C.R.E.A.M 2.0
C.R.E.A.M 2.0
Product Description
Product overview
Regimen Lab C.R.E.A.M. 2.0 is a science-driven, high-ceramide barrier repair moisturizer powered by 2.5% pure ceramides in a clinically-backed 3:1:1:1 ratio with cholesterol and fatty acids, plus a 10-ingredient soothing complex featuring 5% panthenol, 1% bisabolol, and colloidal oat. Designed to repair compromised skin, reduce inflammation, and restore long-term hydration without fragrance, alcohol, or essential oils.
2.5% Pure Ceramides
Over 10x the concentration of typical ceramide creams, in a clinically-validated 3:1:1:1 ratio with cholesterol and fatty acids.
Texture & feel
SENSORY2.5% Pure Ceramides
Over 10x the concentration of typical ceramide creams, in a clinically-validated 3:1:1:1 ratio with cholesterol and fatty acids.
10-Ingredient Soothing Complex
5% panthenol, 1% colloidal oat, 1% glycyrrhetinic acid, 1% bisabolol, 0.5% allantoin, plus avenanthramides A–D and ginger extract.
Advanced Hydration Stack
5% glycerin paired with 2% isosorbide dicaprylate — clinical studies show this delivers up to 3x longer hydration than glycerin alone.
Self-Preserving Formula
No traditional preservatives — natural antimicrobial properties of the actives reduce irritation potential for sensitive skin.
PPAR Activator Complex
Palmitamide MEA, hydroxystearic acid, and avenanthramides activate skin's own lipid synthesis for long-term barrier reinforcement.
Transparent Concentrations
Every key active percentage is published on the label — no proprietary blends, no marketing fluff, just scientific receipts.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe during pregnancy and lactation.
Contains fatty acids (linoleic, linolenic, myristic, hydroxystearic), cetearyl glucoside, and laureth-7 which can feed Malassezia yeast.
Compatible with retinol, vitamin C, niacinamide, AHAs, BHAs, and azelaic acid. Often recommended as a buffer to reduce irritation from strong actives.
Free of common irritants: fragrance, essential oils, alcohol, denatured alcohol, and known sensitizers. Designed for reactive and barrier-compromised skin.
Petrolatum and certain fatty alcohols may pose minor concerns for very acne-prone skin. Most users report no breakouts, but patch test first.
Never tested on animals. The cholesterol and ceramides are synthetically produced or plant-derived.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSCeramides EOP + NP 2.5%Proven
The hero of C.R.E.A.M. 2.0. Two pure ceramides in a 3:1:1:1 ratio with cholesterol and fatty acids — mimicking the lipid composition of healthy skin. At 2.5% total, this is over ten times the concentration found in most drugstore ceramide creams.
- Clinical research: Ceramides at 2.5%+ have been shown to significantly reduce transepidermal water loss in barrier-compromised skin.
- Ratio matters: The 3:1:1:1 ceramide-to-cholesterol-to-fatty-acid balance is considered the gold standard for atopic and reactive skin.
- Skin-identical: Ceramide NP and EOP naturally occur in the stratum corneum and bind directly into the skin's lipid matrix.
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) 5%Proven
A powerhouse humectant and skin-soothing agent. At 5%, this is a treatment-level dose — far higher than the 0.5–2% typical of most moisturizers.
- Barrier support: Panthenol stimulates fibroblast proliferation and helps the skin produce more of its own lipids.
- Anti-inflammatory: Studies show it can reduce irritation triggered by other actives, fragrances, and chemical sunscreens.
- Wound healing: Used clinically to support recovery after laser, micro-needling, and other procedures.
Glycerin 5%Proven
The most studied humectant in skincare. Pulls water from deeper layers of the skin and the environment to keep the surface hydrated.
- Effective threshold: Research confirms benefits begin at 3% and scale up to 20–40% for severely dry skin.
- Antimicrobial: At higher concentrations, glycerin contributes to the formula's self-preserving properties.
- 2016 study: Found glycerin to be more effective than AHAs and hyaluronic acid as a humectant.
Petrolatum ~3-5%Proven
The most effective occlusive agent known to dermatology. Reduces transepidermal water loss by up to 99% — a level no plant oil can match.
- Gold standard occlusive: Recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology for eczema, dermatitis, and barrier repair.
- Non-comedogenic at cosmetic grades: Highly purified USP-grade petrolatum does not clog pores in most users.
- Inert & hypoallergenic: Does not absorb into skin and has no known allergens.
Isosorbide Dicaprylate 2%Promising
A next-generation humectant from sugar beets that signals skin to produce more of its own moisturizing molecules (AQP3 and CD44).
- Clinical study: A 2% lotion kept skin three times more hydrated than 2% glycerin in real-user testing.
- Anti-inflammatory: In-vitro lab tests showed it calmed irritation and supported healthier skin cell renewal.
- Long-term effect: Activates the skin's natural hydration mechanisms rather than just sitting on the surface.
Bisabolol 1%Proven
A natural soothing compound derived from chamomile. Clinically shown to reduce redness and calm inflamed skin.
- Anti-irritant: Inhibits inflammatory cytokines (IL-1, TNF-α) that drive sensitivity flare-ups.
- Penetration enhancer: Helps other beneficial actives reach deeper layers of the skin.
- Suitable for rosacea: Frequently recommended for chronically reactive and red skin.
Glycyrrhetinic Acid (Licorice Root) 1%Proven
An active compound from licorice root with potent anti-inflammatory and brightening properties.
- Cortisone-like action: Mimics topical hydrocortisone in calming flare-ups, without steroid side effects.
- Pigmentation support: Inhibits tyrosinase to gradually fade post-inflammatory dark marks.
- Eczema relief: Studied in atopic dermatitis treatment with positive outcomes.
Colloidal Oat & Avenanthramides 1% + extractsProven
Avena Sativa kernel flour and extract, plus standardized avenanthramides A, B, C, and D — the most potent anti-inflammatory compounds in oats.
- FDA-recognized: Colloidal oat is approved as a skin protectant for eczema and irritation.
- Itch relief: Avenanthramides reduce histamine-driven itching and redness.
- Antioxidant: Avenanthramides have anti-aging benefits beyond soothing.
Allantoin 0.5%Proven
A skin protectant that promotes cell turnover and softens flaky, rough texture.
- Keratolytic: Gently removes dead surface cells without abrasion or irritation.
- Healing booster: Used clinically to support recovery from minor wounds and burns.
Cholesterol + Fatty Acid Complex ~5% totalProven
Linoleic acid, linolenic acid, palmitamide MEA, myristic acid, and hydroxystearic acid round out the lipid matrix alongside cholesterol.
- Barrier-identical lipids: These match the natural fatty composition of the stratum corneum.
- PPAR activation: Palmitamide MEA and hydroxystearic acid trigger the skin's own lipid synthesis pathways.
- Linoleic acid benefit: Studies suggest it may help reduce comedone formation in acne-prone users.
39 ingredients
Water, Glycerin, Petrolatum, Panthenol, Pentylene Glycol, Behenyl Alcohol, Butylene Glycol, Dimethicone, Decyl Glucoside, Polysilicone-11, Isosorbide Dicaprylate, Arachidyl Alcohol, Arachidyl Glucoside, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Glucoside, Bisabolol, Ceramide EOP, Ceramide NP, 4-T-Butylcyclohexanol, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Flour, Glycyrrhetinic Acid, Allantoin, Linoleic Acid, Linolenic Acid, Palmitamide MEA, Cholesterol, Myristic Acid, Hydroxystearic Acid, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract, Avenanthramides, Hydroxymethoxyphenyl Decanone, Tocopherol, Lactic Acid, Polyacrylamide, C13-14 Isoparaffin, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Laureth-7, Potassium Sorbate.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEC.R.E.A.M. 2.0 is the final hydration step before SPF in the morning, or the last step of your evening routine. It locks in everything underneath while reinforcing the barrier overnight.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Apply Serums
Start with clean, slightly damp skin. Apply your treatment serums (vitamin C, retinol, niacinamide, etc.) and let them absorb for 30–60 seconds.
Dispense a Pea-Sized Amount
A small dab is enough thanks to the improved spreadability of the 2.0 formula. Use more on dry zones or for full neck and chest.
Press & Smooth Across Face
Warm between fingertips and press gently into the skin, then smooth outward across the face and neck. Avoid rubbing.
Use Twice Daily
Apply morning and night. In the AM, follow with broad-spectrum SPF 30+. For very irritated skin, brand recommends use as an in-shower moisturizer before drying off.
Multi-Use Tip
Excellent on chapped lips, cuticles, dry elbows, or post-procedure skin. Also doubles as an overnight slugging alternative for those who don't tolerate pure petrolatum.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have a damaged or compromised skin barrier
- Your skin is dry, dehydrated, flaky, or tight
- You experience eczema, dermatitis, or chronic redness
- You use strong actives (retinoids, AHAs, BHAs) and need a buffer
- You have post-procedure or post-irritation skin
- You prefer fragrance-free, science-backed formulas
- You want one moisturizer that works AM and PM, year-round
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe moisturizer
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
- You prefer ultra-light gels for very oily skin in humid climates
- You dislike richer, slightly occlusive textures
- You have a known allergy to oats or licorice extract
- You want a tinted or anti-aging-focused moisturizer with peptides
- You're on a tight budget and can find acceptable drugstore alternatives
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESDesigned for this exact concern. Petrolatum, ceramides, and isosorbide dicaprylate deliver deep, long-lasting hydration.
Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, with a 10-ingredient soothing complex. Excellent for eczema-prone and reactive skin.
Works well, though oilier zones may prefer a thinner layer. Reformulated 2.0 spreads more easily than the original.
Effective for barrier repair, but the petrolatum-rich base may feel heavy on very oily skin in summer or humid climates.
Most acne sufferers tolerate it well. Linoleic acid may even help. However, not safe for fungal acne — patch test first.
High-ceramide formulas are ideal for mature skin where natural lipid production declines. Pairs beautifully with retinol.
Results timeline
6–8 WEEKSSoft, Comforted Skin
Tightness disappears within minutes. Skin feels soothed, plumper, and smoother to the touch immediately after application.
95% noticedReduced Redness & Irritation
The 10-ingredient soothing complex calms visible inflammation. Reactive flare-ups, post-active stinging, and rough patches start to fade.
82% noticedStronger Barrier & Even Tone
Transepidermal water loss decreases. Skin tolerates actives better. Texture is more uniform and breakouts heal faster without lingering marks.
76% noticedLong-Term Resilience
Skin maintains hydration longer between applications. Sensitivity to weather, fragrance, and acids drops noticeably. Overall skin "health score" improves.
68% noticedRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Industry-leading 2.5% pure ceramide concentration
- Transparent, published percentages of all key actives
- Repairs barrier visibly within 2–4 weeks
- Fragrance-free and very low irritation potential
- Excellent buffer for retinol, AHA, and BHA users
- Self-preserving formula minimizes added preservatives
- Comforts eczema, post-procedure, and reactive skin
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
Criticized
- Premium price (~$44 for 50ml)
- Not fungal acne (Malassezia) safe
- 50ml size depletes quickly with full face + neck use
- May feel slightly heavy on oily skin in hot weather
- Mostly direct-to-consumer (limited retail availability)
- International shipping costs can be high
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESContains the same 3 ceramides but at significantly lower concentration. Lacks the soothing complex (no panthenol at 5%, no bisabolol, no licorice). Solid barrier basics, but less specialized for compromised skin.
Includes ceramides, niacinamide, and prebiotic thermal water. Lighter texture but lower ceramide percentage. Good drugstore option for sensitive skin without the premium pricing.
K-beauty rival with five ceramides plus ceramide-stimulating peptides. Slightly heavier finish, more "balm-like." Better for very dry winter skin, but lacks the soothing complex depth.
Lower-cost barrier-style moisturizer with NMF, amino acids, and HA. No active ceramide percentage disclosed; lacks soothing complex. Good entry-level option but far less repair-focused.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid bathroom humidity for longer shelf life.
Airless pump tube (50ml) — minimizes air exposure and preserves active ingredient stability.
Yes — under 100ml, TSA-compliant for carry-on luggage. Pump format prevents leaks.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. C.R.E.A.M. 2.0 contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters — the main categories that pregnant or breastfeeding individuals are advised to avoid. Its ingredients (ceramides, panthenol, glycerin, petrolatum, oat, licorice) are widely considered safe during pregnancy and lactation. As always, consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist if you have specific concerns.
No. The formula contains several ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast: linoleic acid, linolenic acid, myristic acid, hydroxystearic acid, cetearyl glucoside, and laureth-7. If you have confirmed fungal acne (small uniform itchy bumps, often on forehead, chest, or back), this is not the ideal choice. Look for fungal-acne-safe alternatives based on glycerin, propylene glycol, and squalane instead.
Absolutely — in fact, this is one of its primary use cases. C.R.E.A.M. 2.0 is widely recommended as a buffer or finishing moisturizer to reduce irritation from retinol, tretinoin, vitamin C (ascorbic acid), glycolic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, and azelaic acid. Apply your active first, wait 60 seconds, then layer C.R.E.A.M. 2.0 on top to lock in benefits and minimize stinging or peeling.
It performs best on dry, dehydrated, sensitive, and barrier-compromised skin. Mature skin and eczema-prone skin also benefit greatly. Combination skin tolerates it well year-round. Oily skin can use it in winter or as a night cream, but may find it slightly heavy in summer or humid climates. Acne-prone (non-fungal) users typically tolerate it without breakouts due to its low comedogenic profile.
Comfort and softness are immediate. Visible reduction in redness and irritation typically shows within 3–7 days. Stronger, more resilient barrier function (less reactivity, fewer flare-ups, better tolerance to actives) develops over 2–4 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. Long-term skin "health" benefits — including improved tone, texture, and reduced sensitivity to weather — are reported around 6–8 weeks.
It is the final hydration step, applied after cleanser, toner, and any treatment or hydrating serums — but before SPF in the morning. In the evening, it is typically the last step. The brand also recommends it as an in-shower moisturizer for severely irritated skin, applied to damp skin before towel drying.
It carries a moderate-low comedogenic rating of approximately 2/5. Petrolatum and certain fatty alcohols (cetearyl alcohol, behenyl alcohol) have theoretical pore-clogging potential, but in practice the vast majority of acne-prone users report no breakouts. Linoleic acid in the formula may even support clearer pores. If you are highly comedogenic-reactive, patch test on the jawline for 2 weeks before full-face use.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. The airless pump packaging helps preserve the formula by limiting air and contamination exposure, but for optimal performance use within one year of opening. Store away from direct sunlight and high heat. Despite being a "self-preserving" formula, hygiene practices (clean hands, no double-dipping) help extend shelf life.
Verdict: Regimen Lab C.R.E.A.M. 2.0 sits in a small group of moisturizers that genuinely deliver on the "barrier repair" promise — and back it up with disclosed percentages, peer-reviewed actives, and a 10-ingredient soothing complex you'd typically only find in a dedicated treatment serum. With 2.5% pure ceramides (over 10x most drugstore competitors), 5% panthenol, and clinically-validated isosorbide dicaprylate, it punches well above its $44 price tag for science-driven users dealing with sensitivity, dryness, eczema, or post-active irritation. The trade-offs are real — it is not fungal-acne safe, the 50ml size depletes quickly, and oily skin in summer may want something lighter. But for anyone serious about repairing a compromised barrier without fragrance, alcohol, or marketing fluff, this is one of the most thoughtfully formulated moisturizers on the market today.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 4 |
Petrolatum
Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Uv Absorber, Moisturising, Skin-Conditioning Agent - Occlusive
|
|
|
| 1 |
Panthenol
Skin Conditioning, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 1 |
Pentylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Behenyl Alcohol
Emollient, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Binding Agent, Binding
|
|







