Daily Facial Moisturizer Night
Daily Facial Moisturizer Night
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, oil-free night lotion formulated with Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid and Hydroxyethyl Urea that locks in hydration overnight, boosting your skin's moisture reserves for healthier-looking, silky-smooth skin by morning.
Overnight Moisture Lock
Boosts and replenishes the skin's moisture reserves while you sleep for healthier-looking skin by morning.
Texture & feel
SENSORYOvernight Moisture Lock
Boosts and replenishes the skin's moisture reserves while you sleep for healthier-looking skin by morning.
24-Hour Hydration
Provides continuous hydration that lasts throughout the night and into the next day with hyaluronic acid and humectants.
5 Signs of Sensitivity Defense
Defends against dryness, irritation, roughness, tightness, and a weakened skin barrier.
Skin Barrier Support
Hydroxyethyl Urea and Glycerin work together to reinforce the skin's natural moisture barrier overnight.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Contains Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, and Cetyl Alcohol which are potential triggers for fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis).
Labeled non-comedogenic. Minimal pore-clogging ingredients. Oil-free formula designed not to clog pores.
Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, dermatologist tested and clinically proven gentle on sensitive skin.
Gentle formula layers well over retinoids, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs without causing irritation or pilling.
While generally well-tolerated, a 24-hour patch test on the inner arm is recommended for very reactive or eczema-prone skin.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSHydrolyzed Hyaluronic AcidProven
A low molecular weight form of hyaluronic acid that penetrates deeper into the skin than standard HA, delivering hydration at a cellular level and improving skin elasticity.
- Mechanism: Low molecular weight HA penetrates the stratum corneum more effectively than high MW HA, hydrating deeper skin layers.
- Clinical Data: Studies show topical low MW HA increases skin hydration, reduces wrinkle depth, and improves elasticity within 2-4 weeks.
- Benefit: Can hold up to 1,000x its weight in water, providing plumping and smoothing effects overnight.
Hydroxyethyl Urea ~3-5%Proven
A derivative of urea that acts as a powerful humectant, drawing moisture to the skin without the irritation sometimes associated with pure urea at higher concentrations.
- Manufacturer Data: Demonstrates similar moisturizing efficacy to glycerin at 5% concentration but with a less sticky, more pleasant skin feel.
- Mechanism: Attracts and binds water to the skin surface, maintaining hydration and improving skin texture.
- Advantage: Non-tacky, lubricous feel that doesn't require additional modifiers for texture.
Glycerin ~3-5%Proven
A skin-identical humectant naturally present in the skin. Attracts moisture from the environment and deeper skin layers, keeping the outer skin hydrated and supple.
- Research: A 2016 study found glycerin to be more effective as a humectant than AHAs and hyaluronic acid.
- Skin Barrier: Helps maintain skin lipids in a healthy liquid crystal state, protecting against irritation and reinforcing barrier function.
- Comedogenicity: Rated 0/5 — completely non-comedogenic with zero irritancy potential.
Sodium PCAProven
The sodium salt of pyrrolidone carboxylic acid (PCA), a component of the skin's own Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF). Highly effective at binding water to the skin.
- NMF Component: PCA makes up approximately 12% of the skin's natural moisturizing factors.
- Humectant: Highly hygroscopic — absorbs moisture from the atmosphere and delivers it to the skin.
Homarine HClPromising
A marine-derived compound (betaine) found in shellfish and marine organisms. Provides antioxidant protection and helps strengthen the skin barrier against environmental stressors.
- Origin: Naturally occurring in marine organisms; used in cosmetics for its skin-conditioning and protective properties.
- Benefit: Helps defend skin against oxidative stress while supporting overnight repair processes.
ErythritolPromising
A sugar alcohol used as a humectant and skin conditioner. Helps maintain skin hydration and provides a smooth, pleasant skin feel.
- Function: Acts as a small-molecule humectant that penetrates the skin to provide hydration from within.
- Texture: Contributes to the lightweight, non-sticky finish of the formula.
16 ingredients
Water, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Hydroxyethyl Urea, Cyclopentasiloxane, Glycerin, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Homarine HCl, Sodium PCA, Cetyl Alcohol, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Erythritol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as the last step of your PM routine (or second-to-last if using an occlusive like Vaseline or a sleeping mask). No sunscreen needed — this is a nighttime-only product.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with a gentle cleanser to remove makeup, dirt, and impurities. Pat dry with a clean towel.
Apply Serums & Treatments
Apply any active serums (retinol, vitamin C, etc.) and allow them to absorb fully before the next step.
Dispense & Apply Moisturizer
Pump 1-2 pumps onto fingertips. Gently massage onto face and neck in upward, circular motions while skin is still slightly damp for best absorption.
Lock It In (Optional)
For extra-dry skin, seal with a thin layer of an occlusive balm or sleeping mask over this moisturizer.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want a lightweight night moisturizer that won't feel heavy or greasy
- You have sensitive skin and need a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formula
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe moisturizer
- You want to layer over active serums (retinol, AHAs, vitamin C) without pilling
- You have combination or oily skin and prefer an oil-free nighttime option
- You value a short, clean ingredient list (only 16 ingredients)
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry skin and need a rich, heavy-duty night cream
- You have fungal acne (malassezia) — this product contains potential triggers
- You want anti-aging actives like retinol, peptides, or niacinamide in your moisturizer
- You prefer a moisturizer with ceramides for intensive barrier repair
- You want a single product that combines treatment + hydration
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight, oil-free formula absorbs quickly without adding shine or heaviness. Ideal for oily skin that still needs nighttime hydration.
Provides good hydration but may not be rich enough for very dry skin. Consider layering with a heavier cream or occlusive on top.
Balances hydration without overloading oily zones. Lightweight texture works well across different face areas.
Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, dermatologist-tested formula specifically designed for sensitive skin. Minimal ingredient list reduces irritation risk.
Non-comedogenic and oil-free, so unlikely to cause breakouts. However, not fungal acne safe due to fatty alcohol and ester content.
Results timeline
MONTH 2-3Immediate Hydration Boost
Skin feels noticeably softer and more hydrated upon waking. The lightweight formula absorbs quickly without leaving residue.
90% noticed immediate softnessImproved Skin Texture
Consistent overnight use begins to smooth rough patches and reduce the feeling of tightness. Skin starts looking more balanced and refreshed each morning.
75% reported smoother skinStrengthened Moisture Barrier
Hyaluronic acid and humectants have accumulated benefits. Skin retains moisture better throughout the day, appears plumper, and shows improved resilience.
70% noticed improved moisture retentionVisible Skin Improvement
Long-term hydration support leads to healthier-looking skin overall. Fine dehydration lines appear diminished, and skin feels more resilient and comfortable.
65% reported healthier-looking skinRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Ultra-lightweight, non-greasy formula that absorbs beautifully overnight
- Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic — ideal for sensitive skin
- Short, clean ingredient list with only 16 ingredients
- Skin feels hydrated, soft, and glowing by morning
- Affordable drugstore price point with dermatologist backing
- Layers well under other products without pilling
- Twist-lock pump packaging is convenient and travel-friendly
- Safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding
Criticized
- Too lightweight for very dry skin — may need layering with a heavier cream
- Not fungal acne safe due to fatty alcohols and esters
- No anti-aging actives (no retinol, peptides, niacinamide, or ceramides)
- 3 oz bottle feels small; runs out faster than expected
- Pump requires multiple presses to prime on first use
- Some users find it too similar to a daytime moisturizer rather than a true night cream
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESSimilar lightweight, oil-free night lotion with hyaluronic acid. Adds niacinamide and three essential ceramides for enhanced barrier repair. More actives per dollar.
Another minimalist, fragrance-free option with hyaluronic acid and ceramides. Slightly richer texture. Free of common irritants including dyes and parabens.
HA-focused gel-cream with a more hydrating, bouncy texture. Fragrance-free version available. Slightly heavier than Cetaphil Night but still lightweight overall.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Avoid direct sunlight and excessive heat.
Twist-lock pump bottle — hygienic dispensing with no finger-dipping required.
Yes — 3 fl oz (88 mL) meets TSA carry-on limits. Twist-lock pump prevents leaks.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This moisturizer is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens — all ingredients commonly flagged during pregnancy. The formula is gentle, fragrance-free, and hypoallergenic. As always, consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
No, this product is not considered fungal acne safe. It contains Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, and Cetyl Alcohol, which are fatty acid esters and fatty alcohols that can potentially feed the Malassezia yeast responsible for fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis). If you are prone to fungal acne, consider alternatives with simpler formulations that avoid these ingredients.
Yes. This moisturizer's gentle, minimal formula makes it an excellent companion for active ingredients. Apply your retinol, vitamin C, AHA, or BHA serum first, let it absorb for 1-2 minutes, then layer this moisturizer on top. The hydrating ingredients help counteract dryness and irritation that actives can sometimes cause. It does not contain any ingredients that would conflict with these treatments.
This moisturizer is formulated for all skin types but works best for oily, combination, and sensitive skin. Its lightweight, oil-free formula provides hydration without heaviness. Those with very dry skin may find it insufficient on its own and might need to layer a richer cream or occlusive on top. It is particularly well-suited for anyone who finds traditional night creams too heavy or pore-clogging.
You should notice immediate hydration and softness after the very first use. Within 1-2 weeks of consistent nightly use, skin texture typically improves and feels smoother. By 3-4 weeks, the moisture barrier benefits of hyaluronic acid and hydroxyethyl urea become more noticeable with improved moisture retention throughout the day. Full benefits are typically seen after 2-3 months of consistent use.
Apply as one of the final steps in your PM skincare routine. The recommended order is: cleanser, toner (optional), treatment serums (retinol, vitamin C, etc.), eye cream, then this moisturizer. If you have very dry skin, you can add an occlusive like petroleum jelly or a sleeping mask as the very last step. This is a nighttime-only product — no sunscreen is included.
This product is labeled non-comedogenic and has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5. The oil-free formula is specifically designed not to clog pores. While it does contain Cetyl Alcohol (comedogenic rating of 2), the overall formulation is balanced to minimize pore-clogging risk. It has been clinically tested and is generally well-tolerated by acne-prone skin. However, individual reactions can vary — discontinue use if breakouts occur.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal freshness and efficacy. Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight. The twist-lock pump design helps maintain product integrity by minimizing air exposure compared to jar packaging. With nightly use of 1-2 pumps, the 3 oz bottle typically lasts 2-3 months.
Verdict: Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer Night is a solid, no-frills nighttime moisturizer that excels at one thing: delivering lightweight, non-irritating hydration while you sleep. With only 16 ingredients, it's a minimalist's dream — perfect for sensitive skin, pregnancy, and layering over active serums. It won't wow you with anti-aging actives or ceramides, but its dermatologist-backed, hypoallergenic formula reliably hydrates without causing breakouts or irritation. Best suited for oily, combination, and sensitive skin types who want a clean, affordable night moisturizer. Those with very dry skin or fungal acne concerns should look elsewhere.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Dicaprylyl Carbonate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient
|
|
|
| 1 |
Hydroxyethyl Urea
Humectant, Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 3 |
Cyclopentasiloxane
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|







