Moisturizer Formula: Gel vs Cream

One important component/product to achieving healthy skin is moisturizers. There is a wide range of products out there and the right one will depend on your needs and preferences, especially the type of skin you have. It is also important to choose a well-formulated product with ingredients that work well for your skin concerns.

Most face moisturizers today can have oil or water as their base ingredient or a combination of both. If you’re wondering whether a water/gel-based formula or a cream one is right for you, continue reading. 

Gel-based moisturizers

Gel moisturizers are water-based and oil-free. They are also lightweight and don’t have that rich and creamy texture that cream-based moisturizers usually have. Most of these products also contain glycerin and hyaluronic acid, which offers deep hydration without any sticky feeling. Gel moisturizers are also easily absorbed and feel light and refreshing on the skin. 

A number of skin types can benefit from gel-based moisturizers, especially those with oily, acne-prone, and combination skin. This is because they don’t contain oils that may add more sebum and clog the pores of those with shine-prone skin types. Gel-based formulas can moisturize the skin without leaving greasy residue.  

Benefits of gel-based formulas:

• Don’t have an oily texture
• Easily and quickly absorbed by the skin
• Feel refreshing and soothing
• Stay in place and leave no to minimal residue

Cream-based moisturizers

Cream moisturizers contain oil and water. They also have a tendency to feel heavy, which can be ideal for nighttime application. The oils assist in sealing the moisture in, which enables the product to stay in your skin longer. Cream-based moisturizers also have fats or essential fatty acids, which provide softening and nourishing effects on the skin. 

Since cream-based formulas contain oils, they are ideal for dry/rough skin or those looking to delay the process of aging a little bit. They also have thicker consistency and are well equipped to penetrate the skin. The oils in cream moisturizers also provide improved moisturizing capabilities, as well as keep the skin supple and healthy.

Benefits of cream-based formulas: 

• Good for nighttime use
• Offer heavy-duty moisture
• Provide soothing properties that can restore dry skin
• Can repair and strengthen dry skin

Gel-creams

There are also gel-cream moisturizers, which combine the properties of gel- and cream-based formulas. It is ideal for those who want a product that has a richer texture than gel or water-based moisturizers, but feels lighter or refreshing than creams. Most gel-cream moisturizers are suitable for all skin types, but it is still important to check the label.

Which is right for you?

The right product, as mentioned before, depends on your need and preferences. If you, for instance, have oily, acne-prone, or combination skin, gel-based moisturizers are ideal. If you, on the other hand, have dry skin, a cream-based formula is a better choice. Their thicker and heavier consistency can offer more moisturizing power that your skin needs.

If you can’t decide which one to choose, you may get one of each. Use the gel-based formula for daytime and apply the cream-based one at nighttime. It is also advisable to consult a dermatologist or aesthetic doctor for product recommendations. This is especially true if you have certain skin woes or conditions that you also like to address.

Moisturizing your skin properly

Apart from choosing the right face moisturizers, it is also important to apply the product the correct way. Here are some things that can help:

• Use the moisturizer after washing your face. Pat the skin dry before the application.
• Apply the product gently; don’t pull or press on your skin.
• When putting on makeup, apply the moisturizer first before using any cosmetic product.
• Avoid products with dyes, acids, and fragrances, especially if you have sensitive skin.
• Use a serum (antioxidant or anti-aging) under your moisturizer for added skin benefits.

Cutis Laser Clinics in Singapore offers medical-grade skin products, including face moisturizers and serum. For more skin care tips and product/treatments recommendations, explore our website or contact our clinic and book a consultation with our aesthetic doctor.