Skincare
Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE Canada writer. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
These Water-Based Moisturizers Are Perfect for Summer
The secret to keeping your skin quenched and comfortable all summer long? Gel-cream moisturizers.
Once the heat really settles in, many of us start instinctively switching up our beauty routine by paring down our makeup, reaching for a lighter fragrance, and opting for a simpler skincare approach. And although rich, creamy textures may not be as appealing come summer, your skin still needs hydration! Enter water creams: water-based moisturizers with a gel-like texture that boast hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, get absorbed in a flash, and are just a joy to apply—especially when it’s hot and humid outside. Here are 9 fabulously fresh formulas to try.
Frozen Over Gel-to-Ice Hydrator, Skin Proud
This unscented clear gel gives skin an instant hit of freshness that is hard to resist. Use the innovative product at room temperature or leave in the freezer for a few hours for an icy, de-puffing effect!
Price: $20
Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Gel Moisturizer, Laneige
Not only does this gel feel cool on the skin—it also contains hyaluronic acid for lasting hydration and forest yeast extract for its soothing benefits. Plus, it only takes a few seconds to sink in.
Price: $52
Water Sleeping Mask, Uriage
Think of this lightweight gel formula as an overnight hydration bath, which you apply last in your nighttime routine to wake up with soft, supple skin. We love its non-sticky formula and gentle, calming scent.
Price: $21
Cactus Water Moisturizer, Boscia
Flooding your face with hydration thanks to the Queen of the Night cactus extract contained in its formula, this cool gel soothes the skin without any heaviness, leaving it feeling supple and replenished.
Price: $50
Vinosource-Hydra Grape Water Gel Moisturizer, Caudalie
Blending organic grape water with organic aloe vera, this delightful gel cream melts into the skin and works hard to strengthen its barrier and replenish its hydration levels. Hello, dewiness!
Price: $52
The Water Cream, Tatcha
Sure, its elegant jar and integrated spatula are attractive, but what got us hooked on this water cream is its dreamy texture and its effectiveness. It deeply hydrates while helping regulate sebum production, providing a lovely glow to the skin.
Price: $90
Aqua Bomb Hydrating Body Moisturizer, Belif
Fans of Korean skincare brand Belif’s Aqua Bomb lineup will want to get their mitts on this new body moisturizer. The lightweight gel cream contains niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, melts into the skin, and has the same fresh scent as the other (wonderful!) Aqua Bomb products.
Price: $39
Aqualia Thermal Gel Cream, VICHY
Gel containing hyaluronic acid and Vichy mineralizing water seeks dehydrated skin. Swipe right if you’re looking for excellent hydration, a soothing effect, and an incredible feeling of freshness!
Price: $41
Omega Water Cream, The INKEY List
This practical little tube contains a gel moisturizer that combines an omega ceramide complex, glycerin and niacinamide to hydrate and soothe the skin while remaining super lightweight.
Price: $13
Newsletter
Join our mailing list for the latest and biggest in fashion trends, beauty, culture and celebrity.
Read Next
Beauty
The Best Met Gala Beauty Looks Of All Time
From Taylor Swift's 'Bleachella' era to Rihanna's iconic 2011 braids, meet the best beauty moments in Met Gala history.
Culture
Benny Blanco Says He Fell in Love With Selena Gomez Without ‘Even Noticing’ It
Allow Benny Blanco to tell the straight-from-a-rom-com story of how he realized his feelings for his girlfriend and longtime friend.
Beauty
Tested and Approved: Your New Hydrating Skincare BFF
This new product has all of your skin’s thirst-quenching needs covered.