Safe Me. Relief Moisture Cream 12
Safe Me. Relief Moisture Cream 12
Product Description
Product overview
A minimalist, clinically-proven 48-hour moisturizer from Make p:rem featuring just 12 clean, plant-derived ingredients. Formulated at pH 5.5 with squalane, glycerin, and raspberry extract to deeply hydrate, soothe, and strengthen the skin barrier — ideal for sensitive, dry, and reactive skin that craves gentle, no-fuss nourishment.
Clinically Proven 48-Hour Hydration
Clinically tested to maintain 78.04% of skin moisture even after 48 hours, with an 87.99% improvement in moisturizing effect. A genuine science-backed result.
Texture & feel
SENSORYClinically Proven 48-Hour Hydration
Clinically tested to maintain 78.04% of skin moisture even after 48 hours, with an 87.99% improvement in moisturizing effect. A genuine science-backed result.
Only 12 Clean Ingredients
93% plant-derived, EWG Verified, and free from artificial fragrances, parabens, sulfates, mineral oils, silicones, and colorants. Every ingredient earns its place.
Barrier-Strengthening Formula
Squalane and glycerin work in tandem to both attract and lock in moisture, reducing TEWL (transepidermal water loss) and supporting a healthy skin barrier.
pH 5.5 Skin-Matching Formula
The slightly acidic pH closely mirrors your skin's natural acidity, allowing the formula to absorb smoothly without disrupting the microbiome or triggering sensitivity.
Antioxidant-Rich Raspberry Extract
Rubus Idaeus (raspberry) fruit extract contributes polyphenols, anthocyanins, and ellagitannins that fight oxidative stress and soothe inflammation.
Hypoallergenic & Clinically Tested
Dermatologist-tested to show -24.24% in moisture loss and +9.66% improvement in skin redness, making it one of the safest minimal-ingredient moisturizers available.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEThe formula contains Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Fruit Oil (bergamot essential oil) and Salvia Officinalis Oil (sage oil). These essential oils are generally considered to be used with caution during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester. Consult your OB-GYN or midwife before use. No retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone are present.
The formula is fungal acne safe. There are no fermented ingredients, polysorbates, esters, or fatty acid esters that feed Malassezia yeast. Squalane, glycerin, and polyglyceryl emulsifiers are all confirmed FA-safe ingredients.
Squalane rates 0–1 comedogenically and is non-pore-clogging. Cetearyl alcohol rates 2. There are no high-comedogenic oils or waxes in this formula, making it suitable for acne-prone skin types when patch tested.
Contains no synthetic fragrances, artificial colorants, or added perfumes. The light botanical scent some users detect is from the natural bergamot and sage oils used at functional levels.
Every ingredient in this formula carries an EWG Skin Deep score of 0–2 (the safest tier), and the product holds the EWG Verified mark — indicating full ingredient transparency and no use of any ingredient on EWG's Unacceptable List.
Bergamot oil contains naturally occurring limonene and linalool, which are known skin sensitizers at higher concentrations. Users with reactive or allergic skin should patch test. The concentration used in this product is below typical sensitization thresholds, per EWG review.
Contains no retinol, retinoids, AHAs, BHAs, or vitamin C, making it an excellent base moisturizer to layer with any active ingredients without risk of ingredient conflicts.
The formula is 100% vegan with no animal-derived ingredients. Make p:rem does not use animal-derived raw materials in this product line.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSWater (Aqua) #1 — ~60–70%Proven
The primary solvent and base of this cream, providing the hydrating medium that carries all other active ingredients into the skin. Purified and deionized for formula stability.
- Function: Solvent, hydration base
- Safety: EWG Score 1 — lowest possible risk
- Note: The foundation of virtually every water-based moisturizer
Glycerin #2 — ~5–10%Proven
One of the most well-studied humectants in skincare. Glycerin draws water from the environment and deeper skin layers to the upper epidermis, maintaining lasting hydration. A 2016 study found it more effective than both AHAs and hyaluronic acid as a humectant.
- Function: Humectant, skin-identical ingredient
- Comedogenicity: 0 — non-pore-clogging
- Research: Antimicrobial and antiviral properties documented; enhances skin barrier function
- Origin: Plant-derived (soybean or palm)
Squalane #3 — ~3–5%Proven
A saturated hydrocarbon oil that occurs naturally in human sebum. Squalane is an outstanding emollient that makes skin smooth and soft without heaviness or greasiness, while also forming a protective occlusive barrier to reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL).
- Function: Emollient, occlusive, TEWL prevention
- Comedogenicity: 0–1 — minimal pore risk
- Fungal Acne: Safe — confirmed not a food source for Malassezia
- Origin: Plant-derived (olive, sugarcane)
Polyglyceryl-6 Stearate #4 — ~1–2%Proven
A PEG-free emulsifier derived from glycerin and stearic acid that keeps oil and water components from separating. It pairs with Polyglyceryl-6 Behenate to create light, elegant emulsions with additional moisturizing benefits.
- Function: Emulsifier, texture agent
- Safety: PEG-free; based on renewable raw materials
- Bonus: Duo with Polyglyceryl-6 Behenate provides outstanding moisturization properties
Pentylene Glycol #5 — ~1–3%Proven
A multifunctional ingredient that acts as a solvent, emulsion stabilizer, and broad-spectrum antimicrobial. It also delivers moisturizing properties, boosts the performance of other preservatives, and helps products feel silky on the skin.
- Function: Solvent, humectant, antimicrobial, emulsion stabilizer
- Safety: Well-tolerated; works synergistically with preservative systems
- Texture: Gives the formula its characteristically silky, non-sticky application feel
Rubus Idaeus Fruit Extract (Raspberry) #6 — ~0.5–1%Promising
Raspberry fruit extract is rich in polyphenols including anthocyanins and ellagitannins with documented antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps neutralize free radicals, calm irritation, and support healthy-looking skin. Make p:rem uses Nordic raspberry (Rubus Arcticus) callus in some formulations for enhanced activity.
- Function: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, soothing
- Active compounds: Anthocyanins, ellagitannins, vitamin C, phenolic acids
- Research: Polyphenols from berries shown to reduce oxidative stress markers in skin cells
Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Fruit Oil (Bergamot) #7 — trace (<0.5%)Promising
Cold-pressed bergamot peel oil used at trace levels. Research shows bergamot oil has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. It naturally contains limonene (37%), linalyl acetate (30%), and linalool (8.8%). Used here primarily for its skin-benefiting phytochemicals rather than fragrance.
- Function: Antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antifungal
- Sensitization risk: Contains limonene and linalool — known sensitizers at high concentrations; used at trace levels here
- Note: More cosmetics brands are sourcing furanocoumarin-free bergamot oil to reduce photosensitivity risk
Salvia Officinalis Oil (Sage) #8 — trace (<0.5%)Promising
Sage essential oil used at functional trace levels. Contains volatile compounds with known antibacterial and antioxidant properties. Traditionally used in skincare for its astringent and purifying qualities.
- Function: Antimicrobial, antioxidant, astringent
- Active compounds: Thujone, camphor, 1,8-cineole
- Pregnancy: Sage essential oil is generally advised to use with caution during pregnancy; consult your healthcare provider
Carbomer #9 — ~0.5–1%Proven
A high-molecular-weight polymer of acrylic acid used as a gelling and thickening agent to give the cream its smooth, spreadable texture. Due to its large molecular size, it does not penetrate the skin and is considered an inert, inactive ingredient at typical use levels.
- Function: Gelling agent, thickener, texture former
- Skin penetration: Minimal — does not absorb into skin
- Note: Most formulas use 1% or less. High amounts can cause product pilling.
Cetearyl Alcohol #10 — ~1–2%Proven
A fatty alcohol — not a drying alcohol. A blend of cetyl and stearyl alcohols that serves as an emollient and emulsifier, helping the cream maintain its texture and leave skin feeling soft and conditioned without greasiness.
- Function: Emollient, emulsifier, texture enhancer
- Comedogenicity: 2 — low-moderate, generally well-tolerated
- Important: This is a fatty alcohol (non-drying), not an irritating alcohol like ethanol
Tromethamine #11 — <0.5%Proven
A pH adjuster used to help maintain the formula's precise 5.5 pH, ensuring the cream stays in the optimal range for skin compatibility. It neutralizes carbomer to activate its gelling properties.
- Function: pH adjuster, buffering agent
- Safety: EWG Score 1; considered safe at cosmetic use levels
Polyglyceryl-6 Behenate #12 — ~0.5–1%Proven
A glycerin and behenic acid-based emulsifier that works in tandem with Polyglyceryl-6 Stearate to stabilize the emulsion. This pairing is specifically noted for creating light serums and lotions with excellent moisturizing properties. The duo is PEG-free and based on renewable materials.
- Function: Emulsifier, emollient, emulsion stabilizer
- Safety: PEG-free; EWG Score 1
- Synergy: Works specifically with Polyglyceryl-6 Stearate for optimal performance
12 ingredients — 100% listed, EWG Verified
Water, Glycerin, Squalane, Polyglyceryl-6 Stearate, Pentylene Glycol, Rubus Idaeus Fruit Extract, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Fruit Oil, Salvia Officinalis Oil, Carbomer, Cetearyl Alcohol, Tromethamine, Polyglyceryl-6 Behenate
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as the final moisturizing step in both AM and PM routines. In the morning, follow with SPF. In the evening, this can be your last step or layered under a sleeping mask for extra nourishment.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse and Tone
Begin with a clean, dry face. Apply your toner and any serums or essences first, allowing them to fully absorb before adding the moisturizer.
Scoop a Moderate Amount
Use the included spatula (or clean fingertips) to take a pea-to-hazelnut size amount of cream. Avoid double-dipping into the tub with unwashed hands to maintain hygiene.
Apply Evenly and Pat Gently
Warm the cream between your fingertips and apply evenly across the face and neck. Gently pat into the skin — patting aids absorption better than rubbing and is gentler on sensitive skin.
Allow to Absorb
Give the cream 30–60 seconds to sink in before layering sunscreen (AM) or going to bed (PM). The formula leaves a comfortable, non-sticky moisturized layer on the skin.
AM: Follow with Sunscreen
Always finish your morning routine with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen. This cream does not contain SPF protection.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have sensitive, dry, or barrier-compromised skin
- You prefer minimalist, clean-ingredient skincare
- You want EWG Verified, hypoallergenic formulas
- You need a fragrance-free daily moisturizer
- You're layering with active ingredients and need a gentle base
- You have fungal acne or react to fermented ingredients
- You follow a K-beauty minimalist routine
- You seek 48-hour hydration with a dewy, comfortable finish
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very oily skin and want a matte finish
- You need heavy-duty occlusion for severely cracked skin
- You want anti-aging actives (retinol, peptides) in your moisturizer
- You prefer completely essential-oil-free formulas during pregnancy
- You want brightening ingredients like niacinamide or vitamin C
- You need SPF built into your moisturizer
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThis is where the cream truly shines. Squalane, glycerin, and cetearyl alcohol work together to deeply nourish and prevent moisture loss — a perfect winter companion for dry, flaky skin.
Only 12 hypoallergenic ingredients, all EWG Green rated, fragrance-free, and pH-balanced at 5.5. One of the most sensitive-skin-friendly moisturizers in K-beauty.
Works well on drier zones but may feel slightly rich on very oily T-zones. Great for demi-dry to combination, especially in cooler months. Use sparingly on oily areas.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5) and fungal acne safe. No pore-clogging ingredients. Patch testing recommended for breakout-prone skin, as cetearyl alcohol (rating 2) may not suit everyone.
The cream is richer and more emollient than a gel moisturizer. Those with very oily skin may find it too heavy, particularly in summer. Best suited for dehydrated oily skin in winter.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Immediate Comfort & Hydration Boost
Skin feels immediately soothed and comfortable after first application. Dryness and tightness are noticeably relieved. The cream leaves a comfortable, dewy moisturized layer that lasts through the day or night.
90%+ users noticedReduced Redness & Sensitivity
Clinical data shows a 9.66% improvement in skin redness after consistent use. Reactive skin becomes calmer and less prone to irritation. The skin barrier begins to rebuild as TEWL is reduced by 24.24%.
~75% noticedVisibly Smoother, More Supple Skin
Consistent moisture retention leads to plumper, softer skin texture. Fine lines of dehydration appear reduced. Antioxidants from raspberry extract help improve overall radiance and even tone.
~65% noticedStrengthened Skin Barrier
Long-term use of a well-formulated, pH-balanced cream like this helps restore the skin's acid mantle, reducing long-term sensitivity and improving resilience against environmental triggers and active ingredients.
~55% noticedRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Only 12 clean, EWG Verified ingredients
- Clinically proven 48-hour moisture retention
- pH 5.5 — skin-identical acidity
- Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic
- 93% naturally derived ingredients
- Fungal acne safe
- Great for sensitive and reactive skin
- Pairs well with all actives (retinol, acids, vitamin C)
- Generous 80ml tub for the price
- Comes with application spatula
Criticized
- Tub packaging (hygiene concerns without spatula)
- Slightly heavier texture — not ideal for very oily skin
- Mild herbal/medicinal scent from sage and bergamot oils
- May need layering for very dry or eczema-prone skin
- Essential oils present — caution for pregnancy or very reactive skin
- Not matte-finish — may not suit those who prefer mattifying moisturizers
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESShares the gentle, minimal-irritant philosophy with ceramides for barrier repair and glycerin as a humectant. A lighter gel texture makes it better for combination and oily skin. Lacks squalane but adds ceramides that the Make p:rem formula doesn't include.
The closest ingredient-matching dupe according to formula analysis. Both are fragrance-free, minimalist, and hypoallergenic. The Eucerin uses licochalcone A as a soothing active. Lacks squalane but widely available in European pharmacies.
Both are K-beauty minimalist moisturizers that lean clean and soothing. The COSRX uses birch sap as a hydrating base and is lighter in texture, making it a great summer or oily-skin alternative. No essential oils — suitable for those wanting a completely plant-oil-free formula.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Skin Barrier Moisturizing Cream
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. The formula is preservative-free in the traditional sense, but pentylene glycol acts as an antimicrobial. Use within 12 months of opening for best results.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid high temperatures and humidity. Do not refrigerate unless preferred for a cooling sensation on application.
Wide-mouth screw-top tub (80ml) with a hygienic inner seal. Comes with an applicator spatula — recommended to use instead of fingers to prevent contamination of the product.
80ml tub exceeds the standard 100ml carry-on liquid limit in most countries. For air travel, decant into a smaller container under 100ml or pack in checked luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThe formula does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens — the main ingredients flagged during pregnancy. However, the cream does contain Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Fruit Oil (bergamot) and Salvia Officinalis Oil (sage essential oil), both of which are generally advised to be used with caution during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester. While the concentrations in this product are trace-level and considered low risk by EWG, we always recommend consulting your OB-GYN or midwife before using any skincare product during pregnancy. If you want a completely essential-oil-free moisturizer during pregnancy, consider alternatives like CeraVe Moisturizing Cream or the Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Cream.
Yes — the Safe Me. Relief Moisture Cream 12 is considered fungal acne safe. There are no fermented ingredients, polysorbates, esters, or long-chain fatty acid esters that are known to feed Malassezia yeast. The key moisturizing ingredients — squalane, glycerin, and polyglyceryl emulsifiers — are all confirmed safe for those managing fungal acne or seborrheic dermatitis. This makes it one of the few moisturizers that is simultaneously fungal acne safe, fragrance-free, and EWG Verified.
Absolutely. The cream contains no actives of its own — no retinol, acids, or antioxidants in concentrations that would interfere with other ingredients. This makes it an excellent "seal and soothe" final step to layer over retinoids, vitamin C serums, or chemical exfoliants. In fact, using a gentle, occlusive-type moisturizer like this after acids or retinol is a common technique (known as "buffering") to reduce potential irritation. Apply your actives first, wait for them to absorb, then apply this cream as the final moisturizing step.
This cream is best suited to dry, sensitive, and normal-to-dry skin types. The formula is specifically designed for those with reactive, dry, or barrier-compromised skin who need a clean, gentle moisturizer without unnecessary additives. It works well for dehydrated combination skin during colder months. Those with very oily skin may find the texture too rich, especially in warm or humid climates — a lighter gel-cream may be more comfortable for them in summer.
Most users notice immediate hydration and comfort relief from the very first application. Skin feels less tight and dry within minutes. After 1–2 weeks of consistent daily use, clinical data shows measurable improvements: a 9.66% reduction in skin redness and a 24.24% reduction in moisture loss. Longer-term use (4–8 weeks) contributes to a stronger, more resilient skin barrier and consistently plumper, smoother skin texture.
Apply this cream as your final moisturizing step, after cleanser, toner, essences, serums, and ampoules. In the morning, follow it with sunscreen. In the evening, it can be used as the last step on its own, or you may apply a sleeping mask on top for extra nourishment if needed. Soko Glam's official guidance is: "As the last step in your nighttime routine, or before sunscreen in your morning routine, apply and massage into skin until absorbed."
The cream has an overall comedogenic rating of 1/5 — considered very low. The star ingredient squalane rates 0–1 comedogenically and is well-documented to not clog pores. Cetearyl alcohol (a fatty alcohol) rates 2, which is within the acceptable low-comedogenic range. There are no high-comedogenic oils like coconut oil or isopropyl myristate. While individual skin response can vary, this product is considered non-comedogenic and is generally suitable for acne-prone skin. A patch test on the jawline or inner arm is always recommended when trying a new moisturizer.
The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. At a typical usage rate of once to twice daily (pea-to-hazelnut size amount per application), the 80ml tub will last approximately 3–5 months for most users. Always use the included spatula or a clean implement to scoop product to prevent bacterial contamination and extend the product's shelf life. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat.
Verdict: The Make p:rem Safe Me. Relief Moisture Cream 12 is a standout in K-beauty minimalist skincare. With only 12 EWG Verified, hypoallergenic ingredients and clinical proof of 48-hour moisture retention, it delivers exactly what it promises — nothing more, nothing less. The formula is fragrance-free, fungal acne safe, and suitable for even the most sensitive or reactive skin types. It excels as a gentle, barrier-supporting daily moisturizer that plays beautifully with actives. The primary caveats are its richer texture (best for dry/cold weather or dry skin types) and tub packaging, which requires diligent spatula use for hygiene. For anyone seeking a genuinely clean, clinically-backed K-beauty moisturizer that won't overwhelm the skin with unnecessary ingredients, this is an exceptional choice.
Product Overview
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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 |
Squalane
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Refatting
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Polyglyceryl-6 Stearate
Emollient
|
|
|
| 1 |
Pentylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Rubus Idaeus Fruit Extract
Astringent, Skin Conditioning, Smoothing, Tonic
|
|
|
| 0 |
Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Fruit Oil
Masking, Perfuming
|
|







