Thanks to the perpetual appeal of a multitasking product, moisturisers that currently occupy our shelves do much more than just, well, moisturise. That said, our quest for the perfect day moisturiser isn’t over, because what we’re looking for are lightweight, non-greasy options to keep our skin in tip-top condition through long days and even nights. But until then, here are our top picks for the formulas that hydrate, shrink pores, boost radiance, fend off UV rays, and then some.
Jurlique Balancing Day Care Cream
$70 for 40ml and $133 for 125ml, available at Jurlique stores and counters
If there’s one skincare product I cannot live without, it’s a moisturiser. I can’t remember exactly when I started using Jurlique’s day cream, but I remember the first time I did, I knew it was The One. It has a cream texture that isn’t too rich but makes the skin feel completely hydrated; it absorbs into skin well and creates a beautifully plumped base for makeup application; and it smells beautiful – instantly calming like a spa.
— Adele Chan, Editor-in-Chief
Glossier Priming Moisturizer
US$25, available from glossier.com
Okay, part of my love for this is just because of its cult status, but it does the job of both plumping and priming skin well too! The brand does great beauty basics, and this is no exception – the cream contains hyaluronic acid and mushroom extract to provide deep hydration, antioxidants, skin-soothing ingredients and more. All this isn’t seen but felt with the feeling of instantaneous hydration. Seriously, the plumping effect is almost immediate! It might feel quite oily when you have a go at it – which is why I sometimes use this on its own – but that quickly tones down to a nice, dewy finish. Sadly, I’m already down to the last remaining remnants of the tube, which just means I need to quickly get a new one, very soon!
— Amelia Tan, Associate Editor
Paula’s Choice Skin Recovery Daily Moisturizing Lotion Broad Spectrum SPF 30
$42, available from paulaschoice.sg
There’s a reason why I never shut up about Paula’s Choice products – their formulas are always on point. The sixth product from the brand that’s in my skincare routine (I’m not sponsored by them, I swear) is this day moisturiser with a built-in mineral sunscreen. Now I know this product is meant for drier skin types, but my oily, acne-prone, sensitive skin really likes this lightweight lotion. It goes on nice and smooth without leaving a white cast or feeling too greasy, and it makes a good base for makeup too. Apricot seed oil may be high up on the ingredients list, but it doesn’t break me out at all. Instead, it imparts a light layer of hydration that lasts.
— Jade Yeo, Writer
Philosophy Take A Deep Breath Oil-Free Oxygenating Gel Cream
$52, available from Philosophy counters and Sephora
I have commitment issues when it comes to moisturisers. I’ll try out whatever lands on my table, which means that most of the time, I can’t keep track of what I’m using. This one by Philosophy sticks in my mind as one that I liked a lot (though I’m already moving on to the next one). The gel/cream hybrid has a nice light texture which absorbs quickly into the skin. It really does feel like a breath of fresh air.
— Joanne Cheah, Designer
Laneige Water Bank Gel Cream
$52, available at Laneige stores and counters and Sephora
I typically don’t like applying oil-based moisturisers on my face, simply because I am not a fan of the greasy texture that follows after the product after letting the product absorb into my skin. And after having a really great run with Laneige’s Water Sleeping Mask about a good three years ago, I caved in and switched out my past day moisturiser for their cult Water Bank Gel Cream, and I never quite looked back. The gel is lightweight enough for day wear, and gets absorbed quickly into my skin, leaving this non-offensive tacky texture that I quite like, for some reason. The cooling sensation that comes with the gel refreshes my skin (especially on work days) and makeup sits on top of it beautifully. Plus, my skin is kept hydrated throughout the day. I mean, it must say something when I truly look forward to slapping on the gel every morning after cleansing, yes?
— Chelsea Tang, Editorial Assistant
ETUDE HOUSE Moistfull Collagen Water Jelly Cream
$33.90, available at ETUDE HOUSE stores
I’ve been using Etude House’s Moistfull Collagen Water Jelly Cream and this product really helps provide moisture and remove any tautness after cleansing. One of the main reasons why I buy skincare products and stop using them halfway is because, one, I get lazy; and two, I don’t like formulas that leave my skin feeling sticky or greasy. This one though, has a gel-like consistency and it’s quite literally like water but in jelly form. I love keeping the tub in the fridge so it feels cool and refreshing when I slather it all over my face. The product sinks in fast and although it leaves my face dewy, it’s nothing uncomfortable. My skin feels supple with increased elasticity.
— Phyllis Guo, Editorial Assistant
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