Editor’s Picks: 13 of the Best Gel Moisturizers for Weightless and Fast-Absorbing Hydration
Do most moisturizers feel too heavy on your skin and leave you looking shiny—or even worse, broken out? If you said yes, then it’s time to lighten up. Gel moisturizer is the answer for anyone seeking sheer, non-greasy hydration that won’t clog your pores.
Unlike creams, gels are high in water-attracting agents called humectants (like aloe and glycerin), and low in thicker occlusives (like oils and butters). This gives them an ultra-lightweight texture that absorbs into your skin right away, and is less likely to trigger acne.
What’s more, the latest generation of gels do more than just moisturize. Many formulas also contain soothing, brightening and repairing ingredients, and are low in potential irritants (like fragrance and alcohol). Plus, they’re so weightless, you can wear them under sunscreens, face oils or even other moisturizers for an extra boost of hydration.
Here are the best gel moisturizers on the market, why I chose them, and what you need to know about each one.
Editor’s Picks (At a Glance)
Best K-Beauty | |
Best Clean Beauty | |
Best Multitasking | |
Best Hydrating | |
Best Calming | |
Best Brightening | |
Best for Acne | |
Best Dewy Finish | |
Best Splurge | |
Best Drugstore |
What to Look for in a Gel Moisturizer
The Best Gel Moisturizers of 2022
Best K-Beauty: Benton Aloe Propolis Soothing Gel
Best Clean Beauty: Plenaire Droplet Lightweight Moisture Gel
Best Multitasking: Rose Inc Hydration Replenish Microencapsulated Moisturizer
Best Hydrating: Indeed Labs Hydraluron Moisture Jelly
Best Calming: Epicuren Discovery Aloe Vera Calming Gel
Best Brightening: Éminence Organic Skin Care Stone Crop Hydrating Gel
Best for Acne: Pyunkang Yul Acne Cream
Best Dewy Finish: Peach & Lily Glass Skin Water-Gel Moisturizer
Best Clean Beauty: Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Pink Juice Moisturizer
Best Calming: Dr. Alkaitis Organic Soothing Gel
Best Splurge: Dr. Barbara Sturm Aloe Vera Gel
Best Drugstore: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Matte Moisturizer
Best Dewy Finish: OTZI Hydro Crystal Lightweight Gel Moisturizer
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