Secrets of a Sexy, Safe Tan

Skin Coolers

If, like many women, you notice that your face feels oilier during the sweltering summer months, you may want to send your thick, creamy moisturizers and cleansers on vacation. Then try lightening up your skincare routine with gel-based products. Although gels have traditionally been recommended for breakout-prone skin, we're now seeing them formulated for all skin types -- dry, combination, and oily. Gel-based skin products feel more soothing on contact than creams or lotions, thanks to their cool consistency. And because they're water-based, they evaporate quickly, leaving skin energized and refreshed. Also, some formulas tighten pores to make them appear smaller and minimize overall shine, which means smoother, prettier skin. Gels are available as light-as-air hydrators, and also as toners, exfoliators, and cleansers, meaning you can fit one anywhere in your regimen. Getting gorgeous, healthy skin this summer is suddenly no sweat!

1. Pond's Cool, Calm & Perfected Pore-Shrinking Gel Toner, $5.99, removes excess oil while maintaining skin's pH balance, plus it contains calming aloe and bamboo extracts.
2. Babor B. Young Moisture Gel, $24, instantly hydrates and nourishes dry skin with moisturizing algae extracts.
3. Lumene Matt Touch Balancing Gel Cleanser, $7.99, is ideal for combination skin, and it features papaya extract and wheat protein to help banish facial oil.
4. Yves Rocher Purifying Exfoliant, $9, is a twice-weekly foaming cleanser great for all skin types, thanks to its gently sloughing microgranules and soothing chamomile essence.