of the season, this oil-free, fragrance-free and non-comedogenic gem work great for normal, oily and combination skin. But it also has a gel-cream formula that works great for dry to very dry skin.
3. COSRX Advanced Snail 92 All-in-One Cream
What I Like:
- Doesn’t feel slimy or sticky
- Absorbs within seconds
- All-in-one summer cream for hydration, cell regeneration and collagen production
- For almost all skin types
What I Don’t Like:
- Not for extra dry skin
COSRX is one of my favorite Korean skincare brands. So, I decided to try COSRX Advanced Snail 92 All-in-One Cream as a facial moisturizer for summer.
If you are into K-beauty, you must already be aware of Korea’s obsession with snail mucin. This ingredient works WONDERS on your skin.
This product combines the power of snail secretion filtrate and hyaluronic acid to deeply hydrate your skin without leaving any greasiness.
At first, you might think the gel/cream feels slimy and runny, but don’t be fooled – it quickly absorbs into your skin without any stickiness. Plus, regular use will improve your skin’s elasticity and tone thanks to enhanced collagen production and cell regeneration.
Best of all? This beauty works great for any skin type! Whether you’ve got acne-prone, oily, sensitive, or combination skin – this moisturizer will easily become your new go-to for radiant, healthy-looking skin.
4. The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factor + HA
What I Like:
- Affordable
- Improves skin elasticity & texture
- Double hydration
What I Don’t Like:
- Not for dry to very dry skin
There is absolutely no doubt in mind that The Ordinary is exceptional and it works. And their one and only moisturizer is nothing but prettyyyy goood.
Seriously, this summer moisturizer is like a softness ninja. It’s so lightweight, yet it makes my skin feel ultra soft and supple. Plus, it even helps with my skin’s elasticity and barrier protection.
The secret sauce? A magical combo of hyaluronic acid and NMF (aka Natural Moisturizing Factors). Basically, NMF is a fancy way of saying it includes essential fatty acids, amino acids, and other stuff that our skin LOVES.
Oh, and did I mention how easy it is to use? You only need a teeny bit to cover your entire face, and it won’t clog your pores. Plus, it absorbs super fast so you can get on with your day.
Heads up, though – if you have seriously dry skin, you may want to pair it with a hydrating serum. But for everyone else, this stuff is a must-have for healthy, happy skin!
5. Tatcha The Water Cream
What I Like:
- Oil-free, non-greasy, non-comedogenic
- Thin, water-like consistency
- Layers well with makeup
What I Don’t Like:
- Quite expensive
Who here hasn’t heard about this baby? It’s a skin-plumping, insanely luxurious, perfectly lightweight moisturizer for summer, infused with Japanese wild rose and totally oil-free, making it a fantastic choice for anyone with acne-prone skin.
Plus, the best part? It’ll make your pores look like they never even existed. Talk about flawless! And don’t worry, it won’t leave your skin looking greasy. You’ll look dewy and radiant without feeling like a greaseball.
I use this amazing gel moisturizer under my makeup to keep my skin hydrated and prevent any patches from showing up. And can we talk about how cute the packaging is? It’s almost too adorable to handle.
BUT, if it seems like a heck of a price to pay for a moisturizer, you bet I have some stunning Tatcha water cream dupes that work exactly the same!!
6. Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream
What I Like:
- Eliminates redness & irritation
- Perfect for oily & sensitive skin
- Layers well with other skincare
What I Don’t Like:
- Boring packaging
This super lightweight cream can be your dream come true if you want a non-greasy moisturizer for oily skin in summer for your skin!
It not only quenches my skin but also evens out my skin tone by eliminating redness.
It’s the perfect addition to my skincare routine as it blends seamlessly with my favorite serums like hyaluronic acid, leaving me worry-free about any reactions. And girl, let me tell you, this cream makes for the perfect base for my makeup! It’s a game-changer.
Just a heads up, the packaging may not be the prettiest, but who cares when what’s inside works like a dream? A pump bottle would have been nice, though (Hi Kiehls, if you’re listening!) Hygienic and cute – win-win!
7. Olay Regenerist Whip
What I Like:
- Super lightweight
- Perfect for fighting signs of aging
- Deeply hydrates
- Works on the most humid days too
What I Don’t Like:
- Has a pleasant scent
Olay is undoubtedly the go-to brand for anyone who wants to kick wrinkles and fine lines to the curb. This summer cream for mature skin is like a superhero, fighting the signs of aging while keeping your skin hydrated and supple.
It’s packed with amino-peptide complex, making your skin barrier stronger than ever. Even on the hottest, most humid summer days, this featherlight cream won’t weigh you down.
And here’s a tip straight from my mom’s text message: use it day and night for ultimate results.
8. Glow Recipe’s Watermelon Pink Juice Moisturizer
What I Like:
- Absorbs quickly
- Intensely hydrating
What I Don’t Like:
- Has a lot of fragrance
My bestie swears by this product, so I had to try it out for myself. And let me tell you, I am blown away!
This moisturizer is super weightless, and it sinks right into your skin. It’s like a magic potion that smooths out your skin texture and leaves you feeling silky soft.
Thanks to watermelon extract and hyaluronic acid, your skin will be ultra-hydrated, eliminating any dry or flaky spots. And say goodbye to those tired eyes! This summer moisturizer gives you an irresistible glow.
Just one or two pumps are all you need for flawless, plump, and totally healthy skin. And it’s perfect to use under your favorite serum and sunscreen.
The only downside? The fragrance is a bit strong for my liking.
9. Youth to the People: Superfood Air Whip Summer Cream
What I Like:
- Makes skin feel smooth AF
- Packed with natural ingredients
- Extremely lightweight
- Fights aging & dryness
- Long-lasting nourishment
- Quite a big tub of product
What I Don’t Like:
- Slight fragrance
If you haven’t tried Youth to the People products yet, you don’t know what I’m talking about. It’s a beautiful product enriched with natural ingredients like kale and spinach and goes insanely smoooothly on the skin.
It plumps and hydrates your skin for up to 48 hours while also strengthening your skin’s moisture barrier function in just one hour. Extremely light in weight, this moisturizer can be your bestie for summer days! Plus, the quantity is pretty generous.
Perfect for normal, combination, and oily skin types, this moisturizer for summer targets fine lines and wrinkles, dryness, and loss of firmness and elasticity. It is indeed a non-comedogenic formula, so it won’t clog your pores but also layers well with makeup.
However, the product does have a slight fragrance. But it does not get too overbearing, and the scent dissipates as soon as you slather the cream on your skin.
10. Fresh Black Tea Anti-Aging Ceramide Moisturizer
What I Like:
- The best for mature skin
- Works for sensitive skin types, too as it doesn’t have retinol
- Gets rid of dark spots
What I Don’t Like:
- Mild scent
Say goodbye to wrinkles and dark spots with a one-of-a-kind product from Fresh! This lightweight cream packs a punch with retinol-like performance (it does not actually have retinol in it) to visibly improve skin elasticity, firmness and radiance while reducing deep-set wrinkles.
And don’t think it’s just for aging skin – thanks to the Proprietary Black Tea Matrix, you’ll see a brighter, more even-toned complexion in just 1-2 weeks of regular use. NOT KIDDING!
It does have a mild scent, but I actually like it as it low-key feels soothing and refreshing.
11. CeraVe Ultra-Light Moisturizing Face Lotion with Sunscreen
What I Like:
- Affordable
- Has SPF 30 but doesn’t leave any white caste
- Double hydration with Hyaluronic acid + ceramides
What I Don’t Like:
- Not for oily skin as it leaves a dewy finish and makes it appear oilier
Imagine a moisturizer that’s lighter than a feather, and guess what? You don’t even need to apply sunscreen separately! CeraVe’s Ultra-Light Moisturizing Face Lotion is perfect for those who are always on the go.
If you’re running late for college lectures or your early morning job (like me), this summer moisturizer has got you covered. Just massage it gently onto your skin and voila! It not only nourishes your skin but also protects it from those harmful UV rays.
And let’s not forget the broad spectrum SPF that minimizes any chances of sun damage. For those with dry skin, rejoice! This moisturizer has hyaluronic acid ceramides, which are perfect for intense moisturization.
12. Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream
What I Like:
- Lightweight, non-comedogenic
- Controls excess oil
- Enriched with antioxidants
What I Don’t Like:
- It is a lot expensive
Approved by board certified dermatologists, Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream can be the best choice for you if you want something light, summer-friendly, and non-comedogenic.
It effectively controls excess oil secretion and also prevents sebum oxidation. Thereby it helps in retaining your natural skin tone.
Emollients, glycerine and sunflower seed oil ensure that your skin gets its much-needed dose of daily nourishment. Antioxidants, like vitamin E, add to the health of your skin barrier and keep your skin youthful and supple.
I personally find it quite expensive and think that there are multiple alternatives available. But if you want to experience the luxe feel, you should definitely try this out.
13. Caudalie Vinopure Moisturizing Mattifying Fluid
What I Like:
- Leaves a matte finish
- Gets rid of blackheads
- Absorbs any excess oil
What I Don’t Like:
- Not offers long-lasting hydration
One of the best lightweight moisturizers, Caudalie Vinopure Moisturizing Mattifying Fluid, is a holy grail that won’t leave you looking like a greasy mess.
Not only is it perfect for acne-prone skin, but it’s also been given the thumbs up by dermatologists. It’s a fabulous product, especially for oily skin beauties, as it claims to absorb any excess oil and give you a matte finish all day.
And did I mention that it’s your one-stop solution to get rid of those pesky blackheads? That’s right!
14. Hada Labo Moisturizer
What I Like:
- Affordable
- Hypoallergenic
- Has 3 types of hyaluronic acid
- One bottle lasts you a whole year.
What I Don’t Like:
- It is more of a toner than a moisturizer.
Hey, have you heard of Hada Labo? It’s a Japanese skincare brand that’s all about simple, effective formulas. And let me tell you, their Moisturizer is fireeee.
Packed with not one, not two, but THREE types of hyaluronic acid, this bad boy keeps your skin hydrated all day long. Plus, it’s hypoallergenic, so anyone – and I mean anyone – can use it without worry.
But here’s the best part: a little goes a long way. You only need a tiny dab to moisturize your whole face, which means you’ll save money in the long run. One bottle will last you a full YEAR. Yup, you read that right!!
15. COSRX Oil-Free Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap
What I Like:
- Great for acne-prone skin
- Soothes skin inflammation & redness
- Cruelty-free, vegan, alcohol-free, and hypoallergenic
What I Don’t Like:
- Has a mild minty smell.
Here’s another hydrating summer cream by COSRX that you absolutely cannot ignore!
If you have been looking for a moisturizing formula for your acne-prone skin, then you are gonna love COSRX Oil-Free Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap.
Infused with the natural goodness of birch sap, this lotion soothes and calms the skin, banishing inflammation and erasing redness. Plus, it won’t clog your pores and feels light as a feather on your face. And that minty fragrance? It’s gone in a flash after application.
Within just 5 to 7 days of regular use, you’ll see your skin get smoother and smoother. And with its convenient pump dispenser, you won’t waste any product. Plus, it’s cruelty-free, vegan, alcohol-free, and hypoallergenic. What more could you ask for in a skincare product?
16. Versed Dew Point Moisturizer
What I Like:
- Packed with tons of natural ingredients
- Love the jelly-like consistency
- Quite affordable
What I Don’t Like:
- Definitely not for dry skin types
Umm, do you want to light up your dull skin this summer? Check out Versed Dew Point Moisturizer! This magical gel cream is a real superhero for oily skin. It’s stacked with amazing natural ingredients – green tea extracts, squalane, aloe vera, jojoba oil, and glycerin – and does way more than simply hydrate.
It helps restore that youthful bounce in your skin while leaving it supple and soft in no time! What’s more, its jelly consistency gets absorbed by your skin in a snap, leaving no sticky residue.
And get this – you can use it no matter your skin type, whether you’re oily, dry, or even sensitive skin. Plus, you won’t have to break the bank for this beauty buddy. For just $14, you can enjoy all these benefits.
17. Supergoop! Superscreen Daily Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 40
What I Like:
- No parabens, sulfates, fragrances
- Extremely gentle
- Has SPF 40 with no white caste
What I Don’t Like:
- Makes oily skin appear oilier
Want an all-around protection from your daily moisturizer? This hero hydrator from supergoop has got your back – from protecting your skin against pollution to giving it the nourishment it needs to keep looking refreshed and revitalized.
Plus, the best part? It’s totally gentle and won’t ever irritate your precious skin. Say goodbye to parabens, sulfates, and fragrances – this is one all-around goodie you can count on!
2 Things You Need to Look for in Your Summer Moisturizer!
Keep these points in mind while getting yourself the best moisturizers for summer:
Texture:
Always pay attention to the texture and consistency of your moisturizer. It should never be thick and creamy.
Rather, opt for one that is gel-based or watery. They work wonders on oily skin and do not lead to breakouts, acne scars and blackheads.
Also, they feel lightweight on your skin, giving it enough room to breathe.
Ingredients:
This summer, look for a hydrating moisturizer that consists of humectants such as hyaluronic acid, ceramides and glycerine. They ensure that your skin gets its fair share of hydration.
If the cream comes with additional SPF protection, then it will be more like a cherry on the cake! You will not have to apply sunscreen separately over your moisturizer then.
Final Thoughts on Best Moisturizer for Summer
This summer, pamper your skin with the love it deserves!
Choose a hydrating, lightweight moisturizer that suits your skin type and offers ample moisturization. Add it to your daily skincare routine and keep your skin supple and get that youthful glow.
Make the right choice based on your skin type and hydrate your skin with a mattifying moisturizer that protects your skin barrier as well as prevents free radical damage.
Need more such articles to make a well-informed skincare decision?
Stay tuned to this place, lovelies!
See ya’ll super soon! Toodles xo