Are you tired of slathering on thick, greasy moisturizers that make you feel like you're wearing a mask?
These moisturizers are like a cool drink of water for your skin, and trust us, you won't want to go back to your old ways once you've tried them.
So grab a glass of H2O, and get ready to quench your skin's thirst with the best water-based moisturizers on the market!
How We Pick Best 5 Water Based Moisturizers
When it comes to skincare, hydration is key. And what better way to hydrate your skin than with a water-based moisturizer?
Unlike oil-based moisturizers that can leave a heavy, greasy feeling, water-based moisturizers are lightweight and absorb quickly, leaving your skin feeling refreshed and glowing.
With so many choices available, it can be tough to choose the right one for you.
That's why we've rounded up the top 5 water-based moisturizers that are sure to quench your skin's thirst and leave you with a radiant complexion.
This post contains product affiliate links. We may receive a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on one of these links. Thanks.
TATCHA
Why We Consider It
This luxurious moisturizer has quickly become a fan favorite for its weightless texture and powerful ingredients that leave your skin looking and feeling hydrated, plump, and glowing.
Tatcha's The Water Cream is formulated with a powerful combination of Japanese botanicals, including wild rose, leopard lily, and HADASEI-3, a trio of anti-aging superfoods that work together to nourish, hydrate, and protect the skin.
It also contains hyaluronic acid, which attracts and locks in moisture to keep your skin looking plump and radiant.
Unlike heavy, oil-based moisturizers that can leave a greasy feeling, The Water Cream has a unique, water-based texture that feels weightless and refreshing on the skin.
It absorbs quickly and leaves no residue, making it perfect for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin.
Why We Recommend It
This lightweight, clarifying water cream releases a burst of hydrating nutrients and pore-refining botanicals for healthy aging and smooth, balanced skin.
With continued use, it can also improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone.
Tatcha's is a top-performing water-based moisturizer that delivers visible results without weighing down your skin.
This moisturizer is definitely worth a try.
L'OREAL
Why We Consider It
This lightweight moisturizer is a top pick among beauty experts and consumers alike for its hydrating, refreshing formula that leaves your skin looking and feeling healthy and radiant.
One of the biggest advantages of L'Oreal's Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care is its affordability and accessibility.
Unlike some high-end water-based moisturizers, this product is available at most drugstores and is priced at a fraction of the cost.
This makes it a great option for anyone on a budget or looking to save money without sacrificing quality.
Hyaluronic acid is a key ingredient in many water-based moisturizers, and for good reason.
It's known for its ability to attract and retain moisture in the skin, helping to keep it hydrated and plump.
L'Oreal's Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care contains hyaluronic acid, along with aloe water and other hydrating ingredients that work together to keep your skin looking and feeling healthy.
Why We Recommend It
The Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care has a lightweight, gel-like texture that absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving it feeling refreshed and hydrated.
It's perfect for those with oily or combination skin, as it doesn't leave a greasy or heavy feeling.
And because it's water-based, it's also great for layering under makeup or other skincare products.
L'Oreal's Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care is a top-performing water-based moisturizer that delivers visible results at an affordable price point.
This moisturizer is definitely worth trying out.
NEUTROGENA
Why We Consider It
When it comes to finding the best water-based moisturizer, it's hard to beat Neutrogena's Hydro Boost Water Gel.
This popular moisturizer has won over skincare enthusiasts and dermatologists alike for its lightweight, non-greasy formula and powerful hydrating properties that leave skin looking and feeling refreshed and glowing.
Hyaluronic acid is a key ingredient in many water-based moisturizers, and Neutrogena's Hydro Boost Water Gel is no exception.
This powerful ingredient can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, helping to lock in moisture and keep skin looking plump and hydrated.
With its high concentration of hyaluronic acid, this moisturizer is a must-have for anyone with dry or dehydrated skin.
Why We Recommend It
Users rave about the results they've seen with Neutrogena's Hydro Boost Water Gel, reporting that it leaves their skin looking and feeling hydrated, plump, and glowing.
With continued use, it can also improve the overall texture and appearance of the skin, making it a great option for anyone looking to improve their complexion.
Neutrogena's Hydro Boost Water Gel is a top-performing water-based moisturizer that delivers visible results and is suitable for all skin types.
Its powerful hydrating properties, lightweight texture, and affordable price point make it a must-have for anyone looking to hydrate and refresh their skin.
L'OCCITANE
Why We Consider It
This high-end moisturizer is a top pick among beauty experts and consumers alike for its powerful hydrating properties, refreshing texture, and luxurious feel.
L'Occitane's Aqua Réotier Ultra Thirst-Quenching Gel is formulated with water from the Réotier spring in Provence, France, which is known for its high mineral content.
This mineral-rich water helps to hydrate and nourish the skin, leaving it feeling refreshed and glowing.
It's also infused with hyaluronic acid and glycerin, which work together to lock in moisture and keep the skin looking plump and hydrated.
Why We Recommend It
Users rave about the results they've seen with L'Occitane's Aqua Réotier Ultra Thirst-Quenching Gel, reporting that it leaves their skin looking and feeling hydrated, refreshed, and glowing.
With continued use, it can also improve the overall texture and appearance of the skin, making it a great option for anyone looking to improve their complexion.
Its powerful hydrating properties, refreshing texture, and luxurious feel make it a must-have for anyone looking to indulge in a high-end skincare product.
While it may come with a higher price tag, the results are well worth it.
GARNIER
Why We Consider It
This is a top pick among skincare enthusiasts and budget-conscious shoppers alike for its powerful hydrating properties, convenient application, and affordable price point.
Rose water has been used for centuries for its hydrating and soothing properties, and Garnier's SkinActive Water Rose 24H Moisture Cream harnesses these benefits to provide long-lasting hydration to dry skin.
Rose water is also rich in antioxidants, which help to protect the skin from environmental damage and signs of aging.
The moisturizer is formulated to provide up to 24 hours of hydration, making it a great option for anyone with dry or dehydrated skin.
Why We Recommend It
Despite its impressive results, Garnier's SkinActive Water Rose 24H Moisture Cream is also incredibly affordable.
This makes it a great option for anyone looking to improve their skin's hydration without overspending.
Garnier's SkinActive Water Rose 24H Moisture Cream is a top-performing water-based moisturizer for dry skin that delivers impressive results without a hefty price tag.
Its powerful hydrating properties, refreshing gel-cream texture, and affordable price point make it a must-have for anyone looking to improve their skin's hydration and overall appearance.
FAQs about Water-Based Moisturizers
Are water based moisturizers better?
Whether water-based moisturizers are better or not depends on the individual's skin type and needs.
Water-based moisturizers are lightweight and non-greasy, making them an excellent choice for individuals with oily or acne-prone skin.
They are typically absorbed quickly into the skin and provide a refreshing feeling, making them ideal for use in warmer weather or during exercise.
Is water a good moisturizer for the face?
While water itself is not a moisturizer, it is essential for maintaining healthy and hydrated skin.
Using a water-based moisturizer can help to provide the skin with the hydration it needs to look and feel its best.
Who should use water-based moisturizer?
Water-based moisturizers are generally suitable for all skin types, but they are particularly well-suited for individuals with oily or combination skin.
This is because water-based moisturizers are typically lightweight and non-greasy, which can help to prevent clogged pores and breakouts.
What is the healthiest water-based moisturizer?
It's difficult to say which water-based moisturizer is the "healthiest" as it depends on individual preferences and skin types.
However, here are some key ingredients to look for in a water-based moisturizer that can contribute to its overall healthfulness: 1. Hyaluronic Acid 2. Ceramides 3. Aloe Vera and 4. Vitamin E.
How do you know if a moisturizer contains water?
Most moisturizers contain water, but you can confirm whether a moisturizer is water-based by checking the ingredients list on the label.
Typically, water will be listed as the first or second ingredient. The label may also state that the product is "water-based" or "water-infused."
What distinguishes moisturizing from hydrating?
Hydrating is about adding water to the skin, while moisturizing is about trapping that water in the skin and preventing it from evaporating. Both processes are essential for maintaining healthy, radiant skin.
Which should be used first, serum or water-based moisturizer?
If you are using both a serum and a water-based moisturizer in your skincare routine, it is generally recommended to apply the serum first, followed by the moisturizer.
Which moisturizer with a water base is best?
Choosing the best water-based moisturizer depends on your skin type and individual needs.
Above recommendation are some highly-rated water-based moisturizers that have received positive reviews.
Which Water Based Moisturizer Best for You?
After reviewing some of the best water-based moisturizers on the market, it's clear that these types of products can provide excellent hydration and nourishment to the skin.
Whether you have oily, dry, or combination skin, there is a water-based moisturizer out there that can work for you.
Ultimately, incorporating a water-based moisturizer into your daily skincare routine can help to keep your skin healthy, hydrated, and glowing.
Remember to apply your moisturizer after cleansing and toning, and be sure to use SPF during the day to protect your skin from damaging UV rays.
With the right water-based moisturizer and a little bit of TLC, you can achieve a complexion that looks and feels its best.
