Sun’s Out; The Best Lightweight Summer Moisturisers For Men

During the cooler months, the necessity of a nourishing moisturiser is evident. Between the harsh winds outdoors and the heater on full blast inside, moisturising (and exfoliating) regularly is essential to prevent dry, flaky skin. However, moisturising is equally as important during summer.

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The summer heat can dry your skin, causing your body to overproduce sebum — the skin’s natural oil — to protect itself, which can lead to breakouts. Additionally, air-conditioned rooms typically have dehumidified air, which further dries out the skin and can make wrinkles and fine lines appear more pronounced; something that can be mitigated by using a moisturiser.

The key to finding the ideal summer moisturiser for men is looking for a product that’s lightweight, non-comedogenic (i.e. doesn’t clog pores or contribute to breakouts), and relatively sweat-proof. Steer clear of thick cream or balm formulas and opt for thin lotions, gels, or gel-creams. It can also be beneficial to look for a summer moisturiser that includes hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and panthenol, allowing it to work double time by not only locking moisture into the skin but also adding hydration. During the day, remember to apply a lightweight sunscreen to prevent sun damage.

Herewith, we’ve rounded up the best summer moisturisers for men to keep your skin looking healthy and hydrated.

1. mesoestetic Hydra-Vital Light

best summer moisturisers for men

A hardworking formula with a lightweight gel-cream consistency, the mesoestetic Hydra-Vital Light works to hydrate the skin with hyaluronic acid and provide long-term moisture through the addition of a plant-based polysaccharide that promotes healthy skin barrier function and prevents transepidermal water loss.

2. RoC Revive & Glow Gel Cream

best summer moisturisers for men

Made with 10% vitamin C, the RoC Revive & Glow Gel Cream helps brighten dull, lacklustre skin while providing lightweight hydration and moisture. Best used during the day under sunscreen.

3. Clinique Moisture Surge 100H Auto-Replenishing Hydrator

best summer moisturisers for men

This oil-free gel-cream has long been a go-to for those with breakout-prone skin come summertime. It’s non-comedogenic, so won’t clog pores, and is rapidly absorbed. Innovative technology helps promote hydration for up to 100 hours, with the Clinique Moisture Surge 100H Auto-Replenishing Hydrator working to rehydrate and gently plump the skin, reducing the appearance of dehydration-induced wrinkles and fine lines.

4. Youth to the People Polypeptide-121 Future Cream

Ideal for those with dry or mature skin. While the Youth to the People Polypeptide-121 Future Cream is a relatively rich formula, it doesn’t feel heavy on the skin. Packed with ceramides and peptides, it strengthens the skin barrier and helps firm the skin as it moisturises.

5. The Ordinary Natural Moisturising Factors

Generously sized and priced under $20AUD, The Ordinary Natural Moisturising Factors delivers on all fronts. The hero ingredient is in the name, with the Natural Moisturising Factors comprising a slew of ingredients already present in the skin (think urea, amino acids, fatty acids, triglycerides, ceramides, phospholipids, glycerine, saccharides, sodium PCA, and hyaluronic acid) working to protect and hydrate the outer layer of your skin. Use atop a hydrating serum to lock moisture in.

6. The Inkey List Symbright Moisturiser

Well-suited to those with dull or uneven skin tone, The Inkey List Symbright Moisturiser uses clary sage and kakadu plum extracts to brighten the skin and boost overall radiance.

7. Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hydrating Moisturiser

Akin to a drink of water for your skin, the Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hydrating Moisturiser contains a one-two punch of 30% hyaluronic acid teamed with pentavitin, which provides up to 72 hours of hydration (even after it’s washed off). An ultra-lightweight formula, it sits well under sunscreen and helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.


Words by John Deckard
Feature image courtesy of The Beauty Chef