XeraCalm A.D Lipid-Replenishing Cream
XeraCalm A.D Lipid-Replenishing Cream
Product Description
Product overview
A clinically proven lipid-replenishing cream that nourishes, soothes, and calms very dry, itchy skin prone to atopic dermatitis and eczema. Featuring patented I-Modulia® postbiotic complex and Cer-Omega from evening primrose oil, this preservative-free formula helps restore the skin barrier while providing 48-hour hydration. National Eczema Association approved and safe for infants, children, and adults.
I-Modulia® Postbiotic Complex
Patented postbiotic derived from Avène Thermal Spring Water that calms itching and supports skin's natural defense system.
Texture & feel
SENSORYI-Modulia® Postbiotic Complex
Patented postbiotic derived from Avène Thermal Spring Water that calms itching and supports skin's natural defense system.
Cer-Omega Technology
Lipids from evening primrose oil rich in Omega-6 that repair, nourish, and strengthen the skin barrier.
Avène Thermal Spring Water
Clinically proven by 150+ studies to soothe, soften, and calm sensitive skin with anti-irritating properties.
Sterile Cosmetics® Technology
Patented airless pump keeps formula sterile throughout use without any preservatives or hidden additives.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEAvène confirms XeraCalm A.D products can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, or other concerning ingredients.
Contains Evening Primrose Oil, Cetearyl Alcohol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, and Arginine which may feed malassezia yeast.
Clinically tested not to clog pores. Suitable for acne-prone skin when fungal acne is not a concern.
Formulated to minimize risk of allergic reactions. Dermatologically and pediatrically tested.
Suitable for patients undergoing chemotherapy and radiation therapy to help moisturize and comfort sensitive skin.
Excellent for buffering retinol irritation. Many users report it helps with peeling and dryness from Retin-A use.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAvène Thermal Spring Water 66%Proven
The star ingredient sourced from a natural spring in Avène, France. Contains a unique combination of minerals, trace elements, and silicates with proven soothing and anti-irritating properties.
- Clinical Evidence: Backed by 150+ clinical studies demonstrating efficacy
- Function: Soothes, softens, and calms reactive skin
- Microbiome: Helps maintain skin's healthy microbiome balance
I-Modulia® (Aquaphilus Dolomiae Extract)Patented
Revolutionary postbiotic complex developed after 12 years of research. Derived from Avène Thermal Spring Water, it targets the root causes of itching and irritation in eczema-prone skin.
- Anti-Itch: Reduces itching sensations caused by skin dryness
- Defense: Supports skin's natural defense system
- Soothing: Fights against redness and irritation from hyperreactivity
Cer-Omega (Evening Primrose Oil Complex)Proven
Proprietary blend of Evening Primrose Oil and Evening Primrose Oil/Palm Oil Aminopropanediol Esters. Rich in Omega-6 fatty acids that mimic the skin's natural lipids.
- Barrier Repair: Restores and strengthens the skin's protective hydrolipidic film
- Nourishing: Provides essential fatty acids (60-85% linoleic acid)
- Hydration: Helps skin retain moisture for up to 48 hours
Glycerin HighProven
Powerful humectant that occurs naturally in skin. Draws moisture from the environment and deeper skin layers to keep the stratum corneum hydrated.
- Research: 2016 study found glycerin more effective than AHAs and hyaluronic acid as a humectant
- Safety: Comedogenic rating 0, irritancy rating 0
Tocopherol (Vitamin E)Antioxidant
Fat-soluble antioxidant that protects skin from free radical damage and supports the lipid barrier. Helps stabilize other ingredients in the formula.
- Protection: Shields skin lipids from oxidative stress
- Barrier: Supports healthy ceramide and fatty acid levels
- UV Defense: Provides minor protection against UVB damage
15 ingredients
Avène Thermal Spring Water (Avène Aqua), Glycerin, Mineral Oil (Paraffinum Liquidum), Cetearyl Alcohol, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetearyl Glucoside, Aquaphilus Dolomiae Extract, Arginine, Carbomer, Evening Primrose Oil/Palm Oil Aminopropanediol Esters, Glycine, Sodium Hydroxide, Tocopherol, Water (Aqua).
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the final moisturizing step in your routine (before sunscreen in AM). Can be applied to face and body. For best results, pair with XeraCalm A.D Lipid-Replenishing Cleansing Oil.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse First
Start with clean skin. For optimal results, use XeraCalm A.D Lipid-Replenishing Cleansing Oil to gently remove impurities while maintaining skin barrier.
Apply to Damp Skin
For maximum hydration, apply while skin is still slightly damp. This helps lock in additional moisture and improves absorption.
Dispense & Apply
Pump appropriate amount onto fingertips. Apply to dry areas of face and/or body using gentle, circular motions.
Use 1-2 Times Daily
Apply morning and/or evening as needed. Can be used during eczema flares and as part of daily maintenance routine. Safe for long-term use.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have very dry, itchy skin prone to eczema
- You're dealing with atopic dermatitis flares
- You need a preservative-free, fragrance-free moisturizer
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding with dry skin
- You use retinoids and need to buffer irritation
- You need moisturizer for babies/children with eczema
- You're undergoing chemotherapy or radiation
- You want to restore a compromised skin barrier
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You prefer lightweight, gel-type moisturizers
- You have oily skin and live in humid climates
- You're looking for anti-aging active ingredients
- You want a tinted or SPF-containing moisturizer
- You prefer products with a pleasant fragrance
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESPerfect match. Rich, lipid-replenishing formula provides deep nourishment and long-lasting hydration for very dry skin.
Formulated specifically for hypersensitive skin. Minimal ingredients, fragrance-free, and clinically tested for tolerance.
National Eczema Association approved. I-Modulia® specifically targets itching and irritation associated with atopic dermatitis.
Works well on dry patches. May feel too rich for oily T-zone during summer. Best for fall/winter use or nighttime only.
May feel heavy for very oily skin. Consider using only on dry areas or switching to a lighter moisturizer.
Non-comedogenic formula. However, not suitable if you have fungal acne. Great for dry, acne-prone skin types.
Results timeline
WEEK 2-4Instant Comfort & Hydration
Skin feels immediately soothed, nourished, and comfortable. Velvety texture absorbs to leave skin soft without greasiness.
89% excellent toleranceItching Reduction
Average time for itching sensations to significantly decrease. I-Modulia® works to calm hyperreactive skin and reduce the itch-scratch cycle.
Clinical study averageVisible Dryness Improvement
Skin dryness is reduced by 50% on average. Rough, flaky patches begin to smooth out. Sleep quality improves as nighttime itching decreases.
60% improved sleep qualityBarrier Restoration
Skin barrier function significantly improved. Reduced sensitivity and fewer eczema flare-ups. Skin looks and feels healthier overall.
Continuous improvement with regular useRatings by platform
3K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Effectively stops itching within days
- National Eczema Association approved
- Preservative-free sterile packaging
- Safe for babies, pregnancy, chemotherapy patients
- Excellent for retinol buffering
- Rich but absorbs without greasiness
- Long-lasting 48-hour hydration
- Minimal ingredient formula
- Life-changing for severe eczema sufferers
Criticized
- Not suitable for fungal acne
- Higher price than drugstore options
- Can feel heavy in humid weather
- May pill under makeup or when sweating
- No travel-size option available
- Contains mineral oil (some prefer mineral-free)
- Rare allergic reactions reported
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Similar lipid-replenishing formula with prebiotic thermal water, ceramides, shea butter, and niacinamide. NEA approved. Contains more ingredients but equally effective for eczema.
Contains 3 essential ceramides and hyaluronic acid. MVE technology for time-released hydration. Larger size (16oz tub) offers better value. Not sterile packaging.
French pharmacy alternative with patented lipid-restoring complex. Contains niacinamide for added barrier support. Rich balm texture, also fragrance-free.
Simple, effective formula with petrolatum base. Great for severely dry skin. Very occlusive but may feel heavier. No specialized eczema-targeting ingredients.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. The sterile airless pump maintains product integrity throughout use.
Store at room temperature (15-25°C / 59-77°F) away from direct sunlight and heat. No refrigeration needed.
Patented D.E.F.I sterile airless pump. Dispenses only product with no air contact, preventing contamination and oxidation.
200ml size exceeds 100ml TSA limit. Consider decanting into smaller container or checking bag. 400ml available for home use.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, Avène confirms that XeraCalm A.D products can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. However, as with any skincare product, it's always advisable to consult with your healthcare provider during pregnancy.
No, this product is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can feed malassezia yeast, including Evening Primrose Oil, Cetearyl Alcohol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, and Arginine (when combined with lipids). If you have fungal acne, consider alternatives like Avène Tolerance Extreme Emulsion or products specifically formulated to be malassezia-safe.
Yes! This cream is excellent for buffering irritation from active ingredients. Many users specifically choose it to combat dryness and peeling from retinol/Retin-A use. Apply your active ingredients first, wait a few minutes, then apply XeraCalm to soothe and protect. The rich formula helps counteract the drying effects of exfoliating acids and retinoids.
This cream is ideal for very dry, sensitive, and eczema-prone skin. It's excellent for those with atopic dermatitis, compromised skin barriers, or anyone using drying treatments like retinoids. It may feel too rich for oily skin types or in humid climates. Combination skin types can use it on dry areas only or as a nighttime treatment.
Results vary, but clinical studies show: immediate comfort and hydration upon application, average 5 days for itching to significantly decrease, 50% reduction in dryness within 7 days, and 60% improvement in sleep quality (less nighttime itching) in 1 week. Continued use over 2-4 weeks leads to significant barrier restoration.
Apply as your final moisturizing step before sunscreen (AM) or as the last step at night. The routine order is: cleanser → toner → serum → XeraCalm Cream → sunscreen (AM only). For eczema-prone skin, Avène recommends using with XeraCalm A.D Cleansing Oil and Avène Thermal Spring Water spray.
No, this product is non-comedogenic and clinically tested not to clog pores. It has a comedogenic rating of 0/5. However, if you have fungal acne (which can look similar to regular acne), this product is NOT suitable as it contains ingredients that feed malassezia yeast.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Thanks to the patented Sterile Cosmetics® airless pump technology, the formula remains sterile and stable throughout its use without any preservatives. Always close the pump properly after each use.
Verdict: Avène XeraCalm A.D Lipid-Replenishing Cream is a gold-standard moisturizer for eczema-prone and very dry skin. The patented I-Modulia® postbiotic technology genuinely delivers on its anti-itch promises, with clinical studies showing significant improvement in just 5-7 days. The preservative-free, fragrance-free formula in sterile packaging makes it exceptionally well-tolerated, even for the most sensitive skin including babies. While the price point is higher than drugstore alternatives and it's not suitable for fungal acne sufferers, the National Eczema Association seal of approval and countless life-changing reviews from severe eczema sufferers speak to its effectiveness. If you struggle with chronic dryness, itching, or eczema, this French pharmacy classic is absolutely worth the investment.
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 3 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Paraffinum Liquidum
Emollient, Skin Protecting, Solvent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cetearyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Opacifying, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasingagent - Aqueous, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Emulsifying, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 0 |
Oenothera Biennis Oil
Emollient
|
Irritation
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
|
|