Moisturizer or Hydrating Gel: Which is Right for You?

We’ll help you make the right choice. There is an option even for those who are not suitable for either cream or gel.

What is gel?

Gel is a jelly-like substance that is 70-80% water. The composition of the classic gel, in addition to water, often includes hydrating agents (they are also in creams):

  • glycerol;

  • hyaluronic acid;

  • juice of aloe.

Gel benefits

  • Ease.

  • Good absorbency.

  • Leaves no oil film.

  • Doesn’t clog pores.

  • It moisturizes well.

All these characteristics cannot but please the owners of combination, oily, problem skin. In addition, gel products are ideal for the hot season. A classic example is a moisturizing gel. Aquasource Gel, Biotherm.

Gel Disadvantages

Cosmetic in gel texture may not be suitable for skin prone to dryness. Also, the gel is not able to protect the skin from cold and temperature changes, since it contains practically no lipids. So winter is not his time.

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What is cream

Most of the cream formula (up to 80%) is made up of oils and other lipid compounds. The density of the texture may vary depending on the amount of oils.

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Cream Benefits

Creams that are denser in texture immediately create a feeling of comfort and security. This is especially important for dry, aging, thin skin.

An example of a comfortable moisturizer is a baicalin and probiotic enriched cream against signs of aging at different stages of formation for normal to dry skin. Slow Age, Vichy.

Cream Disadvantages

The texture of the cream may seem too heavy and oily for those with oily skin prone to clogged pores. Especially in summer.

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Alternative format

Cosmetics manufacturers have found a compromise between the two formats, creating a new category of products that suits the majority of beauty users. The new hero – cream-gel – is a cross between a cream and a gel. Thanks to special technologies, the oil is crushed into microdroplets to create a light, melting, but at the same time rich texture. A wealth of formula and range of possibilities is included.

  • Night SPA-care Aqualia Thermal, Vichy

    Combines nourishing shea butter and ingredients to intensely and long-lastingly hydrate and regenerate skin.

  • Moisturizing gel for an even tone and smooth skin texture, Kiehl’s

    Fights pigmentation and uneven color without overburdening the skin. In the composition – peony extract, vitamin C and acids.

  • Moisturizing cream-gel for normal to combination skin “Moisturizing Expert”, L’Oréal Paris

    Vitamins and moisturizers are wrapped in a melt-in, lightweight texture. The product is suitable for normal and combination skin, providing it with freshness.

  • Cream-gel for the face “Revitalizing Moisturizing”, restoring, night, Garnier

    A product that combines moisturizing ingredients and nutrients. Cream-gel is perfectly absorbed, moisturizes for a long time, does not leave an oily sticky film on the face.

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