Skin Care

15 Dreamiest Water Lotions for Lighter-Than-Air Hydration

Hydrate your skin without suffocating it with these water-based moisturizers

by Melanie Rud Chadwick | COMMENT

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In the beauty world, the hottest hydration ingredient of the moment is good ol' H2O. Water lotions, creams and gel moisturizers use, you guessed it, water (along with other lightweight hydrators such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin and dimethicone) instead of oils to deeply quench parched skin, leaving it soft and supple, but never greasy. "They absorb more easily than thicker moisturizers, making them choice for anyone with oily skin or who simply doesn't like the feeling of heavy creams," explains Dr. Michele Farber of Schweiger Dermatology in New York City. They're also a perfect addition to your summer skin care lineup; using one pre-makeup can help prevent mid-day meltdown when temps and humidity levels start to rise, she adds.

Another plus: These water-based formulas also feel pleasantly refreshing. "As the water evaporates from the skin, it creates a cooling effect," explains cosmetic chemist Perry Romanowski. Applying onto your freshly washed complexion is the best way to seal in moisture, so slather these on immediately post-cleansing. And if you're a dry-skinned kinda girl who prefers more traditional moisturizing methods, try layering one of these lighter products over any oil-based lotion or cream -- the water-based formula will lock in the richer moisturizer, maximizing the effects, explains Farber. Try the 15 options ahead for the ultimate in heavenly hydration.

Image via Getty

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