“The advantage of gels is that they can be very hydrating and quickly absorbed so they’re perfect for layering,” says Dr Justine Hextall, FRCP Consultant Dermatologist. “There is so much interest in actives and as such several products may need to be applied, gel works well for this.”
With the hotter weather in the UK and the continued wearing of face masks you might find your oil-based products clogging your pores, leading to breakouts. “Using a lightweight gel that is non-greasy, helps to hydrate and protect the skin barrier, reducing dryness and irritation under a mask without being comedogenic,” says Dr Hextall. And in the cooler months, when dryness is more of a concern, she suggests layering gel formulas with a non-gel moisturiser to lock in hydration.