If you have combination or oily skin, you probably skip moisturizer to avoid turning your face into a greasy mess. In the summer, even those of us with normal or dry skin share the same sentiment. Muggy conditions plus an overly rich moisturizer can add up to an uncomfortably oily complexion.
But our skin still needs moisturizer — no matter the skin type or weather. If you think your current moisturizer is too heavy, find a new formula. Gel moisturizers are safe bets since the lightweight alternatives offer just enough hydration. They quickly absorb into your skin and can be layered under sunscreen. If you have oily skin, you may even want to stick with gel moisturizers year-round.
Here are the best gel moisturizers to get you through summer.
9 Gel Moisturizers You'll Still Want to Use in the Warm Weather
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Tatcha
The Water Gel, $65 at Tatcha
Tatcha's multitasking, dermatologist-tested formula is the moisturizer for people who hate moisturizers. It balances oil levels while delivering enough hydration to stop drier areas from getting tight. Japanese botanicals minimize the appearance of pores for a smoother complexion. The gel also has a touch of 23 karat gold dust to make your skin glow.
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E.L.F. Cosmetics
Jelly Pop Water Gel Moisturizer, $8 at E.L.F. Cosmetics
There's double the freshness in E.L.F.'s budget-friendly pick thanks to watermelon extract and a light gel-to-liquid formula. It has castor oil and glycerin to provide plenty of hydration without the grease.
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Tata Harper
Hyaluronic Gel Moisturizer, $116 at Tata Harper
This hyaluronic acid moisturizer contains a whopping 37 skin-perfecting botanical ingredients, including 14 plumping hydration sources. But the lightweight gel feels like next to nothing on skin and is a fantastic option for oily and combination skin types.
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Clinique
Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel, $28 at Clinique
This is the lightweight yet still efficacious gel version of Clinique's Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion. The oil-free option is made for oily and combination skin. It brings balance and leaves faces glowing, not greasy.
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Biossance
Squalane + Probiotic Gel Moisturizer, $52 at Biossance
A lighter formula doesn't necessarily mean less moisture. The brand's vegan gel moisturizer contains sustainable squalane oil and probiotics to nourish and hydrate your skin. It also calms redness and reduces the appearance of pores, making it a great one-and-done product for minimalists.
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Origins
GinZing Energy-Boosting Gel Moisturizer, $30 at Origins
Wake up and hydrate your skin with this ginseng- and coffee bean-rich gel moisturizer. The energizing product is brilliant for early mornings, but it can also be used in the evening.
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Neutrogena
Hydro Boost Water Gel, $24.99 at Ulta Beauty
This gel moisturizer is like a tall drink of water for your skin. The oil-free hyaluronic acid formula has been clinically proven to keep skin hydrated for up to 48 hours. Surprisingly, it's not overly rich. Suitable for all skin types, it can be used morning and night.
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Primera
Alpine Berry Water Oil-Free Gel Moisturizer, $40 at Sephora
You'll want to use this oil-free gel moisturizer all year long thanks to the way the balanced formula hydrates while managing excess grease. It contains wild strawberry sprouts boasting moisturizing properties. While silica and pine needle extract keep oil and shine under control.
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Murad
Nutrient-Charged Water Gel, $60 at Murad
Maintaining your skin's barrier is key to long-lasting hydration. The oil-free gel relies on five vitamins, five peptides and, yes, five minerals to strengthen the skin barrier and prevent water loss. And all the moisture is absorbed into your skin without a greasy finish.
