Daily Moisture Therapy Cream
Daily Moisture Therapy Cream
Product Description
Product overview
Physiogel Daily Moisture Therapy Cream is a hypoallergenic, fragrance-free facial moisturizer from a dermatological heritage brand, formulated with patented BioMimic Technology that mirrors the skin's natural lipid structure. Powered by Ceramide NP, Squalane, Shea Butter and Glycerin, this minimalist 15-ingredient cream repairs a compromised moisture barrier, delivers long-lasting hydration and soothes dry, reactive and eczema-prone skin — gentle enough for babies and sensitive adults alike.
BioMimic Technology
Patented lipid complex that mimics the skin's natural ceramide-cholesterol-fatty acid ratio to rebuild a broken moisture barrier.
Texture & feel
SENSORYBioMimic Technology
Patented lipid complex that mimics the skin's natural ceramide-cholesterol-fatty acid ratio to rebuild a broken moisture barrier.
72-Hour Hydration
Clinically-tested long-lasting moisture that protects against recurrent dryness and TEWL (transepidermal water loss).
Minimalist Formula
Only 15 carefully chosen ingredients — no fragrance, no essential oils, no parabens, no silicones, no mineral oil.
Family-Friendly
Low-irritant, dermatologist-tested and gentle enough for babies, eczema-prone skin and post-procedure recovery.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe during pregnancy and lactation.
Contains Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Coconut Oil, Hydrogenated Lecithin and Shea Butter — all potential malassezia feeders. Avoid if pityrosporum folliculitis is active.
Free from the top common allergens: fragrance, essential oils, preservatives, dyes and conventional emulsifiers. Excellent for rosacea and atopic dermatitis.
Layers peacefully with retinol, vitamin C, AHA/BHA, niacinamide and benzoyl peroxide — acts as a buffering barrier cream.
Contains Cocos Nucifera Oil and coconut-derived Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride. Not suitable if you have a confirmed coconut allergy.
Coconut oil sits at 4 but is used in a low, balanced formulation. Most acne-prone users tolerate it well, but patch-test if you break out easily.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSCeramide NP (Ceramide 3) 0.10–0.35%Proven
The star ingredient. A skin-identical lipid that restores and reinforces the skin barrier, reducing transepidermal water loss in dry and eczema-prone skin.
- Clinical evidence: Ceramide-based moisturizers are proven to improve atopic dermatitis and repair compromised barriers (J. Dermatological Treatment).
- Mechanism: Ceramide NP fills the gaps between skin cells to reduce water loss and lock in hydration.
Glycerin 5–10%Proven
Gold-standard humectant that draws water into the upper layer of the skin, keeping it plump and hydrated.
- Research: A 2016 study found glycerin more effective as a humectant than AHAs and hyaluronic acid.
- Bonus: Supports skin barrier maintenance and keeps lipids in a healthy liquid-crystal state.
Squalane 2–5%Proven
Stable, plant-derived lipid that mimics sebum. Provides lightweight, non-greasy moisturization and prevents TEWL without clogging pores.
- Property: Non-comedogenic, fungal-acne safe, compatible with all skin types.
- Benefit: Softens, smooths and provides antioxidant protection from free radicals.
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter 3–6%Proven
Rich natural emollient loaded with vitamins A, E, F and EGCG antioxidants. Soothes, softens and forms a protective occlusive layer.
- Skin-benefit: Helps regenerate dry, flaky or damaged skin and protects against environmental stressors.
Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil 2–4%Promising
Nutrient-rich occlusive with antimicrobial lauric acid. Softens skin and reinforces the barrier.
- Benefit: Traditional barrier-repair ingredient with proven anti-inflammatory properties.
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride 8–15%Proven
Lightweight fractionated coconut oil. Acts as a cosmetically elegant emollient and solvent that spreads easily and prevents moisture loss.
- Stability: Resistant to oxidation — keeps the formula stable and silky long after opening.
Hydrogenated Lecithin 1–3%Proven
A phospholipid that forms liposomes — these tiny vesicles encapsulate and deliver active ingredients like Ceramide NP into deeper layers of the epidermis.
- Role: Key to Physiogel's BioMimic delivery system — replaces harsh conventional emulsifiers that can strip skin lipids.
15 ingredients
Water, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Squalane, Carbomer, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Carbomer, Ceramide NP (Ceramide 3), Disodium Phosphate, Sodium Phosphate.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the final moisturizing step, morning and night. Can also be layered over retinol or acids to buffer irritation.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Tone
Start with a gentle cleanser and hydrating toner on clean, slightly damp skin.
Apply Serums First
If using serums or actives (retinol, vitamin C, niacinamide), apply them before the cream.
Dispense a Pea-Size Amount
A small amount spreads far. Warm between fingertips to activate the lipid structure.
Massage Gently
Press and pat into face and neck in upward motions until fully absorbed. Avoid the eye area.
Finish with SPF (AM)
In the morning, always follow with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen as the final step.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dry, very dry or dehydrated skin
- You have sensitive, reactive or rosacea-prone skin
- You suffer from eczema, atopic dermatitis or barrier damage
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
- You are recovering from over-exfoliation or a cosmetic procedure
- You prefer fragrance-free, minimalist formulas
- You want a barrier cream to layer with retinol or acids
Consider alternatives if:
- You struggle with fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You have a confirmed coconut allergy
- You have very oily skin looking for a mattifying finish
- You want a lightweight gel-only texture
- You want a moisturizer with added actives like niacinamide or vitamin C
- You prefer products with visible, instant glow-boosting effects
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESShea butter, squalane and ceramides provide rich, lasting hydration ideal for very dry and dehydrated skin.
Fragrance-free and free of all top common allergens. A top pick for eczema, rosacea and reactive skin.
Works well in dry zones; may feel slightly rich on the T-zone in humid weather. Use sparingly.
Coconut oil and shea butter may feel too rich for oily skin. Better as a night-only option.
Labeled non-comedogenic. Safe for most acne-prone users, but NOT recommended for fungal acne sufferers.
Nourishing lipids help plump fine dehydration lines, though it lacks dedicated anti-aging actives.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Skin Feels Softer & Calmer
Tightness, itching and flaking subside. Skin feels cushioned, not greasy.
94% noticedRedness & Irritation Reduced
Barrier starts rebuilding — rough patches smooth out and reactive flare-ups calm.
82% noticedSustained 72-Hour Hydration
Skin retains moisture longer; dehydration lines soften; dry-flare cycles stop returning.
76% noticedRestored, Resilient Skin Barrier
Skin tolerance improves — you can reintroduce actives like retinol without rebound irritation.
68% noticedRatings by platform
15K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Incredibly gentle — safe for eczema, rosacea, post-procedure and baby skin
- Truly fragrance-free and free of top allergens
- Repairs the moisture barrier with Ceramide NP + BioMimic lipids
- Minimalist 15-ingredient formula with no parabens or silicones
- Long-lasting 72-hour hydration claim backed by dermatological testing
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
- Dermatologist-recommended heritage brand (since 2000)
Criticized
- Not fungal-acne (malassezia) safe due to coconut oil and lecithin
- Contains coconut-derived ingredients (allergy risk)
- Soft tube packaging — less hygienic than a pump
- Can feel too rich for oily skin in hot climates
- Basic formula — no brightening or anti-aging actives
- Slightly tacky finish in the first minute of absorption
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Contains 3 ceramides + MVE technology for slow ceramide release. Thicker texture and a few more ingredients, but extremely similar barrier-repair function at half the price.
Korean dermatology cream with Ceramide NP, 5 essential lipids and a near-identical mission: repair atopic, eczema-prone skin. Fungal-acne safer alternative.
K-beauty ceramide cream with MLE (Multi Lamellar Emulsion) tech mimicking skin lipids. Slightly richer finish, great for very dry skin.
Allergy-tested, fragrance-free and dermatologist-recommended for sensitive skin. Lacks ceramides but covers the hypoallergenic basics affordably.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening (12M symbol on packaging).
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid bathroom humidity for extended shelf life.
Soft squeezable tube (75ml / 150ml). Hygienic and travel-friendly, though less airless-pump sterile.
Yes — 75ml tube is carry-on approved (under 100ml TSA/EU limit).
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens or essential oils — all ingredients are considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Its fragrance-free, minimalist composition makes it a popular choice among pregnant users with sensitive or reactive skin. As always, consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist if in doubt.
No. The cream contains Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Hydrogenated Lecithin and Shea Butter — several of which are known malassezia feeders. If you struggle with pityrosporum folliculitis or fungal acne, opt for a fungal-acne safe alternative like AESTURA ATOBARRIER365 or a pure squalane-based moisturizer instead.
Yes — it's actually an excellent companion for active ingredients. Apply your retinol, vitamin C, AHA or BHA serum first, then layer Physiogel cream on top to buffer irritation and rebuild the barrier. Many dermatologists recommend ceramide creams like this one to reduce retinol-induced dryness and sensitivity. You can also "sandwich" (cream → active → cream) for extra tolerance.
It's best for dry, very dry, dehydrated and sensitive skin — including eczema, atopic dermatitis, rosacea and post-procedure skin. It also works well for normal and combination skin in colder months. Oily-skinned users may find it too rich for daytime wear, though it makes a great night cream for this skin type.
Most users feel instant relief from tightness, itching and flaking within minutes of application. Visible reduction in redness and rough patches typically appears within 3–7 days of consistent use. Full barrier restoration and sustained 72-hour hydration benefits are usually seen within 2–4 weeks. For chronic barrier damage or eczema, give it a full 6–8 weeks for maximum results.
It goes near the end of your routine as your moisturizer step — after cleanser, toner, essence and serums. In the morning, follow with SPF 30+ sunscreen as the final step. At night, it can be the last step or followed by a facial oil for very dry skin. Use twice daily (AM and PM) for best results.
Physiogel labels this cream as non-comedogenic and dermatologist-tested. Our rating is 2/5 — generally safe for acne-prone skin, though coconut oil (rated 4 in isolation) and shea butter are present. Most users with acne tolerate it well, but if you're highly break-out prone, patch-test on your jawline for 1–2 weeks first. If you have fungal acne specifically, we do not recommend it.
The PAO (Period After Opening) is 12 months, as indicated by the 12M symbol on the packaging. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and avoid humid bathroom environments for best shelf life. Discard if you notice any changes in color, texture or smell, or if the cream separates.
Verdict: Physiogel Daily Moisture Therapy Cream is a dermatology-grade barrier repair cream that consistently delivers on its hypoallergenic, fragrance-free promise. The minimalist 15-ingredient BioMimic formulation — anchored by Ceramide NP, Squalane and Shea Butter — makes it one of the most reliable options for dry, sensitive and eczema-prone skin, safe for pregnancy and gentle enough for babies. Its main drawbacks are modest: it's not fungal-acne safe (coconut oil and lecithin), it contains coconut derivatives, and the basic tube packaging doesn't match premium-brand expectations. For anyone seeking a trustworthy, no-frills moisturizer that rebuilds a compromised skin barrier, this is a dermatologist-recommended classic that earns its decades-long cult status.
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 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing 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
|
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Pentylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Cocos Nucifera Oil
Masking, Perfuming, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|