Gel Moisturiser vs Cream Moisturiser: Which One Keeps Skin Fresh In Summer?

Gel Moisturiser vs Cream Moisturiser:  Applying anything on the face in summer can feel heavy due to sweat and excess sebum production, but not applying anything can leave the skin feeling dull and dehydrated. That is why the confusion between gel moisturiser and cream moisturiser is significantly evident in the summer season. Therefore, here is an in-depth differentiation between the two and which one keeps the skin fresh in summer.

Gel Moisturiser vs Cream Moisturiser: Which One Keeps Skin Fresh In Summer?

With most of India boiling under summer, the high temperatures, humidity, and sweating, which also increase the chances of dehydration and breakouts, are taking a toll on our skin. All this makes it necessary to pick the most suitable product to hydrate the skin effectively without causing it to appear oily and greasy. Gel moisturisers and cream moisturisers both provide hydration, but which one suits summer better? Let’s take a look.

Gel Moisturiser For Summer

Gel moisturisers are light products, which often come in water-based forms and penetrate easily into the skin layers, offering a cool and non-greasy feel, thus being particularly enjoyable to use in summer. Additionally, gel moisturisers contain numerous humectants, including glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and aloe vera, which help attract water molecules from the surrounding environment and lock them into the skin cells. Most gels have a structure similar to water gels designed to rehydrate the skin.

Gel-Based Moisturiser (Canva) 

Cream Moisturiser For Summer

Cream moisturisers feature a heavier texture resulting from the combination of water and oil phases. They create an emollient barrier, leaving the skin smooth and dewy or even satiny. Creams incorporate both humectants and occlusives/emollients, like shea butter, jojoba oil, and ceramides.

Cream Moisturiser For Summer (Canva) 

Gel Moisturiser Vs Cream Moisturiser: As Per Different Skin Types:

For oily skin and acne-prone skin,  it is better to use gel moisturisers as their non-greasy texture will not contribute any extra oil to clog pores. The gel type contains soothing elements such as niacinamide and green tea, which help deal with acne.

For combination skin type, it would be best to use gels during daylight and humid weather, while cream-based products can be utilised in the evening or on parts where more moisture is needed.

For Normal skin type, any type is good enough, as one can either use a gel moisturiser to achieve a light effect or opt for a cream for a dewy glow.

For dry skin, it is better to use cream-based moisturising products as they contain barrier-repairing occlusives. Also, one should pay attention to fragrance-free products.

Benefits Of Gel-Based Moisturisers:

• - Absorbs quickly into skin.
• - Does not make face feel greasy.
• - It gives a cooling effect.
• - Does not ball up under other products like sunscreen or foundation
• - May contain antioxidants or skin-soothing ingredients.

Gel-based moisturisers are an apt choice for warm climates where heavy creams may cause skin discomfort due to excessive hydration. (Canva) 

Drawbacks Of Of Gel-Based Moisturisers:

• - Cannot provide enough occlusion for severely dry or windy areas.
• - may be somewhat lacking in healing properties.

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Benefits Of Cream-Based Moisturisers:

• - Provides strong barrier function support.
• - Better hydrating effect that lasts throughout the day.
• - Useful after sunbathing or exposure to air conditioning, since these can dry the face.
• - Seals in moisture better during sleep at night.

Cream Moisturiser Is Good For Dewy Finish (Canva) 

Drawbacks Of Of Cream Moisturisers:

• Tends to feel heavier in high temperatures.
• Promotes oiliness on the face and clogged pores.
• May be absorbed under other cosmetic products if not completely absorbed by the skin.

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Each of the above-mentioned differentiations between gel-based moisturisers and cream-based moisturisers highlights the fact that, if one lives in high temperatures, the gel moisturisers are good to provide hydration, easy absorption, and application under makeup or sunscreen. However, if your skin is sensitive, dry, or exposed to harsh environmental elements like the sun or air conditioning, opt for a quality cream-based moisturiser.