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Best Water Based Face Moisturizer (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a hydrating and nourishing skincare product that won't clog your pores, you may want to consider a water-based face moisturizer. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your skin type and concerns. Therefore, it is essential to consider several factors before making a purchase.

First and foremost, you should take into account your skin needs and goals. If you have dry skin, you may want a moisturizer with powerful hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid or glycerin. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, a lightweight formula that won't clog your pores and contains sebum-controlling ingredients like salicylic acid or tea tree oil may be more suitable for you. Additionally, you should make sure the product you choose is non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and free of potentially irritating ingredients like alcohol or sulfates.

Are you tired of moisturizers that leave your skin feeling greasy or sticky? Do you want a product that can provide long-lasting hydration without causing breakouts? Are you looking for a vegan and cruelty-free option? In this article, you will find answers to these questions and more. We will guide you through the benefits of using a water-based face moisturizer and the factors to consider when selecting the right one for your skin. Whether you have dry, oily, or combination skin, there is a perfect water-based moisturizer out there for you.

10 Best Water Based Face Moisturizer

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This product is ideal for those with dry skin looking for a deeply hydrating moisturizer that promotes smooth, radiant skin.
2
This product is ideal for those looking for a lightweight, water-based moisturizer that provides dewy hydration to the face.
3
This product is ideal for hydrating and nourishing dry and sensitive skin with its water-based, organic ingredients and vitamins.
4
Ideal for hydrating and moisturizing dry facial skin with a water-based formula.
5
This skincare set is ideal for sensitive and oily skin types, providing gentle cleansing, hydration, and protection from the sun.
6
Ideal for hydrating and moisturizing dry, sensitive skin with water-based hyaluronic acid, vitamin C & E, organic aloe vera, green tea, and natural ginseng.
7
It is an ideal hydrating water-based face moisturizer for those who prefer oil-free products in their Korean skincare routine.
8
This product is ideal for individuals with normal to dry skin looking for an oil-free, hydrating moisturizer with hyaluronic acid.
9
It is an ideal facial serum for sensitive or dry skin due to its hydrating properties with pure hyaluronic acid.
10
The product is ideal for daily moisturization of dry and sensitive skin, providing all-day hydration with a lightweight and fast-absorbing formula.
This product is ideal for those with dry skin looking for a deeply hydrating moisturizer that promotes smooth, radiant skin.
This product is ideal for those looking for a lightweight, water-based moisturizer that provides dewy hydration to the face.
This product is ideal for hydrating and nourishing dry and sensitive skin with its water-based, organic ingredients and vitamins.
Ideal for hydrating and moisturizing dry facial skin with a water-based formula.
This skincare set is ideal for sensitive and oily skin types, providing gentle cleansing, hydration, and protection from the sun.
Ideal for hydrating and moisturizing dry, sensitive skin with water-based hyaluronic acid, vitamin C & E, organic aloe vera, green tea, and natural ginseng.
It is an ideal hydrating water-based face moisturizer for those who prefer oil-free products in their Korean skincare routine.
This product is ideal for individuals with normal to dry skin looking for an oil-free, hydrating moisturizer with hyaluronic acid.
It is an ideal facial serum for sensitive or dry skin due to its hydrating properties with pure hyaluronic acid.
The product is ideal for daily moisturization of dry and sensitive skin, providing all-day hydration with a lightweight and fast-absorbing formula.

1. Hydrateme Water Cream For Radiant Skin – 1.7oz

Get ready to experience a refreshing hydration with this water cream face moisturizer, perfect for both women and men. It combines the benefits of niacinamide, apple extract, and purple tea for a non-greasy dewy skin cream that feels lightweight and refreshing. This oil-free moisturizer is the ideal solution for those looking to deeply hydrate, clarify, and brighten their skin.

Suitable for all skin types, this lightweight moisturizer is infused with ultra-bank of water and anti-aging ingredients that will leave your skin looking smooth and hydrated all day long. The purple tea in this water moisturizer is rich in antioxidants that help clarify the skin and refine its texture, while apple extract helps plump up aging skin for a radiant glow. This water gel moisturizer is perfect for dry, normal, combination, or oily skin types.

This anti-aging face moisturizer is great for smoothing and brightening the skin, and may also help with crow's feet or smile lines that appear as we age. The niacinamide in this face cream also helps manage oiliness and smooth out fine lines. It is also the perfect moisturizer for acne-prone skin that needs a clean and refreshing boost of hydration.

This clean face moisturizer is vegan, cruelty-free, and oil-free, and is free of gluten, parabens, sulfates, phthalates, BPAs, silicone, and alcohol, making it an ideal choice for people with sensitive skin. The water cream moisturizer has a gel cream texture that is super lightweight and melts into your skin, leaving an absolutely glowing finish.

This oil-free moisturizer contains niacinamide, which helps regulate oil production, calm skin's redness, helps fade hyperpigmentation, and reduce fines lines and wrinkles. Approved by dermatologists and created using medical-grade ingredients, this skin care product is clinically tested to provide real results. Create a personalized skin care set by choosing the skin care products suited for your own needs. Review the benefits chart below to compare and create your personalized skincare regimen.

Pros

  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Ultra-hydrating gel moisturizer
  • Rich in antioxidants that help clarify the skin and refine its texture
  • Ideal for smoothing and brightening the skin
  • Helps manage oiliness and smooth out fine lines
  • Vegan, cruelty-free, and oil-free
  • Free of gluten, parabens, sulfates, phthalates, BPAs, silicone, and alcohol
  • Approved by dermatologists
  • Clinically tested to provide real results

Cons

  • – None

2. Dewy Hydration Gel Cream By Tula.

The TULA & PROBIOTIC EXTRACTS oil-free gel texture is a potent combination of probiotic extracts and skin superfoods that promotes healthy, balanced, and glowing skin. It is clinically proven, effective, and does not contain live cultures. It provides a burst of hydration that instantly makes the skin supple, dewy, and silky to the touch, like a glass of water for the skin. The lightweight formula with probiotic extracts and superfoods, such as apple, watermelon, and prickly pear, hydrates the skin for a firmer appearance while calming any irritation. It is non-comedogenic, won't clog pores, and has no greasy feel. To use, apply 2-3 pumps to clean skin or after a serum. Use daily in the morning and evening.

Pros

  • Contains probiotic extracts and skin superfoods for healthy, balanced, and glowing skin
  • Clinically proven and effective
  • Does not contain live cultures
  • Provides a burst of hydration that instantly makes the skin supple, dewy, and silky to the touch
  • Lightweight formula with probiotic extracts and superfoods hydrates the skin for a firmer appearance and calms any irritation
  • Non-comedogenic and won't clog pores
  • No greasy feel
  • Easy to use daily in the morning and evening
  • Worry-free return policy

3. Hydrating Face Moisturizer With Organic Ingredients

The Full Spectrum Skin Care moisturizer is a nourishing cream that is suitable for all skin types, including oily, dry, and combination skin. It is made with botanical ingredients that provide a refreshing and healthy feel to the skin. The cream is enriched with hyaluronic acid that deeply hydrates the skin and leaves it feeling soft and supple.

This moisturizer is impeccably made with rich ingredients that do not clog pores or leave any residue on the skin. It is perfect for dry skin and deeply hydrates the skin to give it a glowing look. The cream also helps to combat secondary issues of sensitive skin, such as dryness and rough patches.

The Full Spectrum Skin Care moisturizer is specially formulated to retain moisture and combat aging. It contains organic rose and shea butter that provide long-lasting hydration to the skin. The cream locks in moisture and leaves the skin looking radiant and youthful.

This face moisturizer for sensitive skin is backed by a satisfaction guarantee. If you don't see the desired results, the manufacturer will refund your purchase.

Pros

  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Made with botanical ingredients
  • Contains hyaluronic acid for deep hydration
  • Does not clog pores or leave any residue
  • Helps combat secondary issues of sensitive skin
  • Long-lasting hydration
  • Retains moisture and combats aging
  • Satisfaction guarantee

4. Curel Hydrating Water Essence – Skin Savior

Achieve a radiant and hydrated complexion with this water moisturizer. Formulated to be non-irritating and super-hydrating, this skin serum is perfect for dry and sensitive skin. Simply apply a few drops of this water gel moisturizer before your regular lotion to soothe and calm your skin. It instantly relieves tightness and provides a calming effect after cleansing. This water moisturizer is specially crafted without drying alcohols and is fragrance-free, pH balanced, and colorant-free. For optimal results, incorporate this moisturizer into your double moisturizing skincare routine by pairing it with Curel Japanese Skin Care Moisture Facial Milk or Intensive Moisture Facial Cream.

Say goodbye to dry, tight, and sensitive skin with this water moisturizer. It provides a burst of hydration that penetrates deep into the skin and locks in moisture for a healthy-looking complexion. This face moisturizer is perfect for those with dry and sensitive skin as it is gentle and non-irritating. It is fragrance-free, pH balanced, and colorant-free. Use it daily before your regular moisturizer to achieve a radiant, dewy glow.

Get ready to experience calm and hydrated skin with this water gel moisturizer. It is specifically formulated to relieve tightness and soothe dry, sensitive skin. This moisturizer is lightweight and absorbs quickly, leaving your skin feeling refreshed and moisturized. It is fragrance-free, pH balanced, and colorant-free, making it perfect for those with sensitive skin. Use it daily as part of your skincare routine for a hydrated and healthy-looking complexion.

Pros

  • Provides deep hydration to the skin
  • Instantly relieves tightness and calms cleansed skin
  • Specifically formulated for dry and sensitive skin
  • Fragrance-free, pH balanced, and colorant-free
  • Can be used in a double moisturizing skincare routine

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for oily skin types

5. Cardon Cactus Men's Skincare Collection With Spf 30

Cardon is a personal skin care brand that aims to provide a modern approach to grooming with premium ingredients, designed to offer multi-functional products for a skincare routine that men can look forward to every day. The brand believes that personal skin care should be simple, effective, and enjoyable for all men to achieve their best look.

The Cactus-based Skincare Set by Cardon meets the daily needs of all skin types, which is a supercharged extract known for its soothing properties and firming effect. The moisturizer is made from non-toxic ingredients and provides sun protection along with intense hydration that is also reef-friendly.

Cardon's skincare routine consists of three simple steps. First, the Clay-based face wash is great for oily, acne-prone skin as it unclogs pores and boasts 4x the oil removing power of charcoal. Second, apply the Face Moisturizer and Natural Sunscreen, which is an oil-free innovative formula that rubs in clear and is climate-friendly. Third, use the Night Face Lotion to reduce the appearance of hyper-pigmentation and scarring, made with Niacinamide, Rosehip Oil, and Barley Extract to help regenerate your skin.

Cardon has won the Ask Men's Grooming Award for Best Face Sunscreen and has been featured in popular magazines such as GQ, Gear Patrol, Valet, and The Manual.

Cardon's mission is to provide a simple shopping experience for men to get premium skincare at an approachable price. Join the Cardon self-care conversation and put your best face forward every day!

Pros

  • Cardon offers multi-functional products for a skincare routine that men can look forward to every day.
  • The Cactus-based Skincare Set by Cardon meets the daily needs of all skin types, which is a supercharged extract known for its soothing properties and firming effect.
  • The moisturizer is made from non-toxic ingredients and provides sun protection along with intense hydration that is also reef-friendly.
  • Cardon's skincare routine consists of three simple steps – cleanse, moisturize, and protect.
  • Cardon has won the Ask Men's Grooming Award for Best Face Sunscreen and has been featured in popular magazines such as GQ, Gear Patrol, Valet, and The Manual.

6. Soothing Hydrating Face Cream With Organic Ingredients

Get ready to experience deep hydration all day long with this nourishing face cream moisturizer. Unlike your old all natural face moisturizer, this one is free from oily residue and packed with organic moisture that locks in the hydration. Loaded with Vitamin C, Organic Aloe Vera, Ginseng, and Organic Shea Butter, this face cream gets straight to work on reducing the appearance of scars and blemishes, making your skin look clearer and younger. It also contains Organic Rose Water, Tea Tree, Vitamin B5, and Vitamin E to soothe sensitive skin without any irritation. This anti-aging face cream quenches your skin's deepest thirst with Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin B5, providing full nourishment and hydration to give your skin a pure quenching soak that leaves it hydrated without any irritation. With our tonifying Organic Green Tea, Ginseng, and Rose Water, excess oils are stopped from clogging your pores. This face moisturizer locks in moisture for up to 8 hours, protecting your skin from the sun, wind, winter, and air conditioning. Free from parabens, silicones, and sulfate, this anti-aging cream is a pure quenching soak you can trust. Love your new skin or get your money back. Try it now!

Pros

  • Provides deep hydration all day long
  • Reduces the appearance of scars and blemishes
  • Contains soothing ingredients to prevent skin irritation
  • Locks in moisture for up to 8 hours
  • Free from parabens, silicones, and sulfate
  • Contains organic ingredients for a nourishing experience
  • Helps to stop excess oils from clogging pores

7. Clear Water Face Cream – Oil Free Hydration.

The Clear As Day water cream is a vegan face moisturizer that effectively clears pores, smoothens the skin, and provides hydration. It is formulated with a combination of grapeseed oil, niacinamide, salicylic acid, willow bark extract, and squalane, which work together to provide a pore-clearing complex that addresses breakouts without causing irritation.

This clarifying face moisturizer has a unique hybrid texture that combines the benefits of both a gel and cream. It deeply penetrates the pore lining to combat the root causes of breakouts, promoting healthy skin from within. Its ultra-moisturizing properties from grapeseed oil also keep the skin feeling soft, smooth, and supple.

Overall, the Clear As Day water cream is an excellent choice for those looking for a vegan moisturizer that can help with pore-clearing, smoothing, and moisturizing. Its gentle yet effective formula makes it suitable for all skin types, and its hydrating properties make it a must-have for those with dry or dehydrated skin.

Pros

  • Vegan and cruelty-free
  • Hybrid texture of gel and cream
  • Pore-clearing complex for acne-prone skin
  • Deeply penetrates the pore lining to combat breakouts
  • Ultra-moisturizing properties from grapeseed oil
  • Suitable for all skin types

8. Hydrating Genius: Face Moisturizer With Hyaluronic Acid

The L'Oreal Paris Hydra Genius is a lightweight facial moisturizer that delivers intense hydration to the skin. This water-based moisturizer is like a gel that quickly absorbs into the skin, leaving it soft, supple, and radiant. It is perfect for all skin types, especially dry skin. Formulated with Hyaluronic Acid and Aloe Water, this moisturizer provides 72 hours of hydration to keep skin healthy and glowing.

The Hydra Genius is a part of a unique line of daily liquid care moisturizers that are designed to provide quick absorption and 72-hour moisture-lock power. It is a perfect choice for anyone who is looking for a lightweight and non-greasy moisturizer that can replenish their skin's hydration levels.

Incorporating this facial moisturizer into your daily skincare routine will gift your skin the daily dose of hydration it needs. Whether it's day creams, night creams, or moisturizers with SPF, L'Oreal Paris skin care products are designed to provide your skin with essential moisture to keep it healthy and glowing.

To get the best results, pair it with L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives Hyaluronic Acid facial serum. This fragrance-free, lightweight serum plumps, hydrates and visibly reduces wrinkles, leaving your skin looking and feeling younger and healthier.

Pros

  • Lightweight and non-greasy formula
  • Provides intense hydration to the skin
  • Absorbs quickly and keeps skin hydrated for up to 72 hours
  • Leaves skin soft, supple and radiant
  • Formulated with Hyaluronic Acid and Aloe Water
  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Perfect for daily use

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for those with extremely oily skin

9. Mineral Hydrating Serum For Sensitive Skin

The Vichy Mineral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Serum is a powerful and effective daily hydration booster that strengthens and repairs the skin barrier. This serum is formulated with 15 mineral-rich Vichy volcanic water and pure hyaluronic acid that deeply moisturizes and plumps the skin.

This serum has been clinically tested by 175 dermatologists on 1600 women worldwide, making it a safe and effective choice for all skin types. The minimalist formula contains only 11 ingredients, is fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and silicone-free. Its lightweight and fast-absorbing texture makes it easy to apply and quickly absorbed by the skin.

The Vichy Mineral 89 Hyaluronic Acid Serum is accepted by the National Eczema Association, making it a great choice for those with sensitive skin. With regular use, this serum leaves the skin looking radiant, hydrated, and refreshed.

Pros

  • Formulated with 15 mineral-rich Vichy volcanic water and pure hyaluronic acid
  • Clinically tested by 175 dermatologists on 1600 women worldwide
  • Safe and effective for all skin types
  • Minimalist formula with only 11 ingredients
  • Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and silicone-free
  • Lightweight and fast-absorbing texture
  • Accepted by the National Eczema Association

10. Hydra Gel Moisturizer For Sensitive Skin

The Retrograde Hydra Hyaluronic Acid Serum Hydrating Face Daily Moisturizer Cream is a perfect combination of ceramides and hyaluronic acid that helps to rejuvenate the skin and restore its moisture for a smoother and plumper appearance. This ultra-hydrating face cream is light-textured and non-greasy, making it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. It quickly absorbs into the skin without leaving any sticky residue, making it ideal for use under makeup. The moisturizer locks in moisture and replenishes the skin energy for long-lasting hydration, making it the perfect addition to your daily skincare routine.

This moisturizer is perfect for users who want to target fine wrinkles and crow’s feet. It nourishes the skin without weighing it down, revealing a naturally radiant complexion. The large-sized jar is created for all and a little goes a long way. This premium skincare product is affordable and provides intense moisturizing power, making it an excellent choice for daily use.

To use, massage a dime-sized amount onto your face and neck until fully absorbed. It may feel soaked at first, but give it a bit of time, and you will see the magic it does to your skin.

Pros

  • Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin
  • Quickly absorbs into the skin without leaving any sticky residue
  • Locks in moisture and replenishes skin energy for long-lasting hydration
  • Affordable premium skincare product
  • Light-textured and non-greasy

Best Water Based Face Moisturizer FAQs

Are there any potential downsides to using a water-based face moisturizer, such as clogged pores or breakouts?

Yes, there are potential downsides to using a water-based face moisturizer. While water-based moisturizers are generally suitable for oily and acne-prone skin types, they may not work as well for those with drier skin. In some cases, water-based moisturizers may not provide enough hydration, leading to dryness, flakiness, and irritation.

Moreover, because water-based moisturizers contain water as their main ingredient, they may be more susceptible to bacterial growth, which can cause clogged pores and breakouts. This is especially true if the moisturizer is not stored properly or if the user does not practice good hygiene habits.

Additionally, some water-based moisturizers may contain certain ingredients that can cause irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals. It is important to read the ingredients list carefully and patch-test a new moisturizer before applying it all over the face.

In summary, while water-based moisturizers can be effective for certain skin types, there are potential downsides to using them. It is important to choose a moisturizer that is appropriate for your individual skin type and to practice good hygiene habits to prevent clogged pores and breakouts.

Can a water-based face moisturizer be used on oily or sensitive skin types?

Yes, a water-based face moisturizer can definitely be used on oily or sensitive skin types. In fact, it is recommended that individuals with oily or sensitive skin use a water-based moisturizer as it is lighter and less likely to clog pores or aggravate skin. Water-based moisturizers are formulated with the main ingredient being water, which allows for easy absorption into the skin. They also typically contain less oil, making them less greasy and more suitable for oily skin types.

Sensitive skin types can also benefit from using a water-based moisturizer as they are less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions. Water-based moisturizers are gentle and provide hydration without irritating the skin.

When selecting a water-based moisturizer for oily or sensitive skin, it is important to look for products that are non-comedogenic, oil-free, and fragrance-free. These formulations will help to ensure that the moisturizer will not cause breakouts or further irritate sensitive skin.

Overall, a water-based face moisturizer is a great option for those with oily or sensitive skin types. It provides lightweight hydration without clogging pores or causing irritation, making it a great addition to any skincare routine.

How often should I apply a water-based face moisturizer to maintain healthy skin?

The frequency of applying a water-based face moisturizer varies depending on various factors, such as skin type, environment, and product used. However, most dermatologists recommend applying a water-based face moisturizer at least twice a day, once in the morning and once at night.

In the morning, applying a moisturizer after washing your face helps to hydrate and protect the skin from environmental stressors such as pollution, sun rays, and free radicals. At night, applying a moisturizer helps to repair and rejuvenate the skin while you sleep.

If you have dry skin, you may need to apply moisturizer more frequently, especially during the winter months. On the other hand, if you have oily or combination skin, you may need to use a lighter moisturizer and apply it less frequently.

It's important to choose a water-based moisturizer that suits your skin type and needs. Always read the label and follow the instructions for the best results. Remember, consistency is key in maintaining healthy and glowing skin.

What are the benefits of using a water-based face moisturizer for dry skin?

Using a water-based face moisturizer can provide numerous benefits for those with dry skin. One of the main advantages is that water-based moisturizers can penetrate the skin more deeply than oil-based ones. This means that the skin is able to absorb the moisture more effectively, resulting in a more hydrated and plump appearance.

Water-based moisturizers are also typically lighter in texture, which makes them ideal for those with oily or combination skin. They won't clog pores or leave a greasy residue on the skin, which can be a common problem with oil-based moisturizers.

Another benefit of using a water-based moisturizer is that they often contain hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin, which can help to attract and retain moisture in the skin. This can be especially helpful for those with dry or dehydrated skin, as it can help to restore the skin's natural moisture barrier.

Overall, using a water-based moisturizer can be a great way to nourish and hydrate dry skin without weighing it down or causing breakouts. It's important to choose a moisturizer that is specifically formulated for your skin type and needs, and to apply it regularly for best results.

What ingredients should I look for in a high-quality water-based face moisturizer?

When it comes to selecting a high-quality water-based face moisturizer, there are a few key ingredients that you should keep an eye out for. Firstly, look for a moisturizer that contains hyaluronic acid, which is known for its ability to retain moisture and keep skin hydrated. Another great ingredient to look for is glycerin, which helps to lock in moisture and prevent dryness. Additionally, aloe vera is a great natural ingredient to soothe and hydrate the skin, while ceramides help to restore the skin's natural barriers and protect against environmental stressors. Lastly, antioxidants such as vitamin C and E help to protect the skin from free radicals and promote a more youthful appearance. When selecting a water-based moisturizer, it's important to choose a product that is suited to your specific skin type and concerns, and to always check the ingredient list to ensure that it contains high-quality, nourishing ingredients.

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