The Difference Between Water-Based vs Oil-Based Serums in UAE’s Climate
The UAE’s beauty scene is growing and so is the demand for targeted skincare products – such as face serums. These concentrated formulas are designed to deliver powerful ingredients directly into the skin. But UAE’s climate is unpredictable. With it’s temperature soaring above 40oC, high humidity, sandstorms, and constant exposure to air conditioning, choosing the right type of serum is very essential. Among the most common choices are water-based and oil-based serums. Each performs differently, and in the climate as different as UAE’s, using the wrong one can lead to breakouts, dullness, or dehydration.
According to P&S Intelligence, the UAE beauty & personal care market is projected to be USD 1.9 billion in 2025.
Moreover, a report by Grand View Research states that in the UAE CBD skincare market, serums are the fastest-growing product segment.
Water-based serums are light-weight, concentrated formulations, designed to penetrate deeply into the skin. It targets concerns such as fine lines, dark spots, and hydration. On the other hand, face oils are crafted from a blend of natural extracts. These oil create a protective layer on the skin, sealing in moisture, and promoting a healthy glow. This guide breaks down everything you need to know to make the best choice for your skin in UAE’s unique weather condition.
How the UAE’s Climate Affects Your Skin?
Understanding the weather helps you decide which serum type to use.
Outdoor Heat & Humidity
- Increases sweating
- Makes skin oilier
- Causes dehydration even when the skin looks shiny
- Makes heavy serums feel suffocating
Ideal choice: Water-based serums work best outdoors.
Indoor Air-Conditioning
- Pulls moisture out of the skin
- Causes dryness, flakiness, and tightness
- Worsens sensitivity
Ideal choice: Oil-based serums help restore moisture and protect your skin barrier.
Seasonal Shifts
- Summer (April–October): Extremely hot and humid — prefer lightweight water-based formulas.
- Winter (November–February): Cooler weather + strong AC — oil-based serums become more beneficial.
Understanding Water-Based Serums
Water-based serums are lightweight that gets deeply absorbed by the skin and use water as their main base. Because water molecules penetrate quickly, these serums deliver hydration and active ingredients deeper and faster than heavier products.
|
Lightweight formulation |
It is lightweight due to the water base and gets absorbed in the skin quickly without leaving any greasy effect. |
|
Highly performing active ingredients |
The skin brightening serum is formulated with active ingredients such rice milk extract, marine algae extract, alpha arbutin, and hyaluronic acid. They work together to brighten the skin and promote an even skin tone. |
|
Acne safe |
Face serum is versatile, addressing various skin issues. They work well for oily and combination skin as they provide hydration without clogging pores. |
Common Ingredients in Water-Based Serums
- Hyaluronic Acid – deep hydration
- Niacinamide – controls oil, brightens skin
- Vitamin C – boosts glow and evens tone
- Peptides – support collagen production
Benefits of Water-Based Serum in the UAE’s Climate
If you live in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or any Coastal City, you know how intense the heat and humidity can get. Water-based serums work well because they –
- Don’t feel heavy or sticky
- Absorb quickly even when you are sweating
- Provide hydration without clogging pores
- Helps balance excess oil production
Best for:
- Oily Skin
- Combination Skin
- Acne-prone skin
- People exposed to extreme heat and humidity
What are Oil-Based Serums?
Oil-based serums use plant oils or botanical extracts as their foundation. These serums are rich, nourishing, and designed to seal the moisture in the skin.
|
Rich in Nutrients |
Face oils are oil-based and contain essential fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants. They provide deep hydration, nourishing the skin, and supporting its natural barrier function. |
|
Seal in Moisture |
Oils create a protective layer on the skin’s surface. It’s particularly beneficial for individuals with dry or mature skin. |
|
Anti-aging properties |
Oil-based serums contain ingredients like moringa oil to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Moringa oil benefits for the skin are countless. It helps stimulate collagen production and improve skin elasticity. |
Common Ingredients in Oil-Based Serums
- Argan Oil – deeply moisturising
- Squalene – lightweight, non-comedogenic
- Rosehip Oil – brightening and anti-aging
- Jojoba Oil – mimics skin’s natural sebum
Benefits of Oil-based Serum in the UAE’s Climate
While the UAE is hot and humid outside, indoor environments tell a different story. Air-conditioning is a constant, and AC can rapidly strip your skin of moisture.
Oil-based serums are extremely useful because they:
- Prevent moisture loss in drying indoor conditions
- Repair damaged skin barrier
- Soothe irritation and flakiness
- Provide long-lasting softness
Best For:
- Dry skin
- Sensitive skin
- Mature skin
- People who spend most of the day in AC rooms (offices, malls, homes)
Which one is better water-based or oil-based serum?
Both water based and oil based serums have their own advantage, and the choice between them depends on the skin’s preferences and needs. Both types can be considered great for different reasons.
|
Feature |
Water-Based Serums |
Oil-Based Serums |
|
Texture |
Light, fast-absorbing |
Rich, nourishing |
|
Best Climate Condition |
Outdoor heat/humidity |
Indoor AC dryness |
|
Skin Types |
Oily, combination, acne-prone |
Dry, sensitive, mature |
|
Key Benefit |
Hydration, brightening, oil-control |
Barrier repair, moisture locking |
|
Layering |
Go first |
Always go last |
|
Pore-Clogging Risk |
Very low |
Low–medium depending on oil type |
Water-based serums are often preferred by those with oily or combination skin because they are lightweight and non-greasy. They are typically absorbed quickly and can provide hydration without clogging pores. Water-based serums are also suitable for individuals living in humid climates. Water-based face serums are the best face serums for women and are suitable for all skin types.
On the other hand, oil-based face serums are the best face serums for dry skin or mature skin, as they provide a nourishing and hydrating barrier that helps lock in moisture. However, it's important to avoid overuse. Always patch-test before using it on your skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which serum is better for UAE’s hot and humid weather?
Water-based serums are generally better for outdoor heat and humidity because they absorb quickly, feel lightweight, and do not clog pores.
2. Are oil-based serums too heavy for UAE summers?
They can feel heavy outdoors in summer, but they work extremely well indoors, where air-conditioning causes dryness. Many people prefer using oil-based serums only at night.
3. Can I use both water-based and oil-based serums together?
Yes. Layer the water-based serum first, then seal it in with an oil-based serum to boost hydration and protect your skin barrier.
4. Do water-based serums help with oily skin?
Absolutely. Water-based serums with niacinamide or hyaluronic acid hydrate the skin without adding grease and help balance excess oil production.
5. Are oil-based serums suitable for acne-prone skin?
Some oils (like squalane and jojoba) are non-comedogenic and safe for acne-prone skin. Heavier oils like coconut oil should be avoided.
