Moisturizing Cream
Moisturizing Cream
Product Description
Product overview
A pharmacist-recommended, ultra-simple moisturizing cream with only 7 ingredients. Formulated to relieve and protect against extreme dryness, cracking, and chapping associated with eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea. Accepted by the Eczema Society of Canada.
Occlusive Moisture Barrier
Petrolatum and mineral oil create a protective layer on the skin's surface, reducing trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) and locking in moisture for hours.
Texture & feel
SENSORYOcclusive Moisture Barrier
Petrolatum and mineral oil create a protective layer on the skin's surface, reducing trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) and locking in moisture for hours.
Minimalist 7-Ingredient Formula
One of the shortest ingredient lists on the market, dramatically lowering the risk of irritation and allergic reactions for ultra-sensitive skin.
Eczema Society Certified
Earned the Seal of Acceptance from the Eczema Society of Canada, confirming it is free of ingredients known to irritate eczema-prone skin.
Medication-Compatible Base
Can be mixed with prescribed topical medications to ease application. Ideal as a base layer under steroid creams or retinoid treatments.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains p-Chloro-m-Cresol (chlorocresol), a preservative flagged by some sources as a suspected endocrine disruptor. No retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone. Consult your doctor before use during pregnancy.
Contains Cetearyl Alcohol and Ceteareth-20, which are fatty alcohol derivatives that may feed Malassezia yeast. Not considered fungal acne safe.
Carries the Eczema Society of Canada Seal of Acceptance. Free of fragrances, lanolin, parabens, and other common eczema triggers.
Excellent buffer for retinoid users. The occlusive formula helps combat dryness and flaking caused by tretinoin or adapalene without interfering with their activity.
Free from fragrances, dyes, lanolin, parabens, silicones, and sulfates. Minimal ingredient list reduces allergy risk significantly.
Recommended as a moisturizer for skin dryness associated with radiation therapy and laser treatments.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSPetrolatum ~20–30%Proven
Highly refined petroleum jelly that acts as a powerful occlusive agent. Creates a physical barrier on the skin to prevent moisture loss, making it one of the most effective moisturizing ingredients known.
- Efficacy: Reduces trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) by up to 99%
- Safety: Cosmetic-grade petrolatum is non-irritating, non-sensitizing, and non-comedogenic
- Research: Widely used in dermatology as a gold-standard occlusive for wound healing and barrier repair
Cetearyl Alcohol ~2–3%Proven
A fatty alcohol (not a drying alcohol) that acts as an emollient and emulsion stabilizer. Gives the cream its smooth, spreadable texture while softening the skin.
- Function: Emollient + thickener that provides body and a silky feel
- Safety: Non-toxic, non-irritating; FDA allows "alcohol-free" labeling for products containing fatty alcohols
- Note: Derived from plant oils (palm, coconut, or vegetable)
Paraffinum Liquidum (Mineral Oil) ~10–15%Proven
A highly refined, clear mineral oil that serves as an emollient and occlusive. Works alongside petrolatum to seal in moisture and protect the skin barrier without causing irritation.
- Efficacy: Proven equally effective as extra virgin coconut oil in treating xerosis (very dry skin)
- Safety: Cosmetic-grade mineral oil is purified and non-comedogenic; sensitivity is extremely rare
- Usage: Widely used in French pharmacy brands for ultra-sensitive, allergy-prone skin
Ceteareth-20 ~1–2%Functional
An emulsifier that keeps the oil and water phases of the cream from separating. Ensures a stable, uniform product with consistent texture and performance.
- Function: Ethoxylated cetearyl alcohol that acts as an oil-in-water emulsifier
- Safety: Well-tolerated at typical cosmetic concentrations
Sodium Phosphate <1%Functional
A pH buffer that maintains the product's optimal acidity level, ensuring skin compatibility and product stability over time.
- Function: pH adjuster and buffering agent
- Safety: Widely used in food and cosmetics; non-irritating at buffering concentrations
p-Chloro-m-Cresol <0.2%Preservative
A phenolic preservative with antimicrobial and antifungal properties. Prevents microbial growth to maintain product integrity and shelf life.
- EU Regulation: Approved for use up to 0.2% concentration in finished cosmetic products
- CIR Assessment: Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel concluded safe at concentrations up to 0.5%
- Note: Prohibited in products intended for mucous membranes
7 ingredients
Water, Petrolatum, Cetearyl Alcohol, Paraffinum Liquidum, Ceteareth-20, Sodium Phosphate, p-Chloro-m-Cresol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as the last moisturizing step in your routine, after serums and treatments. In the morning, follow with sunscreen. Can also be used alone as a simple one-step moisturizer.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Skin
Wash the affected area gently and pat dry. For best absorption, apply to slightly damp skin.
Take a Small Amount
Scoop a pea-to-dime-sized amount. The formula is rich and concentrated, so a little goes a long way.
Massage Gently
Warm the cream between your fingertips and massage into the skin using gentle, upward strokes. Allow 1–2 minutes for full absorption.
Reapply as Needed
Apply several times daily to affected areas, or as directed by your healthcare practitioner. Ideal for use morning and night.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea and need a gentle, certified-safe moisturizer
- Your skin is extremely dry, cracked, or chapped, especially in winter
- You want a minimalist formula with the fewest possible ingredients
- You use retinoids (tretinoin, adapalene) and need a non-irritating buffer
- You have aging skin that needs deep moisture replenishment
- You are recovering from radiation therapy or laser treatments
- You need a base to mix with prescribed topical medications
Consider alternatives if:
- You have oily or acne-prone skin — the rich formula may feel too heavy
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia) — contains fatty alcohols that may trigger flares
- You want active ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or niacinamide
- You prefer a lightweight lotion for warm weather daily use
- You are sensitive to petrolatum-based products
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThis is exactly what Glaxal Base was designed for. The petrolatum-rich formula locks in moisture and repairs cracked, flaky skin rapidly.
Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and Eczema Society certified. One of the safest options for highly reactive skin.
Provides excellent moisture, especially during cold or dry months. May feel slightly rich for everyday summer use.
Best used on dry patches only. May add too much shine on the T-zone. Consider using Glaxal Base Lotion for oilier areas.
Too heavy and occlusive for oily skin. May increase shine and feel greasy. A lightweight gel moisturizer would be a better choice.
Comedogenic rating of 2/5. Generally well-tolerated for body use, but may clog facial pores in some individuals. Patch test first.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Immediate Relief
Skin feels softer and less tight right after application. The occlusive barrier begins preventing moisture loss immediately. Itchiness and discomfort from dryness are noticeably reduced.
85% noticed improvementVisible Skin Repair
Dry patches, cracking, and flaking begin to clear. Rough texture becomes smoother. Users with eczema report reduced redness and less frequent flare-ups.
75% noticed improvementBarrier Restoration
The skin's moisture barrier is significantly strengthened. Skin retains hydration longer between applications. Eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea symptoms are better managed with consistent use.
70% noticed improvementLong-Term Maintenance
Skin stays supple and resilient with ongoing use. Many users report they can reduce application frequency while maintaining results. Lines and discoloration may appear diminished over time.
65% noticed improvementRatings by platform
314+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Ultra-simple 7-ingredient formula — one of the shortest on the market
- Eczema Society of Canada Seal of Acceptance
- #1 pharmacist-recommended moisturizer in Canada
- Excellent for eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea relief
- Works well as a base for mixing with prescription creams
- Compatible with retinoid treatments (tretinoin, adapalene)
- Great value in larger sizes, especially at Costco
- Fragrance-free, lanolin-free, paraben-free, hypoallergenic
Criticized
- Noticeable medicinal or "creamy" smell despite being fragrance-free
- Very thick texture can be difficult to rub in
- Too heavy for oily skin or warm-weather use
- Not fungal acne (Malassezia) safe
- No active ingredients (no ceramides, HA, or niacinamide)
- Tub packaging is less hygienic than a pump
- Overpriced when purchased in the US versus Canada
- Preservative (chlorocresol) has raised some safety concerns
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Pure petrolatum with no emulsifiers or water. Even more occlusive but much greasier and harder to spread. Lacks the elegant cream texture of Glaxal Base but provides similar barrier protection.
Also petrolatum-based with mineral oil and lanolin alcohol. Richer formula with more ingredients (10+). Similar occlusive performance but contains lanolin, which Glaxal Base avoids for allergy-prone skin.
41% petrolatum ointment with panthenol and bisabolol. More greasy, ointment-like texture versus Glaxal Base's cream formula. Excellent for healing but less cosmetically elegant for daily full-body use.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
24 MONTHS24 months after opening
Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Keep container tightly closed. Avoid extreme heat or freezing.
Available in tub (227g, 450g) and squeeze tube (50g, 100g). Tub format ideal for home use; tube format for travel and hygiene.
Yes — the 50g tube is under 100ml and carry-on compliant. Often bundled with the 450g tub as a travel-size bonus.
Frequently asked questions
FAQGlaxal Base does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens — all of which are commonly flagged during pregnancy. However, it does contain p-Chloro-m-Cresol (chlorocresol), a preservative that some sources classify as a suspected endocrine disruptor. While it is used at very low concentrations (under 0.2%) and is approved by the EU for cosmetic use, we recommend consulting your doctor or midwife before using it during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
No. Glaxal Base contains Cetearyl Alcohol and Ceteareth-20, both fatty alcohol derivatives that can potentially feed Malassezia yeast. While petrolatum and mineral oil alone are generally considered fungal acne safe, the presence of these emulsifiers means this product is not recommended for those prone to fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis).
Yes. Glaxal Base is an excellent companion to active treatments. Its occlusive, non-active formula makes it an ideal buffer or follow-up moisturizer after retinoids (tretinoin, adapalene, retinol), vitamin C serums, and chemical exfoliants (AHAs and BHAs). It helps combat the dryness and flaking that these actives can cause without interfering with their efficacy. Apply your active treatment first, let it absorb, then layer Glaxal Base on top.
Glaxal Base is best suited for dry to very dry skin and sensitive skin, especially those with eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea. It is also excellent for aging skin that has lost its ability to retain moisture. It is not ideal for oily or combination skin, as the rich, occlusive formula may feel too heavy and increase shine. For oilier skin types, consider the Glaxal Base Moisturizing Lotion, which has a lighter formulation.
Most users notice immediate softening and relief from tightness after the first application. Visible improvement in dry patches, cracking, and flaking typically occurs within 1–2 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. Long-term barrier restoration and sustained hydration improvement continue over 3–4 weeks. Some users have reported clearing persistent dry patches in as few as 4 days.
Glaxal Base should be applied as the final moisturizing step in your skincare routine, after cleansing, toning, serums, and any prescription treatments. In the morning, follow it with sunscreen. Its occlusive nature means it should go on last (before SPF) to seal everything in. It can also be used as a standalone, one-step moisturizer for those who prefer a minimal routine.
Glaxal Base has an overall comedogenic rating of approximately 2 out of 5. The main ingredients — petrolatum (0–1) and mineral oil (0–1) — are considered non-comedogenic. However, Cetearyl Alcohol has a comedogenic rating of 2–3, which may be a concern for acne-prone individuals, particularly on the face. For body use, it is generally well-tolerated. If you are acne-prone, we recommend patch testing on a small area of your face before full application.
Glaxal Base has an estimated Period After Opening (PAO) of 24 months. Its simple formula with a robust preservative (chlorocresol) provides excellent stability. Keep the container tightly closed and store at room temperature. The 450g tub typically lasts 4–8 months with daily use, depending on how generously you apply. The minimalist formula means fewer ingredients that can degrade over time.
Verdict: Glaxal Base Moisturizing Cream is a no-frills, pharmacist-trusted workhorse for extremely dry and sensitive skin. Its remarkable 7-ingredient formula is one of the simplest on the market, making it an outstanding choice for eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea sufferers who need a gentle, certified-safe moisturizer. It excels as a heavy-duty occlusive barrier cream and pairs beautifully with retinoid treatments. However, it lacks modern active ingredients like ceramides or hyaluronic acid, is not fungal acne safe, and its thick texture and faint medicinal scent may not appeal to everyone. Best suited for those who prioritize ingredient minimalism and dermatological safety above all else.
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
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
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cetearyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Opacifying, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasingagent - Aqueous, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Emulsifying, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 0 |
Paraffinum Liquidum
Emollient, Skin Protecting, Solvent
|
|
|
| 0 |
Ceteareth-20
Cleansing, Emulsifying
|
|