Ceramides Lotion
Ceramides Lotion
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, fast-absorbing lotion formulated with a triple ceramide complex (EOP, NP, AP), Niacinamide, and Glycerin to strengthen and repair the skin barrier while providing 24-hour hydration for a smooth, glowing complexion.
Triple Ceramide Complex
Contains Ceramide EOP, NP, and AP to replenish and strengthen the skin's natural lipid barrier.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTriple Ceramide Complex
Contains Ceramide EOP, NP, and AP to replenish and strengthen the skin's natural lipid barrier.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
Helps maintain barrier function, reduces sensitivity, and supports a healthy, even-toned complexion.
Glycerin Hydration
Powerful humectant that draws and holds moisture to the skin for long-lasting hydration.
Trans-Epidermal Water Loss Protection
Triple moisturising formula helps reduce water loss to maintain optimal skin hydration levels.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEQV confirms all products are safe during pregnancy when used as directed. Contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, or other pregnancy-restricted ingredients.
Contains Cetearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, and Petrolatum which may potentially feed Malassezia yeast. Patch test recommended for fungal acne-prone skin.
Clinically tested not to clog pores. Suitable for acne-prone skin types.
Fragrance-free, colour-free, and dermatologically tested for sensitive, eczema-prone skin.
Contains Methylparaben and Propylparaben at less than 0.5%, well within Australian TGA safety limits of 1%.
Safe for use around the eye area. Tested for eye safety and compatibility.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSTriple Ceramide Complex (EOP, NP, AP) 0.1-0.5%Proven
Ceramides are lipids naturally found in the skin's outer layer, making up about 50% of the stratum corneum. This triple complex mirrors the skin's natural ceramide composition to effectively repair and strengthen the barrier.
- Ceramide EOP: Essential for maintaining barrier integrity and preventing water loss
- Ceramide NP: Helps restore the skin's natural protective barrier
- Ceramide AP: Supports moisture retention and barrier function
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~1%Proven
A multi-functional skincare superstar that helps maintain normal skin barrier function, reduces sensitivity, and moisturises dry skin while supporting overall skin health.
- Barrier Support: Increases ceramide synthesis for a stronger, healthier skin barrier
- Anti-inflammatory: Helps calm redness and irritation in sensitive skin
- Hydration: Improves skin's moisture retention capabilities
Glycerin ~5-10%Proven
A powerful humectant that draws and holds water to the skin. Studies show glycerin is more effective than hyaluronic acid at maintaining skin hydration.
- Humectant Action: Attracts moisture from the environment and deeper skin layers
- Barrier Support: Helps maintain skin barrier function and prevents dryness
- Skin Identical: Naturally present in healthy skin
Petrolatum ~10-15%Proven
An effective occlusive that reduces transepidermal water loss by up to 99%. Creates a protective barrier that locks in moisture without clogging pores.
- Occlusive: Creates a hydrophobic barrier to prevent water evaporation
- Gold Standard: Considered the most effective occlusive ingredient available
Phytosphingosine 0.2-0.7%Promising
A sphingoid base naturally found in healthy skin that serves as a building block for ceramides and contributes to the skin's natural defense system.
- Antimicrobial: Research shows activity against acne-causing P. acnes bacteria
- Anti-inflammatory: Helps calm skin and reduce irritation
- NMF Component: Part of the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor
Cholesterol ~0.5%Proven
A vital skin-identical lipid that makes up about 25% of the skin barrier. Works synergistically with ceramides and fatty acids to maintain barrier integrity.
- Barrier Component: Essential for healthy skin barrier function
- Emollient: Softens and smooths the skin surface
24 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Petrolatum, Glycerin, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Dimethicone, Steareth-2, Ceteareth-20, Glyceryl Stearate, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Polyacrylic Acid, Dichlorobenzyl Alcohol, Triethanolamine, Niacinamide, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Phytosphingosine, Ceramide AP, Ceramide NP, Ceramide EOP, Cholesterol, Xanthan Gum, Carbomer, Ethylhexylglycerin
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after water-based serums and before sunscreen (AM) or as final step (PM). Can be used on face and body.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse First
Start with clean skin. Use QV Ceramides Cleanser or your preferred gentle cleanser to remove impurities.
Apply to Damp Skin
For best absorption, apply the lotion while skin is still slightly damp to lock in extra moisture.
Dispense & Spread
Pump an adequate amount onto your palm and gently massage onto face and body using upward motions.
Allow Absorption
Wait 30-60 seconds for the lotion to fully absorb before applying makeup or sunscreen.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dry, sensitive, or eczema-prone skin
- Your skin barrier is compromised or damaged
- You want fragrance-free, gentle hydration
- You need a face and body moisturiser in one
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding
- You use prescription retinoids and need barrier support
- You want dermatologically-tested products
- You prefer Australian-made skincare
Consider alternatives if:
- You have confirmed fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You prefer completely paraben-free products
- You need very rich, heavy-duty moisture
- You want anti-aging actives like retinol
- You prefer products with hyaluronic acid
- You have a known allergy to any ingredients
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESTriple ceramide complex and glycerin provide deep, lasting hydration. Petrolatum locks in moisture effectively.
Fragrance-free, colour-free formula specifically designed for sensitive and reactive skin types.
Lightweight texture works well for combination skin. May apply more sparingly in oily zones.
Non-comedogenic and absorbs well. Use sparingly or consider the lighter texture for facial use.
Non-comedogenic formula. Contains niacinamide which may help with acne. Use caution if fungal acne is a concern.
Specifically formulated for eczema-prone skin. Ceramides help restore compromised skin barrier.
Results timeline
4-8 WEEKSInstant Hydration & Comfort
Skin feels immediately softer, smoother, and more comfortable. Tight, dry feeling is relieved.
95% noticed immediate reliefImproved Skin Texture
Rough, flaky patches begin to smooth out. Skin appears more hydrated and even-toned.
85% saw texture improvementBarrier Strengthening
Skin barrier begins to strengthen. Less sensitivity and reactivity to environmental triggers.
80% reported reduced sensitivityLong-Term Skin Health
Visible improvement in overall skin health. Eczema flare-ups may decrease. Skin maintains hydration better.
75% experienced fewer flare-upsRatings by platform
850+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Excellent value for money at ~$14 for 350ml
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing, non-greasy
- Fragrance-free and suitable for sensitive skin
- Works well with prescription retinoids
- Pump bottle dispenses the right amount
- Can be used on face and body
- Australian-made with quality ingredients
- Soothes eczema and dry skin effectively
- 24-hour hydration claim holds up
Criticized
- May not be rich enough for very dry skin
- Contains parabens (though at safe levels)
- Not fully fungal acne safe
- Lower ceramide concentration than some competitors
- No hyaluronic acid in formula
- 1L size doesn't come with pump
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Contains 3 essential ceramides plus hyaluronic acid. MVE technology for extended release. Slightly richer texture. Widely available internationally.
No ceramides but excellent for sensitive skin. Lighter formula without niacinamide. Good budget alternative for basic hydration needs.
Australian brand with colloidal oatmeal instead of ceramides. Great for eczema but different active approach. Soap-free and pH balanced.
Contains ceramides and colloidal oatmeal. Richer texture suitable for very dry skin. Triple oat complex for soothing.
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
350ml pump bottle / 1L & 1.25L squeeze bottle
350ml exceeds 100ml limit for carry-on. Decant into travel containers or check luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, QV Ceramides Lotion is safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. According to QV/Ego Pharmaceuticals, all QV products are suitable for use during pregnancy when used according to pack label instructions. The formula contains no retinoids, high-dose salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or other pregnancy-restricted ingredients.
QV Ceramides Lotion is NOT fully fungal acne safe. It contains ingredients like Cetearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, and Petrolatum that may potentially feed the Malassezia yeast responsible for fungal acne. If you have confirmed fungal acne, consider alternatives specifically formulated to be malassezia-safe, or patch test carefully before full application.
Yes, QV Ceramides Lotion pairs excellently with active ingredients. Many users specifically use it to support skin barrier health while using prescription retinoids. The ceramides help counteract the dryness and irritation that can come from retinol, vitamin C, and exfoliating acids. Apply the lotion after water-based serums and allow actives to absorb first.
QV Ceramides Lotion is best suited for dry, sensitive, and eczema-prone skin types. It's also excellent for anyone with a compromised skin barrier. The lightweight formula works well for combination and oily skin types too, and its non-comedogenic formulation makes it suitable for acne-prone skin (except fungal acne).
You'll feel immediate hydration and skin comfort after the first application. Visible improvement in skin texture typically occurs within 1-2 weeks of consistent use. Meaningful barrier strengthening and reduced sensitivity generally develops over 2-4 weeks. For long-term skin health benefits and reduced eczema flare-ups, expect to see results after 4-8 weeks of regular use.
Apply QV Ceramides Lotion after cleansing and toning, and after any water-based serums. In your morning routine, apply it before sunscreen. In your evening routine, it can be your final step or applied before a heavier occlusive if needed. The lotion works on both face and body, making it versatile for your entire routine.
No, QV Ceramides Lotion is clinically tested and certified non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog pores. The lightweight formula absorbs well without leaving a greasy residue, making it suitable for acne-prone skin. However, individual reactions can vary, so patch testing is always recommended if you have highly reactive skin.
QV Ceramides Lotion has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. The product should be stored below 30°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The expiry date on packaging typically extends well beyond this, with some products showing expiry dates 2+ years from purchase. Always check the batch expiry printed on your bottle.
Verdict: QV Ceramides Lotion is an excellent, affordable Australian pharmacy moisturiser that delivers on its barrier-repair promises. The triple ceramide complex combined with niacinamide and glycerin provides effective hydration for dry and sensitive skin types. While not suitable for fungal acne-prone skin, it's a standout choice for eczema sufferers, those using prescription retinoids, and anyone seeking fragrance-free, dermatologically-tested hydration. At around $14 AUD for 350ml, it offers exceptional value compared to international competitors like CeraVe and La Roche-Posay, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious skincare enthusiasts who don't want to compromise on quality.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 4 |
Petrolatum
Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Uv Absorber, Moisturising, Skin-Conditioning Agent - Occlusive
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Antimicrobial
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cetearyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Opacifying, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasingagent - Aqueous, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Emulsifying, Viscosity Controlling
|
|