The Best Lightweight Moisturisers for Dewy (Not Shiny) Summer Skin
Much like monitoring your daily water intake, using a moisturiser is an essential everyday step that keeps skin hydrated, comfortable and balanced no matter what the rest of your routine looks like. But if your skin type is oilier or acne-prone, or when the warmer months roll in and your skin feels extra shiny or congested, it's easy to think you can skip it altogether.
It turns out, moisturiser is just as important in summer as it is in winter and can even get down to the root cause of your skincare woes. The key is to find a lightweight moisturiser (usually in gel or water-based format) that absorbs quickly without clogging pores, will hydrate and strengthen your skin barrier and even balance oil production - which is commonly triggered by dehydration (who knew!).
We've tested almost all the moisturisers on our shelves to bring you an edit of the best lightweight formulas, ideal for oil and blemish-prone skin, or for your summer skincare wardrobe.
The Best Lightweight Moisturisers At Space NK
Tatcha
Dewy Milk Moisturiser, € 70,00
Best lightweight moisturiser for oily skin
When you think of Tatcha, that signature lilac packaging probably springs to mind. Long before 'dewy skin' became a viral trend, Tatcha's Dewy Skin range was setting the standard with its Japanese purple rice-powered glow. The Dewy Milk Moisturiser is the lightweight counterpart to beloved Dewy Skin Cream, designed to deliver the same radiance without the richness. With ingredients like hyaluronic acid, zinc, and green tea, it absorbs quickly and balances oil production. Find out why it is the ideal moisturiser for oily and combination skin types in our
Dewy Milk Moisturiser review.
Then I Met You
Bong² Bounce Cream, € 52,90
Best lightweight moisturiser for hydrated skin
Korean skincare is taking up space in beauty routines everywhere, with formulas that focus on long-term skin health and hydration at every step. Our edit with Soko Glam introduces you to the biggest K-beauty brands with must-have products like this gel-based cream from Then I Met You. Its refreshing formula hydrates without heaviness, thanks to squalane and ceramides that strengthen your skin barrier, and vitamin C-rich hallabong extract that brightens and delivers a glass-like glow.
Mimétique
Skin Restore Crème Visage, € 66,00
Best lightweight moisturiser for sensitive skin
If your skin is dry or sensitive, rich textures are often labelled the go-to. But if heavy creams feel too much, this clever moisturiser delivers comfort without smothering. The breathable formula contains Mimétique's signature blend, designed to mimic your skin's natural structure and work to strengthen and support your skin barrier. You'll also find a hydrating duo of hyaluronic acid and squalane inside, plus soybean to help improve elasticity and tone.
Charlotte Tilbury
Charlotte's Magic Water Cream, € 90,85
Best lightweight moisturiser for summer
Even with proper sunscreen protection, sun-soaked summer days can leave your skin feeling tight and thirsty. This ultra-hydrating hero from Charlotte Tilbury is like a tall glass of water for your skin, with water-locking technology that plumps up the appearance of dehydration lines and helps reduce redness. The inclusion of niacinamide makes it a win for oily skin, helping to refine pores and balance oils.
Caudalie
VinoHydra Gel Moisturizer, € 22,00
Best lightweight moisturiser under makeup
Looking for a moisturiser that sinks in fast and leaves no trace? This gel cream should be on your radar. Inside, you'll find Caudalie's calming grape water mixed with aloe vera for an extra soothing effect. Hyaluronic acid softens and hydrates, while antioxidant-rich polyphenols help protect against environmental stress. It glides on like water and absorbs quickly without leaving any residue or shine behind. Instead, skin is left supple and refreshed - an ideal choice for wearing under makeup.
BYOMA
Moisturising Gel Cream, € 14,00
Best lightweight moisturiser for all skin types
If you're new to skincare or unsure what your skin needs, a moisturiser is a great place to start. BYOMA's simple skincare lineup is always a safe bet, featuring the brand's Tri-Ceramide Complex to boost your skin barrier function. This oil-free gel cream is carefully formulated with minimal ingredients to avoid overwhelming your skin. It features refining niacinamide and green tea to calm inflammation, plus it is non-comedogenic and dermatologist tested. In other words, it's a fuss-free staple to rely on.
Read More
• How To Get Glowing Skin• Best Skincare For Sensitive Skin • Best Hand Creams For Dry Hands
• Everything You Need To Know About Skin Cycling • How To Use A Gua Sha
