Being beaten by sweat and oil is no excuse for us to not keep ourselves moisturized during the summer season. I understand that sometimes, stripping bare and applying nothing to our skin seems to keep it from being more tacky, sticky, and greasy. But thankfully, there are options available so we don’t have to resort to this manner.

But first of all, why is it still important for us to moisturize during the summer? It’s common knowledge for people who are well-versed in the skincare industry that “transepidermal water loss” (TEWL) occurs when moisture evaporates from the skin, potentially leading to a weakened skin barrier. This makes the skin more vulnerable to irritation, dryness, and environmental aggressors.

Therefore, it is a well-established fact that dehydrated skin is prone to numerous issues:

• It can lead to less elasticity which helps retain the skin’s plumpiness and youthful appearance.
• It can accumulate premature aging due to the rough and flaky texture that can lead to fine surface lines or wrinkles.
• It can clog your pores in the long run by overproduction of oil which may lead to even more oilier skin to compensate for the lack of moisture.

You may expect that keeping your skin hydrated and moisturized will do the opposite of the points that I mentioned above. To some extent, yes. But not entirely. Oily skin doesn’t necessarily mean that it is better than having dry skin. So let me elaborate on these widely known facts for you and cease your presumptions:

• The more plump you are with nutrient-rich hydrated skin, the better the ability that your skin can return to its original shape which helps combat visible signs of aging.
• Your skin barrier relies heavily on moisture to shield the deeper layer of the skin against environmental stressors that trigger irritation, dryness, and sensitivity.

DMD Skin Sciences put it best, while the Philippines is humid year-round, summer makes it even harder to maintain a skincare routine. We may be too sweaty or oily and provoke breakouts which can be tricky for our skin to absorb our skincare products. But thankfully, there are many variations of moisturizers available on the market to address this.

In this article, I will be offering easy-to-find moisturizers that are nutrient-packed and have ingredients that can absorb hydration and keep them locked in. From budget-friendly options to splurge-worthy ones that are perfect for this summer:

BUDGET-FRIENDLY

Hyaloo Aqua Plus Deep Hydrating Gel

💰:

₱395.oo (200ml)

KEY INGREDIENTS🧪:

✅: Oily, Combination, Normal, Dehydrated Skin

❌: Very dry skin (needs more occlusion), Sensitive skin (due to fragrance)

Quick take 💡: 

A solid choice for those who need lightweight but deep hydration, especially in the summer. It absorbs quickly and keeps the skin plump without feeling greasy. Perfect for hot weather and works well for most skin types. If you have very sensitive skin, a patch test is always a good idea.

⬇️ GET IT HERE ⬇️

🛒 Buy on Lazada

🛒 Buy on Shopee

 Human Nature Hyaluronic Acid Gel Day Moisturizer

💰:

₱249.75 (50ml)

KEY INGREDIENTS 🧪:

✅: Oily, Combination, Normal, Dehydrated Skin

❌: Very dry skin (needs more occlusion), sensitive skin (due to fragrance)

Quick take 💡:

A refreshing, no-fuss gel moisturizer that keeps the skin hydrated and comfortable throughout the day. It’s packed with natural humectants, making it great for those who want hydration without heaviness. Not the best fit if you’re looking for intense moisture or have extremely dry skin.

⬇️ GET IT HERE ⬇️

🛒 Buy on Lazada

🛒 Buy on Shopee

Soul Apothecary Hydra Water Gel Cream Moisturizer

💰:

₱250.00 (30ml)

₱399.00 (50ml)

KEY INGREDIENTS 🧪:

✅: Normal, Oily, Combination Skin

❌: Very dry skin (may not be rich enough)

Quick take 💡:

A lightweight, hydrating gel cream that balances moisture without feeling heavy. Ideal for oily to combination skin, especially in humid weather. However, those with very dry skin might need something more nourishing.

⬇️ GET IT HERE ⬇️

🛒 Buy on Lazada

🛒 Buy on Shopee

Celeteque Hydration Facial Moisturizer

💰:

₱264.00 (100ml)

₱182.00 (50ml)

KEY INGREDIENTS 🧪:

✅: Most skin types

❌: Those sensitive to botanical extracts or fragrance components. Very oily skin.

Quick take 💡:

A lightweight, hydrating moisturizer that works well for daily use. It provides essential, lasting hydration without feeling greasy, while panthenol supports the skin barrier. It may feel too much for very oily skin and might not be the best pick for those with extra-sensitive skin.

⬇️ GET IT HERE ⬇️

🛒 Buy on Lazada: 50ml, 100ml

🛒 Buy on Shopee: 50ml, 100ml

MID-RANGE TO HIGH-END

Saipo True Dew Brightening Gel Cream Moisturizer

💰:

₱499.00 (60ml)

KEY INGREDIENTS 🧪:

✅: Normal, Combination, Oily

❌: Very dry skin (needs more occlusion)

Quick take 💡:

A refreshing gel cream that hydrates while helping to brighten and even skin tone. Lightweight and fast-absorbing, making it great for oily and combination skin. Dry skin types may need a heavier moisturizer for long-lasting hydration.

⬇️ GET IT HERE ⬇️

🛒 Buy on Lazada

🛒 Buy on Shopee

Human Nature Marine Caviar HydroMiracle

Moisturizer

💰:

₱495.00 (60g)

KEY INGREDIENTS 🧪:

✅: Normal, Dry, Dehydrated skin

❌: Very oily skin

Quick take 💡:

This moisturizer is packed with hydrating and skin-nourishing ingredients, making it a great choice for those with normal to dry skin. Its lightweight yet nourishing texture helps maintain moisture, which is ideal if you’re dealing with dehydration during the summer. However, for very oily skin types, it might feel a bit heavy. If you’re looking for a natural, hydration-boosting moisturizer, this could be a good fit!

⬇️ GET IT HERE ⬇️

🛒 Buy on Lazada

🛒 Buy on Shopee

Croia Brightening + Calming Moisturizer

💰:

₱639.00 (90g)

KEY INGREDIENTS 🧪:

✅: Normal, Combinaiton, Oily skin, Sensitive skin

❌: Very dry skin

Quick take 💡:

This moisturizer offers a lightweight, non-greasy formula, making it a great choice for hot and humid weather. It’s particularly well-suited for oily and combination skin since it hydrates without feeling heavy. However, for those with very dry skin, it may not provide enough lasting moisture unless layered with a more occlusive product.

⬇️ GET IT HERE ⬇️

🛒 Buy on Lazada

🛒 Buy on Shopee

Russ & Rose Lightweight Hydrating Cream

💰:

₱600.00 (50ml)

KEY INGREDIENTS 🧪:

✅: Normal, Combination, Slightly dry, Sensitive skin

❌: Very oily skin, Fragrance-sensitive skin

Quick take 💡: 

This moisturizer is lightweight yet hydrating, making it a great option for those with normal to combination skin in hot and humid weather. The oatmeal, sea grapes, and avocado extract provide soothing and antioxidant benefits, which can be helpful if your skin feels stressed from sun exposure. However, very oily skin types may find it slightly rich, and those sensitive to fragrance should patch-test first.

⬇️ GET IT HERE ⬇️

🛒 Buy on Lazada

🛒 Buy on Shopee

Sunnies Face Dream Cream

💰:

₱995.00 (50ml)

KEY INGREDIENTS 🧪:

✅: Normal, Dry

❌: Very oily skin

Quick take 💡:

This offers deep hydration and skin barrier support, making it ideal for normal to dry skin types. While it’s formulated with lightweight humectants and ceramides, the presence of richer emollients like dimethicone and caprylic/capric triglyceride may feel slightly heavy for very oily skin, especially in humid weather. If you have oily skin but still want to try it, using a smaller amount or applying it at night might work better!

⬇️ GET IT HERE ⬇️

🛒 Buy on Lazada

🛒 Buy on Shopee

Happy Skin Hyaluronic + B3 Boost Water Cream

💰:

₱999.00 (50ml)

KEY INGREDIENTS 🧪:

✅: Normal, Dry, Combination

❌: Very oily skin, Sensitive skin

Quick take 💡:

This water cream delivers deep hydration with multiple forms of hyaluronic acid and seaweed extracts while supporting the skin barrier with ceramides and niacinamide. The gel-cream texture is lightweight and fast-absorbing, making it great for normal, dry, and combination skin. Oily skin types can still use it, but those who dislike a slightly dewy finish or silicone-based moisturizers may prefer a more mattifying formula. Sensitive skin should patch test due to added fragrance.

⬇️ GET IT HERE ⬇️

🛒 Buy on Lazada

LUXE

Pure Culture Bulgarian Rose Glam Gold Satin Crème

(Original and Unscented)

💰:

₱2,775.00 (50g)

KEY INGREDIENTS 🧪:

✅: Dry, Normal, Mature skin

❌: Oily & Acne-prone – rich emollients may feel heavy.

Quick take 💡:

A luxurious yet lightweight moisturizer that deeply hydrates while adding a subtle glow—perfect for summer when skin needs moisture without feeling greasy. Packed with nourishing oils, soothing botanicals, and antioxidants, it helps keep skin plump and radiant. Best for dry, normal, or mature skin, but those with oily or acne-prone skin may find it a bit rich.

⬇️ GET IT HERE ⬇️

🛒 Buy on Lazada

🛒 Buy on Shopee

VMV Hypoallergenics Hydra Balance Smart Moisturizer for Combination Skin

💰:

₱1,250.00 (50g)

KEY INGREDIENTS 🧪:

✅: Combination skin

❌: Very oily skin, very dry skin.

Quick take 💡:

This moisturizer is a great option for summer, especially for combination skin. It provides lightweight hydration without feeling greasy and includes added UV protection for extra defense against sun exposure. However, the coconut oil content might feel a bit heavy for very oily skin, and those with very dry skin may need something more hydrating. If you want a simple, fuss-free summer moisturizer with some sun protection, this could be a solid pick!

⬇️ GET IT HERE ⬇️

🛒 Buy on Lazada

🛒 Buy on Shopee

Final thought

Don’t judge a product based on the price tag. As your skin changes with the seasons, remember to check reviews, patch test new products, and pay attention to how your skin reacts to the summer heat. Finding the right moisturizer isn’t just about hydration, it’s about keeping your skin balanced, protected, and comfortable all season long.

Seeking professional consultation is the best option when it comes to treating severe skin issues. Remember that aside from maintaining your skin, it’s a way of treating yourself to a relaxing moment at the end of an exhausting, scorching day!

Have you picked one that works for you?