As a lifelong beauty enthusiast, I've always considered myself pretty knowledgeable about my combination skin type and the kinds of products that work best on it. I rotate through an artfully crafted regimen of cleansers, serums, moisturizers, and oils to combat the various zones of oiliness, dryness, and even the occasional sensitivity on my face. When I recently met with acclaimed celebrity dermatologist Dennis Gross, MD, he pointed to a small (but mighty) breakout I was experiencing and suggested a skincare swap I wasn't expecting. "You should think about using an oil-free moisturizer," he said plainly. "You want to hydrate, but oils can block the pores." I was shook.
Although it's no surprise that oil can clog the pores and lead to breakouts, I thought I was immune to such foolery since the slippery substance is among my favorite skincare ingredients. I love double-cleaning with an oil cleanser and even rely on several different types, especially during the winter months when the skin around my mouth gets straight-up parched. "Nowadays, technology allows for you to have great results without oils, and I think that's a good move for you," Gross explained.
Water-based moisturizers are a popular alternative to their oil-based counterparts. Simply put, they employ water as the main ingredient into which other water-attracting humectant ingredients are mixed. This helps to achieve hydration from within the skin as opposed to sealing in moisture from the outside. "It gives what's called internal hydration, so it doesn't sit on your skin like oils do. It gets inside the skin and brings water into the skin. Not only do you get hydration, but you get some plumping and this beautiful, dewy radiance without the possible side effects of excess oils," said Gross.
I was hesitant to fully jump on the oil-free train, but when the trusted dermatologist of stars like Zoë Kravitz and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley makes a suggestion, you listen. And so began my deep dive into this foreign skin territory. Ahead, see 8 water-based moisturizers to quench the thirstiest skin.
The Best Water-Based Moisturizers, at a Glance
- Best Overall: Tatcha The Water Cream
- Best Gel Formula: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel
- Best for Mature Skin: Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hyaluronic Cloud Cream
- Best for Sensitive Skin: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Ultra Sensitive Skin Face Moisturizer
- Best for Combination Skin: Belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb
The Best Water-Based Moisturizers of 2025
1. Best Overall: Tatcha The Water Cream
Conversations about water-based moisturizers truly start and end with this OG offering from Tatcha. The water-burst technology is supported by Japanese wild rose to balance the skin and refine pores, and Japanese leopard lily keeps oil production in check. The result is plump, clear skin. If you have extra dry skin, Who What Wear assistant beauty editor Sabrina Talbert swears by the brands Dewy Milk Moisturizer for a radiant, dewy finish.
Pro: Refines pores, lightweight
Con: Pricey
Key ingredients: Japanese wild rose and Hadasei 3
Size: 1.7 oz
Customer review: "It doesn't feel like you're wearing moisturizer when you put it on—it's so light. I wear it twice a day under my makeup and before I go to bed. Let me tell you, my skin has never been so clear, bright, and beautiful looking."
2. Best Gel Formula: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel
This oil-free water-gel offering from Neutrogena feels refreshing and cool on application. Don't let the lightweight consistency fool you—hyaluronic acid and olive extract make it a deeply moisturizing option. Plus, this formula is noncomedogenic, meaning it won't clog your pores.
Pro: Oil-free formula, doesn't clog pores
Con: Not ideal for acne-prone skin
Key ingredients: Glycerin and hyaluronic acid
Size: 1.7 oz
Customer review: "I am shocked at how much I love this moisturizer! Even with oily skin, it's important to hydrate the skin so it doesn't overcompensate and produce more oil. This moisturizer is perfectly light and not sticky at all, which is exactly what I look for in a moisturizer."
3. Best K-Beauty Formula: Laneige Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Cream Moisturizer
K-beauty brand Laneige is beloved for its oil-free offerings, and this one is no different. This hyaluronic-based water cream hydrates while protecting the skin's barrier. "As a lover of K-beauty, it doesn't surprise me how consistent Laneige is," says Talbert. "When I really want to lock in on moisture, I like applying this before going in with the fan-favorite Lip Sleeping Mask Intense Hydration with Vitamin C."
Pro: Promotes firmer skin, good for dry skin
Con: Not ideal for those who are sensitive to fragrance
Key ingredients: Squalane, Pepta-Panthenol Complex™, and blue hyaluronic acid
Size: 1.6 oz
Customer review: "I love this cream. It hydrates really well, and it never stings. It's perfect under makeup and as a day cream. I feel like my makeup lasts longer with this."
4. Best for Redness: Glow Recipe Watermelon Pink Juice Oil-Free Moisturizer
This lightweight gel emulsion employs watermelon extract to soothe the skin, while hyaluronic acid carries water deep beneath the surface. It also smells good and looks so pretty sitting on your vanity.
Pro: Treats redness, uneven texture, and dullness
Con: May not be thick enough for extra dry skin
Key ingredients: Glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and watermelon extract
Size: 1.69 oz
Customer review: "I really like this moisturizer. It's lightweight but packs a punch of hydration. It also keeps my oily T-zone in check. Love the watermelon scent [as] it's not too heavy."
5. Best SPF Formula: CeraVe Facial Moisturizing Lotion With SPF 30
Hero ingredients hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and niacinamides make sure this noncomedogenic formula moisturizes all day long. Plus, the added SPF protects from the sun's harmful rays. "I'm admittedly not the best when it comes to applying sunscreen, which is I love this lotion with SPF 30," says Talbert. "I know it's doing the double the work and truly protecting my skin."
Pro: Absorbs fast, travel-friendly
Con: Leaves a slight white cast
Key ingredients: MVE Technology, InVisibleZinc Technology, niacinamide, and ceramides
Size: 3.0 oz
Customer review: "My skin has become less textured, my breakouts have decreased, and the redness has significantly subsided. I also find that my skin is less oily than it was when I was using a gel moisturizer marketed for oily skin."
6. Best for Mature Skin: Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hyaluronic Cloud Cream
I mean, the name itself says everything you need to know about the heavenly concoction. A 30% concentration of hyaluronic acid at three different molecular sizes can hydrate the skin for up to 72 hours. Ceramides also help to lock in even more moisture.
Pro: Treats fine lines, wrinkles, and dullness
Con: Can irritate eyes for some
Key ingredients: Pentavitin, ceramides, 30% hyaluronic acid complex
Size: 1.7 oz
Customer review: "You cannot believe how good this is! I have extremely reactive dry skin. Popped this on over an oil serum and sprayed it with aerosol water. My skin is so smooth and not dehydrated."
7. Best for Sensitive Skin: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Ultra Sensitive Skin Face Moisturizer
The soothing prebiotic thermal water base is one of only a handful of ingredients in this formulation, which makes it perfect for sensitive skin. "As a sensitive skin girl, I appreciate moisturizers like this one that soothe the skin while adding moisture," says Talbert. "I like to put this on before layering up with the La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water."
Pro: Not greasy, calms redness
Con: Some say the tube is too small
Key ingredients: Neurosensin, La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water, shea butter, glycerin, and dimethicone
Size: 2.47 oz
Customer review: "My skin has never been smoother. There is a definite difference in my pores and skin texture. I've always had fairly decent skin but dealt with dry patches, flaky skin, and blackheads on my chin/nose area. It's gentle enough for my skin, no more drying or flaking skin, and I get compliments all the time on my skin at work! I usually have trouble with sensitivity as well, and this has not caused me any rashes or itchiness which is a rare thing for me with skincare!"
8. Best for Combination Skin: Belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb
It's not called "aqua bomb" for nothing. This moisturizer is super hydrating. It's packed with lady's mantle (a skin softener), glycerin, and ceramides. "I've been using this moisturizer for well over five years now, and I can't recommend it enough for people with combination skin," says Talbert. "It works for me year round without ever feeling too heavy or not moisturizing enough. Plus, it has minimal fragrance"
Pro: Lightweight, fresh but subtle fragrance, soothing, primes for makeup
Con: Doesn't absorb as fast as some other formulas
Key ingredients: Napiers Aqua Formula, Napiers Original Formula, squalane, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide
Size: 1.69 oz
Customer review: "Received a sample along with many other moisturizers, and this one is by far the winner. The smell is amazing, fresh, not overpowering, and it didn't break out my sensitive skin. My skin is also dry, and these types of moisturizers normally would be too dry for me, but not this one. It's very hydrating and feels amazing."
What Should I Look for in a Water-Based Moisturizer
While there are hundreds of water-based moisturizers on the market, there are a few things to consider before making a purchase. Here's what to keep in mind:
Key ingredients: Water-based formulas tend to have a few standout ingredients that boost hydration and protect the skin barrier. Some of these ingredients include hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and glycerin. There are also moisturizers that contain SPF, which is ideal if you specifically want a daytime moisturizer.
If you have dry or sensitive skin, you'll also want to think about fragrance, as it can be irritating and sometimes drying. In this case, opting for a fragrance-free formula will lower the chances of any unwanted skin reactions.
Size: The size of your moisturizer can make all the difference depending on your needs. If you're a frequent traveler, you may want something on the smaller side or a container that is unlikely to spill or leak in your bag. We found that many customers also noticed certain containers like screw off tops made it easy to use every ounce of product while longer tubes and pump dispensers made it more difficult. Of course, this all comes down to personal preference.
How We Chose
As with all of our buying guides at Who What Wear, we compile our edits based on original testing and expert recommendations. To find the best water-based moisturizers, we leaned heavily on first-person testing and our knowledge as beauty experts. We also considered several factors, including key ingredients and size. We're aware of how important these factors are for a wide range of needs and preferences, so we made sure to list out all the helpful details. Of course, customer reviews were also kept in mind when creating this list.
Why Trust Who What Wear
Since 2006, Who What Wear has been a digital fashion, beauty, and lifestyle publication and community where people can discover the latest brands, trends, and must-have products to help define and evolve their personal style. Think of Who What Wear as your most trusted style and shopping resource.
This article was originally published at an earlier date and has been updated.
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