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The Best Water-Based Skincare Products for Your Routine

By Rebecca Jenkinson - 4 years ago | Updated
Woman applying serum in the mirror

Keeping hydrated is the key to healthy-looking, glowing skin – and we don’t just mean with regular ol’ tap water. In fact, water-based skincare is on the rise, thanks to beauty buffs across the globe realising the many many benefits of H2O infused skincare goodies. Not only do they keep your skin looking on fleek, but they are a super refreshing way to prep your face for foundation.

So, without further ado, it’s time to dip you toe into the plethora of water-based skincare products at Cosmetify and add a splash (or two) into your daily routine.

What is water-based skincare?

Water-based skincare basically means the formulation uses water as the star ingredient to help all the other nourishing goodies pack a punch. They absorb easily and quickly, so your skin feels rejuvenated in an instant.

Water-based products work with all skin types, thanks to their non-greasy consistency. So, whether you have dry, oily or combination skin, it’s time to dive into this new trend.

What makes water-based so special?

The benefits of water-based skincare are second to none. Not only do they quench your skin’s thirst, but they also help plump your complexion. This anti-ageing element reduces the appearances of fine lines and wrinkles, leaving you with a youthful, hydrated glow.

Water-based products are also lightweight and fast absorbing, which means you don’t have to wait around to apply your makeup. Plus, if that wasn’t enough it creates a smooth base for your foundation or concealer.

Not sure which products to go for? Here are just a few of the very best water-based skincare products you need to get your hands on this season.

CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser

£6.50 £10.00 (35% off)

An oldie but a goldie, everyone loves the gentle formulations from CeraVe. This particular water-based cleanser also uses hyaluronic acid to prevent dryness and three types of ceramides to buff away dirt, grime and product build up without stripping the skin.

CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum

£15.44 £25.00 (39% off)

Using hyaluronic acid, this serum helps boost hydration across the face and neck. The formula feels comfortable on the skin while it replenishes your complexion and helps restore the skin barrier. This is the perfect daily solution for a facial treatment at home.

Bioderma Sensibio H2o Make-up Removing Micelle Solution

£5.20 £7.59 (32% off)

Well we certainly couldn’t mention water-based products without giving the pros at Bioderma a shout out. Their micellar water cleansers are a game changer. If you don’t already have their cleansing water, just know that it makes removing makeup and impurities SO much easier. This particular one is perfect for combination skin as it’s gentle, yet insanely refreshing on your complexion.

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5

£8.80

This water-based serum is a must-have product in any routine. It’s a super affordable option, which doesn’t compromise on results. The hyaluronic acid helps rejuvenate tired skin, so your complexion feels smoothed and hydrated straight away. Apply a few drops morning and night before you add any cream or oil-based moisturisers.

Dermalogica Calm Water Gel

£40.50 £55.00 (27% off)

Wave goodbye to dry, tight skin and say hello to radiant, healthy-looking results with this water gel moisturiser. It utilises dual hyaluronic acid technology, apple fruit extract and glycerin to soften, smooth and deeply hydrate the skin. And it’s vegan and cruelty-free!

Clarins Hydra Essential Cooling Cream Gel

£35.81 £45.50 (22% off)

If you struggle with sensitivities, this dermatologically tested Clarins moisturiser is perfect for you! It has a water-based, gel-like formula that balances, hydrates and protects skin from temperature changes, indoor and outdoor pollutants, and environmental stress.

BIOEFFECT Osa Water Mist

£17.55 £39.00 (55% off)

Another face mist we love is this rebalancing one from BIOEFFECT, formulated with pure Icelandic water, hyaluronic acid and orthosilicic acid to imbue your skin with total hydration, plumpness and improved structural integrity.

Heliocare 360 Water Gel SPF 50+

£19.50 £31.00 (38% off)

With all the hydrating benefits of a water gel moisturiser plus the added sun protection of an SPF, this product is perfect for retaining your skin's moisture levels, shielding it from pollution and harmful UV rays and giving you a clear, matte finish that looks great on all skin tones.

Institut Esthederm Cellular Water Mist

£10.45 £12.00 (13% off)

Institut Esthederm's Cellular Water Mist plumps up your skin with hyaluronic acid and a hydra booster, plus protects it from free radicals with antioxidants to keep you looking youthful.

Avène Thermal Spring Water

£5.06 £5.75 (12% off)

This 100% pure thermal spring water has an ionic balance of minerals and trace elements that make it great for sensitive skin, sunburns, nappy rashes and more.

HydroPeptide Power Serum

£117.90 £131.00 (10% off)

Splurge on this serum for a refreshing boost of six peptides, hyaluronic acid and glycerin. Vitamin A (retinol) diminishes wrinkles while oat proteins reduces inflammation, all coming together to form a potent anti-ageing, hydrating blend your skin will thank you for.


Feeling hydrated yet? If not, make sure you add some of these water-based goodies into your basket. They are ideal all year round but are particularly refreshing when the sun decides to make an appearance again.

For more top beauty tips, take a look at The Best Hypoallergenic Makeup for Hay Fever Sufferers and The Best Tinted Moisturisers for Every Skin Type and Concern.

Rebecca Jenkinson

Written by Rebecca Jenkinson

Rebecca is a content writer with over three years’ experience and a keen interest in cosmetics. Cosmetify allows her to combine her blogging skills with her passion for beauty.

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