Healthy, glowing skin is on everyone's mind. And if there is one product that can help you achieve this, it is a moisturizer. Moisturizers are often termed as the enemy, especially for oily, clogged, and acne-prone skin. But this single product can be a one-stop solution for most of your skin issues. Moisturizers can help balance your skin's pH, hydrate it deeply, keep it youthful, and help control excess sebum production that causes acne.
There are different types of moisturizers, and the word on the block is that a water-based moisturizer for face is the best pick. Let’s find out if there is any truth to this claim!
Table of Contents:
- What are water-based moisturizers?
- What are oil-based moisturizers?
- What is the difference between oil-based and water-based moisturizers for face?
- What are the benefits of a water-based moisturizer for face?
- Should you choose a water-based moisturizer for face?
- Which is the best water-based moisturizer for face?
What are water-based moisturizers?
As the name suggests, a water-based moisturizer is made primarily of water. Water-based moisturizers have a gel-like consistency that makes them light on the skin. These products are made up of water and a humectant. A humectant is a hygroscopic substance that helps retain and lock water molecules in the skin. Water can quickly evaporate and leave your skin dry. But a humectant prevents evaporation by forming hydrogen bonds with the water molecules. Some common examples of humectants include aloe vera gel, hyaluronic acid, peptides, glycerin, honey, etc.

Since water is the main ingredient in these moisturizers, they are extremely light and do not clog your pores or give you greasy-looking skin.
What are oil-based moisturizers?
An oil-based moisturizer contains oil as the base instead of water. All other ingredients of the cream are dissolved in the oil and formed into a thick cream or butter-like consistency. They are heavier on the skin and ideal for extremely dry skin that requires deep hydration and nourishment. Some common oils used as an ingredient of water cream include jojoba oil, rosehip seed oil, sweet almond oil, etc.
What is the difference between oil-based and water-based moisturizers for face?
Oil-based and water-based moisturizers cater to different skin types. The former is used for dry, damaged, or cracked skin that is not prone to acne. These products have a thick texture that penetrates deep into the skin and moisturizes it from within. Oil-based moisturizers can be found in the form of creams, body butter, ointments, or face and body oils. They can be greasy in texture and can leave an oily tone on your skin. Oil-based moisturizers can also be comedogenic, depending on the oil used in the product.

A water-based moisturizer for face, on the other hand, is usually found in a gel-like texture. Water cream is ideal for combination or oily skin, prone to pimples, clogged pores, and blackheads. Water-based moisturizers are non-comedogenic in nature and do not clog pores, which is why they are ideal to moisturize your skin without causing breakouts.
What are the benefits of a water-based moisturizer for face?
A water-based moisturizer can offer you the following benefits:
- It is lightweight: Water-based moisturizers are extremely lightweight and do not leave any residue on your face. A gel cream will also quickly penetrate your skin.
-
It is ideal for the summer months: Heat, pollution, and sweat can make your skin naturally oilier in summers. This is why you get more pimples during summers compared to winters and other months. Using a water-based and oil free moisturizer can be ideal when the heat starts to soar.
- It is suitable for oily skin: Contrary to popular belief, oily skin also requires moisturizing to control excess sebum production, reduce acne, and balance the pH level. A water-based moisturizer can help achieve this without clogging your pores.
- It can be absorbed quickly: Water-based moisturizers are easy to absorb and can be used as a makeup base.
- It is non-greasy: Water cream will not leave an oily tint on your face. Your sensitive skin will look smooth and supple with no hint of any oil or grease.
Should you choose a water-based moisturizer for face?
If you have oily or combination skin, a water-based moisturizer can be the best thing you apply to your skin for hydration and nourishment. An oil free, water-based moisturizer will help you control extra sebum production, reduce acne, unclog pores, decrease blackheads, and also reduce the appearance of large pores, leaving your skin radiant and youthful. These products are also ideal for you if you live in an area that experiences a hot climate.
In addition to this, if you use makeup, you can use a water-based moisturizer for face as a base. The moisturizer will hydrate your skin and not spoil your makeup with unwanted grease. In fact, you can replace a primer with a water-based moisturizer too.
However, if your skin is too dry or cracked, you should stick to an oil-based product as per your skin’s requirements. If you do not know your skin type, you can consult a dermatologist for clarity and then select a product as per your skin’s requirements.
Which is the best water-based moisturizer for face?
If you are looking for a good water-based moisturizer, you can try this WOW product:
Hyaluronic Acid Water Gel
This water-based, oil free, gel moisturizer contains nourishing skin ingredients like Pro-Vitamin B5 and Vitamin E. The moisturizer also contains the humectant Hyaluronic Acid that helps trap moisture in your skin. The product works to reduce dryness, wrinkles, spots, and blotchy complexion. Not only does it keep your skin soft and revitalized, but it also makes it look radiant, toned, and firm.

Coconut Water Full Cream With Hyaluronic Acid
Coconut face cream by WOW Skin Science gives your skin its daily dose of anti-aging nourishment. It is enriched with pure coconut oil, tripeptides, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E that help deal with patchy complexion and dull skin problems. Coconut oil is a natural skin superfood loaded with healthy vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals.

You can explore more WOW Skin Science moisturizers for your unique skin type and other skin care products.
Recommended Products
No recommended products
Related Articles

What Are the Benefits of Activated Charcoal in Soap?

Linda Banner

6 mins

Hyaluronic Acid: 8 Skin & Health Benefits

Andjelija Mladenovic

7 mins

4 Vitamin C Facial Benefits

Andjelija Mladenovic

7 mins