Intensive Cream
Intensive Cream
Product Description
Product overview
A highly concentrated, preservative-free moisturising cream with a triple moisturising system including 10% glycerin. Clinically proven to deliver 24-hour hydration for extremely dry and sensitive skin, including eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis. Suitable for face and body use on infants, adults, and the elderly.
Triple Moisturising System
Combines humectants (glycerin), emollients (mineral oil, silicones), and occlusives (petrolatum) for multi-layer hydration that lasts a full 24 hours.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTriple Moisturising System
Combines humectants (glycerin), emollients (mineral oil, silicones), and occlusives (petrolatum) for multi-layer hydration that lasts a full 24 hours.
Barrier Reinforcement
Petrolatum creates a protective occlusive layer that reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL) by up to 99%, shielding skin from environmental aggressors.
Minimalist Formula
Only 11 carefully selected ingredients with zero preservatives, fragrances, or common irritants — ideal for the most reactive and compromised skin.
Suitable for All Ages
Dermatologically tested and gentle enough for infants, the elderly, and those undergoing medical treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Contains petrolatum and paraffinum liquidum (mineral oil), which studies suggest may promote growth of M. furfur yeast. Cetearyl alcohol is also debated. Avoid if you have active fungal acne.
Officially non-comedogenic. Petrolatum and mineral oil are clinically non-comedogenic despite their heavy feel. Should not clog pores for most users.
Uses 1,2-hexanediol and caprylyl glycol as antimicrobial stabilisers instead of traditional preservatives, reducing the chance of sensitivity reactions.
Specifically formulated and recommended by healthcare professionals for daily use with chronic dry skin conditions. Sting-free on irritated skin.
Safe to use alongside retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. Apply actives first, then layer QV Intensive Cream on top to lock in moisture and buffer irritation.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycerin 10%Proven
A powerhouse humectant naturally found in the skin. Draws moisture from the environment and deeper skin layers to keep the outer skin hydrated and supple. More effective than hyaluronic acid in some studies.
- Study: A 2016 study found glycerin to be more effective as a humectant than AHAs and hyaluronic acid.
- Function: Skin-identical ingredient that strengthens the moisture barrier and improves skin elasticity.
- Concentration: 10% is a clinically effective concentration for intensive hydration.
Petrolatum HighProven
The gold-standard occlusive ingredient. Forms a protective barrier on the skin surface that prevents up to 99% of transepidermal water loss. Used for over 150 years in dermatology.
- Efficacy: Reduces TEWL more effectively than any other OTC ingredient, including ceramides and plant oils.
- Safety: Cosmetic-grade petrolatum is highly purified, non-comedogenic, and non-irritating.
- Healing: Promotes wound healing by maintaining a moist environment over damaged skin.
Paraffinum Liquidum (Mineral Oil) HighProven
A highly refined emollient oil that softens and smooths the skin. Works by occlusivity — sitting on the skin surface to prevent moisture evaporation. Non-irritating with an extremely low allergy risk.
- Study: A 2005 study concluded mineral oil is non-comedogenic in humans despite common myths.
- Comparison: Equally effective as extra virgin coconut oil for treating xerosis (severely dry skin).
- Purity: Cosmetic-grade mineral oil is among the least allergenic skincare ingredients available.
Dimethicone ModerateProven
A silicone-based emollient that gives skin a silky, smooth feel. Creates a breathable protective barrier, fills in fine lines, and helps products spread evenly. Also used clinically for scar treatment.
- Function: Forms a water-repellent barrier against irritants while allowing the skin to breathe.
- Feel: Reduces the heavy, greasy sensation of petrolatum-based formulas for a more comfortable finish.
Cyclopentasiloxane & Cyclohexasiloxane ModerateProven
Volatile silicones (D5 and D6) that act as solvents and texture enhancers. They evaporate after application, leaving behind a lightweight, silky feel without residue. Help the cream spread easily.
- Safety: Studies confirm D5 is safe to use in skincare products at normal concentrations.
- Texture: Responsible for the fast-absorbing, non-greasy feel despite the rich formulation.
11 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Petrolatum, Paraffinum Liquidum, Glycerin, Cyclopentasiloxane, Cyclohexasiloxane, Cetearyl Alcohol, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Dimethicone, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse AM and PM. Apply after serums and actives. For best results, apply to slightly damp skin to lock in extra moisture. Pair with QV Intensive Moisturising Cleanser for a complete routine.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Gently
Wash face or body with a gentle, soap-free cleanser. Pat skin until slightly damp — do not rub completely dry.
Apply Generously
Take a generous amount of QV Intensive Cream and apply to affected or dry areas. Massage in gently with upward strokes.
Reapply as Needed
Use as often as required — especially after bathing, showering, shaving, exposure to harsh weather, and at night before bed.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have extremely dry, cracked, or flaky skin
- You suffer from eczema, dermatitis, or psoriasis
- You need a fragrance-free, preservative-free moisturiser
- You want a simple, no-fuss formula with minimal ingredients
- You need a moisturiser safe for babies, children, or elderly
- You use actives (retinol, AHAs) that cause dryness and need intensive repair
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and want a safe option
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis) — contains petrolatum and mineral oil
- You prefer lightweight, gel-type moisturisers for oily skin
- You want anti-ageing actives like ceramides, niacinamide, or peptides
- You dislike the feel of petrolatum/mineral oil on your skin
- You prefer natural or organic-only formulations
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThis is where QV Intensive Cream truly shines. The triple moisturising system deeply hydrates and locks in moisture for up to 24 hours.
Preservative-free, fragrance-free, and only 11 ingredients. Dermatologically tested with a very low irritation potential. Ideal for reactive skin.
Works well on dry areas (cheeks, jawline), but may feel too heavy on the T-zone. Best used as a targeted treatment on dry patches rather than all-over.
The rich, occlusive formula may feel heavy and add shine on oily skin. Consider QV Face Oil Free Moisturiser instead for everyday use.
Non-comedogenic and won't clog pores, but not fungal acne safe. Good for non-fungal acne-prone skin that needs barrier repair, especially when using drying treatments.
Results timeline
4–8 WEEKSInstant Relief & Comfort
Skin feels immediately softer and more comfortable. Tightness and itching are relieved on contact. No stinging even on cracked or irritated skin.
95% noticed instant soothingVisible Smoothing
Rough, flaky patches begin to smooth out. Cracked skin on hands and feet starts to heal. Skin feels noticeably more supple throughout the day.
80% noticed smoother skinBarrier Repair
Skin barrier shows significant improvement. Redness and irritation from eczema or dermatitis begin to subside. Deep skin cracks heal noticeably.
70% reported reduced flare-upsLong-Term Hydration
Consistent daily use establishes a well-maintained moisture barrier. Skin is more resilient to environmental stressors and requires less frequent reapplication.
85% reported lasting improvementRatings by platform
950+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely effective for eczema, dermatitis, and severely dry skin
- Only 11 ingredients — minimal, clean formula
- Preservative-free, fragrance-free, lanolin-free
- Clinically proven 24-hour moisturisation
- Absorbs surprisingly well for a rich cream
- Safe for infants, elderly, and during pregnancy
- Excellent value in the 500g pump size
- Doesn't sting on cracked or irritated skin
Criticized
- Not suitable for fungal acne (contains petrolatum and mineral oil)
- Can feel too heavy or greasy for oily skin types
- No active anti-ageing ingredients (ceramides, peptides, etc.)
- 500g pump can malfunction in cold weather
- More expensive outside Australia due to import costs
- 100g tube size runs out quickly with full-body use
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Pure petrolatum with the same occlusive power. Lacks the glycerin humectant and silicone texture enhancers that make QV Intensive Cream feel lighter and more cosmetically elegant.
Similar petrolatum-based formula with glycerin for dry skin. Contains more ingredients including lanolin alcohol (potential irritant for some). Not preservative-free like QV.
Colloidal oatmeal-based formula for eczema-prone skin with ceramides. Different mechanism — focuses on soothing and barrier repair rather than pure occlusion. Contains fragrance in some versions.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place. Keep away from direct sunlight and open flames (contains paraffin-based ingredients).
100g squeeze tube / 500g pump dispenser jar. Pump ensures hygienic, hands-free dispensing.
Yes — the 100g tube is under the 100ml carry-on liquid limit. Compact and leak-proof for travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. QV Intensive Cream contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or any other ingredients flagged as unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Its minimalist, preservative-free formula makes it one of the safest moisturiser choices for expectant and nursing mothers. Always consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
No. QV Intensive Cream is not considered fungal acne safe. It contains petrolatum and paraffinum liquidum (mineral oil), which studies suggest may promote the growth of Malassezia furfur, the yeast responsible for fungal acne. Cetearyl alcohol, derived from fatty acids, is also debated. If you have active fungal acne, look for products specifically verified as malassezia-safe.
Yes. QV Intensive Cream works excellently alongside active ingredients. Apply your retinol, vitamin C, AHA, or BHA first on clean skin, wait for absorption (1–2 minutes), then layer QV Intensive Cream on top. The occlusive formula helps buffer potential irritation from actives while locking in their benefits. Many users specifically choose this cream to combat the dryness caused by prescription retinoids like tretinoin.
QV Intensive Cream is best suited for dry to extremely dry skin, and for sensitive or compromised skin conditions including eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis. It is also excellent for anyone experiencing temporary dryness from weather, medication, or active skincare treatments. It may feel too heavy for oily or combination skin types used all over the face — in those cases, consider using it as a targeted treatment on dry patches only.
Most users notice immediate relief from tightness and dryness upon first application. Visible smoothing of rough, flaky patches typically occurs within 1–3 days of consistent use. Significant barrier repair and reduction of eczema flare-ups are commonly reported after 1–2 weeks. For long-term skin resilience and sustained hydration improvement, allow 4–8 weeks of daily use.
QV Intensive Cream is a moisturiser and should be applied as the last step before sunscreen (AM) or as the final step (PM). The order is: cleanser, toner, serum/actives, then QV Intensive Cream. For maximum hydration, apply to slightly damp skin right after cleansing. If you use very heavy treatments, you can apply an occlusive like QV Intensive Body Ointment on top of especially dry areas.
No. QV Intensive Cream is officially non-comedogenic and dermatologically tested. Despite containing petrolatum and mineral oil — which feel heavy — clinical studies confirm these ingredients do not clog pores. The overall comedogenic rating is approximately 1 out of 5. However, everyone's skin is different, so if you are highly acne-prone, patch test first or use the product only on body areas rather than the face.
QV Intensive Cream has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy and safety. Store below 30°C and keep away from direct sunlight. The preservative-free formula uses 1,2-hexanediol and caprylyl glycol as antimicrobial stabilisers, but proper storage is important to maintain product integrity.
Verdict: QV Intensive Cream is a dermatologist-trusted, no-nonsense moisturiser that excels at one job: keeping extremely dry and sensitive skin hydrated and protected. Its minimalist 11-ingredient, preservative-free formula is a rare find in the moisturiser market, making it ideal for eczema sufferers, babies, the elderly, and anyone with highly reactive skin. While it lacks trendy actives like ceramides or niacinamide, and isn't suitable for fungal acne, its clinically proven 24-hour hydration and exceptional tolerability profile make it a pharmacy-grade staple worth having in any dry-skin arsenal. Outstanding value in the 500g size.
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
|
|
|
| 4 |
Petrolatum
Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Uv Absorber, Moisturising, Skin-Conditioning Agent - Occlusive
|
|
|
| 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
|
|
| 3 |
Cyclopentasiloxane
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning
|
|