Skin Food Face Care Nourishing Day Cream
Skin Food Face Care Nourishing Day Cream
Product Description
Product overview
A nutrient-rich, fast-absorbing day cream that restores natural luminosity with olive leaf extract, squalane, chamomile, and calendula. Designed for normal to dry skin, it delivers all-day hydration and a velvety, radiant finish without heaviness.
Olive Leaf Antioxidant Shield
Polyphenol-rich olive leaf extract provides antioxidant protection and helps soothe environmentally stressed skin throughout the day.
Texture & feel
SENSORYOlive Leaf Antioxidant Shield
Polyphenol-rich olive leaf extract provides antioxidant protection and helps soothe environmentally stressed skin throughout the day.
Plant-Derived Squalane
Olive-derived squalane mirrors your skin's natural lipids, strengthening the moisture barrier without clogging pores or feeling greasy.
Botanical Soothing Complex
Chamomile, calendula, and pansy extracts work together to calm, nourish, and restore comfort to delicate or reactive skin.
All-Day Hydration Lock
Shea butter and sunflower seed oil form a protective layer that seals in moisture, keeping skin hydrated and luminous from morning to evening.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEFree from retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, and chemical sunscreens. All botanical extracts are considered safe during pregnancy. Contains natural essential oil fragrance — consult your doctor if you prefer fragrance-free options.
Contains Isoamyl Laurate (fatty acid ester), Shea Butter, and Sunflower Seed Oil — all of which can feed malassezia yeast. Avoid if you are prone to fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis.
Key ingredients like Sunflower Oil (0), Glycerin (0), and Squalane (0–1) are very low on the comedogenic scale. Shea Butter rates 0–2. Overall, unlikely to clog pores for most skin types.
Denatured alcohol appears mid-list as a solvent and stabilizer. At this concentration it is unlikely to be drying, but those with very sensitive or compromised barriers may want to patch test first.
Scented with natural essential oils including limonene, linalool, benzyl benzoate, and citral. These are EU-listed allergens. Patch test if you have known fragrance sensitivities.
Free from parabens, phthalates, synthetic fragrances, synthetic preservatives, mineral oils, silicones, and dyes. NATRUE certified natural and B Corp certified.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSOlea Europaea (Olive) Leaf ExtractProven
The hero ingredient of this day cream. Olive leaf extract is rich in polyphenols, particularly oleuropein, which provides potent antioxidant and skin-soothing benefits. It helps protect the skin from environmental stressors and supports a more even, radiant complexion.
- Antioxidant: Polyphenols in olive leaf neutralize free radicals and help prevent oxidative damage to skin cells.
- Soothing: Exhibits anti-inflammatory properties that help calm redness and irritation in sensitive skin.
Squalane ~2–5%Proven
A plant-derived lipid that closely mimics your skin's own sebum. Derived from olives, squalane integrates seamlessly into the skin barrier to reinforce its protective function while delivering lightweight, non-greasy hydration.
- Barrier Support: Integrates into the lipid barrier layer, supporting the skin's natural moisture-retention function.
- Comedogenicity: Rated 0–1, making it suitable for acne-prone skin and safe for fungal acne concerns on its own.
- Compatibility: Works well with all skin types including oily, sensitive, and reactive skin.
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil HighProven
Listed second in the formula, sunflower seed oil is a nourishing emollient rich in linoleic acid (50–74%) and oleic acid (14–35%). It supports barrier repair and helps skin stay smooth and hydrated.
- Barrier Repair: Studies show a single application significantly speeds skin barrier recovery within one hour.
- Comedogenicity: Rated 0 — safe for virtually all skin types, including acne-prone.
- Linoleic Acid: High in linoleic acid, which is beneficial for maintaining healthy skin cell function.
Glycerin ~5–10%Proven
A powerful humectant that draws moisture into the skin and keeps it there. At concentrations above 3%, glycerin has been shown to maintain skin lipids in a healthy liquid crystal state and protect against irritation.
- Humectant Power: A 2016 study found glycerin more effective than hyaluronic acid and AHAs as a humectant.
- Barrier Protection: Helps restore the skin barrier and protects against environmental irritation.
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter ~3–7%Proven
A rich emollient that locks in moisture and leaves skin feeling velvety soft. Shea butter preserves the skin's natural moisture and improves the cream's luxurious texture.
- Emollient: Creates a smooth protective film that prevents transepidermal water loss.
- Fatty Acids: Contains oleic, stearic, and linoleic acids that nourish and condition the skin.
Chamomile, Calendula & Pansy ExtractsPromising
A trio of botanical extracts that form the soothing backbone of the Skin Food line. Chamomile (bisabolol, chamazulene) calms inflammation, calendula (carotenoids, flavonoids) provides antioxidant healing, and pansy (viola tricolor) soothes and conditions delicate skin.
- Anti-inflammatory: Chamomile's bisabolol and chamazulene show strong anti-inflammatory action in studies.
- Antioxidant: Calendula's flavonoids protect skin from free radical damage.
- Soothing: Pansy extract has traditional use for soothing and conditioning irritated skin.
Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf ExtractProven
A potent antioxidant extract containing rosmarinic acid, flavonoids, and diterpenes. It revitalizes tired-looking skin and has natural antibacterial properties.
- Antioxidant: Rosmarinic acid is a highly effective free-radical scavenger with anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Antimicrobial: Natural antibacterial properties help keep the skin clean and balanced.
Tocopherol (Vitamin E)Proven
A well-studied antioxidant derived from vegetable oils that protects skin cells from oxidative damage and supports overall skin health. Works synergistically with other botanical extracts in this formula.
- Photoprotection: Helps neutralize UV-induced free radicals when used under sunscreen.
- Skin Conditioning: Supports skin barrier integrity and reduces transepidermal water loss.
28 ingredients
Water (Aqua), Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Glycerin, Isoamyl Laurate, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Pentylene Glycol, Betaine, Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate Citrate, Behenyl Alcohol, Squalane, Rhus Verniciflua Peel Wax, Viola Tricolor Extract, Olea Europaea (Olive) Leaf Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Hectorite, Acacia Senegal Gum, Xanthan Gum, Tocopherol, Lactic Acid, Glyceryl Caprylate, Fragrance (Parfum)*, Limonene*, Linalool*, Benzyl Benzoate*, Citral*
*from natural essential oils and/or plant extracts
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse in your AM routine. Apply after serums and treatments, before sunscreen. Pair with Weleda Skin Food Night Cream for a complete day-and-night regimen.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Skin
Start with a freshly cleansed face. The Weleda Skin Food Oil-to-Milk Cleanser pairs perfectly with this day cream.
Apply Treatments & Serums
Apply any toners, essences, or serums first. Allow them to absorb for 30–60 seconds before proceeding.
Smooth On Day Cream
Take a pea-sized amount and gently smooth onto face, neck, and décolleté. Use upward, outward motions. A little goes a long way.
Breathe & Let It Absorb
Take a deep breath and enjoy the light, invigorating mandarin and herbal scent. Allow 1–2 minutes for full absorption before applying sunscreen or makeup.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have normal to dry skin that needs daily nourishment
- You prefer certified natural, plant-based skincare
- You want a moisturizer that works as a makeup primer
- You love the iconic Weleda Skin Food but need a lighter face-specific formula
- Your skin looks dull, tired, or dehydrated
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe moisturizer
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne or malassezia-prone skin
- You need a completely fragrance-free product
- You have very oily skin and prefer gel-based moisturizers
- You are sensitive to chamomile or daisy-family (Asteraceae) plants
- You want anti-aging actives like retinol, peptides, or vitamin C
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThis cream was designed for dry skin. Shea butter, sunflower oil, and squalane deeply nourish and lock in moisture all day long.
Provides balanced hydration without heaviness. Absorbs quickly and leaves a beautiful velvety glow perfect for everyday use.
Works well on dry areas but may feel slightly rich on oily zones. Best applied sparingly on the T-zone, more generously on cheeks.
Soothing botanicals like chamomile and calendula calm reactive skin. However, natural fragrance components may bother those with extreme sensitivities — patch test first.
May feel too rich for very oily skin, especially in humid weather. Consider the Weleda Skin Food Light formula or a gel-based moisturizer instead.
Low comedogenic rating (2/5) means it is unlikely to clog pores for most people, but it is not fungal acne safe. Those with hormonal acne and dry patches may benefit.
Results timeline
WEEK 8+Immediate Hydration & Comfort
Skin feels softer, more comfortable, and hydrated right after the first application. The velvety finish provides an excellent base for makeup.
90% noticed smoother skinReduced Dryness & Flaking
Dry patches begin to diminish noticeably. The skin barrier feels more resilient and less reactive to environmental stressors like wind and cold.
85% noticed less drynessRestored Luminosity & Radiance
Complexion appears more even, luminous, and naturally glowing. Skin looks less tired, more nourished, and healthier overall.
81% reported restored natural radianceLong-Term Barrier Strengthening
Continued use supports a stronger, more resilient skin barrier. Skin feels consistently plump, bouncy, and less prone to seasonal dryness.
78% noticed improved skin resilienceRatings by platform
737+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Deeply hydrating without feeling heavy or greasy
- Beautiful velvety finish that works as a makeup primer
- Certified natural with clean, plant-based ingredients
- Soothing botanicals calm redness and irritation
- Restores radiance and glow to dull, tired skin
- Lighter than original Skin Food but still deeply nourishing
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
- Sustainable and ethically made (B Corp certified)
Criticized
- Natural essential oil fragrance can be overpowering for some
- 40ml jar is relatively small for the price point
- Too rich for very oily skin or hot, humid climates
- Not suitable for fungal acne-prone skin
- Contains alcohol which may concern some users
- No SPF protection — sunscreen still required
- Limited active anti-aging ingredients
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESA classic rich moisturizer with a similar thick, nourishing texture. Lacks the botanical extracts and certified natural status of Weleda but provides excellent barrier protection at a fraction of the cost.
A no-frills moisturizer with skin-identical ingredients like amino acids, hyaluronic acid, and ceramide precursors. Lighter texture, fragrance-free, and fungal acne safe — but lacks the botanical richness and luxury feel.
A dermatologist-favorite rich cream with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and MVE technology for sustained hydration. Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic but uses synthetic ingredients rather than plant-based actives.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEDr. Hauschka Rose Day Cream
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep lid tightly closed between uses to preserve freshness.
Glass jar with screw-top lid. Recyclable packaging in line with Weleda’s sustainability commitment.
Yes — 40ml is under the 100ml carry-on limit. Glass jar requires careful packing.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This cream does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens — the main ingredients to avoid during pregnancy. It uses only plant-based actives and natural essential oil fragrance. However, if you are particularly cautious about any fragrance during pregnancy, consult your healthcare provider before use.
No. This cream contains several ingredients that can feed malassezia yeast, including Isoamyl Laurate (a fatty acid ester), Shea Butter (contains fatty acids), and Sunflower Seed Oil (contains oleic acid). If you are prone to fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis, look for a fungal acne-safe alternative such as The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA.
Yes, this cream pairs well with most active ingredients. Apply your retinol, vitamin C serum, or chemical exfoliant first, wait for it to absorb, then layer this cream on top as a nourishing moisturizer. The soothing botanicals (chamomile, calendula) can actually help buffer irritation from strong actives. Note: the formula contains a small amount of Lactic Acid as a pH adjuster, not at exfoliating levels.
This cream is best suited for normal to dry skin types. It excels at providing deep nourishment and restoring radiance to dehydrated, dull, or tired-looking skin. Those with combination skin can use it sparingly on drier areas. It may be too rich for very oily skin — in that case, consider the Weleda Skin Food Light formula.
Most users notice immediate hydration and softness from the first application. Visible improvements in skin radiance and reduced dryness typically appear within 1–2 weeks of consistent daily use. According to Weleda's clinical data, 81% of users reported restored natural radiance after 4 weeks of daily use, and 90% agreed their skin looked less tired.
Apply this day cream as Step 4 in your AM routine: after cleansing, toning, and applying serums/treatments, but before eye cream and sunscreen. It serves as your primary moisturizer. Always follow with SPF during the day, as this cream does not contain sun protection.
This cream has an overall comedogenic rating of 2 out of 5, which is considered low risk. Its key ingredients — Sunflower Oil (0), Glycerin (0), and Squalane (0–1) — are very low on the comedogenic scale. Shea Butter rates 0–2. Most users will not experience clogged pores, but individual reactions vary. If you are highly acne-prone, patch test on a small area for a week before full application.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal freshness and efficacy. Store in a cool, dry place with the lid tightly closed. The 40ml jar typically lasts 2–3 months with daily use on face, neck, and décolleté.
Verdict: Weleda Skin Food Face Care Nourishing Day Cream is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a certified natural, plant-rich moisturizer for normal to dry skin. It delivers on its promise of all-day hydration and restored radiance, with a beautiful velvety finish that doubles as a makeup primer. The botanical complex of olive leaf, chamomile, calendula, and squalane provides genuine soothing and barrier-strengthening benefits. Points deducted for the natural fragrance that may irritate very sensitive noses, the small jar size for the price, and the fact it is not fungal acne safe. If you value clean, ethical skincare with proven botanical ingredients and don’t mind a light herbal scent, this is a standout daily moisturizer.
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 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil
Emollient, Masking, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Isoamyl Laurate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Fragrance
|
|
|
| 0 |
Butyrospermum Parkii Butter
Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|






