Best Water Face Moisturizers of 2026

Lisa Bechard Avatar
Lisa Bechard
Last Updated: Jan 16, 2026

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Water face moisturizers are essential for keeping the skin hydrated and healthy. These moisturizers are designed to penetrate deep into the skin, providing long-lasting hydration that helps to prevent dryness and flakiness. They come in different formulas, ranging from lightweight gels to rich creams, to suit all skin types. Some water face moisturizers contain additional ingredients like hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, and vitamins that help to boost skin's radiance and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. With regular use, water face moisturizers can leave the skin looking and feeling soft, supple, and youthful.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Amazon Basics Moisturizing Water Gel Cover #TOP 1
Amazon Basics Moisturizing Water Gel
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Skincare Set Cover #TOP 2
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Skincare Set
ftb score rating icon 9.7
LANEIGE Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Moisturizer Cover #TOP 3
LANEIGE Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Moisturizer
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Water Face Moisturizers

#TOP 1

Amazon Basics Moisturizing Water Gel

Amazon Basics
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Amazon Basics Moisturizing Water Gel Cover
Amazon Basics Moisturizing Water Gel, 1.7 Ounces, 1-Pack

Amazon Basics Water Gel is a dermatologist-tested moisturizer designed to hydrate your skin effectively. With its Hyaluronic Acid formula, this gel helps restore your skin's natural moisture, leaving it feeling soft and refreshed. You can enjoy all-day hydration, ensuring your complexion looks smooth throughout the day. Simply apply it daily with your fingertips, massaging gently over your face and neck until fully absorbed. This product is a great alternative if you’re a fan of Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel, offering similar benefits at an accessible price point.

What We Like
Instant hydration
Lightweight gel formula
Dermatologist tested
Easy daily application
#TOP 2

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Skincare Set

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Neutrogena Hydro Boost Skincare Set Cover
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Skincare Set, Hydro Boost Water Cream Face Moisturizer for 72-Hour Hydration, 1.7 Fl Oz, & Hydro Boost Hydrating Gel Facial Cleanser Trial Size, 0.5 Fl Oz, 2 Pack, Clear

The Neutrogena Hydro Boost Set includes a 1.7-ounce moisturizer and a 0.5-ounce facial cleanser. The water cream moisturizer is perfect for restoring hydration to your skin, providing up to 72 hours of moisture. Its unique formula feels light and refreshing, making it ideal for daily use. The gentle cleanser transforms into a soft lather, effectively removing makeup and impurities while maintaining your skin's softness. Both products are suitable for sensitive and dry skin, ensuring you can enjoy a clean and hydrated complexion without irritation.

What We Like
Long-lasting hydration
Gentle on sensitive skin
Effective makeup removal
Lightweight and refreshing
#TOP 3

LANEIGE Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Moisturizer

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LANEIGE Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Moisturizer Cover
LANEIGE Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Cream Moisturizer: Hydrating Korean Face Cream with Squalane & Ceramide for Skin Barrier Support, Dermatologist-Tested

The LANEIGE Blue Hyaluronic Moisturizer is designed to provide you with long-lasting hydration, thanks to its unique Blue Hyaluronic Acid. This ingredient is effective in retaining moisture, ensuring your skin feels fresh and hydrated throughout the day. It also contains Squalane and Ceramide, which work together to nourish and moisturize your skin, making it ideal for various skin types. Whether you struggle with dryness, dullness, or uneven texture, this moisturizer addresses those concerns, leaving your skin looking revitalized and smooth.

What We Like
Long-lasting hydration
Nourishing ingredients
Suitable for all skin types
Addresses dryness and dullness

Palmer’s Coconut Oil Formula Coconut Water Face Moisturizer

3245-6
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Palmer’s Coconut Oil Formula Coconut Water Face Moisturizer Cover
Palmer's Coconut Oil Formula Coconut Water Face Moisturizer, 1.7 Ounce Jar

Palmer’s Coconut Oil Formula Coconut Water Face Moisturizer is a natural coconut water facial moisturizer that provides deep hydration for 24 hours. It is infused with coconut water, hyaluronic acid, and papaya enzymes, and is ethically formulated with sustainably sourced organic coconut oil. Customers love this moisturizer for its lightweight, non-greasy formula that hydrates better than more expensive creams, and its pleasant coconut scent.

What We Like
Lightweight, non-greasy formula
Provides deep hydration for 24 hours
Pleasant coconut scent
Ethically formulated with sustainably sourced organic coconut oil
Suitable for summer wear or under makeup
#TOP 5

Beauty of Joseon Red Bean Water Gel

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Beauty of Joseon Red Bean Water Gel Cover
Beauty of Joseon Red Bean Water Gel Hydrating Peptide Hydro Boost Moisturizer for Acne Prone Dry Skin, Korean Skin Care for Men and Women, 100ml, 3.38 fl.oz

The Joseon Red Bean Water Gel by Beauty of Joseon is a lightweight gel moisturizer designed to cater to different skin types. With its light moisture-gel formula, it is perfect for dry/combination skin, while also being suitable for oily skin with active sebum secretion. The gel contains red bean extract, known for its sebum-absorbing properties, and peptides that help improve wrinkles. It delivers powerful moisture to the skin, minimizing oiliness and leaving a fresh feeling. The gel texture is lightweight and non-sticky, making it comfortable to wear throughout the day. Experience the beauty of Joseon with this effective and versatile water gel.

What We Like
Lightweight formula
Powerful moisture delivery
Pore care
#TOP 6

COVERGIRL Clean Fresh Skincare Water Cream

99350117722
2 Ounce (Pack of 1)
COVERGIRL Clean Fresh Skincare Water Cream Cover
COVERGIRL Clean Fresh Skincare Weightless Water Cream, 2.0 Oz

COVERGIRL Clean Fresh Skincare Weightless Water Cream is a 100% vegan and oil-free moisturizer that provides 72-hour hydration. It is formulated with TruClean Cactus Water and Hyaluronic Acid to intensely hydrate and lock in moisture. This lightweight cream can be worn alone or as a primer under makeup, leaving skin feeling soft and smooth.

What We Like
Provides 72-hour hydration
100% vegan and oil-free
Lightweight and breathable
#TOP 7

Bliss Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer

HU-XI-201
1 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Bliss Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer Cover
Bliss Drench & Quench Hyaluronic Acid Cream to Water Moisturizer | Lightweight Face Cream with 4 Types of Hyaluronic Acid for All Day Hydration and Plump Skin | Clean Vegan & Cruelty Free 1.7 fl oz

Bliss Drench & Quench Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer is an ultra-lightweight cream-to-water hydrator that delivers all-day moisture with 4 different types of hyaluronic acid. This moisturizer increases moisture levels in minutes and disappears into the skin with no heavy after-feel. It targets each layer of skin's surface to provide concentrated, yet lightweight moisture while reducing water loss. Simply massage onto clean skin for instant hydration, and use morning and night for best results.

What We Like
Ultra-lightweight and disappears into skin with no heavy after-feel
Contains 4 different types of hyaluronic acid for all-day moisture
Targets each layer of skin's surface to provide concentrated, yet lightweight moisture
Increases moisture levels in minutes
Clean, vegan, and cruelty-free

Good Molecules Hydrating Gel Moisturizer

Good Molecules Hydrating Gel Moisturizer Cover
Good Molecules Hydrating Gel Moisturizer – Lightweight Water-Based Gel, Fast-Absorbing Oil-Free Moisturizer for Oily & Combination Skin with Hydrating Electrolytes, Fragrance-Free Face Care

The Good Molecules Hydrating Gel is a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer perfect for those with oily or combination skin. Its water-based formula quickly sinks into your skin, providing instant hydration without leaving any greasy residue. Enriched with a blend of electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and magnesium, it helps keep your skin balanced and moisturized all day long. Additionally, this gel contains Pseudoalteromonas Ferment Extract, which works to control shine and smooth your skin’s texture, giving you a clearer and more even complexion. Use it morning and night for best results, and feel confident layering it under sunscreen or makeup.

What We Like
Lightweight water-based texture
Contains hydrating electrolytes
Controls shine and smooths skin
Fast-absorbing, non-greasy
#TOP 9

Cetaphil Deep Hydration Skin Restoring Water Gel

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Cetaphil Deep Hydration Skin Restoring Water Gel Cover
Cetaphil Deep Hydration Skin Restoring Water Gel with Hyaluronic and Polyglutamic Acid, Face Moisturizer, 72 Hour Hydration, For Dry, Dehydrated Sensitive Skin, Fragrance Free, 1.7 oz, Fragrance Free

Cetaphil Deep Hydration Skin Restoring Water Gel is a weightless and cooling water gel that instantly boosts the skin's water content and maintains hydration for 72 hours. It contains hyaluronic acid and polyglutamic acid that provides long-lasting hydration and improves the quality of sensitive skin. The HydroSensitiv Complex soothes skin and deepens dynamic hydration by increasing skin overall water content and sealing in moisture. It is oil-free, fragrance-free, and dye-free, making it perfect for sensitive skin. This travel-size product is under 3.4 fl oz, making it easy to take with you on your next vacation or trip.

What We Like
Instantly boosts the skin's water content and maintains hydration for 72 hours
Contains hyaluronic acid and polyglutamic acid that provides long-lasting hydration
HydroSensitiv Complex soothes skin and deepens dynamic hydration by increasing skin overall water content and sealing in moisture
Oil-free, fragrance-free, and dye-free, making it perfect for sensitive skin
Travel-size product is under 3.4 fl oz, making it easy to take with you on your next vacation or trip
#TOP 10

Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hyaluronic Cloud Cream

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Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hyaluronic Cloud Cream Cover
Peter Thomas Roth | Water Drench® Hyaluronic Cloud Cream Hydrating Refillable Moisturizer | Hyaluronic Acid Cream For All Skin Types, Line-Smoothing, Fragrance-Free

Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hyaluronic Cloud Cream is a fragrance-free face moisturizer that provides up to 72 hours of hydration for more youthful-looking skin. It contains skin-friendly ingredients that help to boost your appearance, keeping it smooth and radiant.

What We Like
Long-lasting hydration
Lightweight and smooth
Effective for dry skin
Buying Guide Image

All You Need to Know About Buying Water Face Moisturizers

Introduction

Finding the right water face moisturizer can be a daunting task, especially when there are so many options available in the market. However, it is essential to choose a moisturizer that suits your skin type and provides the necessary hydration without clogging the pores. In this article, we will discuss some key factors that you should consider when choosing a water face moisturizer.

Skin Type

The first and most crucial factor to consider when choosing a water face moisturizer is your skin type. Each person's skin is unique, and different skin types require different types of moisturizers. For example, if you have oily skin, you should look for a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer that won't clog your pores. On the other hand, if you have dry skin, you should opt for a moisturizer that provides deep hydration and helps to lock in moisture.

Ingredients

The second factor to consider when choosing a water face moisturizer is the ingredients. You want to choose a moisturizer that contains ingredients that are beneficial for your skin. Look for moisturizers that contain ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, which helps to lock in moisture, and glycerin, which helps to soothe and hydrate the skin. Avoid moisturizers that contain harsh chemicals such as alcohol or fragrances that can irritate the skin.

Texture

The texture of the moisturizer is also an important factor to consider. You want to choose a moisturizer that has a texture that feels comfortable on your skin. If you have oily skin, you may prefer a lightweight, gel-like moisturizer. If you have dry skin, you may prefer a thicker, creamier moisturizer that provides deep hydration.

Brand Reputation

When choosing a water face moisturizer, it is also important to consider the reputation of the brand. Look for brands that are known for using high-quality, natural ingredients and have a reputation for producing effective moisturizers. Avoid brands that have a history of using harsh chemicals or have been involved in controversy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right water face moisturizer requires careful consideration of your skin type, ingredients, texture, and brand reputation. By taking the time to research and choose a moisturizer that is suited to your needs, you can ensure that your skin is hydrated and healthy. Remember to always patch test new products and consult with a dermatologist if you have any concerns or questions about the best moisturizer for your skin.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is water a good moisturizer for face?

Is water a good moisturizer? Water alone isn't a strong enough ingredient to keep your skin moisturized. It's also likely by the time you leave the bathroom, it's evaporated away — along with your skin's natural oils.

2. Are water based moisturizers better?

So a thin, lightweight, water-based gel moisturizer will provide enough hydration for most skin types, but if you're experiencing dry skin or have a skin condition like eczema, you may find it doesn't moisturize as well as a cream, Saedi says. For these people, an oil-based cream may be a better option, Bordone says.

3. What is a water based moisturizer?

A Water based moisturizer is lightweight in consistency, contains water (aqua) as its first ingredient and are non-greasy in texture. This moisturizer will help in improving your skin. It is faster in getting absorbed into your skin than oil-based moisturizer since it has a thinner consistency.

Editor's Notes

During our water face moisturizer research, we found 48 water face moisturizer products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 127,820 customer reviews through our big data system to write the water face moisturizers list. We found that most customers choose water face moisturizers with an average price of $17.12.

The water face moisturizers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of water face moisturizers, including Neutrogena, LANEIGE, Palmer's, Beauty of Joseon, COVERGIRL. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Lisa Bechard Avatar

Lisa Bechard is a skin therapist with 12 years of working experience in the beauty industry and also an experienced beauty writer who has expertise in skincare, medical aesthetics and cosmetic surgery, and wellness. Her writing skills are excellent and all her content is very persuasive and insightful.