17 Water-Based Moisturisers in Malaysia to Try in 2024

If you’ve been on the lookout for a skincare solution that offers lightweight hydration without any greasiness, then water-based moisturisers might just be the perfect fit for you.

By the way, we’re curious: Are you someone who faithfully moisturise your skin day and night, or do you occasionally skip this step?

If you’re already diligent about applying moisturisers daily, kudos to you! But if you’re one of those who sometimes overlook this crucial step, it’s time to reconsider. Moisturisers play a vital role in achieving flawless skin and keeping pores clear.

Regardless of your skin type—be it dry, dehydrated, combination, oily, or sensitive—water-based moisturisers offer a hydrating boost. Their water-based formula ensures superior hydration compared to other moisturisers.

Read on to discover why water-based moisturisers are beneficial for your skin and explore some of the best options available!

Best Water-Based Moisturisers Under RM50

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Water Gel

Formulated with hyaluronic acid, this gel-cream provides intense hydration while being non-comedogenic, making it suitable for oily and acne-prone skin. It absorbs quickly, leaving your skin feeling refreshed and supple.

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Water Gel retails for RM82.60 on Guardian. A discount is offered at the time of writing, tap in to see the updated price.

SKINTIFIC 5X Ceramide Skin Barrier Repair Moisturize Gel

This moisturiser is enriched with ceramides and niacinamide to restore the skin’s natural barrier and soothe irritation. It’s oil-free, fragrance-free, and suitable for all skin types, including acne-prone and eczema-prone skin.

SKINTIFIC 5X Ceramide Skin Barrier Repair Moisturize Gel retails for RM59 on Watsons. A discount is offered at the time of writing, tap in to see the updated price.

Cosmoderm Niacinamide Salicylic Acid Balancing Gel-Cream Moisturiser

This gel-cream moisturiser harnesses the power of Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) to replenish nutrients, enhancing the texture and tone of your skin. It visibly minimises pores, fades dark spots, and tackles uneven skin tone issues, resulting in a more luminous complexion.

Thanks to the inclusion of BHA, it’s particularly suitable for those with acne-prone skin, gently exfoliating without causing damage. Moreover, it effectively replenishes moisture, leaving your skin hydrated and revitalised.

Cosmoderm Niacinamide Salicylic Acid Balancing Gel-Cream Moisturiser retails for RM24.60 on Watsons. A discount is offered at the time of writing, tap in to see the updated price.

Wardah Hydra Rose Moisture Rich Night Gel Moisturizer

Provides 72 hours of hydration with its nutrient-rich gel texture, the Wardah Hydra Rose Moisture Rich Night Gel Moisturizer is infused with Rose Oil to deeply hydrate and maintain skin moisture.

It actively combats the effects of environmental stress accumulated throughout the day, ensuring hydration retention. With regular use, this moisturiser revitalises skin hydration, delivering intense moisture for a healthier complexion.

Wardah Hydra Rose Moisture Rich Night Gel Moisturizer retails for RM40.50 on Guardian. 

HADA LABO Hydrating Water Gel

This gel-cream hybrid provides intense hydration with hyaluronic acid and collagen, restoring suppleness and elasticity to the skin, perfect for dry and dehydrated skin.

HADA LABO Hydrating Water Gel retails for RM76.80 on Watsons. A discount is offered at the time of writing, tap in to see the updated price.

Simple Water Boost Hydrating Gel Cream

With ingredients like glycerin and pentylene glycol, this gel-cream replenishes moisture instantly and locks it in for up to 24 hours. It’s free from harsh chemicals and artificial perfumes, making it ideal for sensitive skin.

Simple Water Boost Hydrating Gel Cream retails for RM35.50 on Shopee.  

AIKEN Prebiotic Hydra Plus Moisturiser

AIKEN Prebiotic Hydra Plus Moisturiser is clinically proven to soothe and calm the skin. It provides long-lasting moisture retention for up to 24 hours, intensely hydrating and nourishing the skin to prevent dryness and minimise fine lines.

It promotes the growth of skin-friendly bacteria to strengthen the skin barrier function, resulting in healthier skin overall. And not forgetting, it also leaves your complexion revitalised and glowing.

AIKEN Prebiotic Hydra Plus Moisturiser retails for RM31.70 on Shopee. A discount is offered at the time of writing, tap in to see the updated price.

Bio-Essence Bio-Treasure Jeju Water Hydrating All Day Moisturising Gel

For dewy skin, give the Bio-Essence Bio-Treasure Jeju Water Hydrating All Day Moisturising Gel a try. Infused with Bio-Energy Complex, this gel moisturiser enhances moisture delivery, leaving your skin hydrated and radiant.

It nourishes the skin with minerals and herbal nutrients, improving its overall condition. Perfect for hot, dry climates and air-conditioned rooms, it ensures your skin stays moisturised and glowing throughout the day.

Bio-Essence Bio-Treasure Jeju Water Hydrating All Day Moisturising Gel retails for RM57.90 on Shopee. 

The Originote Hyalucera Moisturizer Gel

Tackle dehydrated skin with the Originote Hyalucera Moisturizer Gel, which offers multiple benefits. It helps control oil, maintains skin elasticity, and reduces redness.

Formulated with powerful ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid and Ceramide, it seals in moisture, soothes breakouts, and strengthens your skin’s protective barrier. Its gel consistency is perfect for any skin type, guaranteeing hydration without any heaviness or greasiness.

The Originote Hyalucera Moisturizer Gel retails for RM24 on Shopee. A discount is offered at the time of writing, tap in to see the updated price.

Best Water-Based Moisturisers Between RM51 and RM100

Torriden DIVE IN Soothing Cream

The cooling, hydrating sensation you get after using this water-based moisturiser will leave your skin refreshed and moisturised without any sticky residue. Torriden DIVE IN Soothing Cream locks in moisture by enveloping moisturising ingredients, ensuring they are absorbed into the skin.

With five types of hyaluronic acid, it boosts absorption and deeply replenishes hydration, providing a revitalising experience for your skin.

Torriden DIVE IN Soothing Cream retails for RM96 on Shopee. A discount is offered at the time of writing, tap in to see the updated price.

The Inkey List Omega Water Cream

Great at hydrating and repairing your skin’s barrier, this water-based moisturiser is made with Omega Fatty Acid Complex, Glycerin, Betaine, and Niacinamide, which all work together to keep your skin hydrated for a long time, control oil, and even out your skin tone.

Plus, it’s Mega Ceramide Complex formula that’s rich in Omega 3, 6, and 9, helps to repair your skin barrier and keep it hydrated. The 5% Glycerin pulls moisture into your skin, leaving it healthy and glowing.

The Inkey List Omega Water Cream retails for RM63 on Sephora.  

Best Water-Based Moisturisers Above RM100

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel Cream

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel Cream is specifically designed for oily skin and normal skin types, providing a shine-reducing effect that lasts for 24 hours. Its lightweight formula quickly absorbs into the skin, delivering an instant cooling sensation for added comfort.

This non-comedogenic and allergy-tested water-based moisturiser does not clog your pores or cause irritation, making it suitable for sensitive skin.

Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel Cream retails for RM146 (50ml) on Kiehl’s.

Paula’s Choice Invisible Finish Moisture Gel

Refresh and hydrate your skin with Paula’s Choice Invisible Finish Moisture Gel, perfect for normal to oily or combination skin. This moisturiser not only provides essential hydration but also works to minimise the appearance of pores with continued use.

Packed with antioxidants, it helps shield your skin from environmental damage. Its lightweight gel formula absorbs quickly and can be used as the final step in your evening skincare routine.

Paula’s Choice Invisible Finish Moisture Gel retails for RM185 on Paula’s Choice. A discount is offered at the time of writing, tap in to see the updated price.

Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Pink Juice Moisturizer

Infused with watermelon extract, vitamins, and hydrating hyaluronic acid, Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Pink Juice Moisturizer offers refreshing hydration and a healthy glow suitable for all skin types.

This brightening moisturiser is formulated with vitamin-rich watermelon extract and soothing botanicals to enhance radiance and glow without feeling heavy on the skin.

Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Pink Juice Moisturizer retails for RM109 on Sephora. 

ALPHA-H High Tide Water Cream With River Mint

Achieve a plumper, more radiant complexion with ALPHA-H High Tide Water Cream With River Mint, a weightless moisturiser that deeply hydrates and replenishes skin’s moisture levels.
This luxurious water-based formula delivers intense hydration, claiming to last up to five days, while its silky jelly cream texture feels refreshing on the skin.

With a dewy, non-greasy finish that layers well under makeup, it contains amino acid and antioxidant-rich Australian River Mint, along with a unique hydration complex, to support collagen production and maintain optimal hydration levels, ensuring your skin’s moisture remains high.

ALPHA-H High Tide Water Cream With River Mint retails for RM275 on Sephora. 

Sand & Sky Tasmanian Spring Water Hydration Boost Cream

Wonderful at improving your skin’s hydration levels, Sand & Sky water-based moisturiser is packed with powerful bursts of aquatic ingredients all while smoothing and strengthening your skin without feeling heavy.

With pure Tasmanian Spring Water, it instantly hydrates and diminishes the appearance of fine lines, while also fortifying your skin with essential minerals. Red Seaweed provides protection against environmental stressors, leaving your skin soft and resilient.

This weightless water-based cream contains three types of Hyaluronic Acid and a unique botanical blend for long-lasting moisture and healthier-looking skin. Additionally, nutrient-rich Fermented Sea Kelp restores youthful skin by reducing water loss and protecting against signs of ageing.

Sand & Sky Tasmanian Spring Water Hydration Boost Cream retails for RM230 on Sephora.  

Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel

Great at providing all-day hydration for combination to oily skin types, this oil-free gel moisturiser prevents pore clogging. Developed by dermatologists, its formula blends oil-free hydration with skin-strengthening components, aiding in maintaining youthful skin appearance over time.

Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel  retails for RM160 on Sephora. 

These water-based moisturisers are not only effective but also budget-friendly, allowing you to maintain a healthy skincare routine without breaking the bank. 

Remember to patch test new products and incorporate them into your skincare regimen gradually for the best results.

What is Water-Based Moisturiser?

Water-based moisturisers are skincare products that are made mainly with water as the main ingredient. Their popularity stems from their ability to provide hydration without leaving a greasy residue.

Unlike oil-based moisturisers, water-based moisturisers are great because they absorb quickly into your skin, giving you instant hydration, especially for those with dry and dehydrated skin,

What Are The Benefits of Water-Based Moisturisers?

Water-based moisturisers offer a plethora of benefits, foremost among them being hydration.

Their water-rich formula penetrates the skin quickly, delivering moisture where it’s needed most. Additionally, these moisturisers are lightweight, making them ideal for oily and combination skin types that require hydration without added greasiness.

Their non-greasy texture ensures comfort throughout the day while providing essential moisture. Furthermore, the cooling effect upon application offers a refreshing sensation, making them a delightful addition to any skincare routine, particularly in hot climates or after sun exposure.

What Are The Key Ingredients Found in Water-Based Moisturisers?

Key ingredients found in water-based moisturisers play pivotal roles in their effectiveness. Hyaluronic acid, a humectant, attracts and retains moisture in the skin, resulting in improved hydration and suppleness.

Aloe vera, known for its soothing properties, calms irritated skin and helps reduce inflammation. Glycerin, another common ingredient, acts as a powerful moisturiser by attracting water to the skin’s outer layer, keeping it soft and hydrated.

These ingredients work synergistically to provide optimal hydration and nourishment, contributing to the overall health and appearance of the skin.

Is Water-Based Moisturiser Suitable For All Skin Types?

Water-based moisturisers are a versatile addition to any skincare regimen, making them suitable for various skin types.

For those with oily skin types, these moisturisers offer hydration without exacerbating excess oil production or clogging pores, thus helping to prevent breakouts.

Meanwhile, individuals with dry skin can also benefit from the lightweight yet effective hydration provided by water-based formulas, especially when layered with more emollient products.

Gentle in nature, these water-based moisturisers are suitable for sensitive skin, providing much-needed moisture and relief to the skin without causing any sorts of irritation or discomfort.

Is The Application of Water-Based Moisturiser The Same As Other Type of Moisturisers?

Yes, the application of water-based moisturisers is generally similar to other types of moisturisers.

When applying water-based moisturisers, it’s essential to start with clean, dry skin to maximise absorption. A pea-sized amount is usually sufficient for the face and neck, although more may be needed for the body.

Gently massage the moisturiser into the skin using upward strokes until fully absorbed. For best results, apply morning and night as part of your skincare routine after your cleansing and toning routine.

Can I Layer My Water-Based Moisturisers With Other Skincare Products?

Of course you can! Water-based moisturisers can be layered with serums, sunscreen, and makeup, ensuring comprehensive hydration and protection throughout the day.

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