Holy Hydration! Face Cream
Holy Hydration! Face Cream
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, nourishing face cream packed with Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide, Squalane, and Peptides to deliver deep hydration, plump skin, and a smooth, non-greasy finish for all skin types. Ideal for AM and PM use.
Deep Hydration
Hyaluronic Acid and Trehalose draw moisture into the skin and lock it in for lasting plumpness and comfort throughout the day.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDeep Hydration
Hyaluronic Acid and Trehalose draw moisture into the skin and lock it in for lasting plumpness and comfort throughout the day.
Brightening & Tone Evening
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) helps minimize pores, reduce dark spots, and even out skin tone with consistent use.
Barrier Support
Squalane and Panthenol (Vitamin B5) strengthen the skin barrier, improve elasticity, and soothe irritation for healthier skin.
Anti-Aging Peptides
Matrixyl 3000 peptide complex (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 + Tetrapeptide-7) supports collagen production to reduce fine lines over time.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEFree from retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, and chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Contains Isopropyl Isostearate, Polysorbate 20, and Sorbitan Olivate which may feed Malassezia yeast. Avoid if you have active fungal acne.
Fragrance-free, alcohol-free formula with no known common irritants. Suitable for sensitive skin. Overall irritancy assessed as low.
Contains Isopropyl Isostearate (comedogenic rating 2) and Cetearyl Alcohol (rating 2). Overall risk of clogging pores is low to moderate.
Can be layered with retinol and vitamin C serums. Niacinamide and peptides complement both actives well. Apply serums first, then this cream.
Safe to use with AHA and BHA exfoliants. Apply exfoliants first and allow them to absorb before applying this moisturizer on top.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid)Proven
A low-molecular-weight form of Hyaluronic Acid that penetrates the skin more readily. It binds up to 1000x its weight in water, drawing moisture into the skin for a plumped, hydrated complexion.
- Function: Humectant – attracts and retains water in the upper skin layers
- Research: Extensively studied; proven to improve skin hydration, reduce fine lines, and enhance skin barrier function
- Comedogenic Rating: 0 – will not clog pores
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~2-5%Proven
A multi-functional powerhouse that brightens skin, minimizes pores, strengthens the skin barrier, and reduces inflammation. One of the most well-researched skincare actives available.
- Function: Brightening, anti-acne, barrier support, sebum regulation
- Research: At 2% effective for barrier support and tone evening; at 4-5% effective for acne control and wrinkle reduction
- Listed 7th in INCI: Suggests a meaningful concentration likely around 2-5%
SqualaneProven
A stable, lightweight emollient that mimics the skin's own natural oils. Reinforces the moisture barrier, improves elasticity, and provides antioxidant protection without feeling greasy.
- Function: Emollient, antioxidant, skin-identical lipid
- Research: Biocompatible with skin; reduces transepidermal water loss and has detoxifying properties
- Comedogenic Rating: 0 – non-comedogenic and safe for acne-prone skin
Matrixyl 3000 (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 + Tetrapeptide-7) ~0.3-0.6%Promising
A renowned peptide complex consisting of two signal peptides that work synergistically. Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 signals the skin to produce more collagen, while Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 helps reduce inflammation.
- Function: Collagen stimulation, anti-aging, skin repair
- Research: Studies show the combination can help improve skin firmness and reduce wrinkle depth over 8-12 weeks of regular use
- Estimated concentration: Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 at 0.35-0.65%, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 at 0.30-0.60%
Panthenol (Vitamin B5)Proven
A humectant and skin-conditioning agent that attracts moisture, strengthens the skin barrier by boosting lipid production, and has soothing anti-inflammatory properties. Promotes wound healing.
- Function: Humectant, soothing, barrier repair
- Research: Proven to increase skin hydration, reduce irritation from other ingredients, and promote fibroblast proliferation for skin repair
- Comedogenic Rating: 0 – non-comedogenic
TrehalosePromising
A natural sugar with outstanding water-binding properties. Acts as a humectant to keep skin hydrated, and provides antioxidant protection against environmental stress and free radicals.
- Function: Humectant, antioxidant, skin protectant
- Research: Found in organisms that survive extreme dehydration; helps skin cells retain moisture under stress conditions
32 ingredients
Water (Aqua), Isohexadecane, Stearyl Heptanoate, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Isopropyl Isostearate, Niacinamide, Cetearyl Olivate, Trehalose, Squalane, Dimethicone, Stearic Acid, Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Silica, Sodium Hyaluronate, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Panthenol, Sorbitan Olivate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Polyethylene, Disodium EDTA, Polyacrylate-13, Polyisobutene, Polysorbate 20, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Carbomer.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse AM and PM. In the morning, always follow with sunscreen. At night, apply after cleansing and serums as the final step.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with a clean base. Use a gentle cleanser and pat skin dry, leaving it slightly damp for better absorption.
Apply Serums (Optional)
If using a toner, essence, or serum (like Vitamin C or HA serum), apply those first and let them absorb for 30 seconds.
Apply Holy Hydration! Face Cream
Take a small, pea-sized amount and gently massage onto face and neck using upward circular motions. The cream sinks in quickly without residue.
Follow with SPF (Morning)
In the morning, always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen as the final step. At night, this cream can be your last step. Can also be used as a makeup primer.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want an affordable, ingredient-rich moisturizer under $15
- You have dry, normal, combination, or oily skin needing hydration
- You prefer fragrance-free, vegan, cruelty-free products
- You want a multi-tasking cream with anti-aging peptides and niacinamide
- You need a pregnancy-safe and breastfeeding-safe moisturizer
- You want a lightweight cream that works under makeup
Consider alternatives if:
- You have active fungal acne (Malassezia) – this formula is not FA-safe
- You need very heavy-duty moisture for extremely dry or eczema-prone skin
- You want a moisturizer with SPF built in (try the SPF 30 version instead)
- You prefer completely silicone-free formulas (contains Dimethicone)
- You want high-concentration active ingredients (peptide levels are modest)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESRich blend of humectants and emollients delivers deep, lasting hydration. Squalane and glycerin replenish dry, tight skin beautifully.
Niacinamide helps balance oil production in the T-zone while hydrating dry cheeks. Non-greasy finish adapts well across zones.
Absorbs well without heavy greasiness. Niacinamide helps regulate sebum. May feel slightly dewy in humid conditions – best used at night if oily.
Fragrance-free, alcohol-free with low irritation potential. Panthenol soothes inflammation. No known common irritants detected in the formula.
Low comedogenic rating (2/5) and niacinamide helps with blemishes. However, not fungal acne safe. Patch test recommended for breakout-prone skin.
Results timeline
WEEK 8–12Immediate Hydration & Softness
Skin feels instantly softer, smoother, and more supple. Tightness and dryness are noticeably reduced from the first application. Hyaluronic Acid and Glycerin begin drawing moisture into the skin.
90% noticed immediate hydrationImproved Texture & Moisture Balance
Skin feels consistently plumper and more balanced. Dry patches diminish. The non-greasy formula starts to improve overall skin texture. Makeup applies more smoothly over hydrated skin.
75% noticed smoother textureBrighter, More Even Tone
Niacinamide begins to visibly even out skin tone and reduce dark spots. Pores may appear smaller. Skin barrier feels stronger and more resilient against environmental stressors.
60% noticed brighter complexionFine Line Reduction & Firmness
Peptides start showing results as collagen production is supported over time. Fine lines appear softer, and skin feels firmer. Full anti-aging benefits become noticeable with consistent daily use.
45% noticed reduced fine linesRatings by platform
31K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptional value – premium ingredients at a drugstore price ($14)
- Lightweight yet deeply hydrating; sinks in fast without greasiness
- Fragrance-free and suitable for sensitive skin
- Works beautifully as a makeup primer
- Vegan, cruelty-free, and Fair Trade Certified
- Contains proven actives: Niacinamide, HA, Squalane, Peptides
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
Criticized
- Not fungal acne safe (contains Polysorbate 20, Isopropyl Isostearate)
- Jar packaging is less hygienic than a pump or tube
- Small size (50g) may run out quickly with twice-daily use
- Can feel too dewy for very oily skin in humid weather
- Peptide concentrations are relatively low for strong anti-aging effects
- Contains Dimethicone (silicone) which some users prefer to avoid
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Larger size (16 oz available) with ceramides for stronger barrier repair. Lacks niacinamide and peptides. Thicker texture, better for very dry skin. Also fragrance-free and non-comedogenic.
Even more affordable with amino acids and hyaluronic acid. Simpler formula without niacinamide or peptides. Lighter texture. Great minimalist option for hydration basics.
HA-focused gel-cream with lighter texture, better for oily skin. Lacks niacinamide, squalane, and peptides. Contains fragrance in the original version. More of a gel than a cream.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep lid tightly closed to prevent contamination and drying out.
Screw-top jar with inner lid. Tip: use a clean spatula instead of fingers to extend shelf life and maintain hygiene.
Yes – 1.8 oz (50g) is under the 100ml/3.4oz TSA carry-on liquid limit
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. The fragrance-free version contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens – all ingredients commonly flagged during pregnancy. Every ingredient in this formula is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. As always, consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
No. This product contains several ingredients that may feed Malassezia yeast, including Isopropyl Isostearate (a fatty acid ester), Polysorbate 20, and Sorbitan Olivate (olive oil-derived). If you have active fungal acne or are prone to it, consider a fungal acne-safe alternative like the e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Gel-Yeah Moisturizer which is specifically formulated to be FA-safe.
Yes. This cream is compatible with all major actives. Niacinamide works synergistically with retinol and vitamin C. For best results, apply your active serums first (vitamin C in the morning, retinol at night), let them absorb for 1-2 minutes, then follow with this moisturizer to lock in hydration and reduce potential irritation from actives. AHA/BHA exfoliants should also be applied before this cream.
This cream works well across all skin types but is especially suited for dry, combination, and normal skin. It is excellent for sensitive skin thanks to its fragrance-free, low-irritation formula. For oily skin, it works well but may feel slightly dewy – consider using it primarily at night or pairing it with a mattifying sunscreen in the morning.
Hydration and softness are immediate from the first use. Improved texture and plumpness typically become noticeable within 1-2 weeks. Brightening and tone-evening effects from Niacinamide generally appear after 4-6 weeks of consistent use. Anti-aging benefits from the peptide complex require at least 8-12 weeks of daily application to become visible.
Apply it as your moisturizer step: after cleansing, toning, and serums, but before sunscreen (AM) or as the final step (PM). The general order is: Cleanser, Toner, Serum/Treatment, Holy Hydration! Face Cream, then Sunscreen in the morning. It can also be used alone on bare skin or as a makeup primer.
The overall comedogenic rating is low at 2/5. The formula contains Isopropyl Isostearate and Cetearyl Alcohol, both rated 2 on the comedogenic scale. For most people, this will not clog pores. However, everyone's skin is different – if you are highly acne-prone, consider patch testing on a small area first. Niacinamide in the formula actually helps minimize pores and reduce breakouts.
The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. The 50g jar typically lasts 2-3 months with twice-daily use. To maximize freshness, keep the lid tightly closed, store away from heat and direct sunlight, and use a clean spatula rather than your fingers to scoop product from the jar.
Verdict: The e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Face Cream delivers impressive value with a thoughtfully formulated blend of Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide, Squalane, and Peptides – ingredients typically found in products costing 3-5x more. It excels at daily hydration, skin brightening, and barrier support, making it an outstanding choice for budget-conscious skincare enthusiasts. The fragrance-free formula is gentle enough for sensitive and pregnancy-safe routines. Its main drawbacks are the jar packaging, modest peptide concentrations, and the fact that it is not fungal acne safe. Overall, it is one of the best value moisturizers on the market and a worthy holy-grail for most skin types.
Browse related
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
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.