I've used rich and creamy moisturizers for most of my adult life. But recently, I've found that my skin can't always handle the heavier textures. My pores have been clogged, and my complexion looks shiny—and not in the glowy, desirable, glazed donut way. That's why I've been determined to find the best lightweight moisturizers that deliver a more subdued radiance but still leave my skin hydrated.
Don't get me wrong: I still need a decent amount of moisture. My skin gets dry, especially in the fall and winter. But my new top priority is finding an airy formula with a silky texture that works well under makeup. Thankfully, there are plenty of options to choose from right now.
My fellow Marie Claire editors were quick to offer up their favorites. E-Commerce Editor Julia Marzovilla swears by Laneige's Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Cream, which happens to contain SPF, while Contributing Beauty Writer Marisa Petrarca told me Belif's K-Beauty moisturizer would "change my life."
Naturally, I tested their picks and dozens of other highly-rated lightweight moisturizers. I also consulted with board-certified dermatologists Audrey Kunin, M.D. FAAD, and Naana Boakye, M.D. FAAD to ensure that my top picks are suitable for oily, acne-prone skin and contain nourishing ingredients. Shop my new go-to lightweight moisturizers ahead.
Best Lightweight Moisturizers, Tested and Reviewed
- Best Lightweight Moisturizer Overall: Dr. Barbara Sturm Face Cream Light
- Best Lightweight Moisturizer for Under Makeup: Embryolisse Lait-Creme Concentre
- Best Lightweight Moisturizer with SPF: Coola Refreshing Water Cream Moisturizer
- Best Lightweight K-Beauty Moisturizer: Belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb
- Best Lightweight Moisturizer for Dry Skin: Laneige Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Cream Moisturizer
While I love that this face cream delivers feather-light moisture, its antioxidant-rich profile is what makes it really stand out from the pack. Bisabolol and panthenol help soothe skin irritation, while purslane extract nixes inflammation. It has an almost jelly-like texture that sinks into my skin in seconds, leaving me soothed and supple.
Key Ingredients: Panthenol (moisturizing); hyaluronic acid (plumping); purslane extract (calming)
Size: 1.69 fl. oz.
Benefits: Antioxidant-rich, calms irritation, good for oily skin
What we love: Soothing for sensitive skin; nice texture
What we don't: Expensive
Review for MC: "I do have pretty dry and easily irritable skin, so I need something that's still going deliver results. For me, that's always going to be this Dr. Sturm cream. I previously used the Face Cream Rich, but I love how the Face Cream Light feels totally weightless on my skin, but still delivers the same amount of hydration and a gorgeous glow. Plus, the purslane is extremely soothing on my rosacea-prone skin." — Samantha Holender, Beauty Editor
Samantha Holender wears Sturm Face Cream Light every night.
A long-time beauty industry favorite, this vitamin-rich cream has a milky texture that glides on the skin like butter, delivering next-level moisture without making my face feel greasy. It instantly hydrates with ingredients like shea butter and nourishing fatty acids, but it can also be used as a makeup remover milk, makeup primer, or mask.
Key Ingredients: Aloe vera (calming), shea butter (moisturizing)
Size: 2.54 fl. oz.
Benefits: Moisturizes, primes, removes makeup, can be used as a mask
What we love: Silky; great under makeup
What we don't: Slightly little oily; contains fragrance
Review for MC: “I have skin that falls on the dry, sensitive end of the spectrum, so if I’m going to use a lightweight moisturizer, it needs to *really* maximize on hydration. Enter: Embryolisse. It's one of the only thin moisturizers to keep my dry, sensitive skin hydrated all day. It eliminates my need for a primer and sinks into my skin in five seconds flat. Pro tip: Apply a thin layer as a lip mask before bed—you’ll have the smoothest lips of your life.” — Samantha Holender, Beauty Editor
Samantha Holender wears Embyrolisse every morning under makeup.
This dual-action moisturizer from Coola offers on-the-spot hydration and sun protection in one. Its slightly blue tint blends effortlessly into the skin—there is no white cast or streaks. It also shields against blue light damage for even more protection. Another thing adding to its cool factor? It's housed in super sanitary, airless pump packaging that protects it from bacteria.
Key Ingredients: Aloe (calming); coconut water (refreshing); hyaluronic acid (plumping)
Size: 1.5 fl. oz.
Benefits: Blends easily, protects against blue light, layers well with makeup
What we love: Cooling; contains SPF
What we don't: A little greasy for some
Review for MC: “Don’t sleep on this formula. I was—for years—and the regrets are plentiful. It’s my go-to summer moisturizer, so bear with me while I praise it. It contains SPF 50 (great for daily wear!) and comes packed with hyaluronic acid and offers protection from blue light and pollution. It’s one of the lightest textures I’ve ever had the pleasure of wearing and delivers a refreshing cooling sensation that’s highly welcome in the summer heat—or if you live in a warm climate year-round.” — Michelle Rostamian, Contributing Beauty Writer
Michelle Rostamian wears Coola's Refreshing Water Cream.
Parched skin deserves a bouncy formula, like this one from K-beauty brand Belif. The fluffy gel-cream texture deeply hydrates and doesn't leave behind a sheen, making it great for those with oilier skin types. The best part? The hydration lingers, meaning I can apply it in the morning and reap its moisturizing benefits as I move about my day. No dry patches by nighttime is a win in my book.
Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid (plumping); niacinamide (brightening)
Size: 1.69 fl. oz.
Benefits: Quick hydration, feels refreshing
What we love: Extremely lightweight; long-lasting hydration
What we don't: Contains fragrance so not ideal for sensitive skin
Review for MC: “As someone whose skin turns dull and dry the moment temperatures drop, this Korean moisturizer is my cold-weather savior. It drenches my skin in moisture, and the texture feels refreshing and soothing. The jelly-like, water-gel formula applies to a rich layer that my skin somehow drinks up instantly, and doesn't leave any greasy or sticky residue—just my normal skin, rehydrated, and back to life." — Marisa Petrarca, Contributing Beauty Writer
Marisa Petrarca wears the Belif Aqua Bomb Moisturizer.
You'll be proud to display this cute little bottle of Laneige moisturizer on your bathroom counter. Aside from looks, the Sydney Sweeney-approved formula provides a burst of hydration via hyaluronic acid and squalane. True to its name, it has a dewy feel that'll make your skin feel like it's just gulped a tall glass of water, and the glow is undeniably gorgeous.
Key Ingredients: Blue hyaluronic acid (plumping); pepta-penthenol complex (firming); squalane (moisturizing)
Size: 1.6 fl. oz.
Benefits: Repairs moisture barrier, makes skin softer and smoother, has firming properties
What we love: Contains hyaluronic acid; refillable container for better sustainability; hypoallergenic
What we don't: Dewy finish may not be ideal for certain makeup looks
Review for MC: "I've been testing this moisturizer for the last few mornings to see if it could hold up against the 40-degree days we've been having in New York. I have dry skin that is dull in the winter and acne-prone, so I need a lightweight moisturizer to keep my skin soft and comfortable without breaking me out. This one did just that. The texture is slightly tacky, which I love under makeup, and the unscented formula glides on and melts in quickly. The glow is instant (as you can see), and my skin feels so comfortable." — Julia Marzovilla, E-Commerce Editor
Julia Marzovilla wears Laneige Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Cream Moisturizer for Moisture Barrier Repair.
Other Lightweight Moisturizers We Love
Finding the right moisturizer for eczema-prone skin can feel like an uphill battle, but this option from Kiehl's is a true winner. It's approved by the National Eczema Association and formulated with several barrier-protecting ingredients, such as squalane and ceramides. "It calms my skin, sinks in quickly, doesn't react with my SPF or any of my makeup, and doesn't clog my pores on my sweatier days," says Marzovilla.
Key Ingredients: Squalane (softening); pro-ceramides (barrier-protecting)
Size: 1.7 fl. oz.
Benefits: Calming, hydrating
What we love: Strengthens skin barrier
What we don't: Comes in a pot as opposed to a more sanitary pump
Acne-prone? Not a problem. This formula from Neutrogena incorporates salicylic acid, an oil-soluble BHA, a which means it'll keep your skin acne-free without drying it out. Its lightweight texture makes it easy to layer and wear year-round. I like to apply a few more pumps when I'm feeling extra dry.
Key Ingredients: Salicylic acid (acne clearing)
Size: 4 fl. oz.
Benefits: Non-comedogenic, treats breakouts
What we love: Drugstore price; matte finish; contains acne-fighting salicylic acid
What we don't: Very fragrant
I love this water-based moisturizer as much as I love looking at the pretty packaging on my vanity. The formula is infused with Japanese wild rose, which geishas have long used to create a flawless canvas for their makeup. I only need a small amount to help my face look virtually poreless, giving the skin a dewy, shine-free glow that sits beautifully under foundation.
Key Ingredients: Japanese wild rose (balancing); Japanese leopard lily (oil-controlling)
Size: 1.7 fl. oz.
Benefits: Refillable, refines pores, smoothes texture
What we love: Blurring and dewy finish; wears well under makeup
What we don't: Too greasy for some
I've learned that acne doesn't have to stop me from having moisturized, healthy skin. This alcohol-free hydrator is my go-to when a flare-up occurs since it contains CoQ10 to fend off redness, plus a ceramide complex to keep my skin barrier health and happy. The bakuchiol in the formula, a retinol alternative, also aids in smoothing over stubborn texture and enlarged pores.
Key Ingredients: Bakuchiol (pore-refining); ceramide complex (barrier-protecting); CoQ10 (redness minimizing)
Size: 1.7 fl. oz.
Benefits: Soothes the skin, traps moisture, refines pores
What we love: Evens texture; contains natural retinol alternative; reduces hyperpigmentation
Okay, this moisturizer costs a pretty penny, but hear me out. The application process is a sensorial experience that rivals a trip to my aesthetician—the creamy texture melts into a gel upon application, and I'm able quite literally to feel it quenching my skin's thirst. It smells like a Bulgarian rose garden, complete with rose, magnolia, and geranium essential oils that instantly wake up my senses.
Key Ingredients: Hibiscus flower extract (radiance); shea and chamomile oils (smoothing)
Size: 1.6 fl. oz.
Benefits: Plumping, improves radiance, hydrates
What we love: Gorgeous texture; smooths skin; luxe feel
What we don't: Expensive; essential oils aren't great for sensitive skin
Hyaluronic acid lovers, rejoice! Peter Thomas Roth’s Water Drench formula contains a 30 percent hyaluronic acid complex that promises up to 72 hours of hydration (impressive). It's lightweight, fluffy like a cloud, and perfect for hot days (and when you're working out) thanks to its residue-free finish. Plus, it makes my skin feel super moisturized post-cleansing (no dry, tight feeling here).
Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid complex (plumping); pentavitin (hydrating)
Size: 1.7 fl. oz.
Benefits: Reduces look of fine lines and wrinkles, gives skin silky finish
What we love: Contains hyaluronic acid; suitable for eczema and sensitive skin
What we don't: May not be thick enough for dry skin types
This decadent formula from Olay is so luxurious it's hard to believe it's under $20. The cream-to-liquid texture absorbs quickly into the skin, meaning it's a gem for combination to oily skin types. The hardworking list of ingredients includes niacinamide to brighten, panthenol to moisturize, and green tea to soothe irritation. The whipped texture is also *chef's kiss* for delivering long-lasting hydration.
Key Ingredients: Niacinamide (brightening); panthenol (moisturizing); green tea (calming)
Size: 1.7 fl. oz.
Benefits: Whipped formula, fades sun spots, minimizes appearance of pores
What we love: Whipped texture; contains sunscreen; affordable
What we don't: Strong smell; can be a little flaky
Matte moisturizers are a solid way for oily-prone skin to stay hydrated without worrying about looking greasy. This formula has a velvety matte feel that dries down completely, rendering it undetectable under makeup. Its botanical extracts, including yellow wood tree, help minimize the appearance of pores. With consistent use, it promises to keep skin balanced and minimize excess sebum, which can lead to clogged pores and acne.
Key Ingredients: Yellow wood tree extract (mattifying); red algae (hydrating)
Size: 0.5 fl. oz.
Benefits: Makes skin feel firm and supple, conditions the skin, protects the moisture barrier
What we love: Great for acne control; perfect base for makeup; natural ingredients; clinically-tested
What we don't: Small size for the price
My skin is irritated 95 percent of the (super fun, I know), so I love when a moisturizer contains soothing, redness-reducing, and hydrating ingredients. That's exactly what I get with this niacinamide-infused formula. It consistently amazes me how quickly this water cream gets to work; I watch my dry patches and irritation disappear in front of the mirror.
Key Ingredients: Niacinamide (brightening); biopeptide complex (softening)
Size: 1.6 fl. oz.
Benefits: Balances oil production, improves uneven skin tone
What we love: Great for day and night use; improves skin barrier function
What we don't: May not be great for sensitive skin
This clear gel moisturizer not only goes on invisible but also feels so lightweight on the skin. It harnesses the power of prebiotics derived from willowherb and brown seaweed to refine skin texture, balance oil production, and keep excess shine at bay. If you're not a fan of rich, high-sheen formulas, this one applies so silky smooth that you won't even know it's there.
Key Ingredients: Niacinamide (brightening); prebiotics (refining)
Size: 1.7 fl. oz.
Benefits: Protects skin, relieves congestion, reduces look of pores
What we love: Great for acne-prone skin; calms breakouts; great on face and body
What we don't: Aluminum tube requires a key to get every last bit out
A derm favorite time and time again, it's easy to see why this lotion is on my list. The hypoallergenic, fragrance-free formula works well on all skin types, effectively balancing combination skin, hydrating parched skin, and soothing dry patches—a true cure-all if there ever was one. If you're unsure of where to start with a new moisturizer, I can't recommend this option enough.
Key Ingredients: Ceramides (skin barrier protecting); hyaluronic acid (plumping)
Size: 8 fl. oz.
Benefits: Supports skin barrier, provides all-day hydration, good for face and body
What we love: Works on all skin types; dermatologist-recommended; hypoallergenic; fragrance-free; unisex packaging; affordable
What we don't: Not traditionally chic packaging
Formulated to tackle signs of aging, this lightweight jelly-like moisturizer is Senior New Editor Halie LeSavage's favorite. It uses a blend of vegan collagen and glycerin to hydrate the skin without clogging pores. With a velvety matte finish, it's guaranteed to layer nicely underneath makeup and keep your skin radiant (but not shiny) from day to night.
Key Ingredients: Glycerin (hydrating); vegan collagen amino acids (firming and plumping)
Size: 2.53 fl. oz.
Benefits: Plumps fine lines, protects skin barrier, reparative
What we love: Great for both acne and visible signs of aging; fast results; non-comedogenic; fragrance-free
What we don't: Small bottle; pump packaging is difficult to recycle effectively
Don't let the unassuming packaging of this Sephora Collection moisturizer fool you—what lives inside is a milky, ultra-hydrating formula that sustains moisture levels all day. Made with a blend of antioxidants, it shields the skin from environmental damage that would otherwise lead to a dull, lackluster complexion. Bonus points for acting as the perfect primer for makeup.
Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid (plumping); vitamin E (conditioning)
Size: 1.69 fl. oz.
Benefits: Protects from environmental damage, all-day hydration
What we love: Affordable; great for all skin types; fragrance-free; matte finish
What we don't: Packaging isn't anything special
If you love matcha in your drinks, you'll be pleased by the benefits of adding this matcha-spiked moisturizer to your skincare routine. The pudding-like texture melts into the skin instantly to help rev up hydration levels while niacinamide helps to brighten stubborn dark marks. I saw this cream in action backstage at Prabal Gurung's NYFW Spring/Summer 2025 show and still think about the models' stunning skin.
Key Ingredients: Matcha (soothing); peptide complex (fine line reducing); cape lilac (calming)
Size: 1.69 fl. oz.
Benefits: Energizes, protects against environmental stressors, brightens dark acne marks
What we love: Fragrance-free; soft texture
What we don't: Too heavy for some
What to Look For in a Lightweight Moisturizer
- Ingredients
A lightweight moisturizer will feel thinner on the skin, but that doesn't mean it will sacrifice hydration. "Heavier moisturizers are thicker and have more occlusive ingredients, whereas lightweight moisturizers have more humectants," explains Dr. Boakye. An occulsive ingredient helps to lock hydration into the skin (making it more suitable for dry skin types), while a humectant attracts water to the skin to combat dehydration. Look for hydrating ingredients like glycerin, urea, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides in your moisturizer to ensure your skin will receive adequate moisture.
If inspecting the INCI list isn't your thing (which helps to decode skincare ingredients), Dr. Boakye says to look for terms like weightless, gel, serum, or oil-free on the packaging.
- Texture
What makes a great moisturizer texture is subjective, but as a good starting point, steer clear of rich creams if you want a more lightweight feel. You want to look for gels, water creams, or in some cases, an uber-hydrating serum that can double as a moisturizer. Lightweight moisturizers will absorb quickly and feel weightless on the skin. "Many lightweight moisturizers are water-based rather than oil-based, so they feel less occlusive on the skin than a heavier moisturizer," adds Dr. Boakye.
If you have extremely dry skin no matter the weather, she says you may want to stick with your rich moisturizer. Pay attention to your skin and see how it reacts to the weather and different formulas. Remember: there's no such thing as one-size-fits-all skincare.
How We Chose the Best Lightweight Moisturizers
We asked the Marie Claire team to share which lightweight moisturizers they use in their daily lives. We also called in over 20 fan-favorite, highly-rated formulas for testing.
We evaluated each moisturizer on application, ingredients, texture, benefits, and efficacy across different skin types. We also assessed how well the moisturizer played with other skincare products and makeup products. Our resulting pool comprises the 19 best lightweight moisturizers on the market.
Why Trust Us
Marie Claire is an authority on moisturizers, having written stories on the best moisturizers for every skin type, from acne-prone skin to sensitive skin and dry skin. The products on this list have all been tried and tested by one of our editors or hand-picked by beauty writers after testing the product over a few weeks.
While the best lightweight moisturizer for you will vary based on personal preference, you truly can't go wrong with one of the items on this list. For a more personalized recommendation or if you have any concerns, check with your dermatologist.
Meet the Experts
Dr. Naana Boakye MD, MPH, FAAD is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Bergen Dermatology in Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey. A graduate of Temple University and George Washington University, she studied epidemiology and takes a holistic approach when treating her patients.
Audrey Kunin, MD is a board-certified dermatologist, author, and educator. She has appeared on television and written books on wellness and skincare. A Kansas City native, she is currently based in Florida.
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