Best Water Based Face Moisturizers of 2026

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

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Water-based face moisturizers have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their lightweight, non-greasy texture and ability to hydrate the skin without clogging pores. These moisturizers are perfect for those with oily or combination skin types, as they provide the necessary hydration without adding excess oil to the skin. They are also great for those with sensitive skin, as they are typically free of harsh chemicals and fragrances. Water-based moisturizers are available in a variety of formulas, including gel, lotion, and cream, making it easy to find one that suits your individual skin needs.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Good Molecules Hydrating Gel Moisturizer Cover #TOP 1
Good Molecules Hydrating Gel Moisturizer
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Curel Japan Skin Care Hydrating Water Essence Toner Cover #TOP 2
Curel Japan Skin Care Hydrating Water Essence Toner
ftb score rating icon 9.7
L'Oreal Paris Skincare Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care Cover #TOP 3
L'Oreal Paris Skincare Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 9 Water Based Face Moisturizers

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 2

Curel Japan Skin Care Hydrating Water Essence Toner

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White
5 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Curel Japan Skin Care Hydrating Water Essence Toner Cover
Curel Japanese Skin Care Hydrating Water Essence Toner, Water Based Face Moisturizer for Dry Skin, Serum for Face, 5 Oz

Curel Japan Skin Care Hydrating Water Essence Toner is a water-based face moisturizer specifically formulated for dry, sensitive skin. It instantly relieves tightness and calms cleansed skin, and can be used with Curel Japanese Skin Care Moisture Facial Milk or Intensive Moisture Facial Cream to complete a double moisturizing skincare routine. Customers report that their skin looks more hydrated, radiant, and uniform after using this product.

What We Like
Specifically formulated for dry, sensitive skin
Non-irritating and super hydrating
Fragrance free, pH balanced, and colorant free
#TOP 3

L'Oreal Paris Skincare Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care

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L'Oreal Paris Skincare Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care Cover
L'Oreal Paris Skincare Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care Oil-Free Face Moisturizer for Normal to Dry Skin, Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer for Face with Aloe Water and Hyaluronic Acid, 3.04 fl. oz.

L'Oreal Paris Skincare Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care Oil-Free Face Moisturizer is a lightweight facial moisturizer that absorbs quickly and keeps skin hydrated for up to 72 hours. Formulated with Hyaluronic Acid and Aloe Water, this moisturizer for face is perfect for normal to dry skin and provides hydration that absorbs quickly. Customers love the refreshing feel of this moisturizer and its ability to keep skin hydrated and luminous.

What We Like
Lightweight and quickly absorbing
Formulated with Hyaluronic Acid and Aloe Water
Keeps skin hydrated for up to 72 hours
Gives skin a luminous and supple look
Fragrance-free and lightweight

Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Facial Moisturizer

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Pink Grape Fruit
4 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Facial Moisturizer Cover
Neutrogena Oil Free Acne Moisturizer, .5% Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment, Pink Grapefruit Face Lotion for Breakouts, Non-Greasy & Non-Comedogenic, 4 fl. oz

Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Facial Moisturizer is a lightweight, fast-absorbing face lotion that helps to clear breakouts with 0.5% salicylic acid. It is infused with a light pink grapefruit scent and includes naturally derived grapefruit extract. It is suitable for daily use in a regular acne skincare routine and is oil-free, non-greasy, and non-comedogenic, so it won't clog pores. Customers have found it to be effective in reducing acne size, redness, and quickening healing, while not drying out the skin.

What We Like
Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture
Infused with a light pink grapefruit scent
Oil-free, non-greasy, and non-comedogenic
Reduces acne size, redness, and quickens healing
Does not dry out the skin
#TOP 5

belif Aqua Bomb Moisturizer 50ml

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Blue
belif Aqua Bomb Moisturizer 50ml Cover
belif Aqua Bomb – Daily Niacinamide Hydrating Moisturizer, Lightweight Plumping Facial Cream with Hyaluronic Acid & Squalane, Cooling Effect, Anti-Aging, Korean Skincare, 1.68 fl oz (50ml)

belif Aqua Bomb is a lightweight gel moisturizer designed to tackle dryness, dullness, and uneven skin texture. If you're struggling with dry or lackluster skin, this product can help restore hydration and improve your skin's overall appearance. Suitable for all skin types, it absorbs quickly, making it perfect for daily use without feeling heavy. Plus, it's dermatologically tested and formulated without mineral oils or synthetic fragrances, ensuring a gentle experience for your skin. Enjoy the benefits of ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, which work together to keep your skin plump and healthy.

What We Like
Hydrates and plumps skin
Lightweight gel texture
Suitable for all skin types
Free from harsh additives

MARLOWE. No. 123 Men's Facial Moisturizer

ZC1A43570
White
6 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
MARLOWE. No. 123 Men's Facial Moisturizer Cover
MARLOWE. No. 123 Facial Moisturizer 6 oz, Daily Face Lotion with Aloe Vera & Green Tea Extract, Hydrates, Nourishes, Restores & Soothes, Lightweight, Non-Greasy, Fresh Aloe Citron Scent

MARLOWE. Men's Moisturizer is a lightweight, non-greasy face lotion that hydrates and moisturizes all skin types, including dry and oily skin. Crafted with natural extracts like Aloe Vera leaf juice, Willow Bark and Deep Sea Algae, this moisturizer provides nourishment for men's skin. It has a refreshing masculine scent with a balance of aloe, citrus, and woodsy base. MARLOWE. Men's Moisturizer is free from parabens and phthalates, cruelty-free and made in the USA. It is perfect for men who want a simple yet effective skin care routine. Use it in the morning and at night to experience the hydrating and refreshing benefits of this moisturizer.

What We Like
Lightweight and non-greasy
Formulated for all skin types
Refreshing masculine scent
Paraben and phthalate-free
Made in the USA

CeraVe Ultra-Light Gel

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CeraVe Ultra-Light Gel Cover
CeraVe Ultra-Light Moisturizing Gel, Hydrating Gel Face Moisturizer For Men & For Women with Ceramides, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, Fragrance Free, Oil-Free, Mattifying Moisturizer, 1.75 FL Oz

CeraVe Ultra-Light Gel Moisturizer is a water-based facial moisturizer that provides immediate and long-lasting hydration while helping to maintain the skin's protective barrier. This gel moisturizer is suitable for all skin types and has a weightless feel on the skin. It is fragrance-free, oil-free, paraben-free, and non-comedogenic, making it ideal for everyday use. The gel formula is fast-absorbing and glides onto the skin easily, leaving it feeling refreshed and moisturized. With the power of three essential ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid, this moisturizer helps to restore and maintain the skin's natural barrier. Developed with dermatologists, CeraVe Ultra-Light Gel Moisturizer is a trusted choice for those looking for a lightweight and effective hydrating solution.

What We Like
Lightweight texture
Non-greasy finish
Quick absorption
Hydrates well
Gentle for sensitive skin
#TOP 8

ZenviaGlow Hydrating Gel Moisturizer

ZenviaGlow
ZenviaGlow Hydrating Gel Moisturizer Cover
ZenviaGlow Hydrating Gel – Lightweight Water-Based Gel Moisturizer for Face with Hyaluronic Acid & Niacinamide, Deep Hydration & Brightening, Oil-Free Daily Face Moisturizer for All Skin Types

The ZenviaGlow Hydrating Gel is a lightweight, water-based moisturizer that deeply hydrates your skin, helping it feel refreshed and healthy all day. With hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, it keeps your skin moist while brightening your complexion for a natural glow. This oil-free gel absorbs quickly, making it perfect for all skin types, including sensitive and combination skin, and works well as a makeup primer. It also supports your skin’s elasticity and smooths fine lines thanks to niacinamide and vitamin E. Natural extracts like aloe vera and cucumber soothe redness and calm irritation, leaving your skin cool and comfortable after sun exposure or daily stress.

What We Like
Deep hydration
Oil-free, fast-absorbing
Brightens complexion
Soothes irritation
Supports skin elasticity

THAYERS Let's Be Clear Water Face Cream

Let's Be Clear Water Face Cream
THAYERS Let's Be Clear Water Face Cream Cover
THAYERS Let's Be Clear Water Face Cream, Moisturizer with Azelaic Acid and Hyaluronic Acid, Skin Care for Combination to Oily Skin, 2.5 Oz

THAYERS Clear Water Cream is a lightweight gel moisturizer that supports a clarified and balanced complexion. It works to smooth texture, minimize visible pores, and reduce skin redness. Formulated with 3% Azelaic Acid, Hyaluronic Acid, and Licorice Root, this fragrance-free and cruelty-free face cream is perfect for combination to oily skin. It leaves your skin feeling balanced while supporting clear and smooth skin. Dermatologist-tested for safety and backed by science, THAYERS Clear Water Cream combines natural plant ingredients with derm actives to improve overall skin quality. Experience the convenience of a moisturizer that improves skin texture, reduces redness, and minimizes pores for clearer, healthier-looking skin.

What We Like
Lightweight and non-greasy
Reduces skin redness
Minimizes visible pores
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are 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.

2. Why is water based moisturizer better?

Applying a water-based moisturizer helps your skin lock in moisture and replenish nutrients. And since water doesn't stick to the skin like oil does, it prevents it from filling pores and causing breakouts."

3. Who should use water based moisturizer?

A water based moisturizer is best for those with dehydrated skin that is in need of moisture. Ingredients such as glycerin and hyaluronic acid are often used in water based moisturizers, and they can deliver powerful hydration to dehydrated skin.

4. Do water based moisturizers work?

In general, the thicker the product, the more moisturizing it is. 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.

Editor's Notes

During our water based face moisturizer research, we found 48 water based face moisturizer products and shortlisted 9 quality products. We collected and analyzed 166,936 customer reviews through our big data system to write the water based face moisturizers list. We found that most customers choose water based face moisturizers with an average price of $17.17.

The water based face moisturizers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of water based face moisturizers, including Good Molecules, Curel, L'Oreal Paris, Neutrogena, belif. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 2,450 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

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.