Ceramides Cream
Ceramides Cream
Product Description
Product overview
A rich, deeply hydrating triple ceramide cream formulated with Niacinamide and Glycerin to support and restore your skin's protective barrier. Provides up to 24-hour hydration for a smooth, radiant, and healthy-looking complexion. Dermatologist-recommended for sensitive, dry, and eczema-prone skin.
Triple Ceramide Complex
Contains three essential ceramides (EOP, NP, AP) that mimic your skin's natural lipid barrier for optimal barrier repair.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTriple Ceramide Complex
Contains three essential ceramides (EOP, NP, AP) that mimic your skin's natural lipid barrier for optimal barrier repair.
24-Hour Hydration
Clinically tested to provide long-lasting moisture retention and reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
Niacinamide Enhanced
Vitamin B3 helps strengthen the skin barrier, reduce sensitivity, and promote a healthy, even-toned complexion.
Sensitive Skin Friendly
Fragrance-free, colour-free, and dermatologist tested. Suitable for eczema-prone and sensitive skin.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Contains potential malassezia triggers including Petrolatum, Cetearyl Alcohol, Stearic Acid, and Glyceryl Stearate.
Won't clog pores. Ophthalmologist tested and suitable for use around the eye area with caution.
Dermatologist tested and recommended for sensitive, eczema-prone, and acne-prone skin types.
Contains Methylparaben as a preservative. Generally considered safe but may be a concern for those avoiding parabens.
Can be used with retinol products. Apply this cream after retinol to buffer potential irritation.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSTriple Ceramides (EOP, NP, AP)Proven
Three essential ceramides identical to those naturally found in your skin. Ceramides make up approximately 50% of the lipids in your skin's outer layer, playing a crucial role in maintaining barrier function and hydration.
- Function: Restores and maintains the skin's natural protective barrier
- Research: Studies show ceramides help seal in moisture and protect against environmental aggressors
- Benefit: Supports overall skin health and reduces transepidermal water loss
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)Proven
A multi-functional skincare powerhouse with extensive research backing its benefits for skin barrier function, hydration, and overall skin health improvement.
- Function: Helps maintain normal skin barrier function and reduces sensitivity
- Research: 4-5% concentration shown to fade dark spots and stimulate ceramide synthesis
- Benefit: Improves skin texture, reduces redness, and enhances hydration
Glycerin High ConcentrationProven
A powerful humectant that attracts and holds water to the skin, providing immediate and long-lasting hydration. One of the most well-researched moisturizing ingredients.
- Function: Draws moisture from the environment and deeper skin layers to hydrate
- Research: Proven to improve skin hydration, barrier function, and mechanical properties
- Benefit: Leaves skin soft, supple, and well-hydrated without greasiness
Petrolatum & Mineral OilProven
Highly effective occlusive agents that create a protective barrier on the skin's surface to prevent moisture loss. Gold-standard ingredients in dermatology for treating dry skin.
- Function: Creates a physical barrier to seal in moisture and protect skin
- Research: Over 100 years of safe use in skincare with excellent tolerability
- Benefit: Ideal for very dry, cracked, or compromised skin conditions
SqualaneProven
A skin-identical lipid that mimics your skin's natural sebum. Lightweight, non-greasy, and excellent for all skin types including acne-prone skin.
- Function: Provides emollient benefits while maintaining skin hydration
- Research: Antioxidant properties help protect against environmental damage
- Benefit: Absorbs quickly without clogging pores or leaving residue
23 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Glycerin, Paraffinum Liquidum, Petrolatum, Cetearyl Alcohol, Dimethicone, Ceteareth-20, Stearic Acid, Glyceryl Stearate, Squalane, Laureth-3, Methylparaben, Dichlorobenzyl Alcohol, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Niacinamide, Ceramide AP, Ceramide NP, Ceramide EOP, Phytosphingosine, Cholesterol, Xanthan Gum, Carbomer, Ethylhexylglycerin.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as the moisturizing step in both AM and PM routines. Use after serums and before sunscreen (AM) or as the final step (PM). Can also be used on the body after showering.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Skin
Start with clean skin. Use QV Ceramides Cleanser or your preferred gentle cleanser. Pat skin dry without rubbing.
Apply to Damp Skin
Take a generous amount and apply to slightly damp face and body. This helps lock in extra moisture.
Massage Gently
Massage the cream into your skin using gentle upward motions until fully absorbed. Allow 1-2 minutes for absorption.
Follow with Sunscreen (AM)
In the morning, follow with SPF 30+ sunscreen. At night, this can be your final skincare step.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dry, very dry, or dehydrated skin
- You struggle with a compromised skin barrier
- You have sensitive or eczema-prone skin
- You need a fragrance-free moisturizer
- You want pharmacy-grade barrier repair
- You prefer Australian-made skincare
- You need a face AND body moisturizer
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You prefer lightweight, gel-cream textures
- You want to avoid mineral oil/petrolatum
- You need a paraben-free formula
- You have very oily skin that clogs easily
- You prefer natural/organic ingredients only
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESPerfect match. Rich formula provides intense hydration and barrier repair that dry skin craves.
Fragrance-free, dermatologist tested. Gentle enough for reactive and sensitive skin types.
Works well on dry areas. May be too rich for oily T-zone; consider using only on dry patches.
May feel too heavy. Consider the QV Ceramides Lotion for a lighter alternative.
Non-comedogenic formula suitable for acne-prone skin. However, avoid if you have fungal acne.
Specifically formulated for eczema-prone skin. Ceramides help restore the compromised barrier.
Results timeline
8+ WEEKSInstant Hydration & Comfort
Skin feels immediately softer, more comfortable, and hydrated. Tightness and dryness are relieved upon first application.
95% noticedImproved Moisture Retention
Skin barrier begins to strengthen. Reduced flakiness, less irritation, and skin holds moisture better throughout the day.
85% noticedVisible Barrier Improvement
Significant improvement in skin barrier function. Skin appears healthier, more resilient, and less reactive to irritants.
78% noticedGlowing, Healthy Skin
Long-term barrier restoration complete. Skin is visibly smoother, more radiant, and better equipped to handle environmental stressors.
70% noticedRatings by platform
203+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Excellent value for money (large sizes available)
- Triple ceramide formula for barrier repair
- Fragrance-free and colour-free
- Dermatologist tested and recommended
- Works well for eczema and sensitive skin
- Australian made with 70+ years expertise
- Non-comedogenic despite rich texture
- Suitable for face and body use
Criticized
- Not fungal acne (malassezia) safe
- Contains parabens (Methylparaben)
- May sting on very compromised skin initially
- Too heavy for oily skin types
- Limited travel-friendly sizes
- Tub packaging less hygienic than pump
- Contains mineral oil/petrolatum (not for everyone)
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Same 3 essential ceramides (EOP, NP, AP) plus hyaluronic acid and MVE technology for time-released hydration. More widely available globally.
K-beauty alternative with patented Ceramide PC-104 complex. Fragrance-free and vegan. Claims 100-hour hydration. Slightly lighter texture.
French pharmacy formula with single ceramide (NP) plus shea butter and thermal water. Contains prebiotics for microbiome support. 48-hour hydration.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
100g tub or 500g pump bottle
100g size exceeds carry-on liquid limits. Consider decanting into smaller containers for travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, QV Ceramides Cream is safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens that are typically advised against during pregnancy. The formula focuses on barrier-supporting ingredients like ceramides, glycerin, and niacinamide which are considered safe for expectant and nursing mothers.
No, QV Ceramides Cream is not fungal acne safe. It contains several potential malassezia triggers including Petrolatum, Cetearyl Alcohol, Stearic Acid, and Glyceryl Stearate. If you have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis), consider alternatives like the QV Ceramides Cleanser (which is FA-safe) or look for specifically formulated FA-safe moisturizers.
Yes! QV Ceramides Cream is an excellent companion for active ingredients. Use it after retinol to help buffer potential irritation and support barrier repair. With vitamin C, apply the serum first, wait for absorption, then follow with this cream. For AHA/BHA, apply acids first on clean skin, wait 15-20 minutes, then apply this cream to soothe and hydrate. The ceramides and niacinamide actually help support skin while using actives.
QV Ceramides Cream is best suited for dry to very dry skin, sensitive skin, eczema-prone skin, and anyone with a compromised skin barrier. It's excellent for those experiencing dehydration, flakiness, or irritation. While it's non-comedogenic and suitable for acne-prone skin, those with oily skin may find the texture too rich and should consider the lighter QV Ceramides Lotion instead.
You'll notice immediate hydration and comfort upon first application. Within 1-2 weeks, you should see improved moisture retention and reduced flakiness. Significant barrier improvement typically occurs around 4 weeks of consistent use. For long-term barrier restoration and visibly healthier, more resilient skin, continue use for 8+ weeks. Results vary based on your skin's initial condition.
Apply QV Ceramides Cream as the moisturizing step in your routine: after cleansing, toning, and serums. In the morning, follow with sunscreen. At night, it can be your final step (or followed by a face oil if desired). The general rule is thin to thick consistency—this cream should come after lighter, water-based products but before heavier occlusives.
QV Ceramides Cream is labeled as non-comedogenic and has been ophthalmologically tested. The comedogenic rating is approximately 1/5, meaning it has a very low likelihood of clogging pores. However, individual responses vary. While it's suitable for acne-prone skin, those prone to fungal acne should avoid it due to certain ingredients that can feed malassezia yeast.
QV Ceramides Cream has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Store it below 30°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain efficacy. The 100g tub typically lasts 2-3 months with daily face use, while the 500g size can last 6+ months depending on usage frequency and whether you apply it to both face and body.
Verdict: QV Ceramides Cream is an excellent pharmacy-grade moisturizer for anyone seeking serious barrier repair and hydration. The triple ceramide formula combined with niacinamide delivers proven results for dry, sensitive, and eczema-prone skin. While not suitable for those with fungal acne and perhaps too rich for oily skin types, it offers exceptional value with its generous sizing and affordable price point. A solid choice from a trusted Australian brand with over 70 years of skincare expertise.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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
Anti-Aging from 3 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Paraffinum Liquidum
Emollient, Skin Protecting, Solvent
|
|
|
| 4 |
Petrolatum
Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Uv Absorber, Moisturising, Skin-Conditioning Agent - Occlusive
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cetearyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Opacifying, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasingagent - Aqueous, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Emulsifying, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 3 |
Dimethicone
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Antifoaming Agent, Skin Protecting
|
|
|
| 0 |
Ceteareth-20
Cleansing, Emulsifying
|
|