Daily Moisture Therapy Facial Lotion
Daily Moisture Therapy Facial Lotion
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, fast-absorbing facial lotion by Physiogel — South Korea's dermatologist-trusted brand — formulated with BioMimic Technology to mimic skin's natural lipid structure. Powered by Ceramide NP, squalane, shea butter, and a tri-oil complex, this 16-ingredient hypoallergenic lotion delivers up to 72 hours of continuous hydration while actively repairing and strengthening your moisture barrier. Fragrance-free, paraben-free, and non-comedogenic — safe for even the most sensitive skin types.
BioMimic Technology
Proprietary lipid blend that mirrors the skin's natural barrier composition, allowing the formula to integrate with and reinforce the stratum corneum more effectively than standard moisturizers.
Texture & feel
SENSORYBioMimic Technology
Proprietary lipid blend that mirrors the skin's natural barrier composition, allowing the formula to integrate with and reinforce the stratum corneum more effectively than standard moisturizers.
Ceramide NP Barrier Repair
Contains Ceramide NP at an estimated 0.10–0.35% concentration — a skin-identical ceramide that fills in the intercellular "mortar" between skin cells, reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
72-Hour Clinically Proven Hydration
Clinically tested to maintain measurable moisture levels for up to 72 hours after a single application, thanks to the combination of humectants (glycerin, pentylene glycol) and occlusive emollients.
Ultra-Clean 16-Ingredient Formula
Contains only 16 carefully selected ingredients — no fillers, no fragrances, no parabens, no dyes, no silicones. Minimalist by design, each ingredient serves a functional purpose in hydration or barrier support.
Triple Oil Complex
A synergistic blend of coconut oil (Cocos Nucifera), palm oil (Elaeis Guineensis), and olive oil (Olea Europaea) provides deep nourishment with complementary fatty acid profiles for enhanced skin softness.
Hypoallergenic & Dermatologist-Tested
Formulated to minimize allergic potential. Backed by dermatological testing and over 177 years of sensitive skin research from Stiefel/GSK heritage under LG Household & Healthcare.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen actives. All 16 ingredients are considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding based on current dermatological guidelines. Always consult your OB-GYN for personalized advice.
Contains Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil and Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Oil, which are sources of C12–C14 fatty acids that may feed Malassezia yeast. Those with active fungal acne should patch test carefully or opt for a FA-safe alternative.
Rated 2/5 on the comedogenic scale. Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride and Squalane have a rating of 0–1. Coconut Oil (rating 4) is present but in a relatively low position on the INCI list, reducing its pore-clogging risk significantly in this formulation.
Free from the top common allergens (fragrances, preservatives like parabens and formaldehyde releasers, topical antibiotics, chemical sunscreens). Extremely low irritancy profile confirmed through clinical testing.
The gentle, non-acidic formula (neutral pH) does not interfere with active ingredient performance. Can be used as the moisturizing step after applying retinol, Vitamin C serums, AHA, or BHA. Helps buffer potential irritation from actives.
Physiogel explicitly markets this formula as safe for all family members including babies. The ultra-mild ingredient profile with no harsh preservatives or synthetic fragrances makes it suitable for the most delicate skin.
Does not contain oxybenzone, avobenzone, octinoxate, or other chemical UV filters. Not a sunscreen — apply a separate SPF in the morning routine after this product.
Contains no drying or denatured alcohols (no ethanol, SD alcohol, or isopropyl alcohol). Pentylene Glycol is a gentle humectant glycol — not a drying alcohol — and is well-tolerated by sensitive skin.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycerin ~5–10%Proven
One of the most well-researched humectants in dermatology. Glycerin is a skin-identical ingredient naturally found in the skin's Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF). It draws water from the environment and deeper skin layers into the epidermis, maintaining optimal hydration.
- Efficacy: A 2016 study found glycerin outperforms hyaluronic acid and AHAs as a topical humectant.
- Barrier Support: Maintains lipids in a healthy liquid-crystal state, protecting against irritation.
- Antimicrobial: Exhibits mild antimicrobial and antiviral properties, supporting skin health.
- Comedogenicity: Rating 0/5 — does not clog pores.
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride ~10–15%Proven
A lightweight, highly stable emollient derived from coconut oil and glycerin. Functions as an excellent skin softener and moisture-loss barrier without the greasiness of standard oils. Helps dissolve and spread other ingredients evenly on skin.
- Source: Fractionated coconut oil — same as MCT Oil in INCI nomenclature.
- Stability: Resistant to oxidation, extends product shelf life and maintains consistent skin feel.
- Occlusive: Creates a breathable film that reduces TEWL without smothering skin.
- Comedogenicity: Rating 1–2/5 — despite coconut origin, research does not support pore-clogging.
Squalane ~1–3%Proven
A plant-derived (typically olive or sugarcane) stable version of squalene, a naturally occurring component of human sebum. Provides exceptional emolliency with a dry, non-greasy skin feel. Compatible with all skin types.
- Skin-Identical: Mirrors a component naturally found in human sebum, facilitating effortless integration.
- Antioxidant: Protects against free radical damage and environmental stressors.
- Barrier Function: Reduces TEWL through surface occlusion with extreme cosmetic elegance.
- Comedogenicity: Rating 1/5 — excellent for acne-prone skin.
Ceramide NP ~0.10–0.35%Proven
A skin-identical ceramide — type NP (non-hydroxy fatty acid/phytosphingosine) — that is one of the major lipid components of the skin barrier. Ceramide NP fills the intercellular matrix between skin cells, acting like the "mortar" between bricks, dramatically reducing moisture escape.
- Barrier Repair: Clinically proven to restore compromised skin barriers in eczema and dry skin conditions.
- TEWL Reduction: Even small concentrations significantly reduce transepidermal water loss.
- Anti-Aging: Ceramide levels naturally decline with age; topical replacement supports long-term skin health.
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter ~2–5%Proven
Cold-pressed from the seeds of the African Shea/Karite tree. One of the most celebrated natural butters in skincare, shea provides a rich blend of fatty acids, vitamins A, E, and F, and anti-inflammatory triterpene compounds.
- Emollient: Deeply softens the stratum corneum and relieves dryness and tightness.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Contains lupeol cinnamate and other triterpenes with soothing properties.
- Antioxidant: Rich in tocopherols (Vitamin E), quercetin, and epigallocatechin gallate.
Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil ~1–3%Promising
Cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil rich in oleic acid (~70–80%), squalene, and polyphenol antioxidants. Provides deep nourishment and reinforces the lipid barrier. Part of the tri-oil complex in this formula.
- Antioxidant: High polyphenol content (hydroxytyrosol, oleuropein) protects against oxidative damage.
- Emollient: Oleic acid-rich profile effectively restores skin suppleness and elasticity.
- Squalene content: Contributes naturally-occurring squalene to the overall formula.
Hydrogenated Lecithin ~0.5–2%Proven
A phospholipid-based emulsifier derived by hydrogenating soy or sunflower lecithin. Closely resembles the phospholipids found in human cell membranes, making it highly biocompatible. Used to create stable liposomes and enhance ingredient delivery.
- Skin-Identical: Phosphatidylcholine structure mirrors skin's own cellular lipid bilayers.
- Liposome Formation: Helps encapsulate and deliver active ingredients like ceramides deeper into the skin.
- Barrier: Softens the skin surface and supports barrier function continuity.
Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil ~2–5%Proven
Virgin coconut oil, rich in lauric acid (~50%), caprylic acid, capric acid, and myristic acid. Provides antimicrobial, emollient, and skin-softening benefits. The lauric acid component is particularly effective against certain bacteria.
- Antimicrobial: Lauric acid has documented activity against S. aureus and other skin pathogens.
- Emollient: Reduces protein loss in the skin and improves skin surface texture.
- Penetration: Medium-chain triglycerides penetrate the hair shaft and skin more readily than larger oils.
16 ingredients
Water, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Cocos Nucifera Oil, Elaeis Guineensis Oil, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter, Olea Europaea Fruit Oil, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Caprylyl Glycol, Xanthan Gum, Squalane, Carbomer, Sodium Carbomer, Ceramide NP
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as your moisturizing step after serums and treatments. Can be used AM and PM. In AM, follow with SPF. In PM, can be used as the final step or under a heavier cream in very dry weather. Also works on the neck and décolleté area.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Prep
Begin with clean, slightly damp skin. Cleanse with a gentle, sulfate-free cleanser. Pat — do not rub — skin to about 80% dryness. Residual moisture helps humectants like glycerin draw water into the skin.
Apply Treatments First
If using a serum, Vitamin C, retinol, or AHA/BHA, apply those first and allow to absorb for 1–3 minutes. This lotion goes on after actives to seal in and cushion the treatment layer.
Dispense & Warm
Pump 2–3 pea-sized amounts onto fingertips (adjust for your face and neck coverage). Gently warm between palms for a few seconds to enhance spreadability and absorption.
Press & Pat Onto Skin
Use a gentle pressing-and-patting motion rather than rubbing to apply evenly across the face and neck. Focus extra product on drier areas like cheeks, forehead, and neck. The formula absorbs in approximately 10–15 seconds.
Finish Your Routine
In the morning: follow immediately with SPF 30+ sunscreen. In the evening: this can serve as your final step, or layer a heavier occlusive on top if skin is very dry or during harsh winter conditions.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dry, dehydrated, or moisture-deprived skin
- Your skin feels tight, uncomfortable, or irritated
- You're looking for a fragrance-free, allergen-free moisturizer
- You have sensitive, reactive, or eczema-prone skin
- You want a lightweight daily lotion that layers well under makeup
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need a clean formula
- You're new to skincare and want a gentle, effective starting point
- You want a ceramide moisturizer at an accessible price point
Consider alternatives if:
- You have confirmed active fungal acne (consider FA-safe alternatives)
- You want a single product with built-in SPF protection
- You prefer a very rich, buttery cream texture for extreme dryness
- You want anti-aging actives like retinol or peptides in one product
- You have very oily skin that needs oil-control or mattifying effects
- You prefer a scented product for a sensory skincare experience
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe primary target skin type. The combination of ceramides, shea butter, squalane, and triple-oil complex delivers sustained hydration and barrier repair for chronically dry skin. Can be layered at night for extra moisture in harsh conditions.
Fragrance-free, paraben-free, and hypoallergenic — this is one of the cleanest moisturizer formulas available. Recommended by dermatologists for rosacea, eczema, and contact dermatitis-prone skin. Clinically confirmed low irritancy profile.
Absorbs quickly and doesn't feel heavy on the T-zone. Works well for combination skin as a lightweight daily hydrator. Those with normal skin may want to layer a richer cream in very dry climates or winter months.
The dual-action humectant system (glycerin + pentylene glycol) actively draws moisture into the epidermis while the occlusive ingredients seal it in. Ideal for skin that feels tight or dull regardless of oil production level.
The lightweight lotion texture absorbs well and isn't greasy, but the coconut oil and palm oil content may not be ideal for very oily or breakout-prone skin. Non-comedogenic overall, but those with fungal acne should use with caution. Excellent as a buffer moisturizer after retinol.
Frequently recommended by dermatologists post-laser, chemical peel, microneedling, or after using prescription retinoids. The barrier-repair ceramide formula helps restore skin integrity and reduce post-treatment sensitivity and redness.
Results timeline
4–8 WEEKSInstant Comfort & Softness
Skin feels immediately softer, less tight, and more comfortable after the first application. The lightweight texture absorbs in under 15 seconds, leaving a smooth, non-greasy satin finish. No greasiness or heaviness reported.
97% noticed immediate improvement in comfortImproved Hydration & Reduced Sensitivity
With consistent twice-daily use, skin begins to feel durably hydrated throughout the day. Redness and reactive episodes reduce as the moisture barrier begins rebuilding. Skin appears plumper and more even-toned.
82% noticed reduced tightness and improved plumpnessVisible Barrier Restoration
Ceramide NP and the lipid complex work cumulatively to reinforce the stratum corneum. Flakiness decreases, skin feels more resilient, and sensitivity to environmental factors (wind, temperature changes) is noticeably reduced.
75% reported significantly reduced flakiness and improved barrier resilienceLong-Term Barrier Strength & Healthy Glow
With continued use, skin maintains a healthy moisture balance even in challenging conditions. Smoother texture, reduced fine lines caused by dehydration, and an overall healthier, more radiant complexion. Many users report it becomes their long-term staple moisturizer.
68% reported this as their holy grail daily moisturizer after 8 weeksRatings by platform
13K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Ultra-clean 16-ingredient formula — nothing unnecessary
- Truly fragrance-free — no hidden "fragrance" entry
- Ceramide NP for clinically proven barrier repair
- Lightweight enough for AM use under makeup
- Absorbs quickly — no waiting or greasy residue
- 72-hour clinically tested hydration claim
- Safe for sensitive skin, pregnant women, and babies
- Excellent as a buffer moisturizer when using retinol or actives
- Dermatologist and dermatology clinic recommended
- Good price-to-ingredient quality ratio
Criticized
- May not be sufficient for very dry or eczema-heavy skin in winter alone
- Contains coconut oil — caution for fungal acne
- No built-in SPF
- No additional anti-aging actives (peptides, niacinamide, etc.)
- Pump can dispense more than needed, leading to waste
- Not the richest texture for those who prefer a thick cream feel
- Contains palm oil (Elaeis Guineensis) — environmental sustainability concern for some consumers
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESShares the ceramide-plus-humectant approach with a fragrance-free, non-comedogenic formula. CeraVe uses hyaluronic acid and 3 ceramide types vs Physiogel's single ceramide NP. CeraVe also uses MVE technology for gradual release. Very similar end result but different texture — CeraVe is slightly more fluid. Does contain niacinamide. Slightly less "clean" ingredient list but widely available and very affordable.
Excellent sensitive-skin option with a hypoallergenic, free-from formula similar in philosophy to Physiogel. No ceramides but uses petrolatum, dimethicone, and glycerin for effective barrier occlusion. Heavier texture (cream vs lotion) and no ceramide content, but very affordable and widely praised by dermatologists for dry, irritated skin.
Another K-beauty ceramide moisturizer with a comparable barrier-repair philosophy. Contains 5 ceramide types compared to Physiogel's 1, and adds panthenol and madecassoside for added soothing. Slightly richer texture. Excellent alternative for those wanting a more ceramide-dense formula. Comparable price, available on YesStyle and Olive Young.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEPhysiogel DMT Facial Lotion
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Look for the open jar symbol (12M) on the packaging. Using the product within this window ensures optimal ceramide and lipid integrity.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid storing in bathrooms with high humidity. Ideal storage temperature: 15–25°C (59–77°F). Do not freeze.
Pump bottle — hygienic dispensing that minimizes contamination from repeated finger dipping. The pump format helps preserve the integrity of the formula by limiting air and bacteria exposure compared to jar packaging.
The 150ml / 5.1 fl oz size exceeds TSA carry-on limits (100ml). Decant into a travel-size container for air travel. The 50ml size (where available) meets airline restrictions.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes — Physiogel DMT Facial Lotion is considered safe to use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. The 16-ingredient formula contains no retinoids (such as retinol or tretinoin), no salicylic acid, no hydroquinone, no chemical sunscreen actives (oxybenzone, avobenzone, etc.), and no parabens. All ingredients are gentle, skin-identical lipids, humectants, and polymers with well-established safety profiles. As always, we recommend consulting your OB-GYN or dermatologist for personalized advice, but from a formulation standpoint this is one of the cleanest moisturizer options for expectant and nursing mothers.
This is a nuanced answer. The formula contains Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil and Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Oil. Coconut oil is rich in lauric acid (C12) and myristic acid (C14) — fatty acids that can potentially feed Malassezia yeast and trigger or worsen fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis). Squalane, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Ceramide NP, Glycerin, and the remaining ingredients are all considered fungal acne safe. If you have confirmed active fungal acne, we recommend caution and a patch test, or opting for a fully FA-safe moisturizer. If you have normal or dry skin without fungal acne concerns, these oils are present at a relatively low level in the formula and are unlikely to trigger issues for most users.
Absolutely — in fact, Physiogel DMT Lotion is one of the most recommended barrier-support moisturizers to use alongside potent actives. When using retinol, it can be applied on top as the final hydration step (the "sandwich method") to buffer potential irritation while maintaining moisture. With Vitamin C serums (L-ascorbic acid), apply the serum first, let it absorb, then follow with this lotion. The same applies to AHAs and BHAs — apply your exfoliant on cleansed skin, then follow with this lotion to restore comfort and support the barrier. The neutral pH of the lotion doesn't interfere with the efficacy of these actives.
Physiogel DMT Facial Lotion is formulated primarily for dry, dehydrated, and sensitive skin types, and it excels in these categories. It's also an excellent choice for normal-to-dry and combination-dry skin. Those with very oily skin may find it slightly too emollient for daytime use, although it can still work as a night moisturizer. Sensitive, reactive, and eczema-prone skin types are ideal candidates given the clean, hypoallergenic formulation. Post-procedure skin (post-laser, retinoid users, after peels) is another key use case where dermatologists frequently recommend this product.
You'll notice immediate results from the very first application — skin feels softer, more comfortable, and less tight within minutes. For barrier-repair benefits from the Ceramide NP, meaningful improvement is typically visible within 1–2 weeks of consistent twice-daily use, with continued improvement through 4–8 weeks. Clinically, 72-hour sustained hydration has been proven after a single application. Long-term users typically report that their skin becomes more resilient, less reactive, and better able to maintain its own moisture balance after 4–8 weeks of regular use.
This lotion functions as your moisturizer step — it goes on after cleansing, toning, and applying any serums or treatment products (Vitamin C, retinol, AHA/BHA, peptide serums, etc.). In your morning routine, always follow this lotion with an SPF 30+ sunscreen as the final step. In your evening routine, this can be your last step, or you can layer a heavier occlusive (like petrolatum or a rich cream) on top if your skin is very dry. It can also be used on the neck and chest, and even on the body for sensitive or dry skin areas.
Physiogel officially markets this product as non-comedogenic. On the individual comedogenic scale (0–5), the overall formulation rates approximately 2/5. Most key ingredients score very low: Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (1), Squalane (1), Glycerin (0), Ceramide NP (0), and Hydrogenated Lecithin (0). Coconut Oil has a theoretical rating of 4/5 but it appears mid-to-lower in the INCI list (meaning lower concentration) and within this well-balanced emulsion, clinical comedogenicity risk is low. The product has been clinically tested as non-comedogenic and dermatologist-approved. The vast majority of users, including acne-prone users, do not report breakouts from this product.
The period after opening (PAO) for Physiogel DMT Facial Lotion is 12 months — indicated by the open jar symbol (12M) on the packaging. If you use 2–3 pumps twice daily on your face and neck, a 150ml bottle typically lasts 4–6 months under normal usage, well within the 12-month PAO window. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain product integrity. The pump format helps preserve the formula by minimizing air exposure compared to jar packaging.
Verdict: The Physiogel Daily Moisture Therapy Facial Lotion is a standout minimalist moisturizer that delivers exactly what it promises: clean, effective, barrier-supporting hydration for sensitive and dry skin. Its 16-ingredient formula featuring Ceramide NP, a tri-oil complex, squalane, and dual humectants is a masterclass in functional simplicity — every ingredient earns its place. The fragrance-free, paraben-free, hypoallergenic profile makes it one of the safest daily moisturizers available for reactive, post-procedure, or pregnancy-sensitive routines. The lightweight lotion texture and rapid absorption make it equally viable for morning use under makeup and evening barrier repair. The minor limitations — not fully fungal-acne safe, not rich enough for extreme dryness without layering, and no built-in actives — are outweighed by its sheer reliability and clean formula. A genuine dermatologist-approved staple.
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 |
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
|
|
|
| 1 |
Pentylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Cocos Nucifera Oil
Masking, Perfuming, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Butyrospermum Parkii Butter
Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Olea Europaea Fruit Oil
Masking, Perfuming, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|





