7 Ultra-Light Gel Moisturizers to Use This Summer

Looking for a new lightweight moisturizer for the hot summer months? Smart move. We’re sharing seven of our favorites—from the L’Oreal portfolio of brands—to inspire your next purchase.

Summer is notorious for a few things skin-wise, one of which being the dreaded greasy-looking shine that lingers on the skin and melts makeup. Not cute. Oily skin types, you especially know what we’re talking about. But since all skin—regardless of type—needs hydration (even on hot, muggy days), skipping moisturizer for three months isn’t going to fly. Moisturizing the skin is an incredibly important part of any skin care routine. Still, layering on heavy-duty moisturizers during summer is not ideal, and can leave your skin feeling weighed down. That’s where gel moisturizers come in. These water-based hydrators are super lightweight, refreshing, and some can even work to curb shine for a dewy finish. Best of all, the light-as-a-feather consistency feels like you’re not wearing anything at all—what more could we want during summer? Below, eight of our favorite gel moisturizers—from the L’Oreal portfolio of brands—to swap in for summer.

KIEHL’S ULTRA FACIAL OIL-FREE GEL-CREAM

Formulated for normal to oily skin types, this gel cream intensely hydrates and conditions the skin to provide long-lasting moisture. You’ll love how lightweight it feels on your skin—plus, the instant cooling effect upon application is extremely refreshing. Trust us, it’ll be your saving grace when the air is humid and hot.

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel-Cream, $27.50 MSRP

VICHY MINERAL 89

Vichy Mineral 89 is a fortifying and hydrating skin booster that helps replenish the skin’s moisture barrier. It’s formulated with the brand’s Mineralizing Thermal Water—rich in 15 essential minerals—and hyaluronic acid, and can help boost the skin’s appearance. After use, skin feels more hydrated and plumped, and with continued use, radiates with a healthy-looking glow. Vichy Mineral 89 can be used as a serum right after cleansing, or on its own as a moisturizer.

Vichy Mineral 89, $29.50 MSRP

GARNIER MOISTURE RESCUE REFRESHING GEL CREAM

Worried about a damaged skin barrier that’s losing moisture? Give this oil-free gel cream a try. Designed for normal to combination skin, the lightweight formula instantly locks in 24-hour moisture and blocks out dryness for skin that looks and feels supple and smooth. After continued use, skin will be continuously moisturized, hydrated, and visibly healthier-looking. Apply it to the face twice daily. 

Garnier Moisture Rescue Refreshing Gel Cream, $5.99 MSRP

L’OREAL PARIS HYDRA GENIUS DAILY LIQUID CARE—NORMAL/OILY SKIN

Let’s face it: Nobody wants to deal with a complexion that is unbalanced and overly shiny. L’Oreal Paris Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care for Normal/Oily Skin—formulated with aloe water and three types of hyaluronic acid—instantly infuses skin with moisture and locks it in, while removing excess sebum for a fresh feel and healthy look. The result? Mattified, hydrated, fresh, and healthy-looking skin. If that’s not a perfect recipe for summer skin, what is?

L’Oreal Paris Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care—Normal/Oily Skin, $17.99 MSRP

VICHY AQUALIA THERMAL MINERAL WATER GEL

Formulated with Vichy’s Mineralizing Water, this lightweight water-gel moisturizer provides the skin with 15 rare minerals straight from the French Volcanoes— no plane ticket required. What’s more? Upon application, Aqualia Thermal Water Gel provides a cooling effect along with all-day hydration. Free of oils and parabens, this moisturizer is also suitable for sensitive skin. 

Vichy Aqualia Thermal Mineral Water Gel, $31.00 MSRP

GARNIER SKINACTIVE MOISTURE BOMB THE ANTIOXIDANT SUPER MOISTURIZER

Garnier SkinActive Moisture Bomb—formulated with hyaluronic acid, antioxidant-rich Goji Berry, Vitamins C& E, and Pomegranate—delivers an instant burst of long-lasting hydration in a water-light gel formula. Instantly you’ll see and feel the difference of hydrated skin with a more youthful look day after day. Use twice daily for best results.

Garnier SkinActive Moisture Bomb The Antioxidant Super Moisturizer, $16.99 MSRP

SKINCEUTICALS HYDRATING B5 GEL

 

All skin types can benefit from this oil-free hydrating gel formulated with vitamin B5 and hyaluronic acid. The gel works to help replenish nutrients the skin needs to feel smooth and appear younger and more radiant. Enhance the benefits of your daily moisturizer with this gel, or simply use it alone. SkinCeuticals recommends pairing it with vitamin C skin care products. Not sure which to use? Here’s a SkinCeuticals vitamin C serum that has earned our praise! 

SkinCeuticals Hydrating B5 Gel, $82 MSRP