Here’s my daily truth: I struggle to drink two litres of water, and my five-a-day is more of a three, but I want nothing more than for my skin to glow. Does this sound familiar? Even if you’re the complete opposite, the latest trend I’ve been trying will definitely pique your interest.
As Campaign Editor, every week, I take time to study common trends and themes around new product launches, and there’s one major element that keeps cropping up. You guessed it, it’s water.
Water is the elixir of life and quenched skin is in. From skincare right through to makeup, if you prefer the freeing feeling of wearing nothing or contrary, if you love to layer; water-textures are for everyone. So whether you remember to stay hydrated or not, this texture switch is something to take note of. My results speak for themselves…
#1 The Water-Based Moisturiser
Kiehl’s Calendula Serum-Infused Water Cream
When it comes to moisturiser, there are two caveats I have: it has to actually hydrate my skin, and it has to sit seamlessly under makeup; Kiehl’s Calendula Water Cream ticks both of those boxes and more.
The weightless texture of this daily moisturiser is a huge plus, as you can tell by the name, it feels more like a super-luxe serum than a moisturiser, which my oily skin loves. Sometimes thin consistencies can trick you into thinking you need to slather it on, but less is more with this day cream.
Since switching, I get no pilling, and my makeup looks more seamless and blended. I’ve learnt that my skin doesn’t like to be overburdened with skincare or makeup. I can really feel and see the difference of ‘’less is more’’.
At first, the water-cream feels like gel; its cooling texture refreshes as you massage it in, and the honeyed floral scent makes you instantly feel cleansed and pampered. After 30 seconds or so, the wet-feeling settles, leaving you with a cushiony texture and a healthy appearance to your skin.
Benefits of switching to water-based cream?
In my opinion, this water-cream works a lot harder than most moisturisers I’ve tried. Instantly and over time, you can see it work its magic, and the only way you’d ever tell that it’s packed with hundreds of micronised Calendula petals is from the dewy glow it leaves – they get straight to work plumping, moisturising and adding radiance to your skin.
How do you use it?
After applying my serum, I pat the Calendula water cream into my skin in downwards motions. I then wait 2 minutes before applying my foundation.
#2 The Water-Based Eye Cream
Vichy Mineral 89 Eyes – Repairing Eye Fortifier
Does the hunt for the perfect eye cream ever stop? Since using Vichy’s Mineral 89 Eye Cream, I would concur that my search has definitely halted. Around this time of year, my hayfever goes nuts; bloodshot eyes, the lot. So after lots of itching and scratching, this cooling eye cream has been my saviour, I even keep it in the fridge for extra refreshment.
What makes this eye cream different? It’s made from 89% Vichy Thermal Water, which works wonders for sensitive eyes. Its mineral content rebuilds and restrengthen’s your skin’s barrier, which also makes it a solid recommendation for reactive eyes too.
As well as irritation and sensitivity, my eye area is also privy to dehydration lines, you know those horizontal lines that look like crepe paper? Just as I expected, the trusty hyaluronic acid infusion in this eye cream has diffused these. The caffeine has also helped to decongest my eyes; all of the puffiness I usually get with hayfever has gone down. I’m really impressed with my results, and it’s only been 3 months.
Benefits of using a water-based eye cream?
Switch to a water-based eye cream if you experience puffiness and fatigue. The cooling texture acts as a rejuvenating boost when flare-ups occur.
How do you use it?
Every morning and evening, before my serum and moisturiser. You can read more about how to apply eye cream properly here.
#3 The Water Spray
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Ultra 8 Daily Soothing Hydrating Concentrate
If your skin looks dull, feels tight or needs a quick moisture fix, this mist is the answer. This soothing facial mist is made up of only 8 ingredients, minus fragrance and alcohol – it will instantly calm, and comfort skin.
Although I haven’t got sensitive skin (it’s more oily/dehydrated), I’ve come to find the Ultra 8 mist to be a real staple in my skincare routine. Why? Since I’ve been using this instead of a toner, my skin’s texture has dramatically improved. Its thermal water content is an expert at repairing a weakened skin barrier, which for me, is the result of years of using stripping acne products and accidents with retinol.
To conclude. This is basically a spray on moisturiser, as it’s packed with glycerin to keep your skin supple and nourished. Another bonus? You can spray this around your face and eyes. So when hayfever starts to make my eyes itch, or perhaps, I’ve had one too many cocktails the night before, it’s my fail-safe SOS spray to help me feel human again.
Benefits of using a water spray?
Regardless of your skin type, thermal water sprays are one of the many hidden secrets to healthy skin. Essential for an extra shot of hydration, or a quick radiance boost, their minimal, but effective mists will keep your skin topped up with nutrients at all times.
How do you use it?
As a toner, or a lunch-time spritz; around eyes when hayfever strikes to soothe irritation and stinging. You can also use this on the body, and on any areas that are itchy and reactive.
#4 The Water-Based Foundation
bareMinerals Complexion Rescue Hydrating Foundation Stick SPF 25
I’m about to change preconceptions you have about stick foundations. bareMinerals’ latest Complexion Rescue stick foundation is made from 30% enhanced mineral water, the fresh-feel of this foundation is perfect for stuffy weather, and dehydrated skin.
If you’re looking to ‘downsize’ your coverage level, with the security of being able to build, then for summer, I highly recommend this, as it’s more light-to-medium, but with the opportunity to layer if you want to.
As I love the weightless feel and dewy finish of this foundation, I haven’t stopped there. I use 01 Opal to highlight under my eyes, 03 Buttercream as my base and 11 Cedar to bronze and add warmth to my skin.
Benefits of using a water-based foundation?
During summer, your skin does tend to get a lot more thirsty, so having a foundation that will emulate a glow, while keeping your moisture levels in check is what I call perfect timing. If your complexion is parched and dehydrated, you should definitely be using a water-based foundation. Not only will it create the appearance of soft skin, but its blendable texture also won’t cling to dry patches, neither will it look dry or cakey.
How do you use it?
bareMinerals has made this foundation very versatile. You can use the lighter shades to highlight or conceal, and you can also use the darker shades to contour and shape your face.
As the format is so easy to apply after you’ve used your primer, draw the stick onto areas that need the most coverage, and blend outwards and downwards with your fingers or a stippling brush.
The texture of this foundation melts into skin, speaking from experience, I would advise that you only twist the base slightly to release minimal product. Again, less is more, and don’t forget, you can build and build with this foundation – it never looks overdone.
