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 travelling to Karachi at the peak of June with nothing besides a splash of cold water and a face mask. As it happens, the sun had its ideas. Two days in, my skin was dry, flaky, and mad. 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 gets bone-dry and needs all the fluid 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 moisturisers.
So, whether you’re heading to work, running errands, or just chilling at home, here are five of the best, practical summer moisturisers I’ve tested (and loved).
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 scorcher of a 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 talks 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: https://www.neutrogena.com/products/skincare/neutrogena-hydro-boost-water-gel-moisturizer
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 was not sold on the whole ‘green tea’ thing in a moisturiser until I tried this. It has become part of my morning arsenal on those hot, sweaty summer weeks when breakouts like 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. This moisturiser is so hydrating and intense without feeling heavy — it’s the perfect combo for hot days.
Key Benefits:
It works for 100 hours (and even keeps working 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 (hey, wedding season!).
Check it out on Clinique: https://www.clinique.com/product/1687/99351/skincare/moisturizers/moisture-surge-100h-auto-replenishing-hydrator
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: https://www.simpleskincare.com/uk/products/moisturisers/hydrating-light-moisturiser.html
How to choose the best moisturiser for summer
Selecting the perfect moisturiser comes down to your skin type and the life 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 moisturisers 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 prep the skin for some of the more water-soaked Western skincare products, especially if you have oily skin.
Moisturize: Make sure to do this while your skin is still slightly wet—it helps seal moisture!
Sunscreen: Never skip. Moisturisers are no substitute for a good SPF.
I keep mine in the fridge in summer — a cold moisturiser 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 of 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 inside working from home, your skin is still contending with heat, sweat and pollution.
Choose the moisturiser that suits your skin, your vibe, and your budget. Here are a few gentle suggestions: Remember that great skin doesn’t come from one product but from consistent, mindful care.
Want more summer skin care tips?
https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/best-sunscreen
