8 Water-Based Moisturizers for Combination Skin

 There’s a common misconception that moisturizers are only meant for dry skin. The truth is that all skin types can benefit from using a moisturizer. But before you slather on any old cream or lotion, it’s important to assess your skin type. If you have combination skin, a lighter gel or water-based formula is recommended. These products can help hydrate and nourish the skin without that heavy feeling. Need help picking a water-based moisturizer for your combination skin? Ahead, we rounded up some of our favorites that you should try, ASAP.

What Is Combination Skin?

Before we get into our best gel-based and water-based moisturizers for combination skin, it’s important to know what the visible signs of combination skin are to help determine whether you have it. Combination skin is exactly what it sounds like — having skin that is both oily and dry. Typically, the T-zone (nose, forehead, chin) is the part of the face that’s oily-looking, with dryness appearing on the cheeks, jaw area and along the hairline. If this sounds like your skin, know that you’re not the only one dealing with this skin type. In fact, according to board-certified dermatologist, and Skincare.com consultant, Dhaval Bhanusali, MD, combination skin is the most common skin type seen amongst his patients. Luckily, there’s no shortage of moisturizers out there to choose from — here are our faves.

SkinCeuticals Hydrating B5 Gel

This oil-free hydrating gel is formulated with vitamin B5 and hyaluronic acid — an ingredient known to hold up to 1000x its weight in water — to help skin retain moisture. The result? Skin that looks supple and smooth. Use it daily as your oil-free moisturizer.

Garnier SkinActive Moisture Bomb The Antioxidant Super Moisturizer

This water-light gel-cream formula boasts hyaluronic acid as well as goji berry, vitamins C and E and pomegranate to help strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier and provide parched skin with much-needed hydration. The non-greasy formula is suited for all skin types eager for a burst of hydration and a more youthful look day after day. We also like the Garnier Water Rose Moisture Cream for a refreshing finish. 

Kiehl’s Calendula Serum-Infused Water Cream

The Calendula Water Cream gives you a lightweight, hydrating finish that’s so good it feels like you stole the formula from your nearest spa. It contains micronized calendula petals and calendula flower extract that visibly evens out skin tone and smooths fine lines.

L'Oréal Paris Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care - Normal/Oily Skin

For combination skin that is hydrated, fresh and visibly mattified, look no further than this fast-absorbing moisturizer by L'Oréal Paris. Specifically developed for normal to oily skin, the water-based formula combines aloe water and hyaluronic acid to provide dual-action results.

Vichy Minéral 89

Minéral 89 — which is formulated with a combination of 89 percent of Vichy’s exclusive Mineralizing Thermal Water and hyaluronic acid — helps to fortify skin and protect it against external aggressors, while delivering a boost of hydration for a healthy-looking glow. Best of all, the formula is suitable for all skin types because it’s free of parabens, silicones, fragrances, colorants and alcohol.

Biossance Squalane + Probiotic Gel Moisturizer

It’s no surprise that this formula has a cult following — it’s gentle, hydrating and cooling to the touch. The Biossance Gel Moisturizer also has probiotics, ginger extract and red seaweed to help calm irritation and brighten dullness.

House 99 Greater Look Face Moisturizer

This water-based moisturizer stands out from the rest because it contains protein-rich ingredients like spirulina and quinoa. It also works to lightly exfoliate with salicylic acid and soothes with glycerin and vitamin E.

Tula Dew Your Thing Oil-Free Gel Cream

Dew Your Thing is a great option for acne and combination skin types because it leaves behind a light, airy finish that’s grease-free. It absorbs very quickly into the skin and will leave you with a soft, supple canvas — perfect for pairing under makeup.

Read More:

6 Cleansers for Combination Skin

The Best Kiehl’s Moisturizers for Your Skin Type

Can You Use Body Lotion on Your Face?