Hydrating Toner With Ceramides
Hydrating Toner With Ceramides
Product Description
A lightweight, alcohol-free hydrating toner from up&up (Target's in-house skincare brand) that floods the skin with water-binding humectants and a full barrier-identical lipid complex. Featuring three essential ceramides (AP, NP, EOP) plus cholesterol and phytosphingosine, along with niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, it's a near-identical, budget-friendly take on the cult CeraVe Hydrating Toner at roughly half the price.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Full Barrier Complex
Three essential ceramides (AP, NP, EOP) plus cholesterol and phytosphingosine mirror the skin's own lipid matrix to rebuild a compromised moisture barrier.
Deep, Layered Hydration
Glycerin, propanediol and sodium hyaluronate draw and hold water in the skin for a plump, soft, refreshed feel without any heaviness.
Niacinamide Support
Vitamin B3 helps smooth texture, calm redness and reinforce the barrier, making the toner a quiet multitasker beyond simple hydration.
Gentle & Stripping-Free
Alcohol-free and fragrance-free with a skin-friendly pH of 5β6, so it tones and preps without the tight, dry sting of old-school astringents.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone or chemical sunscreens. The actives (ceramides, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, glycerin) are widely considered low-risk. Always confirm with your OB-GYN.
No problematic oils, esters, fatty acids or polysorbates. The lipids present (ceramides, cholesterol, phytosphingosine) are skin-identical and not a malassezia food source.
Plays well with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs and BHAs. As a hydrating buffer step it can actually reduce irritation from stronger treatments layered on top.
Fragrance-free and soothing; multiple users with reactive skin and rosacea report no stinging. A patch test is still wise for very reactive skin.
Labeled an eye irritant. Avoid direct contact with eyes; if contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.
up&up does not publish exact percentages. Based on the INCI order, niacinamide sits mid-list (roughly 1β2%) with ceramides and hyaluronic acid present at low, supportive levels.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
𧱠Ceramide Complex (AP, NP, EOP) <1% total Proven
This toner contains three of the skin's own ceramides β AP, NP and EOP β the same lipid families that make up roughly half of the skin barrier's "mortar." Replenishing them helps seal in water and shield against irritants.
- Source: Ceramides make up about 50% of the lipids in the stratum corneum and are central to barrier function.
- Source: Topical ceramides paired with cholesterol and fatty acids are shown to support repair of a damaged barrier.
β¨ Niacinamide ~1β2% (est.) Proven
Vitamin B3 is one of the most studied skincare actives. It supports ceramide production, helps calm redness, refines the look of pores and improves overall texture over time.
- Source: Niacinamide has been shown to increase the skin's own ceramide and lipid synthesis, strengthening the barrier.
- Source: Clinical studies report improvements in tone, texture and redness at concentrations around 2β5%.
π§ Sodium Hyaluronate <1% (est.) Proven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid, prized for being able to hold many times its weight in water. It draws moisture into the upper layers of skin for an instantly plumper, softer feel.
- Source: Hyaluronic acid is a key skin humectant capable of binding large amounts of water relative to its weight.
𫧠Glycerin High (top 3) Proven
A gold-standard humectant sitting near the top of the list, meaning it's present in a meaningful amount. Glycerin pulls water into the skin and helps keep it there for lasting comfort.
- Source: Glycerin is one of the most effective and well-documented humectants in skincare, supporting hydration and barrier function.
π Propanediol High (top 2) Proven
A plant-derived humectant and gentle solvent used in place of harsh alcohols. It boosts hydration, improves the spread of the formula and helps other actives penetrate.
- Source: Propanediol is a naturally derived humectant and solubilizer regarded as low-irritation and suitable for sensitive skin.
π§ Cholesterol <1% (est.) Proven
A naturally occurring barrier lipid. Alongside ceramides and free fatty acids, cholesterol completes the trio that the skin uses to maintain a healthy, water-tight barrier.
- Source: The skin barrier relies on an optimal ratio of ceramides, cholesterol and fatty acids for repair and water retention.
πΏ Phytosphingosine <1% (est.) Promising
A sphingoid base and ceramide precursor that supports barrier repair and brings mild soothing, skin-calming properties to the formula.
- Source: Phytosphingosine is a building block of ceramides and is associated with barrier-supporting and skin-calming activity.
π‘οΈ Tocopherol (Vitamin E) <0.5% (est.) Proven
A lipid-soluble antioxidant low in the ingredient list. It helps protect skin lipids from free-radical damage and works synergistically with other antioxidants.
- Source: Tocopherol is a primary antioxidant in skin that helps defend cell membranes against oxidative stress.
𧴠Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate <1% (est.) Promising
A mild, lactic-acid-derived emulsifier that helps disperse the lipids evenly and conditions skin. It is also noted for gentle antimicrobial properties.
- Source: Lactylate emulsifiers are skin-conditioning and considered gentle, with documented mild antimicrobial activity.
21 ingredients
Water, Propanediol, Glycerin, Dipropylene Glycol, PPG-5-Ceteth-20, Ceramide AP, Ceramide NP, Ceramide EOP, Carbomer, Niacinamide, Sodium Citrate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Cholesterol, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin, Tocopherol, Citric Acid, Phytosphingosine, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin.
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use morning and night, right after cleansing. As a hydrating, non-exfoliating toner it sets the stage for everything that follows and helps buffer stronger actives.
π How to Use
Cleanse first
Start with clean skin. Pat dry with a soft towel, leaving skin slightly damp if you like.
Apply the toner
Smooth a few drops over the face with clean hands, or sweep on with a cotton pad to lift any last residue. Avoid the eye area.
Layer treatments
While skin is still damp, follow with serums or treatments (vitamin C in the AM, retinol or exfoliating acids in the PM).
Seal with moisturizer
Lock everything in with a moisturizer to trap the hydration the toner just delivered.
Finish with SPF (AM)
In the morning, always end with a broad-spectrum sunscreen as your final step.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- Your skin feels dry, dehydrated or tight after cleansing
- You have a compromised, sensitive or rosacea-prone barrier
- You want a fragrance-free, alcohol-free, non-stripping toner
- You love the CeraVe Hydrating Toner but want it for less
- You're acne-prone and need non-comedogenic, fungal-acne-safe hydration
β Consider alternatives if:
- You want an exfoliating or pore-refining toner (AHA/BHA)
- You're looking for a strong, single-active treatment toner
- You prefer botanical-rich K-beauty essences and textures
- You need a TSA carry-on size β the bottle is 236 ml
- You want premium airless or dropper packaging
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Lightweight, oil-free and non-greasy, though oily skin focused on oil control may prefer a toner with added actives.
Layered humectants plus barrier lipids make this a strong first hydration step for dry, tight skin β especially in winter.
Hydrates dry zones without overloading oilier areas, so it balances combination skin nicely.
Fragrance-free and alcohol-free; reviewers with reactive and rosacea-prone skin report it as soothing and non-irritating.
Non-comedogenic and fungal-acne safe, so it suits most breakout-prone skin; a small number of users reported breakouts, so patch test if you're very reactive.
π Results Timeline
Soft, hydrated, refreshed
Skin feels clean but not tight, with an instant boost of comfort and a soft, dewy finish after application.
85% noticedLess tightness, smoother feel
Daily use builds a steady base of hydration; dryness and that post-cleanse tightness become much less noticeable.
70% noticedCalmer, more resilient barrier
Consistent ceramide and niacinamide support helps skin look more even and feel less reactive to the rest of your routine.
60% noticedSustained barrier strength & glow
With ongoing use, skin holds onto moisture better and keeps a healthier, more comfortable, well-hydrated look.
50% noticedβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Outstanding value β a CeraVe-level formula for around half the price
- Complete barrier complex: 3 ceramides + cholesterol + phytosphingosine
- Fragrance-free and alcohol-free; gentle on sensitive and rosacea-prone skin
- Lightweight, non-greasy and absorbs instantly
- Non-comedogenic and fungal-acne safe
β Criticized
- Large 236 ml bottle isn't TSA carry-on friendly
- A few users notice a faint chlorine-like scent
- Active percentages aren't disclosed by the brand
- Target-exclusive β harder to buy outside the US
- Plain plastic bottle with no airless or dropper packaging
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
The cult formula this product mirrors: three essential ceramides, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide. Nearly identical concept, but roughly twice the price and slightly smaller at 6.8 fl oz.
Strong multi-weight hyaluronic acid hydration plus vitamin B5, but no ceramide barrier complex. Thicker, more serum-like texture rather than a watery toner.
The cheapest option for pure, lightweight hyaluronic acid hydration. Great water-binding, but lacks the ceramides, cholesterol and niacinamide that make this toner a barrier product.
π Comparison with Competitors
up&up Hydrating Toner with Ceramides (Featured)
$6.99CeraVe Hydrating Toner
$12.99BYOMA Hydrating Milky Toner
$14.99The Ordinary HA 2% + B5
$9.90π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight; keep the cap closed between uses.
Standard plastic bottle with a screw cap (8 fl oz / 236 ml)
No β the 236 ml bottle exceeds the 100 ml TSA carry-on limit; decant into a smaller travel bottle.
β Frequently Asked Questions
It's generally considered a low-risk choice during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone or chemical sunscreens β the actives are ceramides, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and glycerin, all widely regarded as pregnancy-friendly. As with any product, confirm with your OB-GYN or midwife about your individual situation.
Yes, it's considered fungal-acne safe. It contains no plant oils, fatty acids, esters or polysorbates that feed malassezia. The only lipids are skin-identical ceramides, cholesterol and phytosphingosine, which aren't a food source for the yeast. Tocopherol (vitamin E) appears very low on the list, so it's a minimal concern even for the most reactive users.
Yes. This is a hydrating, non-exfoliating toner, so it layers well with active treatments. Apply it right after cleansing, then follow with your vitamin C in the morning or retinol / exfoliating acids at night. Its ceramides and niacinamide can actually help buffer the skin and reduce irritation from those stronger actives.
It's formulated for normal to dry skin and shines for dehydrated, tight or barrier-compromised skin, including sensitive and rosacea-prone types. Combination and acne-prone skin do well with it too thanks to the lightweight, non-comedogenic texture. Very oily skin focused on oil control may prefer a toner with added actives.
Hydration is immediate β skin feels softer and more comfortable from the first use. Barrier-related benefits, such as less tightness and a calmer, more even look, tend to build over 2β4 weeks of consistent twice-daily use, with sustained improvement beyond that.
Right after cleansing and before your serums and moisturizer. Smooth it on with clean hands or a cotton pad, let it absorb, then continue with treatments and seal everything in with moisturizer. In the morning, always finish with sunscreen.
It's formulated to be non-comedogenic and is oil-free, earning a low comedogenic rating of about 1 out of 5. The barrier lipids it contains are skin-identical and generally well tolerated by acne-prone skin. If you're very breakout-prone, a quick patch test is always a smart first step.
The Period After Opening is around 12 months. Once opened, use it within roughly a year and store it in a cool, dry place with the cap closed to keep the formula fresh and stable.
Verdict: The up&up Hydrating Toner with Ceramides is one of the best value buys in barrier care. For just $6.99 it delivers a near-identical take on the cult CeraVe Hydrating Toner β three essential ceramides plus cholesterol and phytosphingosine, backed by niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, all in a fragrance-free, alcohol-free, fungal-acne-safe formula with a skin-friendly pH. It's a standout for dry, sensitive and barrier-compromised skin and a smart everyday step for almost everyone. The few drawbacks are minor: a bottle too large for carry-on, an occasional faint scent noted by some users, and undisclosed active percentages. If you want effective, gentle hydration without the markup, this is an easy recommendation.
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 skinβs 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 Β«promisesΒ» 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 5 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 5 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting 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 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Dipropylene Glycol
Fragrance, Solvent, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 3 |
PPG-5-Ceteth-20
Surfactant, Emulsifying
|
|