What is the Difference Between Gel and Cream Moisturizer

The main difference between gel and cream moisturizer is their texture; a gel moisturizer lighter and more watery than a cream moisturizer. More importantly, gel moisturizers are suitable for oily skin, while cream moisturizers are suitable for dry skin.

Moisturizers are skincare products that help to retain the moisture in the skin and prevent dryness. They are available in different formats such as creams, gels, or lotions. Although these multiple formats have the same function, i.e., prevent dryness, they have different textures as well as ingredients.

Key Areas Covered

1. What is a Gel Moisturizer
     – Definition, Ingredients, Texture
2. What is a Cream Moisturizer
     – Definition, Ingredients, Texture
3. What is the Difference Between Gel and Cream Moisturizer
     – Comparison of Key Differences

Key Terms

Gel Moisturizer, Cream Moisturizer, Moisturizer

What is a Gel Moisturizer

Gel moisturizers are water-based skincare products that help to retain moisture in the skin and prevent dryness. They have a lightweight texture and can be easily absorbed into the skin. Most gel moisturizers have ingredients like hyaluronic acid, natural moisturizing factors, glycerin, as well as higher water content. Moreover, gel moisturizers contain fewer emollients and oils than cream moisturizers. This is why gel moisturizers give hydration without a greasy finish.

Furthermore, gel moisturizers are suitable for many types of skins, but the absence of oil makes them perfect for those with oily skin or those who want a matte effect without shine. These moisturizers hydrate and moisturize the skin without leaving a residue; this is especially important in oily skin that tends to shine after applying products that contain oil.  

Benefits of Gel Moisturizers

• Refreshing
• Non-oily texture
• Hydrating
• Soothing
• Good for warm weather
• Suitable for sensitive skin

What is a Cream Moisturizer

Cream moisturizers are skincare products that have a richer and more emollient texture when compared to gel moisturizers. This is because cream moisturizers have a higher fat content – these fats may include butter, vegetable oils, as well as essential fatty acids and phospholipids. Moisturizing creams, thus, create protective, nourishing and softening on the skin.

Cream moisturizers are compatible for dry, rough or sensitive skin. They are especially used during the winter season. The emollients in cream moisturizers help seal in that moisture and prevent dryness.

Benefits of Cream Moisturizer

• Prevent dryness
• Good for cold weather
• Suitable for dry and rough skin
• Hydrating

Difference Between Gel and Cream Moisturizer

Definition

Gel moisturizers are water-based skincare products that help to retain moisture in the skin and prevent dryness while cream moisturizers are skincare products that have a richer and more emollient texture as well as a higher fat content.

Texture

While gel moisturizers are light and watery, cream moisturizers are richer and thicker.

Ingredients

Furthermore, gel moisturizers have a higher water content, hyaluronic acids, and natural moisturizing factors while cream moisturizers have higher fat content and emollients.

Skin Type

Gel moisturizers are suitable for oily skin, while cream moisturizers are suitable for dry skin.

Weather

Moreover, gel moisturizers are perfect for warm weather, while cream moisturizers are perfect for cold weather.

Conclusion

In brief, there is a difference between gel and cream moisturizer based on their ingredients, texture, and use. Gel moisturizers are lighter and more watery than cream moisturizers. Furthermore, gel moisturizers have a higher water content, hyaluronic acid, and natural moisturizing factors while cream moisturizers have a higher fat content and emollients. More importantly, gel moisturizers are suitable for oily skin, while cream moisturizers are suitable for dry skin.

Image Courtesy:

1. “Aloe Vera Skin Care Gel Free Photo” (CC0) via Needpix.com
2. “Cream, skin cream, glass, flowers, dahlia, pink, cosmetics, body care, face cream, feel good, natural cosmetics” (CC0) via Pikist.com