We'll jump straight to the answer—no, gel moisturizer isn't better than cream. As with any skin care product, it all comes down to your skin type, preferences, and the concern you're looking to tackle. Technically, cream and hydrating gel are the same thing, as they're both moisturizers—just different types.
Non-Oily Texture
Whether you have oily skin or just don't like the feeling of having a thick cream on your face, gel moisturizers can hydrate without leaving a film. “Most gel moisturizers are formulated with hyaluronic acid, a higher water content and glycerin,” says Garnier consulting dermatologist Dr. Diane Madfes.
True to their easy-breezy reputation, gel moisturizers are effective for most skin types. They're particularly helpful for people with acne-prone skin or oily skin since they don't add oil to the skin's already-oily surface, Dr. Saedi says.
It's because gels provide an internal solution: after absorbing, the hydration is activated from within the skin, without any greasy side-effects. On the other hand, creams are a better option for dry and dehydrated skin, because they last longer and treat the skin in the long term.
The difference between a Gel and Cream:
Despite having a colour base, creams are also not visible once applied, although gels are absorbed faster. Gels are usually oil free. Some creams do have oil, even though both are water-based. Gels can come in different colours, while creams are usually white.
“Gel moisturizers are typically oil-free and have more of a light, water-like feel,” says Halim. “They hydrate without clogging pores,” making them ideal for acne-prone or oily skin types that want an oil-free option but still need that internal hydration to prevent further oil production.
Gel moisturizers are quickly absorbed and usually lightweight, leaving your skin feeling fresh and airy. The alcohol in gel moisturizer is what allows it to provide quick hydration but can cause dryness and irritation if you have sensitive skin.
If you're using gel all day everyday. That is too much. Your hair needs time to breathe and keeping product in your hair 24/7 can be bad for your hair's health. Try to go a day here and there without styling.
“Hydrators help to absorb water from the atmosphere and infuse the water into your skin cells making them appear plumper whereas a moisturiser helps to lock in the moisture into the skin cells keeping them hydrated.” Here's a handy guide to understanding which works best for your skin type.
Generally speaking, lotions will be richer formulations than their gel counterparts, meaning they're ideal for drier skin types, especially those who may find themselves in dry climates.
Fortunately, moisturiser itself can't cause acne. However, the way you apply it can. Over moisturising can have a detrimental effect on your skin. Not only will it clog up your pores, but it can also stick dead cells to the skin's surface and stop oxygen from getting to the skin.
My already dry skin is in constant need of extra moisture from the first day of winter through the last. To quench it, gel-cream moisturizers provide substantial hydration without feeling heavy on your skin, says Naissan Wesley, MD, a board-certified dermatologist.
Here's where gel-based moisturises come in handy. Renowned dermatologist, Dr Ajay Rana opines, "They are more suitable for oily and combination skin types which are more prone to breakouts," as they hydrate and moisturise the skin without leaving an unwanted layer of greasy residue behind which further blocks the skin.
Works on all skin types
Face gels contain fewer emollients and oils than regular face moisturizing products that are cream-based or oil-based, and thus work for every skin type. However, experts suggest that face gels are a better option for those with oily and combination skin, since they are typically water based.
So, anything that is water- or alcohol-based should come first, followed by your gels, then your light lotions, then heavier creams, thick serums, and, finally, anything ointment-based (i.e. water-free).
If you're using a moisturizer that suits your skin type, a nickel-sized amount should be enough for your whole face. If you use too much: Overdoing moisturizer can make your skin shiny and lead to breakouts. It can also feel heavy on your skin and make it harder to put on your makeup.
Gel manicures can cause nail brittleness, peeling and cracking, and repeated use can increase the risk for skin cancer and premature skin aging on the hands.
Continual use of hair gel is catastrophic and if you wish to have a hairy head, you need to stop using hair gels too often. Once in awhile is fine as it won't affect the sebum production. Not just that, loss of moisture and dry scalp can also trigger scalp infections.
Gel or water-based moisturizers should be applied in circular motions until they are completely absorbed. Dr. Mack says, “When applied, moisturizers should make skin feel hydrated but not oily.” If you over-apply, gently pat away excess product with a clean, damp washcloth.
The reason being is that your skin will absorb what it needs to keep your skin looking fresh. The rest of the product then sits atop your face and forms a thin layer of oil, bacteria, and other ingredients. This layer will then clog the pores and whenever cores get clogged, pimples and zits form.
Moisturising prevents the skin's natural exfoliation by smoothing the skin cells and stopping them from sloughing off. So by stopping moisturising, this actually stimulates cell turnover and encourages natural desquamation (that's the shedding of the outer layers of the skin).