Neutrogena Hydro Boost Fragrance-Free Body Gel Cream 16 oz
Analysis updated September 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This body gel cream contains beneficial ingredients like glycerin and sodium hyaluronate, which are excellent for hydration. However, the presence of petrolatum, a petroleum-derived occlusive, and phenoxyethanol, a synthetic preservative, detracts from its overall ingredient safety. The product also includes dimethicone and sodium polyacrylate, which are synthetic compounds that contribute to a higher level of processing.
Key ingredients 15
GlycerinGood
Glycerin is a humectant that attracts moisture to the skin, helping to keep it hydrated. It is widely used in skincare for its moisturizing properties.
Risks
Glycerin is generally safe, but in very high concentrations, it may cause irritation.
Benefits
Glycerin helps maintain skin hydration and improves skin barrier function.
Sodium HyaluronateGood
Sodium Hyaluronate is a form of hyaluronic acid that acts as a powerful humectant, attracting and retaining moisture in the skin. It is highly valued for its hydrating properties.
Risks
It is generally safe with minimal risk of irritation.
Benefits
It provides intense hydration and helps to plump and smooth the skin.
WaterNeutral
Water is a common solvent used in cosmetics to dissolve other ingredients. It helps in the application and absorption of the product. It is generally considered safe and non-irritating.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with water in cosmetics.
Benefits
Water helps in hydrating the skin and acts as a carrier for other beneficial ingredients.
Isopropyl PalmitateNeutral
Isopropyl Palmitate is an emollient that helps to soften and smooth the skin. It is commonly used in lotions and creams for its texture-enhancing properties.
Risks
It may cause acne or irritation in some individuals with sensitive skin.
Benefits
It provides a smooth application and helps in moisturizing the skin.
Cetyl AlcoholNeutral
Cetyl Alcohol is a fatty alcohol used as an emollient and thickener in cosmetics. It helps to stabilize and thicken formulations.
Risks
It is generally safe, but in rare cases, it may cause skin irritation.
Benefits
It helps to soften the skin and improve the texture of the product.
Sodium PolyacrylateNeutral
Sodium Polyacrylate is a thickening agent used to improve the texture and stability of cosmetic formulations. It is a synthetic polymer that can absorb large amounts of water.
Risks
There are concerns about its potential to cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
It helps to enhance the texture and consistency of the product.
Cetearyl OlivateNeutral
Cetearyl Olivate is an emulsifier derived from olive oil, used to blend water and oil components in formulations. It is considered mild and non-irritating.
Risks
It is generally safe, with minimal risk of irritation.
Benefits
It helps to stabilize emulsions and provides a smooth application.
Caprylyl GlycolNeutral
Caprylyl Glycol is a skin-conditioning agent that also acts as a preservative booster. It is used to enhance the antimicrobial efficacy of formulations.
Risks
It may cause irritation in sensitive skin types.
Benefits
It helps to condition the skin and improve the preservation of the product.
EthylhexylglycerinNeutral
Ethylhexylglycerin is a conditioning agent and preservative enhancer used in cosmetics. It is often used to improve the efficacy of other preservatives.
Risks
It is generally considered safe, but may cause irritation in some individuals.
Benefits
It helps to condition the skin and enhance the preservation of the product.
Sorbitan OlivateNeutral
Sorbitan Olivate is an emulsifier derived from olive oil, used to blend oil and water components in formulations. It is considered mild and non-irritating.
Risks
It is generally safe, with minimal risk of irritation.
Benefits
It helps to stabilize emulsions and provides a smooth application.
CarbomerNeutral
Carbomer is a thickening agent used to control the viscosity and texture of cosmetic products. It is a synthetic polymer that helps to stabilize formulations.
Risks
It is generally safe, but may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
It helps to improve the texture and stability of the product.
Sodium HydroxideNeutral
Sodium Hydroxide is used to adjust the pH of cosmetic formulations. It is a strong base that is used in small amounts to ensure product stability.
Risks
In high concentrations, it can be corrosive and irritating, but it is used in safe amounts in cosmetics.
Benefits
It helps to maintain the stability and efficacy of the product by adjusting pH levels.
DimethiconeBad
Occlusive silicone film-former — flagged under clean-beauty doctrine.
Risks
Some individuals may experience irritation or breakouts from silicones.
Benefits
It helps in smoothing the skin and reducing the appearance of fine lines.
PhenoxyethanolBad
Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.
Risks
In high concentrations, it can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions.
Benefits
It helps to extend the shelf life of the product by preventing microbial contamination.
PetrolatumVery Bad
Petrolatum is a petroleum-derived occlusive agent used to lock in moisture. It is effective in preventing moisture loss but is heavily criticized for being a non-renewable resource.
Risks
There are concerns about contamination with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are potential carcinogens.
Benefits
It is highly effective at preventing moisture loss and protecting the skin barrier.
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