Highly Concentrated Moisturising Cream For Dry Skin
Highly Concentrated Moisturising Cream For Dry Skin
Product Description
Product overview
A rich, highly concentrated moisturising cream formulated with 10% Glycerin and Squalane to deeply hydrate, repair, and protect dry, sensitive skin for up to 24 hours. Dermatologically tested and trusted by healthcare professionals worldwide for relief from eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis.
Triple Moisturising System
Contains 3 types of moisturisers: humectants (glycerin), emollients (squalane), and occlusives (petrolatum) for complete hydration.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTriple Moisturising System
Contains 3 types of moisturisers: humectants (glycerin), emollients (squalane), and occlusives (petrolatum) for complete hydration.
Protective Barrier
Forms a protective layer that seals in natural moisture and shields skin from environmental stressors and water loss.
Low-Irritant Formula
Free from fragrance, colour, lanolin, and propylene glycol – common irritants that can trigger sensitive skin reactions.
Suitable for All Ages
Gentle enough for infants and the elderly. Recommended by paediatricians and dermatologists for the whole family.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, or harmful ingredients. QV confirms all products are safe during pregnancy when used as directed.
Contains potential Malassezia triggers including stearic acid, cetearyl alcohol, and petrolatum. Avoid if prone to fungal acne.
Clinically proven not to clog pores. Low comedogenic rating (1/5) makes it suitable for acne-prone skin.
Approved by the Eczema Association of Australia. Suitable for use with eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis conditions.
Contains less than 0.5% methylparaben as a preservative. Well below the 1% limit set by Australian TGA for therapeutic products.
Contains paraffin-based ingredients. Regularly change clothing/bedding impregnated with product and keep away from naked flames.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycerin 10%Proven
A powerful humectant that attracts and retains up to 1000x its weight in water. The star ingredient at a clinically effective concentration for deep, long-lasting hydration.
- Function: Humectant – draws moisture from the environment into the skin
- Research: Studies show glycerin is more effective than hyaluronic acid and AHAs as a humectant
- Benefits: Improves skin barrier function, increases hydration, and reduces TEWL (transepidermal water loss)
Petrolatum 5%Proven
The most effective occlusive agent known today. Creates an impermeable barrier that prevents 99% of water loss from the skin's surface.
- Function: Occlusive – forms a protective barrier on the skin's surface
- Research: Gold standard occlusive used in skincare for over 100 years with excellent safety profile
- Benefits: Reduces TEWL, heals cracked skin, and protects compromised skin barrier
Squalane PresentProven
A natural component found in the skin's own oil (sebum). This lightweight emollient mimics skin's natural lipids for enhanced absorption and compatibility.
- Function: Emollient – softens and smooths skin while carrying other ingredients deeper
- Research: Has antibacterial, anti-fungal properties and protects against UV-induced oxidative stress
- Benefits: Non-comedogenic, suits all skin types, and helps repair the skin barrier
Dimethicone PresentProven
A silicone-based ingredient that creates a water-repellent barrier against water-soluble irritants while allowing skin to breathe.
- Function: Protective emollient – forms a breathable barrier on skin's surface
- Research: Extensively studied and considered safe for cosmetic use by the FDA
- Benefits: Smooths skin texture, protects from irritants, and doesn't clog pores
14 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Paraffinum Liquidum, Glycerin, Petrolatum, Cetearyl Alcohol, Dimethicone, Squalane, Ceteareth-20, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Stearic Acid, Laureth-3, Glyceryl Stearate, Methylparaben, Dichlorobenzyl Alcohol.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as the final step in your routine (before sunscreen in the morning). For best results, use on damp skin after showering to lock in moisture.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse First
Wash the affected area with a gentle, soap-free cleanser like QV Gentle Wash. Avoid harsh soaps that can strip natural oils.
Apply to Damp Skin
For maximum absorption, apply within 3 minutes of bathing while skin is still slightly damp. This helps trap moisture.
Use Generous Amount
Take a generous amount and warm between palms. Massage gently into dry areas like elbows, knees, and hands until absorbed.
Reapply as Needed
Reapply throughout the day as required, especially after washing hands, exposure to harsh weather, or at night before bed.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dry, very dry, or extremely dry skin
- You suffer from eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis
- You have sensitive or easily irritated skin
- You need a fragrance-free moisturiser
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding
- You need a whole-family moisturiser (infants to elderly)
- Your skin is cracked, flaky, or rough
- You want a dermatologically tested, medical-grade cream
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
- You prefer lightweight, gel-based textures
- You have very oily skin (may feel too rich)
- You want anti-aging actives like retinol or vitamin C
- You prefer preservative-free formulas
- You need a water-based moisturiser
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThis cream was designed specifically for dry skin. The 10% glycerin and occlusive barrier provide deep, lasting hydration.
Fragrance-free, low-irritant formula makes it ideal for reactive skin. No common irritants like lanolin or propylene glycol.
Best applied to dry areas only (cheeks, jawline). Avoid T-zone if prone to oiliness. Use sparingly and only where needed.
The rich formula may feel heavy on oily skin. Consider the QV Skin Lotion for a lighter alternative. Best used at night only.
Non-comedogenic formula won't clog pores. However, NOT suitable for fungal acne due to potential Malassezia triggers.
Results timeline
WEEK 4+Instant Relief & Comfort
Skin feels immediately soothed, softer, and more comfortable. Tight, itchy sensations are relieved upon first application.
95% noticed immediate reliefImproved Hydration
Flaky patches begin to smooth out. Skin feels noticeably more supple and less rough. Dryness is significantly reduced.
87% noticed improvementVisible Skin Repair
Cracked and damaged skin shows signs of healing. Redness and irritation subside. Skin barrier function improves measurably.
82% reported healingLong-Term Protection
With consistent use, skin maintains optimal hydration levels. Eczema/dermatitis flare-ups become less frequent and severe.
78% reported fewer flare-upsRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Highly effective for severe dryness and eczema
- 24-hour proven hydration with clinical backing
- Fragrance-free and low-irritant formula
- Absorbs quickly without greasy residue
- Suitable for the whole family including babies
- Dermatologist and paediatrician recommended
- Vegan friendly, no animal-derived ingredients
- Multiple size options including economical 1kg
- Australian pharmaceutical quality standards
Criticized
- Not suitable for fungal acne (Malassezia)
- Contains methylparaben preservative
- May feel too rich for oily skin types
- Higher price outside Australia due to import costs
- Contains mineral oil (controversial for some users)
- Fire hazard warning with paraffin-based ingredients
- No active anti-aging ingredients
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Similar rich texture with added ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Contains MVE technology for extended release. More widely available in the US. Also non-comedogenic and fragrance-free.
Even simpler, cleaner formula without ceramides. Excellent for ultra-sensitive skin. Similar petrolatum-based occlusive protection. Slightly thicker texture.
Contains lanolin alcohol (QV is lanolin-free). Very similar petrolatum and mineral oil base. Time-tested formula from German pharmacy heritage. May not suit lanolin-sensitive skin.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEQV Cream
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check packaging for specific expiry date.
Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place. Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Available in tubes (100g, 250g) and pump bottles (500g, 1kg). Pump option reduces contamination risk.
100g tube is under 100ml equivalent, suitable for carry-on luggage. Larger sizes should be checked.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, QV Cream 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, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens that are typically restricted during pregnancy. The simple, low-irritant formula makes it an excellent choice for sensitive pregnant skin.
No, QV Cream is NOT safe for fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis). It contains several potential triggers including stearic acid (a fatty acid), cetearyl alcohol (fatty alcohol), and petrolatum (studies show mineral oil/petroleum can promote Malassezia growth). If you have fungal acne, consider alternatives like Malezia 5% Urea Moisturizer or other specifically formulated FA-safe products.
Yes, QV Cream can be safely used with active ingredients like retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. Its simple, non-active formula makes it an excellent moisturiser to follow potentially irritating actives. For retinol, apply QV Cream 20-30 minutes after to reduce irritation. For acids, you can use QV Cream immediately after to buffer. The occlusive layer helps protect newly treated skin.
QV Cream is best suited for dry, very dry, and sensitive skin types. It excels for those with skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis. It's also excellent for combination skin when applied only to dry areas. Those with oily skin may find it too rich, especially in humid climates – in this case, the lighter QV Skin Lotion is recommended instead.
Most users experience immediate relief from dryness and discomfort upon first application. Visible improvement in skin texture typically occurs within 1-3 days of consistent use. Significant healing of cracked or damaged skin is usually observed within 1-2 weeks. For long-term management of conditions like eczema, regular use over 4+ weeks helps reduce flare-up frequency.
QV Cream should be applied as the final moisturising step in your routine, before sunscreen in the morning. The typical order is: Cleanser → Toner → Serum/Treatment → QV Cream → Sunscreen (AM only). For best results, apply to slightly damp skin within 3 minutes of cleansing to lock in moisture. At night, it can be your final step.
No, QV Cream is non-comedogenic and clinically tested not to clog pores. It has a comedogenic rating of approximately 1/5 (very low). The brand states it is suitable for use on face and body. However, individual responses vary – if you have very acne-prone skin, you may want to patch test first or use it only on the body and dry facial areas, avoiding the T-zone.
QV Cream has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. This means it should be used within 12 months once opened. For the best shelf life, store below 30°C, avoid contaminating the product by dipping fingers directly into jars (consider the pump versions), and keep the lid tightly closed. Check the packaging for the specific expiry date.
Verdict: QV Highly Concentrated Moisturising Cream is an excellent choice for anyone with dry to extremely dry, sensitive, or eczema-prone skin. Its clinically proven 24-hour hydration, 10% glycerin concentration, and dermatologist-recommended formula make it a reliable workhorse moisturiser. The Australian pharmaceutical-grade quality, vegan-friendly status, and whole-family suitability add significant value. While it's not suitable for fungal acne and may be too rich for oily skin, it remains one of the best medical-grade moisturisers available for dry skin conditions. A trusted choice backed by over 50 years of skincare science from Ego Pharmaceuticals.
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
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
|
|
|
| 0 |
Paraffinum Liquidum
Emollient, Skin Protecting, Solvent
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 4 |
Petrolatum
Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Uv Absorber, Moisturising, Skin-Conditioning Agent - Occlusive
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cetearyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Opacifying, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasingagent - Aqueous, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Emulsifying, Viscosity Controlling
|
|