After a few months of using the most moisture-rich creams I could find, I started breaking out—something I’d never had to deal with before. My skin looked greasy, congested and frankly, the most unhealthy it had ever been.
After explaining the thought process behind my moisturiser switch-up to every skin expert who would listen, I was informed that things aren’t quite that simple (a tidbit of wisdom that, I have come to learn, rings true in just about every faction of skincare). While skin hydration is paramount, that’s not to say every skin type needs thick moisturiser every single day. Hydration, it turns out, can be found in a variety of shapes, sizes, serums and essences. While all skin types need hydration, as a general rule, those with oilier skin (like mine) are far less likely to get on with rich moisturisers, which risk clogging our pores and exacerbating our oiliness. Instead, we should opt for lightweight moisturisers, whether that’s a serum, gel cream or lotion. In fact, unless your skin is particularly dry, come summer, we all might benefit from opting for a lighter texture in our moisturisers.
Over the past six or so years, I have dedicated a huge amount of time to hunting for the best lightweight moisturisers—the kind that deliver the essential hydration your skin needs to function without being thick and greasy. I’m talking clever formulas with super-light textures that leave skin feeling refreshed rather than suffocated. So whether you’re looking to swap out your usual moisturiser for a lighter version for summer or your skin has always disliked traditional moisturisers, keep scrolling for the 15 best lightweight moisturisers out there. Trust me—your skin will thank you.
