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Magic Water Cream

Magic Water Cream

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

A bouncy, weightless, fragrance-free gel water cream that immediately drenches the skin in hydration, refines the look of pores, and visibly reduces redness over time. Features patented Waterlocking Fusion Technology for up to 100 hours of hydration.

Fragrance-Free Silicone-Free Paraben-Free Vegan Cruelty-Free Refillable Packaging Marie Claire Award 2024
Pregnancy
Yes
Fungal Acne
No
Comedogenic
2/5
Type
Gel-Cream
Size
50ml / 1.7oz
Price
$100
Skin Type
All Types
Best For
AM & PM
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

100-Hour Hydration

Patented Waterlocking Fusion Technology trains skin barrier to retain moisture instantly and over time.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Bouncy Gel-Cream
Scent
Fragrance-Free
Absorption
Under 60 seconds
Finish
Dewy Glass-Skin

100-Hour Hydration

Patented Waterlocking Fusion Technology trains skin barrier to retain moisture instantly and over time.

Pore-Refining Formula

Niacinamide visibly reduces the appearance of pores and helps rebalance oily and combination skin.

Skin Revival Effect

Biopeptide Complex improves appearance of skin tone and texture for smoother, firmer-looking skin.

Clean Formula

Free from parabens, silicones, sulfates, mineral oil, and synthetic fragrance. Vegan and refillable.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe

Contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Key ingredients (niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, squalane) are considered safe during pregnancy.

Not Fungal Acne Safe

Contains shea butter, caprylic/capric triglyceride, and sunflower seed oil which may feed malassezia yeast. Not recommended for fungal acne sufferers.

Low Comedogenic Risk

Rating 2/5. While it contains some oils, the lightweight gel formula is designed to not clog pores. Won Best Moisturizer for Acne-Prone Skin (Marie Claire 2024).

Sensitive Skin Friendly

Fragrance-free and silicone-free formula. Contains soothing aloe vera and anti-inflammatory beta-glucan. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)Proven

A multifunctional powerhouse that brightens skin, reduces pore appearance, balances oil production, and strengthens the skin barrier. One of the most well-researched skincare ingredients.

  • Pore Reduction: Studies show 2-5% niacinamide visibly reduces pore appearance after 12 weeks
  • Oil Control: Helps regulate sebum production for balanced, less shiny skin
  • Barrier Support: Increases ceramide synthesis for stronger skin barrier
Safe for pregnancy and breastfeeding. Pairs well with most ingredients including vitamin C and hyaluronic acid.

Waterlocking Fusion TechnologyPatented

Charlotte Tilbury's proprietary blend featuring Glyceryl Glucoside and Beta-Glucan that works to boost the skin's aquaporin function - the proteins that allow water to pass in and out of cells.

  • Glyceryl Glucoside: Plant-derived humectant that increases aquaporin-3 expression in skin cells
  • Beta-Glucan: Soothing polysaccharide that hydrates and calms sensitive skin
  • 100-Hour Claim: Clinical testing showed moisture levels maintained for extended periods

Biopeptide ComplexPromising

Combination of Acetyl Tetrapeptide-9 and Acetyl Tetrapeptide-11 that work synergistically to improve skin texture, tone, and firmness over time.

  • Acetyl Tetrapeptide-9: Supports collagen organization and skin hydration
  • Acetyl Tetrapeptide-11: Helps maintain skin architecture and smoothness
  • Visible Results: May help reduce appearance of fine lines with consistent use

Squalane 5-10%Proven

Lightweight, non-greasy emollient that mimics skin's natural oils. Excellent for all skin types including oily and acne-prone skin.

  • Biocompatible: Naturally found in human sebum, highly compatible with skin
  • Non-Comedogenic: Does not clog pores despite being an oil-like ingredient
  • Stable: Unlike squalene, squalane is hydrogenated and won't oxidize
Source matters for fungal acne: sugarcane-derived squalane is generally safer than olive-derived for malassezia concerns.

Sodium HyaluronateProven

The sodium salt form of hyaluronic acid - a naturally occurring molecule that can hold up to 1000x its weight in water. Provides intense hydration and plumping effect.

  • Deep Hydration: Smaller molecular weight allows better skin penetration
  • Plumping Effect: Attracts and retains moisture in the skin
  • Anti-Aging: Helps reduce appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

32 ingredients

Aqua/Water/Eau, Glycerin, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Squalane, Propanediol, Pentylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Glyceryl Glucoside, Niacinamide, Mannitol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Carbomer, Camellia Oleifera (Camellia) Seed Oil, Rosa Canina Fruit Oil, Caprylyl Glycol, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Sodium Gluconate, Sodium Hydroxide, Tocopherol, Beta-Glucan, Sodium Hyaluronate, Backhousia Citriodora Leaf Extract, Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Fruit Extract, Plumeria Rubra Flower Extract, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Acetyl Tetrapeptide-11, Citric Acid, Acetyl Tetrapeptide-9, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate.

FREE FROM: Parabens, Formaldehydes, Phthalates, Mineral Oil, Retinyl Palmitate, Oxybenzone, Coal Tar, Hydroquinone, Sulfates (SLS & SLES), Triclocarban, Triclosan, Silicones, Synthetic Fragrance (less than 1%)
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Cleanser
2
Toner
3
Serum
4
Magic Water Cream
5
Eye Cream
6
SPF (AM)

Apply after serums and before sunscreen in AM. Can be used alone as a lightweight moisturizer or layered with richer products in PM for dry skin.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Cleanse & Prep

Start with freshly cleansed skin. Apply any toners and serums first, allowing them to absorb.

2

Apply to Face & Neck

Take a pea-sized amount and dot across forehead, cheeks, chin, and neck. Gently massage in upward motions.

3

The Tilbury Tap Technique

Use fingertips to tap product into skin in a pitter-patter motion. This boosts circulation and helps ingredients absorb better.

4

Complete Your Routine

Follow with SPF in the morning. At night, can be layered under a richer cream if needed for extra hydration.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You have oily, combination, or normal skin
  • You want a lightweight moisturizer that won't feel greasy
  • You're looking for a dewy, glass-skin finish
  • You prefer fragrance-free skincare
  • You want a moisturizer that works well under makeup
  • You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need safe options
  • You experience redness or enlarged pores

Consider alternatives if:

  • You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
  • You have very dry skin and need heavy-duty moisture
  • You're sensitive to any botanical oils
  • You prefer matte finishes over dewy
  • You're looking for anti-aging actives like retinol
  • Budget is a primary concern ($100 is steep)
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Excellent

Lightweight gel texture absorbs quickly without adding shine. Niacinamide helps balance oil production and minimize pores.

Combination Skin
Excellent

Balances well across different face zones. Hydrates dry areas without overwhelming oily T-zone.

Normal Skin
Excellent

Provides optimal hydration and maintains healthy glow. Works perfectly as daily moisturizer year-round.

Dry Skin
Good

Provides good hydration but may need a richer cream on top during winter or for very dry skin types.

Sensitive Skin
Good

Fragrance-free and silicone-free formula is gentle. Contains soothing aloe and beta-glucan. Patch test recommended.

Acne-Prone Skin
Good

Won Marie Claire's Best Moisturizer for Acne-Prone Skin 2024. Non-comedogenic but NOT suitable for fungal acne.

08

Results timeline

WEEK 8+
Immediately

Instant Hydration & Glow

Skin feels immediately hydrated and plumped. Bouncy gel texture absorbs within 60 seconds leaving a dewy, glass-like finish perfect for makeup application.

95% noticed instant hydration
Week 1-2

Improved Skin Texture

Skin begins to feel smoother and more balanced. Redness may start to diminish. Niacinamide begins working on oil control.

78% noticed smoother skin
Week 4

Visible Pore Refinement

Clinical studies show 54% reduction in pore appearance. Skin tone becomes more even. Oil production more balanced.

69% noticed more even skin tone
Week 8+

Long-Term Skin Health

Strengthened skin barrier, sustained hydration levels, and continued improvement in overall skin quality. Biopeptides show cumulative benefits for firmness.

85% would repurchase
09

Ratings by platform

1K+ REVIEWS
Sephora
4.5
Rating
730+
Reviews
Main complaint: High price point for the amount of product you receive
Ulta Beauty
4.4
Rating
200+
Reviews
Main complaint: May not be hydrating enough for very dry skin types
Charlotte Tilbury
4.7
Rating
500+
Reviews
Main complaint: Jar packaging less hygienic than pump bottles
Space NK
4.8
Rating
150+
Reviews
Main complaint: Wish there was a larger size option for better value
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Lightweight, bouncy texture that absorbs quickly
  • Fragrance-free formula suitable for sensitive skin
  • Beautiful dewy, glass-skin finish
  • Works excellently as a makeup primer
  • Refillable packaging for sustainability
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
  • Visibly reduces pore appearance over time
  • Won't leave skin greasy or shiny

Criticized

  • Very expensive at $100 for 50ml
  • Not fungal acne safe
  • May not be moisturizing enough for very dry skin
  • Jar packaging is less hygienic
  • Results may not justify the high price for some
  • Contains oils that may concern some acne-prone users
  • Dewy finish may not suit those wanting matte
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
85% Match
Revolution Pro Miracle Cream
$14.00
Budget Pick

Similar bouncy texture and hydrating feel. Contains peptides and vitamin C. Main difference is it has fragrance and slightly different ingredient profile. Best TikTok-viral dupe.

63% Match
Paula's Choice Skin Recovery Replenishing Moisturizer
$35.00
Budget Pick

Rich, creamy formula with similar hydrating ingredients. Contains glycerin, allantoin, and sodium hyaluronate. Better for dry skin types but heavier texture.

59% Match
Superfood Air Whip Moisture Cream
$48.00
Similar Price

Lightweight gel-cream with niacinamide and hyaluronic acid. Contains superfood extracts. Similar lightweight feel but different active complex. More affordable per ml.

70% Match
Skin Renewing Night Cream to Soften Skin
$18.00
Budget Pick

Fragrance-free, contains niacinamide and ceramides. More affordable option with similar skin-barrier benefits. Heavier texture, better suited for PM use.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
The Water Cream
Key Ingredient Japanese Rice + Wild Rose
Texture Lightweight Water-Cream
Fragrance Light Scent
Fungal Acne Safe No (Ferments)
Best For Oily/Combo Skin
Dermask™ Water Jet Vital Hydra Solution

Dr. Jart+ Vital Hydra Solution

Key Ingredient Hyaluronic Acid + Centella
Texture Cooling Water Gel
Fragrance Fragrance-Free
Fungal Acne Safe Check Formula
Best For All Skin Types

First Aid Beauty Hydrating Dewy Gel

Key Ingredient Hyaluronic Acid + Ceramides
Texture Lightweight Gel
Fragrance Fragrance-Free
Fungal Acne Safe Check Formula
Best For Sensitive Skin
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep lid tightly closed to maintain formula integrity.

Packaging

Glass jar with screw-top lid. Refillable design for sustainability - purchase refill pods to reduce waste.

Travel Friendly

50ml size is under 100ml TSA limit. Mini 15ml and 30ml sizes also available for travel. Glass jar - handle with care.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Yes, Charlotte Tilbury Magic Water Cream is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. The key ingredients - niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, squalane, and glycerin - are all widely regarded as pregnancy-safe by dermatologists. However, always consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.

No, Magic Water Cream is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that may feed malassezia yeast, including shea butter (Butyrospermum Parkii Butter), caprylic/capric triglyceride, and sunflower seed oil (Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil). If you have fungal acne or malassezia folliculitis, this product is not recommended for you.

Yes, Magic Water Cream can be safely combined with most actives including retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. Apply your actives first, then follow with the Magic Water Cream to seal in moisture. The niacinamide in this formula actually pairs well with these ingredients and can help buffer any irritation. Wait 1-2 minutes between layers for optimal absorption.

Magic Water Cream works best for oily, combination, and normal skin types. Its lightweight gel-cream texture provides hydration without feeling heavy or greasy. It's also suitable for acne-prone skin (though not fungal acne). Those with very dry skin may find it insufficient as a standalone moisturizer and may need to layer with a richer cream, especially during winter months.

Results vary by concern: Instant hydration and glow are noticeable immediately after application. Improved skin texture typically appears within 1-2 weeks. Visible pore refinement and reduced redness generally take 4-8 weeks of consistent use. The brand claims clinical studies showed 54% reduction in pore appearance after 28 seconds, and 69% more even skin tone over time.

Apply Magic Water Cream after cleansing, toning, and applying serums - basically as your moisturizer step. In the morning, follow with sunscreen. At night, it can be your final step or layered under a richer night cream if needed. Charlotte Tilbury recommends using their Glow Toner and Magic Serum Crystal Elixir beforehand for optimal results.

Magic Water Cream has a comedogenic rating of approximately 2/5, meaning it has a low-moderate risk of clogging pores. It won Marie Claire's "Best Moisturizer for Acne-Prone Skin" award in 2024. The lightweight gel formula is specifically designed to hydrate without clogging pores. However, everyone's skin is different, so patch testing is always recommended.

Magic Water Cream has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for best results. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The jar packaging means you'll want to use clean hands or a spatula to avoid introducing bacteria. Keep the lid tightly closed between uses.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.3 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: Charlotte Tilbury Magic Water Cream delivers on its promise of lightweight, long-lasting hydration with a beautiful glass-skin finish. The fragrance-free, silicone-free formula is excellent for oily to combination skin types and works beautifully as a makeup primer. The niacinamide and biopeptide complex provide real skincare benefits for pore refinement and skin texture. However, the $100 price tag is steep, and it's NOT suitable for fungal acne sufferers. For those who can afford it and fit the target skin type, it's a luxurious daily moisturizer. Budget-conscious shoppers should consider the Revolution Pro Miracle Cream as a solid alternative at a fraction of the price.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 5 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide Tocopherol Beta-Glucan Ascorbyl Palmitate Citric Acid
brightening Brightening from 4 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Niacinamide Ascorbyl Palmitate Citric Acid
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 7 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Niacinamide Rosa Canina Fruit Oil Tocopherol Sodium Hyaluronate Ascorbyl Palmitate Citric Acid
ache Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
4
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
2
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
68% 9% 21%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 32 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
2 A
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
brightening Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
0 Unknown
Butyrospermum Parkii Butter
Skin Conditioning
Hydrating
1 A
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
1 A
Squalane
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Refatting
Hydrating
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS