A gel moisturizer does the job of hydrating your skin without the stickiness of regular face creams. In a tropical country like the Philippines, the hot weather can leave our skin stressed and dry. Unfortunately, while face creams can provide hydration, they can also feel heavy and malagkit, especially during summer. The perfect solution to this is a gel-based moisturizer.
Our buying guide is here to sort out the factors you need to consider when choosing a gel-based moisturizer, with some comments and tips from dermatologist Dr. Maria Elinor Grace "Meg" Sison. We've also rounded up the best choices in the market to help you find one that suits your needs perfectly.
Quick List - Top Gel Moisturizers
Luxe Organix
Maximum Hydration and Calming Gel for Sensitive and Sun-Exposed Skin
Human Nature
Natural Gel Moisturizer with Hyaluronic Acid for Lightweight Daily Hydration
Neutrogena
Oil-Free Hydrating Water Gel with Hyaluronic Acid – Lightweight Daily Moisturizer
Isntree
Hydrating Gel Cream with 5 Hyaluronic Acids for Lightweight Daily Moisture
Dr. Sison is a board-certified dermatologist who practices in the Philippines and sees both medical and cosmetic dermatological cases on skin, hair, and nails.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
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You might be wondering, how are gels different from a traditional cream moisturizer? Gel moisturizers are water-based and usually oil-free. Cream moisturizers typically form a barrier on the skin’s surface to keep moisture in. Gels can also do that, but their formulations are designed to attract water from the deeper layers of the skin and bring it up to the skin surface.
Gel moisturizers may not be as rich as creams, but they are quick-absorbing and hydrating for most skin types. In fact, a 2017 study on the effects of gel moisturizers reported that after 12 weeks of use, the subjects saw significant improvement in radiance, clarity, and texture of their skin.
They are also lightweight and perfect for tropical climates. This type of moisturizer is recommended for people with oily skin since they suffer from a heavy and sticky feeling as the day goes by. Some gel moisturizers also have ingredients that give them a cooling effect, which is perfect for hot and humid days. This type can also alleviate the discomfort of sunburns.
Gel moisturizers contain water, propylene glycol, and polyethylene glycol (PEG) with a cellulose derivative or Carbopol. Gels consist of organic molecules uniformly distributed in a lattice throughout the liquid, and active ingredients are deposited in concentrated form. Because they are water-based, gel moisturizers are ideal for use in facial or hair-bearing areas.
Gel moisturizers also have humectants that draw water from the atmosphere and from the deeper layers of the skin to hydrate it as well as emulsifiers that can capture water and other humectants. Emulsifiers in gel moisturizers mimic skin barrier lipids in order to minimize the inclusion of oils or liquid esters commonly found in other moisturizers, which can produce an undesirable greasy feeling upon application.
While gel moisturizers are especially helpful for people with oily or combination skin, they do contain ingredients that can address various skin concerns. Let's discuss these ingredients below.
Humectants are substances that do not just seal moisture in, but they also attract moisture from the environment, as well as draw it out from the deeper layers of the skin to hydrate the surface.
In moisturizers, the most commonly used humectants are propylene glycol and amino acids because they effectively attract water and can stabilize the water content of the moisturizer. Amino acids also have the added advantage of having a synergistic effect when used together.
Hyaluronic acid and alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) are often used in anti-wrinkle or anti-aging treatment products. Glycerin is an ingredient often used in beauty products for sensitive skin because it is considered non-toxic and good for hydrating skin that suffers from eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea.
Humectants are hydroscopic (water-attracting) organic compounds such as polyethylene or propylene glycols. They attract water from the environment and from the deeper layers of the skin to provide moisture to the outermost layer of the skin.
Amino acids are widely used as humectants. Among various amino acids, proline and PCA have particularly high water-attracting properties and also show a synergistic effect when mixed. Other examples of humectants that are added in gel moisturizers include hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and AHAs.
Irritated skin needs some extra TLC, so it’s best to look for ingredients that offer anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. Examples of these are aloe vera, chamomile, and niacinamide.
Because it has a natural gel-like texture, aloe vera lends itself really well to gel moisturizers. An aloe vera gel moisturizer can do wonders in soothing sunburns and highly irritated skin.
Chamomile has great antibacterial properties that aid in wound healing and relieve conditions like psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. Niacinamide minimizes redness and blotchiness, and also offers oil regulation, so it’s helpful for people with oily skin.
Anti-inflammatory ingredients are often added to moisturizers to soothe and calm the skin. Examples of these are chamomile, aloe vera, green tea, cucumber, and niacinamide, to name a few. The gel component of aloe vera is actually ~98% water. Aloe vera has antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, and it has been shown to accelerate wound healing in burns.
Chamomile also has anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful for soothing redness and relieving inflammation, making it great to use even for sensitive skin. Niacinamide likewise has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help calm down redness and irritation. It can also slow down transepidermal water loss, making it helpful in protecting the skin barrier.
Given the many environmental pollutants and toxins that we are exposed to every day, our skin needs antioxidants to help fight free radicals and the effects of stress and aging. An example of how stress impacts our skin can be seen in collagen breakdown.
When we are exposed to toxins, oxidative stress breaks down collagen, triggers inflammation, and makes natural repair more difficult. This shows up in our skin as fine lines, dull skin, or uneven skin tones.
Antioxidants like Vitamins C and E, niacinamide, and retinol are extremely useful in helping our skin bounce back and restore balance and glow. Certain botanicals like green tea, citrus extracts, and caffeine are also great sources of antioxidants.
Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals from UV rays and pollution that form in our skin. They work synergistically with sunscreens when they are used together.
Examples of antioxidants used in skincare include vitamin C, vitamin E, green tea, ferulic acid, resveratrol, niacinamide, retinol, and caffeine, to name a few. Some of these work better when they are combined in a single formulation like vitamin C, vitamin E, and ferulic acid.
Parabens, for some time, has had a bad rep when it comes to skincare products. However, it has been studied to actually be safe to apply on the skin. If you have especially sensitive skin, synthetic fragrances are what you would want to avoid.
These can sometimes trigger irritation and allergic reactions in people, so be sure to test a product first on a small area of your skin before applying it to your entire face.
Typically, products made with natural or organic formulations are free of chemicals, so these are probably a safer bet. However, some natural extracts or essential oils may also trigger allergies, so steer clear of those for which you have a known sensitivity.
Parabens are actually safe to use in skincare because they serve to protect the product from microbial contamination of molds and bacteria. They are also used in very small amounts, and they are unlikely to cause endocrine disruption and cancer in humans.
They are likewise less allergenic than other preservatives that are used to replace them. Natural extracts from plants and essential oils can cause contact dermatitis in certain individuals, so it's best to always patch test first before applying the product to a large area.
If your work often takes you out in the sun, or you love going on outdoor adventures, chances are, your skin feels parched from the heat. You’ll probably need something that feels cool on your skin to help you feel calm and soothed.
Gel moisturizers with cooling properties like aloe vera, peppermint, eucalyptus, or cucumber can do wonders in drenching your skin with some much-needed freshness. You can also apply them to sunburns or tired eyes.
Some gel moisturizers also contain SPF to help you stay protected when you go out. These dual-purpose products are a great choice for people who are always on the go and have no time to do a skincare layering routine.
Gel moisturizers with soothing ingredients are great, especially in this summer heat. Make sure also to wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and drink enough water to keep yourself hydrated as well.
Whether we admit it or not, the packaging of beauty products influences our purchases. Gel moisturizers are not any different. They come in many types of packaging, and it’s best to choose the one that fits your lifestyle.
If you’re trying out a moisturizer for the first time, take advantage of those that offer smaller pots or sample containers. This way, if the moisturizer doesn’t turn out well for you, you wouldn’t have wasted an unnecessary amount of money and product. This size is also good for people who travel a lot and would like to carry along their favorite moisturizer in a compact container.
Gel moisturizers in smaller pots are ideal for those who are always on the go. Trial sizes are also a great way to test a product without committing to a bigger size, especially if it is your first time using it.
When you’ve tried a product and you’re sure that you would continue to use it, then it’s better to invest in a bigger container, like tubs and jars. Products that come in tubs are more cost-effective in the long run, not to mention more environmentally friendly, since you won’t have to dispose of so many little pots every week or so.
However, we advise using a little spoon or spatula to scoop out your moisturizer from the tub. Using your fingers to dip into the tub can introduce germs and bacteria, and contaminate the rest of the product. A spatula that you wash off afterward can help you maintain hygiene.
Gel moisturizers in tubs or jars are more cost-effective if you already like the product. Make sure to also use them before the expiration date (indicated as PAO or period after opening).
It's best to keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and use a spatula instead of your bare hands for fewer chances of microbial contamination.
Pumps are great because they can dispense moisturizers with all kinds of consistencies, whether runny or thick and keep the product clean and untouched. They also minimize air exposure, so they can maintain the stability of moisturizers with sensitive or unstable ingredients.
This is especially significant when you are using a product that contains anti-aging ingredients like peptides, ceramides, and retinol. These ingredients require careful storage in order to remain effective.
Gel moisturizers in pump packaging are a great way to dispense the products because you can control how much product to use. It is also not prone to contamination since the product is not exposed to light or air. Keep the product in a cool, dry place because direct sun exposure can affect the consistency of these gel moisturizers.
Just like pumps, tubes are a good way to maintain the cleanliness of a product. Tubes are also quite travel-friendly, especially if they come with a flip-top cover. However, tubes are not very good for products with a runny consistency. Typically, they are used for hand creams, sunscreens, or face moisturizers with a thicker consistency.
Tube packaging is a great way to control the product that you will be using, especially gel moisturizers. You can also tell how much product you still have left, unlike in pump bottles. Products with runny consistency are best packaged in pumps, spray, or dropper bottles.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | |||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Skin Type | Key Ingredients | Fragrance-Free | Packaging | Net Weight | |||||
1 | Luxe Organix Aloe Vera Soothing Gel 99% | ![]() | Maximum Hydration and Calming Gel for Sensitive and Sun-Exposed Skin | Dry Skin、Sensitive Skin、Combination Skin、Normal Skin、Oily or Acne-Prone Skin | Aloe Vera (99%), Centella Asiatica, Chamomile, Lavender, Rosemary | Sachet pouch | 100 mL | ||
2 | Human Nature Hyaluronic Acid Gel Day Moisturizer | ![]() | Natural Gel Moisturizer with Hyaluronic Acid for Lightweight Daily Hydration | Oily or Acne-Prone Skin、Dry Skin、Sensitive Skin、Combination Skin、Normal Skin | Hyaluronic Acid, Aloe Vera, Vitamin E, Glycerin | Tube | 50 mL | ||
3 | Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Moisturizer | ![]() | Oil-Free Hydrating Water Gel with Hyaluronic Acid – Lightweight Daily Moisturizer | Oily or Acne-Prone Skin、Normal Skin、Sensitive Skin | Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin | Tube | 15 mL | ||
4 | Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Aqua Gel Cream | ![]() | Hydrating Gel Cream with 5 Hyaluronic Acids for Lightweight Daily Moisture | Oily or Acne-Prone Skin、Combination Skin、Sensitive Skin | 5 types of Hyaluronic Acid, Centella Asiatica, Green Tea Extract | Tube | 100 mL | ||
5 | Céleteque Acne Solutions Facial Moisturizer | ![]() | Oil-Free Moisturizer with Salicylic Acid for Acne-Prone Skin | Oily or Acne-Prone Skin、Sensitive Skin | Salicylic Acid, Glycerin | Tube | 50 mL | ||
6 | Face Republic Cica Gel Moisturizer | ![]() | Plant-Powered Moisture: CICA and Tea Tree for Clear, Calm Skin | Oily or Acne-Prone Skin、Sensitive Skin | Centella Asiatica (CICA), Tea Tree Extract, Allantoin | Tube | 50 mL | ||
7 | Fresh Skinlab Jeju Aloe Ice Aloe Vera Soothing Gel | ![]() | 98% Jeju Aloe Vera with Cooling Menthol for Instant Skin Relief | Oily or Acne-Prone Skin、Dry Skin、Sensitive Skin、Combination Skin、Normal Skin | 98% Aloe Vera Extract (Jeju), Menthol | Tube | 230 mL | ||
8 | Nature Republic Soothing and Moisture Aloe Vera 92% Soothing Gel (Tube) | ![]() | Vegan-Friendly Aloe Gel for Refreshing, Moisturized Skin | Oily or Acne-Prone Skin、Dry Skin、Sensitive Skin、Combination Skin、Normal Skin | 92% Aloe Vera Extract, Vitamins C & E | Tube | 250 mL | ||
9 | Beauty of Joseon Red Bean Water Gel | ![]() | Moisturizing Gel with 44% Red Bean Extract and Peptides | Oily or Acne-Prone Skin、Combination Skin、Sensitive Skin | 44% Haenam Red Bean Extract, Peptide Complex, Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin, Panthenol, Allantoin | Tube | 100 mL | ||
10 | Purito Oat In Calming Gel Cream | ![]() | Soothing Gel Cream with 77% Oat Extract | Oily or Acne-Prone Skin、Combination Skin、Sensitive Skin | 77% oat seed water, squalane, panthenol, beta-glucan | Tube | 100 mL |
Features and benefits:
Reviews mention:
Many praise its strong soothing effect on sunburned or sensitive skin without clogging pores. The fast absorption and non-greasy texture make it ideal for everyday use. Many also appreciate the large tub, which offers good value for money.
Skin Type | Dry Skin、Sensitive Skin、Combination Skin、Normal Skin、Oily or Acne-Prone Skin |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Aloe Vera (99%), Centella Asiatica, Chamomile, Lavender, Rosemary |
Fragrance-Free | |
Packaging | Sachet pouch |
Net Weight | 100 mL |
Skin Type | Oily or Acne-Prone Skin、Dry Skin、Sensitive Skin、Combination Skin、Normal Skin |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Hyaluronic Acid, Aloe Vera, Vitamin E, Glycerin |
Fragrance-Free | |
Packaging | Tube |
Net Weight | 50 mL |
Features and benefits:
Reviews mention:
Customers often praise how lightweight and refreshing the gel feels on the skin. Many say it absorbs quickly and provides noticeable hydration without any greasy or sticky residue. People with oily and combination skin especially like that it doesn’t clog pores or cause breakouts. Several reviewers mention that it works well as a makeup base and keeps their skin feeling soft throughout the day. The travel-friendly 15 ml size is also appreciated by those who want to try it out or take it on the go.
Skin Type | Oily or Acne-Prone Skin、Normal Skin、Sensitive Skin |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin |
Fragrance-Free | |
Packaging | Tube |
Net Weight | 15 mL |
Many users say this gel cream gives great hydration without feeling heavy, making it ideal for hot and humid weather. People with oily and acne-prone skin like that it doesn’t clog pores or leave a greasy feel. Some mention their skin feels softer, calmer, and more hydrated after a few days. The inclusion of soothing ingredients like Centella Asiatica is frequently highlighted as calming for redness and breakouts. Others say it works well under sunscreen and makeup.
Skin Type | Oily or Acne-Prone Skin、Combination Skin、Sensitive Skin |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | 5 types of Hyaluronic Acid, Centella Asiatica, Green Tea Extract |
Fragrance-Free | |
Packaging | Tube |
Net Weight | 100 mL |
Features and benefits:
This moisturizer absorbs quickly and doesn’t leave a sticky or oily feeling. It helps calm redness and works well even alongside acne treatments without making the skin dry. Many find it keeps their face feeling fresh and balanced throughout the day, especially those with oily skin. It’s often picked for its simple yet effective formula that does the job without causing irritation.
Skin Type | Oily or Acne-Prone Skin、Sensitive Skin |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Salicylic Acid, Glycerin |
Fragrance-Free | |
Packaging | Tube |
Net Weight | 50 mL |
Features and benefits:
Praised for its cooling, non-sticky texture that feels refreshing on the skin. It’s often noted for reducing redness and calming active breakouts without making the skin oily. Many find that it helps balance their skin and gives just the right amount of moisture, especially in humid climates. It’s commonly chosen by those with sensitive or acne-prone skin looking for a gentle daily moisturizer that won’t trigger flare-ups.
Skin Type | Oily or Acne-Prone Skin、Sensitive Skin |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Centella Asiatica (CICA), Tea Tree Extract, Allantoin |
Fragrance-Free | |
Packaging | Tube |
Net Weight | 50 mL |
Features and benefits:
Described as super refreshing, especially when kept in the fridge for an extra cooling effect. Many say it instantly soothes sunburns, rashes, and red or irritated skin. It’s also often used after waxing or shaving to calm the skin. Some say it works well as a light moisturizer during hot weather, while others love using it on dry elbows, knees, or even on their hair. The fast-absorbing, non-sticky feel is praised for being comfortable even on oily skin.
Skin Type | Oily or Acne-Prone Skin、Dry Skin、Sensitive Skin、Combination Skin、Normal Skin |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | 98% Aloe Vera Extract (Jeju), Menthol |
Fragrance-Free | |
Packaging | Tube |
Net Weight | 230 mL |
Features and benefits:
Many people say the gel feels light and absorbs quickly without leaving a sticky or oily feeling. It’s great for calming red or irritated skin and works well to soothe sunburns. The cooling effect is liked, especially when kept in the fridge. Customers use it on their face, body, and even hair to help with dryness. It’s also gentle enough for the whole family to use, from kids to adults.
Skin Type | Oily or Acne-Prone Skin、Dry Skin、Sensitive Skin、Combination Skin、Normal Skin |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | 92% Aloe Vera Extract, Vitamins C & E |
Fragrance-Free | |
Packaging | Tube |
Net Weight | 250 mL |
Features and benefits:
Many say it helps control excess oil without leaving the skin feeling dry. The lightweight gel absorbs quickly and doesn’t feel sticky, making it comfortable to use even in hot, humid weather. Some notice a naturally fresh, healthy glow after applying it, while others find their skin feels smoother and more balanced within a week or two. Its fragrance-free and gentle formula is a plus for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin. It also layers well under sunscreen and makeup, with no piling or greasiness.
Skin Type | Oily or Acne-Prone Skin、Combination Skin、Sensitive Skin |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | 44% Haenam Red Bean Extract, Peptide Complex, Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin, Panthenol, Allantoin |
Fragrance-Free | |
Packaging | Tube |
Net Weight | 100 mL |
Features and benefits:
Many people love how this gel cream calms redness and soothes irritated skin, especially during breakouts or after sun exposure. Some notice that their skin feels soft, balanced, and more comfortable throughout the day. Others mention that it pairs well with active ingredients like retinol or exfoliants, helping reduce dryness or sensitivity. While most find it hydrating enough for daily use, a few with very dry skin say it works better when layered with a thicker moisturizer. Overall, it's seen as a reliable, non-irritating moisturizer that’s good for everyday use.
Skin Type | Oily or Acne-Prone Skin、Combination Skin、Sensitive Skin |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | 77% oat seed water, squalane, panthenol, beta-glucan |
Fragrance-Free | |
Packaging | Tube |
Net Weight | 100 mL |
Living in the tropics means having to deal with hot weather that can cause skin irritation and damage. How can we keep our skin healthy against environmental factors? Here's are some tips from board-certified dermatologist Dr. Meg Sison.
The weather is truly hot and humid, especially during summer, so it's recommended to use gel cleansers to gently remove excess sebum, dirt, and residual skincare products on your skin at the end of the day.
You can also use mild exfoliants with low concentrations of AHAs, BHAs, or PHAs once to twice a week as part of your skincare regimen. Lightweight moisturizers in gel or emulsion formats are preferred during summer to prevent the sticky feeling associated with heavier moisturizers. Look for moisturizers with more humectants like glycerin and hyaluronic acid.
Lightweight sunscreens in gel or fluid format are preferred during summer when it is hot and humid. Choose a sunscreen that is broad-spectrum which can protect you from both UVA and UVB rays. SPF should be at least 30. Remember to seek shade when the UV rays are the most intense (10 am to 4 pm), and wear UV protective eyewear, a wide-brimmed hat, long sleeves, and pants whenever applicable.
We asked Dr. Meg some of the most asked questions found online. Read on below to find out her answers!
Gel moisturizers can work for those with normal, combination, or oily skin. Those with dry skin might find gel moisturizers not hydrating enough for them. For those with sensitive skin, look for gel moisturizers that have a short ingredients list and are fragrance-free to minimize skin irritations or allergies.
Gel moisturizers do not typically cause acne because they do not contain pore-clogging ingredients. However, those who experience breakouts from using gel moisturizers might be sensitive to certain ingredients like fragrances and plant extracts.
It's best to apply first on a small area (behind the ear or the crook of your elbow) and observe for signs of irritation for 24 to 72 hours before using the product on large areas.
Gel moisturizers can be used either in the morning or at night. It is also recommended to apply a separate sunscreen during the day for protection against the harmful effects of UV rays.
With a great gel moisturizer, you can walk out the door feeling light and hydrated. Check out our other article reviews of products that can help you stay cool and protected while outdoors. No need to dread walking out in the sun!
Author: R. Umlas
Re-editor: Samantha Tidalgo
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
No. 1: Luxe Organix|Aloe Vera Soothing Gel 99%
No. 2: Human Nature|Hyaluronic Acid Gel Day Moisturizer
No. 3: Neutrogena|Hydro Boost Water Gel Moisturizer
No. 4: Isntree|Hyaluronic Acid Aqua Gel Cream
No. 5: Céleteque|Acne Solutions Facial Moisturizer
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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