Summer skincare: From lightweight gels to nourishing creams, 5 best types of moisturisers for healthy skin

Summer skincare: Exposure to the sun, pollution, and other environmental stressors can lead to premature ageing and dullness (Image: Canva)

As the brutal summer sun approaches, it's essential to adjust your skincare routine to keep your skin hydrated, glowing, and protected from the harsh elements. Moisturisers play a crucial role in maintaining healthy, radiant skin during the warmer months.

With endless options available, it's essential to find the best moisturisers tailored to your skin type and concerns. From lightweight gels to nourishing creams, here are some of our top picks to help you achieve that coveted summer glow:

1. Hydrating gel moisturiser

Ideal for those with oily or combination skin, hydrating gel moisturisers provide lightweight hydration without leaving a greasy residue. Look for formulas infused with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which helps to attract and retain moisture, keeping your skin plump and supple throughout the day. These moisturisers are perfect for hot summer days when you want to avoid heavy products that can clog pores and lead to breakouts.

Try: The light gel texture of the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel provides intense hydration without leaving any greasy residue behind.

2. Antioxidant-rich moisturiser

Exposure to the sun, pollution, and other environmental stressors can lead to premature ageing and dullness. Combat these effects by incorporating antioxidant-rich moisturisers into your skincare routine. Look for ingredients like vitamin C, peptides, and niacinamide, which help to neutralise free radicals and protect your skin from damage. These moisturisers not only hydrate your skin but also promote a brighter, more youthful complexion.

Try: The newly-launched Renee Cosmetics Immortal Face Cream comes infused with the dynamic vitamin C, peptides, ceramides, lactic acid, and niacinamide to combat blemishes, spots, and fine lines.

3. SPF-infused moisturiser

Sun protection is crucial year-round, but it's especially important during the summer months when UV radiation is at its peak. Opt for moisturisers that offer broad-spectrum SPF protection to shield your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. Choose a lightweight formula that won't feel heavy or greasy on your skin, allowing you to layer it seamlessly under makeup or wear it alone for a natural, sun-kissed look.

Try: Made with a patented capsule technology, d’You Unkissed contains new-age sunscreen filters with SPF 50+ and PA++++ protection that are suspended in a nourishing serum base powered with 14 soothing plant extracts.

4. Oil-free mattifying moisturiser

If you struggle with excess shine and oiliness during the summer months, consider adding an oil-free mattifying moisturiser to your skincare arsenal. These lightweight formulas help to control sebum production and minimise the appearance of pores, leaving your skin with a smooth, matte finish. Look for ingredients like salicylic acid or witch hazel, which help to regulate oil production without drying out your skin.

Try: Re’equil Oil-Free Mattifying Moisturiser provides non-greasy hydration to oily and acne-prone skin. The lightweight formula gets quickly absorbed into skin and contains ceramides that help strengthen the moisture barrier.

5. Hyaluronic acid intensive moisturiser

For those with dry or dehydrated skin, a hyaluronic acid-intensive moisturiser can work wonders to replenish moisture levels and restore balance. Hyaluronic acid is a humectant that attracts water to the skin, helping to plump up fine lines and wrinkles and improve overall hydration. Opt for a rich cream or balm formula for maximum nourishment, and apply it liberally before bed to wake up with soft, supple skin.

Try: COSRX Hyaluronic Acid Intensive Cream, with 57.8 percent sea buckthorn water, adds a burst of hydration and nourishes the skin to reduce dullness.