Very Useful Face Cream
Very Useful Face Cream
Product Description
Product overview
A rich, antioxidant-packed daily moisturiser that deeply hydrates dry and dehydrated skin while defending against premature ageing. Formulated with CoQ10, amla berry, shea butter, and nourishing plant oils for supple, protected skin that smells like roses.
Antioxidant Shield
CoQ10 and amla berry (30x the antioxidants of oranges) fight free radical damage from UV, pollution, and environmental stressors.
Texture & feel
SENSORYAntioxidant Shield
CoQ10 and amla berry (30x the antioxidants of oranges) fight free radical damage from UV, pollution, and environmental stressors.
Deep Hydration
Shea butter, mango butter, and glycerin deliver multi-layer moisturisation that locks in hydration all day long.
Nourishing Plant Oils
Sweet almond, apricot kernel, avocado, and sunflower oils replenish essential fatty acids and soften dry skin.
Anti-Ageing Protection
Vitamin E and milk thistle ester work synergistically to protect against premature signs of ageing like fine lines and loss of elasticity.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, or chemical sunscreens. However, contains natural fragrance with rose and geranium essential oils. Some practitioners advise caution with essential oils during pregnancy. Consult your doctor.
Not fungal acne safe. Contains multiple plant oils (sweet almond, apricot kernel, avocado, sunflower) and esters that can feed Malassezia yeast. Avoid if prone to fungal acne.
Dermatologically tested to be suitable for sensitive skin. Free from parabens, sulfates, silicones, PEGs, mineral oil, petrolatum, and synthetic colours.
Cruelty-free, GMO-free, and made without petrochemicals. Recyclable through TerraCycle program. No palm oil used in formulation.
Rated 2/5 on the comedogenic scale. Shea butter and most oils in this formula are low on the comedogenic index, making it unlikely to clog pores for most skin types.
Contains natural fragrance derived from rose and geranium essential oils. Those with very reactive skin or fragrance sensitivities should patch test first.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAmla Berry ExtractProven
A powerhouse antioxidant derived from the Indian gooseberry, known to contain 30 times more antioxidants than oranges. Exceptionally high in natural vitamin C, it helps neutralise free radicals and protect against UV-induced and environmental skin damage.
- Antioxidant: Extremely rich in vitamin C, polyphenols, and tannins that scavenge free radicals
- Anti-Ageing: Supports collagen synthesis and helps delay premature signs of ageing
- Brightening: High vitamin C content contributes to a more even, radiant complexion
Coenzyme Q10 (Ubiquinone)Proven
A naturally occurring antioxidant found in every human cell. CoQ10 levels in the skin decline with age, making topical application beneficial for maintaining skin vitality. It absorbs into the upper skin layers to provide direct antioxidant protection.
- Anti-Ageing: Studies show topical CoQ10 may help reduce wrinkle depth and protect against photoageing
- Energy Production: Plays a critical role in cellular energy metabolism within skin cells
- Skin Soothing: Has demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties that calm skin irritation
Shea ButterProven
A beloved natural emollient from the seeds of the African Karite Tree. Rich in vitamins A, E, and F, it provides intense moisture while forming a protective barrier that prevents water loss without clogging pores.
- Moisturisation: Contains high concentrations of fatty acids and vitamins for deep nourishment
- Barrier Repair: Helps reinforce the skin's natural moisture barrier and reduce transepidermal water loss
- Comedogenic Rating: 0–2, making it generally safe for most skin types
Avocado OilPromising
An extraordinarily penetrative oil that can nourish multiple layers of the skin. Rich in oleic acid, vitamins A, D, and E, it deeply moisturises while providing antioxidant benefits. Particularly beneficial for dry and mature skin types.
- Penetration: Superior ability to penetrate beyond the surface layers for deep hydration
- Nourishing: Delivers essential fatty acids, sterolin, and lecithin to improve skin texture
Vitamin E (Tocopherol)Proven
One of the most well-studied antioxidants in skincare. Provides significant photoprotection against UVB rays and works synergistically with vitamin C for enhanced free radical defence. Also acts as a natural preservative in the formula.
- Photoprotection: Helps protect skin from UV-induced oxidative damage
- Synergy: Works best combined with other antioxidants like vitamin C (from amla berry in this formula)
Milk Thistle Ethyl Ester Low %Promising
Derived from the milk thistle plant (Silybum marianum), this ester has demonstrated antioxidant and skin-soothing properties. It helps protect skin cells from oxidative stress and supports the skin's natural repair processes.
- Antioxidant: Silymarin compounds help protect against free radical damage
- Soothing: Helps calm irritation and redness in sensitive skin
24 ingredients
Water, Shea Butter, Sweet Almond Oil, Apricot Kernel Oil, Glyceryl Oleate Citrate, Arachidyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Sunflower Seed Oil, Behenyl Alcohol, Avocado Oil, Mango Butter, Milk Thistle Ethyl Ester, Benzyl Alcohol, Coenzyme Q10, Arachidyl Glucoside, Vitamin E, Sodium Citrate, Amla Berry Extract, Lysolecithin, Sclerotium Gum, Xanthan Gum, Pullulan, Dehydroacetic Acid, Natural Fragrance (contains Rose and Geranium Oils).
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse AM and/or PM. Apply after water-based serums. In the morning, always follow with sunscreen. Can also be used as a rich night cream on its own.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Prep
Start with a clean face. Leave skin slightly damp after cleansing — this helps the cream absorb better and spread more easily.
Warm the Product
Squeeze a small pea-to-almond-sized amount onto your fingertips and warm it between your fingers for a few seconds to activate the oils and butters.
Press & Pat
Gently press and pat the cream onto your face and neck rather than rubbing. This helps the product absorb without disrupting the skin barrier.
Follow Up
In the morning, wait 1–2 minutes for full absorption, then apply SPF. At night, you can layer a face oil on top for extra nourishment if desired.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dry, dehydrated, or thirsty skin
- You want antioxidant protection against premature ageing
- You prefer natural, clean-beauty formulations
- Your skin needs a rich moisture seal after serums
- You love a natural rose scent in your skincare
- You need a cream that works under makeup and as a night cream
Consider alternatives if:
- You have oily or very acne-prone skin (too rich)
- You are prone to fungal acne (contains feeding oils)
- You prefer fragrance-free products
- You want active anti-ageing ingredients like retinol or peptides
- You need a lightweight gel-cream texture
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThis cream was formulated with dry skin in mind. Rich butters and oils provide intense, lasting hydration and seal in moisture beautifully.
Works wonderfully on normal skin, delivering balanced hydration and antioxidant protection without feeling heavy.
Works well on combination skin if applied sparingly. Best used at night or on drier areas. Use a lighter moisturiser on the T-zone if needed.
Dermatologically tested for sensitive skin. Contains natural fragrance, so patch test first if you are highly reactive to essential oils.
May feel too rich for oily skin. Consider Go-To's Very Lightweight Moisturiser instead, which is water-based and oil-free.
Low comedogenic rating (2/5), but the rich oil content may not suit those with active breakouts. Not fungal acne safe.
Results timeline
MONTH 2–3Immediate Comfort & Hydration
Skin feels instantly softer, smoother, and deeply moisturised. The rich butters create a protective, cocooning sensation on the face.
95% noticed immediate softnessReduced Dryness & Flaking
Dry patches and flakiness diminish noticeably. Skin begins to feel more supple, balanced, and comfortable throughout the day.
85% reported less drynessImproved Radiance & Texture
Consistent antioxidant delivery from CoQ10 and amla berry begins to show. Skin looks healthier, more radiant, and has a natural dewy glow.
70% noticed improved glowVisible Anti-Ageing Benefits
With continued use, the antioxidant protection helps reduce the appearance of fine lines. Skin elasticity and overall complexion appear more youthful.
60% noticed smoother fine linesRatings by platform
5K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Intensely hydrating — eliminates dryness and flakiness quickly
- Beautiful natural rose and geranium scent
- Clean, plant-based formula free from harsh chemicals
- Works wonderfully as both a day and night moisturiser
- Doesn't break out sensitive skin despite rich texture
- Leaves skin soft, supple, and dewy
- Cruelty-free and environmentally conscious brand
- Travel-friendly tube packaging (50ml)
Criticized
- Expensive per ml compared to drugstore alternatives
- Too rich for oily skin, especially in summer
- Natural fragrance may irritate highly sensitive individuals
- Can cause foundation separation if too much is applied
- Not fungal acne safe due to plant oil content
- Cream may separate in very warm environments
- No advanced actives like retinol, peptides, or niacinamide
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Similar rich, plant-oil-based formula with sunflower seed oil and shea butter. Slightly thicker texture, contains beeswax (not vegan). Very comparable hydration and barrier protection at a fraction of the price.
Features argan oil and sunflower amino acids for hydration. Lighter texture with similar antioxidant focus. Vegan and cruelty-free, but missing CoQ10 and amla berry. Better suited for combination skin.
Uses clary sage and shea butter for deep hydration. Similar natural, plant-based approach. Less sophisticated antioxidant blend than Go-To, but solid moisture delivery for dry skin at a lower price point.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Nuxe Crème Fraîche de Beauté
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If cream separates in warm temperatures, warm between fingers before application to re-emulsify.
Squeezable tube — hygienic, prevents contamination, and dispenses the right amount easily. Recyclable through TerraCycle program.
Yes — the 50ml tube is under the 100ml carry-on limit, making it perfect for flights and travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQVery Useful Face Cream does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens — the most commonly flagged pregnancy-unsafe ingredients. However, it does contain natural fragrance derived from rose and geranium essential oils. While generally considered low-risk, some healthcare providers advise avoiding essential oils during pregnancy. We recommend consulting your doctor or midwife before use.
No, this product is not considered fungal acne safe. It contains several oils (sweet almond oil, apricot kernel oil, avocado oil, sunflower seed oil) and esters that are known to feed Malassezia yeast. If you are prone to fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis, look for oil-free, FA-safe moisturisers instead, such as Go-To's own Very Lightweight Moisturiser.
Yes! This cream pairs beautifully with active ingredients. Its rich, nourishing formula helps buffer potential irritation from retinol, vitamin C serums, and chemical exfoliants (AHA/BHA). Apply your actives first, wait for absorption, then layer this cream on top to seal in moisture and provide a protective barrier. Go-To recommends pairing it with their Very Amazing Retinal serum for an anti-ageing routine.
This cream is best suited for dry, dehydrated, normal, and sensitive skin types. It was specifically formulated with thirsty skin in mind. Combination skin types can use it at night or on drier zones. Those with oily skin may find it too rich and should consider Go-To's Very Lightweight Moisturiser instead. It's also excellent as an in-flight or post-sun moisturiser for any skin type that needs emergency hydration.
Immediate hydration and softness is felt from the first application. Reduced dryness and flaking is typically noticed within 1–2 weeks of consistent use. Improved radiance and overall skin texture generally become visible around weeks 3–4. For the full anti-ageing and antioxidant benefits (smoother fine lines, improved elasticity), allow 2–3 months of daily use.
Apply as step 4 in your routine: after cleanser, toner, and serum, but before face oil and sunscreen. It acts as a moisture seal, locking in the hydrating layers beneath it. For a minimal routine, you can use it directly after cleansing. In the morning, always follow with sunscreen. At night, it can be your final step or followed by a face oil for extra nourishment.
Very Useful Face Cream has an estimated comedogenic rating of 2 out of 5, which is considered low. The key ingredients — shea butter (0–2), sweet almond oil (2), avocado oil (2), and sunflower oil (0) — are generally well-tolerated. However, everyone's skin is different. If you are highly acne-prone, patch test on a small area first. It is not recommended for fungal acne-prone skin.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for best efficacy and freshness. The squeeze tube packaging helps minimize air exposure and contamination compared to jar packaging. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If you notice any changes in colour, texture, or scent, discontinue use.
Verdict: Go-To Very Useful Face Cream is a beautifully formulated, clean moisturiser that excels at what it promises — deep hydration and antioxidant protection for dry and dehydrated skin. The combination of CoQ10, amla berry, and nourishing plant butters delivers genuine comfort and radiance. It's not the most cutting-edge formula (no peptides, retinol, or ceramides), and the premium price point puts it above drugstore alternatives. But for those who value clean, cruelty-free, Australian-made skincare with a gorgeous sensorial experience, Very Useful Face Cream truly lives up to its name. Best for dry-to-normal skin; oily and fungal acne-prone skin types should look elsewhere.
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 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
|
|
|
| 0 |
Butyrospermum Parkii Butter
Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Oil
Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil
Masking, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Arachidyl Alcohol
Emollient, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising
|
|