Hydro Boost Water Cream Fragrance Free
Hydro Boost Water Cream Fragrance Free
Product Description
A rich, creamy moisturizer that transforms to a water-like feel, delivering 72 hours of clinically-proven hydration with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and natural moisturizing factors for dry, sensitive, and extra-dry skin types.
β¨ Texture & Feel
9x More Hydration
Delivers 9x more hydration compared to untreated skin, transforming from cream to water-like feel on contact.
Barrier Support
Contains 3 essential lipids including ceramide to strengthen and support skin's moisture barrier.
Natural Moisturizing Factors
Formulated with amino acids and electrolytes that mimic skin's natural hydration system.
Clinically Proven Results
Skin feels plump and glowing in 2 weeks, more resilient in 4 weeks with daily use.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Free from retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, and other pregnancy-contraindicated ingredients. Safe for use during all trimesters and while nursing.
Contains fatty acids (Isopropyl Palmitate, Stearic Acid, Palmitic Acid) that may feed Malassezia yeast. Those with fungal acne should choose alternatives.
Dermatologist-tested formula designed not to clog pores. Rating: 1/5 on comedogenic scale.
Clinically-proven gentle on sensitive skin including those with rosacea, eczema, and acne. Free from common irritants.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π§ Hyaluronic Acid (Sodium Hyaluronate) Proven
A powerful humectant that can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. Binds moisture to the skin's surface for long-lasting hydration and plumping effects.
- Function: Attracts and retains moisture in the epidermis
- Benefit: Reduces appearance of fine lines caused by dehydration
- Source: Dermatologist-recommended hydrator found naturally in skin
π‘οΈ Ceramide NP 1.5-1.8% Proven
An essential lipid that makes up about 50% of the skin's barrier. Helps lock in moisture and protect against environmental stressors.
- Function: Strengthens and repairs skin barrier
- Benefit: Prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL)
- Source: Identical to ceramides naturally found in human skin
π Glycerin Proven
One of the most effective humectants available, drawing moisture from the environment into the skin. Studies show it may be more effective than hyaluronic acid alone.
- Function: Humectant and skin-identical moisturizer
- Benefit: Improves skin hydration at multiple levels
- Source: Second ingredient in formula (high concentration)
𧬠Natural Moisturizing Factors (NMF Complex) Proven
A blend of amino acids (Serine, Glycine, Alanine, Threonine, Arginine, Proline, Lysine, Glutamic Acid) and electrolytes that mimic skin's natural hydration system.
- Function: Attracts water and maintains skin's natural moisture balance
- Benefit: Supports skin barrier function and resilience
- Source: Bioidentical to compounds found in healthy skin
π¬ Urea Proven
A naturally occurring compound in skin that acts as both a humectant and mild keratolytic, helping skin retain moisture while gently smoothing texture.
- Function: Humectant, skin-identical ingredient
- Benefit: Deep hydration and improved skin texture
- Source: Part of skin's natural moisturizing factor
39 ingredients
Water, Glycerin, Isopropyl Palmitate, Cetyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, C10-30 Cholesterol/Lanosterol Esters, Ceramide NP, Stearic Acid, Palmitic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Serine, Glycine, Alanine, Threonine, Arginine, Proline, Lysine HCl, Glutamic Acid, Sodium PCA, PCA, Sodium Lactate, Urea, Sodium Chloride, Citric Acid, Betaine, Allantoin, Fructose, Maltose, Trehalose, Glucose, Pentylene Glycol, Dimethicone, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylyl Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Tropolone, Sodium Hydroxide
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use as your moisturizer step, AM and PM. Apply to damp skin for best results. Wait 1-2 minutes before applying sunscreen in the morning.
π How to Use
Cleanse Your Skin
Start with clean skin. Use a gentle cleanser and pat face until slightly damp (not completely dry).
Apply to Damp Skin
Take a pea-sized amount and dot onto forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin. Applying to damp skin helps hyaluronic acid work more effectively.
Massage Gently
Using upward and outward motions, gently massage the cream into skin until fully absorbed. Don't forget your neck!
Follow with SPF (AM)
In the morning, wait 1-2 minutes for full absorption, then apply your sunscreen. At night, this can be your final step.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have dry to extra-dry skin
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need safe hydration
- You have sensitive skin prone to irritation
- You want long-lasting hydration (72 hours)
- You prefer fragrance-free products
- You have dehydrated skin with fine lines
- You want a moisturizer that works under makeup
β Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (contains fatty acids)
- You have very oily skin (may be too rich)
- You prefer a completely matte finish
- You're looking for anti-aging actives like retinol
- You need a moisturizer with SPF included
- You prefer silicone-free formulas
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Ideal for dry skin. Rich formula with ceramides and essential lipids provides deep, lasting hydration without heaviness.
Specifically formulated for extra-dry skin. 72-hour hydration claim backed by clinical testing.
Clinically proven gentle for sensitive skin including rosacea, eczema, and acne patients. Fragrance-free formula.
Works well on dry areas. May be slightly rich for oily zonesβconsider applying lightly to T-zone.
May be too rich for oily skin. Consider Hydro Boost Water Gel (for normal/oily skin) instead.
Non-comedogenic and won't clog pores. However, not suitable for fungal acne due to fatty acid content.
π Results Timeline
Instant Hydration Boost
Skin feels immediately quenched and plumped. The cream transforms to a water-like feel upon application, delivering 9x more hydration vs untreated skin.
95% noticed immediate softnessReduced Tightness & Discomfort
Dry, tight feeling diminishes. Skin feels more comfortable throughout the day with improved moisture retention.
89% reported reduced drynessPlump, Glowing Skin
Clinically proven to leave skin feeling plump and glowing. Fine dehydration lines appear less visible.
85% noticed improved glowMore Resilient Skin
Skin barrier function improves significantly. Skin feels more resilient and better able to retain moisture naturally.
80% reported improved resilienceβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Exceptional long-lasting hydration (72 hours)
- Lightweight feel despite rich formula
- Fragrance-free and gentle for sensitive skin
- Contains proven ingredients (HA, ceramides)
- Non-comedogenic, won't clog pores
- Works well under makeup
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
- Affordable drugstore price point
- Dermatologist recommended brand
β Criticized
- Not suitable for fungal acne
- May be too rich for oily skin
- Jar packaging less hygienic than pump
- Small size (1.7 oz) for the price
- Contains dimethicone (silicone)
- Some report formula changes over time
- Can feel slightly greasy in humid weather
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Similar NMF complex with amino acids and hyaluronic acid. Lighter texture, also fragrance-free. Better value per ounce.
Contains 3 essential ceramides plus niacinamide. Lighter lotion texture, also fragrance-free and non-comedogenic. Better for combo skin.
French pharmacy formula with ceramides, niacinamide, and prebiotic thermal water. More comprehensive skin barrier repair focus.
Ultra-gentle formula with ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Free of common irritants. Better for extremely sensitive or eczema-prone skin.
π Comparison with Competitors
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Cream (This Product)
$19.97CeraVe Moisturizing Cream
$18.99La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair
$22.99The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
$9.80π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep lid tightly closed.
Glass jar with screw-top lid. Consider using a clean spatula to maintain hygiene.
Yes, under 100ml TSA limit. Also available in 0.5 fl oz travel size.
β Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, this product is safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It does not contain any ingredients of concern such as retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters. The formula is fragrance-free and uses gentle, pregnancy-safe hydrators like hyaluronic acid and ceramides. Always consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
No, this product is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains several fatty acids and esters (Isopropyl Palmitate, Stearic Acid, Palmitic Acid, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate) that can feed Malassezia yeast. If you have fungal acne, consider alternatives like The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA or a specifically fungal-acne-safe moisturizer.
Yes, this moisturizer works well with active ingredients. It's an excellent buffer for potentially irritating actives like retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. Apply your actives first (wait for absorption), then follow with this cream to help reduce irritation and seal in moisture. The hyaluronic acid and ceramides help support skin barrier function when using actives.
This product is specifically formulated for dry to extra-dry skin types and is clinically proven gentle for sensitive skin. It also works well for normal skin needing extra hydration, dehydrated skin, and mature skin showing signs of dryness. It may be too rich for oily skin typesβconsider the Water Gel version instead if you have oily or combination skin.
You'll notice immediate hydration and softness after the first application. Clinical studies show skin feels plump and glowing in 2 weeks of daily use, and more resilient (improved barrier function) in 4 weeks. The 72-hour hydration claim means moisture levels remain elevated even between applications.
Apply this cream as your moisturizer step, after cleansing, toning, and applying any serums or treatments. In the morning, follow with sunscreen. At night, it can be your final step (or apply a sleeping mask on top for extra hydration). For best results, apply to slightly damp skin to help the hyaluronic acid draw in moisture.
No, this product is non-comedogenic and dermatologist-tested not to clog pores. It has a comedogenic rating of approximately 1/5, making it very unlikely to cause breakouts. However, individual reactions varyβif you're extremely acne-prone, patch test first. Note that while it won't clog pores, it is not suitable for fungal acne.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and keep the lid tightly closed. Since it comes in a jar, consider using a clean spatula or spoon to scoop out product rather than dipping fingers in to maintain hygiene and extend shelf life.
Verdict: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Cream Fragrance Free is an excellent choice for those with dry, extra-dry, or sensitive skin seeking long-lasting, effective hydration at a drugstore price point. The clinically-proven 72-hour hydration, combined with proven ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and natural moisturizing factors, delivers real results. It's pregnancy-safe, non-comedogenic, and works well under makeup. The main drawbacks are its unsuitability for fungal acne and potential richness for oily skin types. For dry skin needing serious hydration without irritation, this remains one of the best affordable options available.
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 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 5 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
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Isopropyl Palmitate
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Perfuming, Emollient, Fragrance, Antistatic Agent, Binding Agent, Binding, Masking
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cetyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Fragrance, Opacifying, Emulsifying, Surfactant, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cetearyl Olivate
Hair Conditioning
|
|