Oil-Free Moisture for Sensitive Skin
Oil-Free Moisture for Sensitive Skin
Product Description
A lightweight, water-based moisturizer clinically proven to provide gentle yet effective hydration for sensitive skin. This oil-free formula absorbs quickly without leaving skin greasy or shiny, featuring glycerin for optimal moisture balance.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Oil-Free Hydration
Water-based formula eliminates dryness without leaving skin greasy or shiny, perfect for those who dislike heavy creams.
Sensitive Skin Formula
Free from fragrances, dyes, and drying alcohol. Hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested for reactive skin types.
Soybean Sterols
Contains glycine soja sterols that may help with skin rejuvenation and barrier support according to research.
Makeup-Friendly
Lightweight texture works well as a primer base, allowing makeup to apply smoothly without pilling or separation.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
No retinoids, salicylic acid, or other pregnancy-concerning ingredients. Safe for use during pregnancy and nursing.
Contains Ethylhexyl Palmitate and Isopropyl Isostearate - fatty acid esters that can feed malassezia yeast and worsen fungal acne.
Formula includes methylparaben, ethylparaben, and propylparaben as preservatives. Generally considered safe at low concentrations but some prefer paraben-free options.
Diazolidinyl Urea releases small amounts of formaldehyde as a preservative. May cause irritation in very sensitive individuals.
Can be safely layered with retinol products. Apply retinol first, wait 5 minutes, then apply this moisturizer.
Works well with AHA/BHA exfoliants and vitamin C serums. Apply actives first, then use this as a hydrating layer.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π§ Glycerin High % Proven
A powerful humectant naturally found in skin that attracts water to the upper layers, providing long-lasting hydration. Studies show glycerin is more effective than hyaluronic acid as a humectant.
- Function: Attracts moisture from environment and deeper skin layers
- Evidence: 2016 study found glycerin more effective than AHAs and hyaluronic acid as humectant
- Safety: Irritancy rating 0, Comedogenic rating 0
𧴠Dimethicone Medium % Proven
A silicone that creates a protective barrier on skin, reduces water loss, and gives a silky-smooth finish. Can temporarily fill in fine lines and wrinkles for a smoother appearance.
- Function: Occlusive barrier, smoothing agent, moisture retention
- Benefits: Used in scar treatment gels, creates protective film
- Texture: Gives products a silky, non-greasy feel
π‘οΈ Petrolatum Medium % Proven
The most effective occlusive agent known - creates an unparalleled moisture-sealing barrier on skin to prevent transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
- Function: Premier occlusive, locks in moisture
- Evidence: Over 100 years of safe use since 1872
- Safety: Cosmetic-grade petrolatum has no evidence of carcinogenicity
π± Glycine Soja (Soybean) Sterols Low % Promising
Plant-derived sterols from soybeans that may provide skin rejuvenation benefits and help support the skin barrier.
- Function: Emollient, skin conditioning
- Research: NIH studies suggest potential skin rejuvenation effects (PMID: 20412217)
- Source: Derived from soybean oil
20 ingredients
Water, Glycerin, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Dimethicone, Petrolatum, Cyclomethicone, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Sterols, Isopropyl Isostearate, Cetyl Alcohol, PEG-10 Soy Sterol, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Carbomer, Tetrasodium EDTA, Sodium Hydroxide, Diazolidinyl Urea, Ethylparaben, Methylparaben, Propylparaben
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply after water-based serums and treatments. Use morning and night, alone or under makeup.
π How to Use
Cleanse Your Face
Start with clean skin. Use a gentle cleanser suitable for sensitive skin and pat dry.
Apply Actives (Optional)
If using toner, serum, or treatments, apply those first and allow them to absorb.
Dispense Product
Use 1 pump of moisturizer. The lightweight formula spreads easily - a little goes a long way.
Apply to Face & Neck
Gently massage over entire face and neck using upward motions. Allow 5-10 minutes to fully absorb before makeup.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have sensitive skin that reacts to fragrances
- You want a lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer
- You need a pregnancy-safe hydrating option
- You prefer a simple, no-frills formula
- You want affordable drugstore skincare
- You need a good makeup primer base
β Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You want a paraben-free formula
- You have very dry skin needing intense hydration
- You're sensitive to formaldehyde releasers
- You want anti-aging actives like ceramides or niacinamide
- You prefer vegan or natural formulations
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Lightweight, oil-free formula absorbs quickly without adding shine. Perfect for oily skin types seeking hydration without heaviness.
Provides basic hydration but may not be enough for very dry skin. Layer with a heavier cream or facial oil in colder months.
Balances well across different face zones without overwhelming oily areas or under-hydrating dry patches.
Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic, designed for sensitive skin. However, some very reactive skin may react to preservatives.
Non-comedogenic claim, but contains Isopropyl Isostearate which some find pore-clogging. Results vary by individual.
π Results Timeline
Instant Hydration
Skin feels softer and more hydrated immediately after application. Lightweight texture absorbs without greasy residue.
95% noticedImproved Comfort
Reduced tightness and dry patches. Skin feels consistently more comfortable throughout the day. Better makeup application.
80% noticedBalanced Moisture
Skin's moisture barrier strengthened with consistent use. Less reactive to environmental stressors. Smoother texture overall.
70% noticedLong-Term Benefits
Many long-term users report consistently healthy-looking skin. Some users have relied on this product for decades with positive results.
65% noticedβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Lightweight, non-greasy texture
- Truly fragrance-free formula
- Affordable drugstore price point
- Works well under makeup
- Decades of proven track record
- Simple, no-fuss formula
- Pump dispenser is hygienic
- Suitable for morning and night use
β Criticized
- Contains parabens and formaldehyde releaser
- Not fungal acne safe
- May not be hydrating enough for dry skin
- Some report breakouts over time
- No beneficial actives like ceramides or niacinamide
- Takes 5-10 minutes to fully absorb
- Product may be getting discontinued
- Formula changes reported over the years
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Nearly identical formula at a lower price point. Amazon's own brand version of this classic moisturizer with similar ingredients and texture.
Another dermatologist-favorite with simpler ingredients. Contains niacinamide and panthenol. Lighter texture, may be better for reactive skin.
Minimal ingredient list, free from parabens, dyes, and formaldehyde releasers. Thicker texture but excellent for very sensitive skin. Dermatologist recommended.
Contains similar humectants with added bisabolol for soothing. No artificial perfumes or colors. Good alternative for sensitive skin on a budget.
π Comparison with Competitors
Neutrogena Oil-Free Moisture (This Product)
$10-12CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion
$14-17Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer
$12-15Vanicream Moisturizing Cream
$13-16π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Room temperature is ideal.
Plastic bottle with pump dispenser for hygienic application
Yes - 4 fl oz (118ml) is over the 3.4oz TSA limit, but travel sizes available
β Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, this moisturizer is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It does not contain any of the concerning ingredients to avoid during pregnancy such as retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. While it does contain parabens, these are used at low concentrations and are not on the list of ingredients typically advised to avoid during pregnancy.
No, this product is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains Ethylhexyl Palmitate and Isopropyl Isostearate, which are fatty acid esters that can feed the malassezia yeast responsible for fungal acne. If you have malassezia folliculitis, consider alternatives like Vanicream Lite Lotion or products specifically formulated to be fungal acne safe.
Yes, this moisturizer is compatible with all common active ingredients including retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs. Apply your actives first (serums, treatments), wait a few minutes for absorption, then apply this moisturizer as your hydrating layer. The formula helps seal in the actives while providing a moisture barrier.
This moisturizer works best for oily, combination, and normal-to-sensitive skin types. Its lightweight, oil-free formula excels at providing hydration without adding grease or heaviness. Those with very dry skin may find it insufficiently hydrating and should consider layering with a richer cream or choosing a different product altogether.
You'll notice immediate hydration and softness right after application. Within 1-2 weeks of consistent use, you should experience reduced dryness and improved skin comfort. For full barrier-strengthening benefits and consistently balanced moisture levels, expect to use the product for 4-6 weeks or longer.
This moisturizer goes after cleansing, toning, and any water-based serums or treatments. In a typical routine: Cleanser β Toner β Serum/Treatment β This Moisturizer β Sunscreen (AM only). At night, it can be your final step, or you can layer an occlusive like Vaseline on top for extra moisture.
The product is labeled non-comedogenic and has been tested not to clog pores. However, it contains Isopropyl Isostearate, which has a comedogenic rating of 4-5 in some databases. Results vary significantly by individual - many users report no issues, while some acne-prone users have experienced breakouts. Patch testing is recommended if you're concerned.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for best results. The pump dispenser helps maintain hygiene and extends shelf life by limiting air and bacteria exposure. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Verdict: Neutrogena Oil-Free Moisture for Sensitive Skin is a solid, affordable moisturizer that has earned its classic status over decades. It excels at providing lightweight hydration without greasiness, making it ideal for oily and combination skin types. The fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formula suits most sensitive skin. However, it falls short for fungal acne sufferers due to problematic fatty esters, and the inclusion of parabens and a formaldehyde-releasing preservative may concern clean beauty enthusiasts. If you want a simple, effective moisturizer at a drugstore price and aren't worried about fungal acne or paraben content, this remains a reliable choice. Those seeking more advanced benefits like ceramides or niacinamide should look to CeraVe or Cetaphil alternatives.
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
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
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Ethylhexyl Palmitate
Skin Conditioning, Perfuming, Emollient, Fragrance
|
|
|
| 3 |
Dimethicone
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Antifoaming Agent, Skin Protecting
|
|
|
| 4 |
Petrolatum
Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Uv Absorber, Moisturising, Skin-Conditioning Agent - Occlusive
|
|