Because That Skin of Yours Needs to Breathe, Look Pretty, And Be Hydrated!
Why Picking a Moisturiser For Summer is Important
Let’s face it—summer can be harsh on our skin. I still remember traveling to Karachi at the peak of June with nothing but a splash of cold water and a face mask. As it happens, the sun had its own ideas. Two days in, my skin was dry, flaky, and irritated. Only then did I realise one truth: You cannot skip moisturiser in summer, but you can choose the one right for you.
In the summer heat, skin becomes bone-dry and needs all the moisture it can get. But heavy creams? Nope. They feel like a heat trap. That’s why your best friends at this time of year are lightweight, non-greasy moisturizers.
So, whether you’re heading to work, running errands, or just relaxing at home, here are five of the best practical summer moisturizers I’ve tested (and loved). Here are some options that I have personally proven and tested.
1. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel – Best for Oily Skin in Summer
Why I Love It:
This has been my holy grail for two years now. It feels akin to sipping a cold glass of water on a sweltering day, except it’s going directly on your skin.
Key Benefits:
Oil-free, gel-based formula
Absorbs into the skin in an instant
Hyaluronic Acid for hydrating benefits
Party talk aside, it’s ideal for combination and oily skin. The texture is ultra-light: You won’t feel it on—just smooth, dewy skin. I’ve even worn it under makeup, and it’s perfect.
See it on Neutrogena:
Cetaphil Daily Oil-Free Moisturiser – excellent summer product for sensitive skin types!
Why I Love It:
This is my go-to when my skin freaks out (you know, the surprise summer breakouts). It’s a soothing, soft hug for irritated, sensitive skin.
Key Benefits:
Unscented and oil-free
Contains SPF 15
Calms inflammation and soothes redness
This is one of the best summer moisturisers. It works for all skin types but excels for sensitive, acne-prone users. The extra SPF is a nice bonus—I still wear it with my regular sunscreen for full coverage.
Read more on Cetaphil’s website: https://www.cetaphil.com/us/product/daily-facial-moisturizer-spf-15
3. Plum Green Tea Mattifying Moisturiser – Perfect for summer-acne prone skin
Why I Love It:
I wasn’t sold on the whole ‘green tea’ concept in a moisturizer until I tried this. It has become part of my morning routine on those hot, sweaty summer weeks when breakouts tend to make an appearance.
Key Benefits:
Green tea extracts manage acne
Lightweight and mattifying
Paraben and sulfate-free
It leaves a clean, oil-free finish that lasts throughout the hours—no greasy forehead at 3 p.m. Plus, Plum is cruelty-free and environmentally friendly—a win-win.
Explore Plum Goodness: https://plumgoodness.com/products/green-tea-mattifying-moisturizer
4. Clinique Moisture Surge 100h Auto-Replenishing Hydrator—Luxury Moisture5000royal Court. Now that is some royal moisturising and a dose of extra hydration.
Why I Love It:
A bit of a splurge? Yes. Worth it? Absolutely. I was gifted a travel-size jar and bought the full-size version. This moisturiser is incredibly hydrating and intense without feeling heavy — it’s the perfect combination for hot days.
Key Benefits:
It works for 100 hours (and even continues to work after washing your face!).
Aloe bio-ferment + hyaluronic acid formula
Suitable for all skin types
It gives a visible, lit-from-within glow that lasts all day, and I save it for when I want my skin to look extra radiant (hello, wedding season!).
Check it out on Clinique:
5. Best drugstore moisturiser for summer: Simple Hydrating Light Moisturiser
Why I Love It:
Sometimes, you need something that just gets the job done. This one is positively rudimentary in the best sense.
Key Benefits:
Lightweight, no-sticky feel
Free from Parabens and Dyes due to no harsh chemicals
Hydrates skin for 12 hours
It’s affordable, easy to use daily, and perfect for teens, busy moms, or anyone who simply desires something that will get the job done without any drama.
Visit Simple Skincare:
How to choose the best moisturiser for summer that actually works
Selecting the perfect moisturizer comes down to your skin type and the lifestyle you lead. Here’s a cheat sheet I put together for myself — and now you:
If you have oily or acne-prone skin:
Opt for gel-based moisturizers that contain green tea or salicylic acid. Avoid heavy oils.
For dry skin:
Hyaluronic acid and ceramides are your new best friends. You can still be a hydrator in the summer.
For sensitive skin:
Go Fragrance-Free and Keep It Simple. Aloe vera and vitamin B5 are calming options.
How to Incorporate the Summer Moisturiser in Your Skincare Regimen
With the ideal moisturiser now chosen, here’s how to make the most of it.
Cleanse “I always recommend starting with a gentle cleanser to wash away sweat and SUNSCREEN buildup.
Tone (optional): A hydrating toner can help prepare the skin for some of the more water-based Western skincare products, especially if you have oily skin.
Moisturize: Make sure to do this while your skin is still slightly damp—it helps seal in moisture!
Sunscreen: Never skip. Moisturisers are no substitute for a good SPF.
I keep mine in the fridge in summer — a cold moisturizer feels like a mini facial in a second!
Real Talk: My Summer Skin Mistake and What I Learned From It
I once went without the moisturiser, as I was just above my face, not needing the moisture in a heatwave. Big mistake. I began to overproduce oil on my face to counter the dryness. My forehead shone like a disco ball in a week, and breakouts appeared like wildflowers.
Lesson? Moisture = balance. Even those with oily skin need hydration — just the right kind.
Wrap Up: Your Skin Deserves Some Summer Lovin’
Selecting the best moisturisers for summer has nothing to do with trend forecasting and everything to do with listening to your skin. Whether your summer is spent at the beach, in the city, or working from home, your skin is still contending with heat, sweat, and pollution.
Choose the moisturizer that suits your skin, your vibe, and your budget. Here are a few gentle suggestions: Remember that great skin doesn’t come from a single product, but from consistent, mindful care.
Want more summer skin care tips?
If you’re loving these summer moisturizer suggestions, you’ll definitely want to take your skincare routine a step further. From using lightweight sunscreens to hydrating face mists and natural exfoliators, summer skincare is all about staying cool, protected, and refreshed. We’ll be sharing more beauty guides soon, so stay tuned or explore our Beauty section for even more tips!
