Midnight Blue Clearing Water Cream
Midnight Blue Clearing Water Cream
Product Description
A lightweight, fast-absorbing gel-cream from Dear, Klairs that calms sensitive, irritated skin and brightens uneven tone. Powered by the patented Blue Calming Formulaβ’ (madecassoside, chamomile-derived guaiazulene and EGF peptides) plus niacinamide and 8 types of hyaluronic acid, it delivers a cooling sensation within 10 seconds and restores the skin's oil-water balance.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Instant Cooling Effect
Delivers a refreshing cooling sensation within 10 seconds, lowering skin temperature to calm heat and redness.
Blue Calming Formulaβ’
Patented blend of madecassoside, chamomile-derived guaiazulene and EGF peptides that soothes stressed, reactive skin.
Brightens & Evens Tone
Around 3% niacinamide helps fade post-blemish marks, hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone over time.
8 Types of Hyaluronic Acid
A multi-weight HA complex hydrates across skin layers and helps restore the natural oil-water balance.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
No retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone or chemical sunscreens. Niacinamide, HA and centella are generally considered safe, but it contains bioengineered EGF growth-factor peptides that are not well studied in pregnancy. Check with your doctor first.
Not fungal-acne safe. Contains caprylic/capric triglyceride, polyglyceryl-6 laurate, glucoside surfactants and arginine, which can feed malassezia.
Layers nicely with hydrating toners, ceramide creams and sunscreen. Compatible with most actives including vitamin C and gentle exfoliants.
Niacinamide is non-irritating and stable alongside retinol, AHA/BHA and vitamin C. Introduce strong actives one at a time if your skin is sensitive.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π‘ Niacinamide ~2.9β3.6% Proven
A multitasking form of vitamin B3 that strengthens the skin barrier, regulates oil, refines pores and fades dark spots and post-blemish marks. Well tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive skin.
- Function: Brightening, barrier support, sebum balance and smoothing.
- Concentration: Estimated at roughly 2.9β3.6% based on its position in the ingredient list, an effective range for tone and oil control.
- Mechanism: Converts to NAD in skin cells, supporting repair, collagen and a stronger barrier.
πΌ Guaiazulene (Blue Calming Formulaβ’) Low % Promising
The chamomile-derived compound responsible for the cream's signature midnight-blue color. Prized for its soothing, anti-inflammatory properties that help calm visible redness and reactive skin.
- Source: Derived from azulene found in Roman chamomile and other botanicals.
- Function: Calming and anti-redness; gives the product its blue hue.
π Madecassoside (Centella Asiatica) Low % Proven
One of the key active compounds from Centella asiatica. Offers antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and hydrating benefits that support barrier recovery and soothe irritation.
- Research: Studies show madecassoside paired with vitamin C improved hydration and reduced visible signs of aging.
- Function: Soothing, antioxidant defense and wound-support.
π¦ 8-Type Hyaluronic Acid Complex Multi-MW Proven
A blend of multiple molecular weights and HA forms (sodium hyaluronate, hydrolyzed HA, crosspolymer, potassium hyaluronate and more) that hydrate across different skin layers for plump, supple skin.
- Function: Humectant hydration that binds water at the surface and deeper layers.
- Benefit: Different weights deliver both surface dewiness and longer-lasting hydration.
𧬠EGF Peptides (Sh-Oligopeptide & Sh-Polypeptide) Low % Promising
Five bioengineered signal peptides modeled on epidermal growth factor that aim to support skin renewal, firmness and barrier resilience.
- Function: Signal cell turnover and fibroblast activity for firmer, healthier-looking skin.
- Note: Mitogenic (stimulate cell multiplication) but not mutagenic β they do not cause cancer.
38 ingredients
Anthemis Nobilis Flower Water, Water, Butylene Glycol, Propanediol, Niacinamide, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Vp Copolymer, Carbomer, Arginine, Lauryl Glucoside, Polyglyceryl-6 Laurate, Allantoin, Glycerin, Ethylhexylglycerin, Myristyl Glucoside, Xanthan Gum, Guaiazulene, Pentylene Glycol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Madecassoside, Decyl Glucoside, Caprylyl Glycol, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate, Mentha Rotundifolia Leaf Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Thymus Vulgaris Leaf Extract, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Potassium Hyaluronate, Sh-Polypeptide-9, Sh-Polypeptide-11, Sh-Polypeptide-1, Sh-Oligopeptide-2, Sh-Oligopeptide-1.
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use as your moisturizing step, morning and night. For very dry skin you can layer a richer cream on top. In the AM, always finish with sunscreen.
π How to Use
Cleanse & Prep
Start with clean skin. Apply your toner, essence and any serums first.
Apply a Small Amount
Dispense a pea-to-coin-sized amount and dot it across the face.
Gently Pat to Absorb
Pat the cream in until absorbed. Enjoy the cooling sensation within about 10 seconds.
Seal & Protect
Layer a heavier moisturizer if needed at night; always apply sunscreen as the final AM step.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have oily, combination or acne-prone skin and want lightweight hydration.
- Your skin runs hot, red or reactive and needs calming.
- You want to fade post-blemish marks and even out tone with niacinamide.
- You prefer fragrance-free, vegan, non-comedogenic formulas.
- You like a fresh, fast-absorbing gel finish.
β Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry skin and want a single rich moisturizer.
- You are prone to fungal acne (malassezia) breakouts.
- You are pregnant and prefer to avoid growth-factor peptides.
- You dislike a slight tacky feel before full absorption.
- You want a fragranced or more occlusive cream.
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Lightweight gel absorbs quickly, hydrates without adding shine or heaviness.
Hydrating but may feel too light alone; layer a richer cream on top in winter.
Balances oil and hydration well across different facial zones.
Unscented and soothing; patch test recommended due to guaiazulene and EGF peptides.
Brand-tested non-comedogenic with niacinamide; not suited to fungal acne, however.
π Results Timeline
Instant Cooling
Skin temperature drops and heat-related redness feels calmed on contact.
85% noticedComfortable Hydration
Lightweight moisture absorbs fast, leaving skin fresh and balanced rather than greasy.
80% noticedCalmer, Less Reactive Skin
Reduced visible redness and irritation; skin feels more settled day to day.
68% noticedBrighter, More Even Tone
Niacinamide helps fade post-blemish marks and improve overall clarity with consistent use.
55% noticedβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Genuinely cooling and calming on hot, irritated skin.
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing, great for oily and combo skin.
- Effective niacinamide level for brightening and tone.
- Unscented, vegan, cruelty-free and reef safe.
- Loved for use after facials, sun exposure or procedures.
β Criticized
- Too light to be a stand-alone moisturizer for dry skin.
- Not fungal-acne (malassezia) safe.
- Small 50g size feels pricey to some buyers.
- Brief tacky feel before it fully absorbs.
- EGF peptides may not suit those avoiding growth factors.
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Very similar lightweight, hydrating gel-cream texture that is also fragrance-free and EO-free. Focuses on hydration rather than niacinamide brightening or a cooling effect.
Korean soothing moisturizer that also features niacinamide and shares many ingredients. Leans more toward barrier soothing with panthenol; lacks the signature blue calming complex.
Lightweight, oil-free hydrator for oily and combo skin with niacinamide. Simpler formula without madecassoside, guaiazulene or the 8-type HA complex.
π Comparison with Competitors
Klairs Midnight Blue Clearing Water Cream (Featured)
$25.00Acwell Real Aqua Balancing Cream
$20.00Numbuzin No.1 Pantothenic B5 Soothing Cream
$22.00Dr.G Red Blemish Clear Soothing Cream
$26.00π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Refrigeration enhances the cooling sensation.
Black plastic pump tube
Yes β 50g and 20g sizes are both under 100ml, carry-on friendly.
β Frequently Asked Questions
It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone or chemical sunscreens, and its core actives (niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, centella) are generally considered pregnancy-friendly. However, it includes bioengineered EGF growth-factor peptides that are not well studied during pregnancy, so we recommend checking with your doctor before use.
No. It contains caprylic/capric triglyceride, polyglyceryl-6 laurate, glucoside-based surfactants and arginine, which can feed malassezia. If you are prone to fungal acne, choose a malassezia-safe moisturizer instead.
Yes. Niacinamide is non-irritating and compatible with retinol, vitamin C and gentle exfoliating acids. Apply this cream as your moisturizing step after your actives. If your skin is sensitive, introduce strong actives one at a time.
It is ideal for oily, combination and acne-prone skin, and excellent for hot, reddened or reactive skin that needs calming. Dry skin can use it but may want a richer cream layered on top, especially in colder months.
The cooling and calming effect is immediate (within about 10 seconds). Reduced redness and irritation are typically noticeable within 2β4 weeks, while brighter, more even tone from niacinamide usually appears around 6β8 weeks of consistent use.
Use it as your moisturizing step, after cleansing, toner, essence and serums. In the morning, follow with sunscreen as your final step. At night, you can layer a heavier cream on top if your skin needs extra moisture.
It is formulated to be non-comedogenic and has undergone brand non-comedogenicity testing, earning a low comedogenic rating of about 1 out of 5. Most users with oily or acne-prone skin find it does not clog pores.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight; keeping it in the fridge can intensify the refreshing cooling sensation.
Verdict: The Dear, Klairs Midnight Blue Clearing Water Cream is a standout lightweight gel moisturizer for oily, combination and reactive skin. Its patented Blue Calming Formulaβ’, effective ~3% niacinamide and 8-type hyaluronic acid complex deliver real cooling, calming and brightening benefits in an unscented, vegan, non-comedogenic package. It loses half a star only because it is too light to be a sole moisturizer for very dry skin and is not fungal-acne safe. For anyone seeking fast-absorbing hydration that soothes redness and evens tone, it 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 7 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 4 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 11 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 |
Anthemis Nobilis Flower Water
Masking, Skin Conditioning
|
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
|