Six Super Lightweight Hydrators Made for Steamy Summer Days

By Katie Dickens August 17, 2015

Hydrators — Image used with permission by copyright holder

Even if you’re the kind of guy that’s totally committed to your skincare regimen, the current weather situation is probably enough to dissuade you from dipping into your favorite jar of moisturizer. There’s something inherently unpleasant about smearing lotion on one’s face when the hot and heavy air has succeeded in making it as slick as a Slip ‘n’ Slide. But even in the summer, it’s important to stick to your routine. This also applies to you pimple-prone dudes as using drying anti-acne treatments sans moisturizer can make oil production go into over-drive. The alternative is to lighten up with gel-based hydration. They provide the necessary moisture minus the weight and impart a cooling sensation, a plus when the mercury is hovering around 90. Here are six that will see you through to fall and beyond.

L’Occitane Cedrat Global Face Gel

$42, loccitane.com — $42, loccitane.com Image used with permission by copyright holder

Refresh your face and awaken your nostrils with this revitalizing gel infused with the woody, citrus-y scent of the cedrat. In addition to its refreshing smell, the bitter fruit works wonder on the skin—minimizing pores and diminishing oil.

ClarinsMen Revitalizing Gel

$39.50, nordstrom.com — $39.50, nordstrom.com Image used with permission by copyright holder

Think of this anti-aging gel as a kind of skin wingman, deftly fending off the advancements of disgusting, repellant, toxic pollution.

The Organic Pharmacy Men Ultra Light Moisture Gel

$65, barneys.com — $65, barneys.com Image used with permission by copyright holder

Perfect for you when you’ve gone light on the SPF and heavy on the sun exposure, this aloe- and green tea-rich formula soothes the savage burn.

Lab Series Age Rescue Water Charged Gel Cream

$50, labseries.com — $50, labseries.com Image used with permission by copyright holder

Harnessing high-tech ingredients with space-age names like G-Action and AO-10, this rich gel gives you your youth back. Not really. But it can make your face look less aged, sleep-deprived and hungover.

Aesop B Triple C Facial Balancing Gel

$120, mrporter.com — $120, mrporter.com Image used with permission by copyright holder

Meant as more of a twice-weekly treatment, this antioxidant-infused gel fights the unattractive consequences of high humidity (excess oil) and city living (overall blah-ness).

Boscia Revitalizing Black Hydration Gel

$38, boscia.com — $38, boscia.com Image used with permission by copyright holder

Its color is due to its active ingredient—charcoal, which purges your pores of dirt and detritus. Stash this jar in the fridge to amplify the cooling sensation.

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Former Digital Trends Contributor

Katie Dickens is a Manhattan-based beauty and grooming writer. She has held staff positions at Glamour, In Style, People…

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