You wouldn't wear a turtleneck in the dead of summer's heat — and in the same way your skin will be more comfortable wearing a lightweight moisturizer versus a heavy balm or cream.
Typically, lightweight moisturizers are formulated with a water base, as opposed to an oil or butter, which allows them to sit more delicately on your skin. In that sense, you get your hydration fix — but without all the weight. We asked three dermatologists to share their favorite spendy and budget-friendly picks.
"It's great for minimizing pore size due to the witch hazel, a natural astringent that can also help reduce inflammation and decrease oil production and redness," she says. "This lightweight hydrator also contains the algae extract and hyaluronic acid, which is super hydrating and has anti-aging properties." The result is healthy, non-irritated skin that's plump and moisturized.
CeraVe is a dermatologist favorite not just because it boasts price points that won't make you guffaw, but because the formulations are simple and effective. "This particular moisturizer contains ceramides, which are used to protect the barrier of the skin and lock in moisture without clogging pores," says. Dr. Jaliman. "It's also super hydrating and has anti-aging properties. The hyaluronic acid in this lotion moisturizes and plumps the skin, and I like that it's lightweight, oil-free, and will not clog pores." Another bonus is that it has an SPF of 30.
"As a dermatologist, I receive many samples to test out and I find myself recommending this moisturizer time and time again," says Dr. Zenovia Gabriel, a board-certified dermatologist and hormonal skin expert. "It's a very effective and lightweight formula that works to hydrate skin while also combatting free radical damage via high levels of antioxidants." She tells us that even though it's a very lightweight formula, it packs a lot of hydrating, nourishing power.
Dr. Zenovia is also a big fan of CeraVe for the reasons we mentioned a couple slides back. She says she's always searching for affordable products with approach price tags she feels confident recommending to patients, and CeraVe fits the bill over and over again. She says, "The PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion is one of my favorite affordable finds because it is extremely lightweight on the skin and packed with hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and ceramides ideal for replenishing and hydrating skin. It's especially great for oily skin because it's lightweight and oil-free."
