Ultra Facial Cream with Squalane
Ultra Facial Cream with Squalane
Product Description
Product overview
Kiehl's #1 bestselling moisturizer with 4.5% Squalane delivers 72-hour hydration while strengthening your skin's moisture barrier. This lightweight, non-greasy cream is clinically demonstrated to hydrate 15 layers deep for softer, smoother, and healthier-looking skin. Fragrance-free and paraben-free formula suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Received the National Eczema Association's Seal of Acceptance.
72-Hour Deep Hydration
Clinically demonstrated to hydrate up to 15 surface layers deep, keeping skin moisturized even in harsh weather conditions.
Texture & feel
SENSORY72-Hour Deep Hydration
Clinically demonstrated to hydrate up to 15 surface layers deep, keeping skin moisturized even in harsh weather conditions.
Barrier Strengthening
Pro-Ceramides reinforce skin's natural barrier strength, helping skin better resist external disruptors and environmental stressors.
Plant-Derived Squalane
4.5% Squalane derived from olives and sugar cane replenishes skin lipids for a soft, supple, and moisturized feel.
Glacial Glycoprotein
Originally sourced from Antarctic sea glaciers, this unique ingredient helps deeply hydrate and maintain skin's moisture balance.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains Salicylic Acid (BHA) at the end of the ingredient list. While in low concentration, consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy.
Not recommended. Contains fatty acids (oleic, stearic, palmitic), olive oil, fermented extract (Pseudoalteromonas), and esters that may feed Malassezia yeast.
Fragrance-free and paraben-free formula. Has received the National Eczema Association's Seal of Acceptance for gentle, effective skincare.
Formulated to provide hydration without clogging pores. Low comedogenic rating of 2/5 makes it suitable for most skin types.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSqualane 4.5%Proven
A highly-refined botanical lipid derived from olives and sugar cane with exceptional affinity to skin. Acts as an emollient that prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL) while keeping skin soft and supple.
- Function: Emollient, skin barrier support, moisture retention
- Research: Studies show squalane improves skin hydration and reduces appearance of fine lines
- Source: Plant-derived from olives and sugar cane (cruelty-free)
Glacial Glycoprotein (Pseudoalteromonas Ferment Extract) UndisclosedProven
A peptide-rich extract derived from marine bacteria found in Antarctic ocean mud. Helps skin regenerate and maintains optimal moisture balance.
- Function: Deep hydration, moisture balance, skin regeneration
- Research: Studies show 1-5% concentration increases skin hydration and reduces wrinkle depth
- Trade Name: Antarcticine® or Arctalis®
Glycerin HighProven
A powerful humectant that draws moisture from the environment into the skin. One of the most well-researched moisturizing ingredients available.
- Function: Humectant, skin barrier support, hydration
- Research: Effective from 3% concentration, with enhanced benefits at 20-40% for dry skin
- Comedogenic Rating: 0/5 - Will not clog pores
Pro-Ceramides (Hydroxypalmitoyl Sphinganine) UndisclosedProven
Helps skin create more ceramides naturally, reinforcing the skin barrier strength and helping skin better resist external disruptors.
- Function: Barrier strengthening, moisture lock, skin protection
- Research: Ceramides are essential lipids that make up 50% of the skin barrier
- Benefit: Supports long-term skin health and resilience
35 ingredients
Aqua/Water, Glycerin, Dimethicone, Squalane, Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane, Sucrose Stearate, Stearyl Alcohol, PEG-8 Stearate, Myristyl Myristate, Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil/Apricot Kernel Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Persea Gratissima Oil/Avocado Oil, Glyceryl Stearate, Cetyl Alcohol, Oryza Sativa Bran Oil/Rice Bran Oil, Olea Europaea Fruit Oil/Olive Fruit Oil, Chlorphenesin, Stearic Acid, Palmitic Acid, Carbomer, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Oil/Sweet Almond Oil, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Hydroxide, Tocopherol, Glycine Soja Oil/Soybean Oil, Pseudoalteromonas Ferment Extract, Myristic Acid, Hydroxypalmitoyl Sphinganine, Salicylic Acid, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil/Sunflower Seed Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract/Rosemary Leaf Extract, Citric Acid
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after cleansing and toning. Use twice daily, morning and night. Can be layered under SPF in the AM or used as the final step in your PM routine.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Tone
Start with a clean face. Use your favorite cleanser and toner to prep the skin for better absorption.
Apply Serums (Optional)
If using serums or treatments, apply them before the moisturizer while skin is still slightly damp.
Dispense Product
Take a dime-sized amount of Ultra Facial Cream. A little goes a long way with this concentrated formula.
Apply & Massage
Gently massage into face, neck, and décolletage using upward circular motions until fully absorbed.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dry or dehydrated skin needing long-lasting moisture
- You want a lightweight moisturizer that doesn't feel heavy
- You have sensitive skin and need fragrance-free products
- You need a versatile cream for all seasons and climates
- You want a moisturizer suitable for under makeup
- You prefer minimal, no-fuss skincare routines
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You need anti-aging actives like retinol or peptides
- You have extremely oily skin that needs oil-control
- You're pregnant and want to avoid all BHA products
- You prefer very thick, occlusive night creams
- You're on a strict budget (premium pricing)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPES72-hour hydration formula delivers deep, lasting moisture. Perfect for dry skin that needs intensive hydration without heaviness.
Maintains skin's natural balance without over-moisturizing. Lightweight texture works perfectly for everyday use.
Hydrates dry areas without making oily zones greasy. May need to use sparingly on T-zone during humid weather.
May feel too rich for very oily skin. Consider the Oil-Free Gel Cream version instead for a lighter, mattifying finish.
NEA Seal of Acceptance. Fragrance-free, paraben-free formula is gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin types.
Non-comedogenic formula. However, avoid if you have fungal acne due to fatty acids and fermented ingredients.
Results timeline
3+ MONTHSInstant Hydration Boost
Skin feels 2.3x more hydrated immediately upon application. Noticeable softening and smoothing of skin texture.
95% noticed immediate moistureImproved Skin Texture
Skin feels consistently softer, smoother, and more supple. Dry patches begin to diminish. Great base for makeup application.
88% reported smoother skinStrengthened Skin Barrier
Noticeable improvement in skin's resilience. Reduced sensitivity to weather changes and environmental stressors. Less TEWL.
82% saw improved barrier functionLong-Term Skin Health
Cumulative benefits show healthier, more balanced skin overall. Fine lines appear softened. Skin maintains moisture better naturally.
79% reported healthier-looking skinRatings by platform
14K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Lightweight yet deeply hydrating formula
- Fast-absorbing, non-greasy finish
- Fragrance-free and gentle for sensitive skin
- Works well under makeup as a primer
- NEA Seal of Acceptance
- 72-hour lasting hydration claims backed by testing
- Suitable for all seasons and climates
- Plant-derived, sustainably sourced squalane
Criticized
- Premium price point ($39 for 1.7oz)
- Jar packaging can be unhygienic
- May not be rich enough for severe dryness in winter
- Not suitable for fungal acne
- Contains salicylic acid (pregnancy caution)
- Some with very oily skin find it too heavy
- Simple formula lacks anti-aging actives
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid for barrier repair. Thicker texture, larger size (16oz). Fragrance-free, dermatologist developed. Great drugstore alternative.
Oil-free formula with ceramides and niacinamide. Lighter texture, 48-hour hydration. Great for sensitive and acne-prone skin. Prebiotic thermal water soothes.
Colloidal oatmeal and shea butter for intense hydration. Richer, thicker texture. Can be used on face and body. Great for eczema-prone skin.
Contains squalane and niacinamide. Lighter texture, great for layering. Peptides for anti-aging benefits. Excellent value drugstore option.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required.
Glass jar with screw-top lid. Refillable pouches available to reduce plastic waste by 61%.
Yes - 50ml size is TSA compliant for carry-on luggage. Mini 28ml also available.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. The current formula contains Salicylic Acid (BHA) at the end of the ingredient list. While the concentration is very low, many healthcare providers recommend avoiding BHA during pregnancy. Kiehl's advises consulting your doctor before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The older formula without salicylic acid was considered pregnancy-safe.
No, this product is NOT recommended for fungal acne-prone skin. It contains several ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast including: olive oil, fatty acids (stearic, palmitic, oleic), fermented extract (Pseudoalteromonas Ferment Extract), and various esters. Consider Kiehl's Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel Cream instead, which is fungal acne safe.
Yes! This cream works well with most actives. Apply after water-based serums (vitamin C, niacinamide) and before or after retinol products. For AHA/BHA, apply the acid first, wait for absorption, then follow with this moisturizer to help combat any dryness. The cream's barrier-strengthening properties complement active treatments.
This cream is formulated for ALL skin types including sensitive skin, as evidenced by its NEA Seal of Acceptance. It works exceptionally well for dry, normal, and combination skin. Those with very oily skin may prefer the Oil-Free Gel Cream version. Not recommended for those with fungal acne regardless of skin type.
Immediate: Skin feels 2.3x more hydrated instantly upon application. Week 1-2: Noticeable improvement in skin texture and softness. Week 4+: Visible strengthening of skin barrier and reduced sensitivity. 3+ months: Long-term skin health improvements with consistently hydrated, balanced skin.
Apply as your moisturizer step: After cleansing, toning, and serums, but before sunscreen (AM) or as your final step (PM). The order is: Cleanser → Toner → Essence → Serum → THIS CREAM → Eye Cream → SPF (daytime only). It layers beautifully under makeup and works as an excellent primer.
The product is marketed as non-comedogenic and has a comedogenic rating of approximately 2/5. While it contains some potentially pore-clogging ingredients like myristyl myristate and certain oils, the overall formula is designed not to clog pores. However, individual reactions vary - patch test first if you're acne-prone.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal freshness and efficacy. The 50ml/1.7oz jar typically lasts 3-6 months with twice-daily use. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maximize shelf life.
Verdict: Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream with Squalane lives up to its cult-favorite status. The lightweight yet deeply hydrating formula delivers on its 72-hour moisture claims, making it an excellent everyday moisturizer for most skin types. The fragrance-free, paraben-free formulation with NEA Seal of Acceptance makes it a safe choice for sensitive skin. While the premium price point and jar packaging are drawbacks, and it's not suitable for fungal acne, the quality ingredients (4.5% plant-derived squalane, glacial glycoprotein, pro-ceramides) and proven results make it worth the investment for those seeking reliable, no-fuss hydration. Best for: dry, normal, combination, and sensitive skin types looking for barrier-strengthening daily moisture.
Browse related
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
Anti-Aging from 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
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
|
|
| 3 |
Dimethicone
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Antifoaming Agent, Skin Protecting
|
|
|
| 1 |
Squalane
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Refatting
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Bis-PEG-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane
Emollient, Humectant, Skin Conditioning
|
|