Ultra Facial Moisturizer
Ultra Facial Moisturizer
Product Description
Product overview
Kiehl's Ultra Facial Moisturizer is a lightweight, fragrance-free daily lotion that delivers 24-hour hydration with Squalane and Glycerin. Its fast-absorbing, non-greasy formula replenishes the skin's moisture barrier, leaving skin softer, smoother, and balanced — ideal for oily, combination, and normal skin types looking for everyday hydration without heaviness.
24-Hour Hydration
Powered by Squalene and Glycerin, the formula delivers continuous moisture replenishment from morning to night.
Texture & feel
SENSORY24-Hour Hydration
Powered by Squalene and Glycerin, the formula delivers continuous moisture replenishment from morning to night.
Lightweight Texture
A thin, lotion-like consistency that absorbs instantly without leaving any greasy or sticky residue behind.
Barrier Replenishing
Restores the skin's natural moisture barrier with skin-identical lipids, helping protect against dryness and environmental stress.
Fragrance-Free Formula
Free from perfume, parabens, and harsh additives — gentle enough for sensitive skin and daily long-term use.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, or chemical sunscreen filters. All ingredients are widely considered safe during pregnancy. Always consult your physician.
Contains PEG-100 Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate, Sorbitan Oleate, plant oils (almond, apricot, palm kernel, avocado) and beeswax — all potential malassezia triggers.
Fragrance-free, dye-free, and paraben-free. Contains no essential oils or known common irritants, making it suitable for reactive skin.
Compatible with retinol, vitamin C, AHA, BHA, and niacinamide. Use as the final hydrating step to buffer or seal in actives.
A common pH adjuster. Generally considered safe but those with very reactive or barrier-compromised skin may prefer TEA-free alternatives.
Tested non-comedogenic by Kiehl's, but contains some richer plant oils (palm kernel, almond) that may not suit very oily, congestion-prone skin.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycerin ~5–8%Proven
A skin-identical humectant that draws moisture from the air and deeper skin layers into the upper epidermis, keeping skin plump and hydrated throughout the day.
- Mechanism: Glycerin attracts water molecules and helps maintain the skin's natural moisture balance.
- Effective range: 3–40% — even low concentrations show measurable hydration benefits.
- Bonus: Supports a healthy skin barrier and protects against irritation from environmental stressors.
Squalene ~3–5%Proven
A lightweight emollient lipid that mirrors the skin's natural sebum, providing emolliency, surface occlusion, and protection against transepidermal water loss (TEWL) — all with elegant cosmetic feel.
- Skin affinity: Naturally present in human sebum, so absorbs quickly without feeling heavy.
- Antioxidant action: Helps neutralize free radicals from UV exposure and pollution.
- Compatibility: Suitable for nearly all skin types and conditions, including acne-prone skin.
Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil <1%Proven
A nourishing plant oil rich in oleic acid (~70%), vitamins A, D, and E, and phytosterols, supporting skin softness and barrier repair.
- Fatty acid profile: High in monounsaturated oleic acid for deep emollient action.
- Vitamins: Provides antioxidant protection from vitamin E and skin-supportive nutrients.
- Heritage: A signature Kiehl's ingredient used across the brand's apothecary line for over 50 years.
Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil <1%Promising
A traditional emollient oil rich in oleic and linoleic acids that softens skin texture and reinforces the lipid barrier.
- Fatty acids: Balanced oleic + linoleic content makes it nourishing yet relatively lightweight.
- Soothing: Traditionally used to calm dry, irritated skin and reduce that "tight" feeling after cleansing.
- Vitamin E: Provides additional antioxidant support against environmental damage.
Propylene Glycol ~3–5%Proven
A multifunctional humectant and penetration enhancer that helps skin retain water and delivers other actives more effectively into the epidermis.
- Hydration: Studies show humectant activity comparable to or stronger than some hyaluronic acids.
- Stability: Adds antimicrobial properties that extend product shelf life.
- Texture: Contributes to the formula's signature lightweight, fast-absorbing feel.
Cera Alba (Beeswax) ~1–2%Proven
A natural occlusive that forms a protective film on the skin's surface, locking in moisture and shielding against environmental stressors.
- Barrier support: Reduces transepidermal water loss to keep skin hydrated longer.
- Texture body: Provides structure to the lotion without making it heavy or waxy.
- Tradition: A classic skincare ingredient used safely for centuries.
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) <0.5%Proven
A fat-soluble antioxidant that protects skin lipids from oxidation and works synergistically with other antioxidants for enhanced free-radical defense.
- Antioxidant role: Neutralizes reactive oxygen species generated by UV light and pollution.
- Synergy: Works alongside vitamin C to multiply protective effects against photoaging.
- Formula stability: Helps protect the natural oils in this product from going rancid.
22 ingredients
Water, Propylene Glycol, Dicaprylyl Ether, Glycerin, PEG-100 Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate, Squalene, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Phenoxyethanol, Sorbitan Oleate, Caprylyl Glycol, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Triethanolamine, Beeswax, Tocopherol, Disodium EDTA, Stearic Acid, Myristyl Alcohol, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Oil, Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil, Elaeis Guineensis Kernel Oil, Persea Gratissima Oil.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as your final hydration step in the morning, then layer SPF on top. At night, use as the last step after serums and treatments.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse First
Start with clean, slightly damp skin to maximize moisture absorption.
Dispense a Pea-Sized Amount
A little goes a long way — start small and add more only if needed.
Massage Gently
Apply to face and neck using upward, outward strokes until fully absorbed.
Use Morning & Night
Suitable for both AM and PM routines. Always follow with SPF during the day.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily, combination, or normal skin needing lightweight hydration
- You dislike heavy, greasy, or fragranced moisturizers
- You want a fragrance-free daily option that pairs well with actives
- You prefer a fast-absorbing lotion that works under makeup
- You're looking for a barrier-supporting cream from a trusted heritage brand
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin needing rich, occlusive cream
- You're prone to fungal acne (malassezia) or sebaceous filaments
- You have a tree nut allergy (contains sweet almond oil)
- You prefer 100% vegan formulas (contains beeswax)
- You want a budget-friendly daily option under $20
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight lotion absorbs instantly without adding shine — ideal for oily complexions seeking hydration without heaviness.
Provides good baseline hydration but may need a richer cream layered on top during winter or for very dry skin.
Hydrates dry zones without overloading the T-zone — a sweet spot for balanced, glowing skin.
Fragrance-free and paraben-free. Contains TEA which a small minority of reactive skin may dislike — patch test first.
Tested non-comedogenic but not fungal acne safe. Best for inflammatory acne rather than malassezia-driven breakouts.
Results timeline
2+ MONTHSInstant Hydration & Comfort
Skin feels softer, plumper, and noticeably more comfortable after first application. The lotion absorbs in seconds.
92% noticedImproved Texture
Skin feels smoother and more balanced. Tightness after cleansing diminishes and makeup applies more evenly.
78% noticedStronger Moisture Barrier
Skin retains moisture longer between applications. Reduced dryness, redness, and reactivity to environmental stressors.
71% noticedGlowing, Resilient Skin
Long-term users report a more radiant, even-toned, and resilient complexion that better tolerates actives and seasonal change.
65% noticedRatings by platform
14K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing lotion texture
- Truly fragrance-free — no masking scents
- Pairs seamlessly with actives like retinol and vitamin C
- Great primer for makeup application
- Heritage brand reputation since 1851
- Compatible with sensitive and combination skin
Criticized
- Premium price relative to ingredient list
- Not fungal acne (malassezia) safe
- Too lightweight for severely dry or winter skin
- Contains beeswax — not suitable for vegans
- Plastic packaging (though refill pouches available)
- Contains tree nut oil — allergy concern
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Adds ceramides and hyaluronic acid for stronger barrier support. Slightly thicker but still lightweight. Fungal acne safer than Kiehl's. Best dupe for the price.
Gel-cream texture with hyaluronic acid focus. Even lighter feel, ideal for oily skin. Lacks the squalene/oil emolliency of Kiehl's but excellent for daily hydration.
Affordable basic moisturizer with skin-identical ingredients. More minimalist and slightly heavier feel. Great for sensitive or barrier-impaired skin on a budget.
Richer, more occlusive cream with colloidal oatmeal — better for dry, sensitive, or eczema-prone skin. Different texture but similar fragrance-free philosophy.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and high humidity
Plastic bottle with flip-top cap (refill pouches available for larger sizes)
Yes — 75ml size is TSA carry-on compliant (under 100ml)
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this formula is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters that are typically flagged during pregnancy. The ingredients — water, glycerin, squalene, plant oils, and standard preservatives — are widely regarded as low-risk. Always consult your physician for personalized advice.
No, this formula is not fungal acne safe. It contains several potential malassezia triggers, including PEG-100 Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate, Sorbitan Oleate, beeswax, and multiple plant oils (sweet almond, apricot, palm kernel, avocado). If you struggle with malassezia folliculitis, consider a fungal-acne-safe alternative like Hada Labo Gokujyun or The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors.
Yes — this moisturizer pairs very well with all common actives. It's a great choice for buffering retinol (sandwich method), sealing in vitamin C serums, and soothing skin after AHA/BHA exfoliation. Its lightweight, fragrance-free, and pH-neutral formulation won't interfere with active ingredients. Apply your active first, wait a minute, then layer this on top.
It's best suited for oily, combination, and normal skin types thanks to its lightweight, fast-absorbing lotion texture. Sensitive skin generally tolerates it well due to the fragrance-free formula. Very dry skin may find it insufficient on its own — those users often prefer the richer Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream or layer this with an occlusive on top.
You'll feel immediate hydration and softness on first application. Visible improvements in skin texture and reduced tightness typically appear within 1 week. Stronger barrier function and longer-lasting moisture retention develop over 2–4 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. Long-term radiance and resilience benefits emerge after 2+ months.
Apply this moisturizer as the final hydration step — after cleansing, toning, essence, and any serums or treatments. In the morning, follow with sunscreen as your last step. At night, this is typically your final step (or pair it with a heavier night cream if your skin needs more occlusion). Use a pea-sized amount on slightly damp skin for maximum benefit.
Kiehl's labels this formula non-comedogenic, and the comedogenic rating is approximately 2/5 — relatively low. However, it does contain plant oils (avocado, almond, apricot, palm kernel) that can potentially congest very oily or breakout-prone skin. For most users, including those with combination and oily skin, it doesn't clog pores. If you're highly acne-prone, patch test on the jawline first.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months, indicated by the 12M symbol on the packaging. Because the formula contains squalene (which can oxidize) and plant oils, it's important to use within this timeframe and store the product in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain freshness. Unopened, it has a typical shelf life of around 30 months.
Verdict: Kiehl's Ultra Facial Moisturizer is a thoughtfully formulated, lightweight daily lotion that earns its reputation. With Squalene and Glycerin as core hydrators, a fragrance-free profile, and a fast-absorbing texture, it's a stellar choice for oily, combination, and normal skin types looking for everyday moisture without grease. The trade-offs — premium pricing, presence of beeswax (not vegan), tree nut oils, and a non-fungal-acne-safe ingredient list — keep it from being universally perfect. But for those who fit the profile, it's a low-irritation, makeup-friendly, time-tested classic from one of the world's most respected apothecary brands.
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 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 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
|
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Dicaprylyl Ether
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Emollient
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
PEG-100 Stearate
|
|