Gel vs. Cream Moisturizer: How to Find the Perfect One for You

What Is Gel Moisturizer?

The easiest way to break down the difference between a gel and a cream moisturizer is their weight. A gel moisturizer will be lightweight, while a cream moisturizer will be thicker and have a heavier consistency. Gel moisturizers are typically made with a “water-based formula that absorbs quickly into the skin,” says Dr. Halim. She also notes that gel moisturizers are typically made with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and/or aloe vera that help “attract and retain moisture.” They’re also known to be fast-absorbing into the skin’s surface, rather than sitting on top of skin to create a moisture barrier the way cream moisturizers can do.

We’re fans of the LANEIGE Water Bank Blue HA Gel Moisturizer, which is packed with mint leaf extract to add a bonus cooling sensation to the skin as it’s applied. It also happens to be one of our summer skincare go-tos, since the lightweight formulation of gel moisturizers make them perfect to wear during warmer months.

What Is Cream Moisturizer?

A cream moisturizer will be heavier and thicker than a gel moisturizer. Dr. Halim notes that cream moisturizers are typically oil-based, “which makes them more emollient and capable of providing deeper, longer-lasting hydration and creating a protective barrier on the skin, helping to lock in moisture via emollient content.” 

If you live in a cold or dry climate, you might want to opt for a cream moisturizer, since it can also act as an “occlusive, preventing loss of moisture,” says Dr. Halim. Ingredients typically found in cream moisturizers include vitamin E, antioxidants, and fatty acids to “help repair and strengthen the skin’s barrier,” says Dr. Halim. For a decadent, rich cream moisturizer, we love KOPARI BEAUTY Moisture Whipped Ceramide Cream, because it’s made with vegan ceramides and hyaluronic acid for a luxurious treat for your skin.

Gel vs. Cream Moisturizer: Which One Is Right for Me?

As mentioned above, there are a few key differences between gel and cream moisturizers, but your preference and skin type can also come into play when deciding on which one is best for you. According to Dr. Halim, gel moisturizers are better for anyone dealing with oily or acne prone skin, “as they provide hydration without clogging pores or adding excess oil.” She also recommends a gel moisturizer to wear under a full face of makeup, since it won’t weigh down your skin or be sticky when you apply products on top of it.

If you’re prone to breakouts, we recommend the ORIGINS Ginzing™ Oil-Free Energy Boosting Gel Moisturizer for its lightweight formulation and included caffeine for a refreshing boost in the morning. We’re also fans of the IT COSMETICS Confidence in a Gel Lotion Moisturizer, which provides 72 hours of hydration with its lightweight, vegan gel formula. 

Dr. Halim recommends choosing a cream moisturizer in a colder environment, and also if you have a dry skin type or mature skin. These products will always be denser and can help repair the skin’s barrier as you sleep at night. 

Reach for FIRST AID BEAUTY Ultra Repair Face Moisturizer if you deal with eczema or redness paired with dry skin, since it’s packed with colloidal oatmeal. We’re also fans of the E.L.F. SKIN Holy Hydration Fragrance Free Face Cream for a more affordable option. 

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