Kiehl'sUltra Facial Oil-Free Gel Cream - For Normal to Oily Skin Types 125ml/4.2oz
Analysis updated September 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This moisturizer contains beneficial ingredients like glycerin, propanediol, and tocopheryl acetate, which provide hydration and antioxidant benefits. However, the presence of phenoxyethanol and chlorphenesin, which are preservatives, along with dimethicone, a silicone-based compound, indicates a moderate level of processing. While these ingredients are generally safe, they are synthetic and can be less desirable for those seeking a more natural formulation.
Key ingredients 22
GlycerinGood
Glycerin is a humectant that attracts moisture to the skin, improving hydration. It is well-tolerated and suitable for all skin types. It enhances the skin barrier function.
Risks
Rarely, it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.
Benefits
Improves skin hydration and barrier function.
PropanediolGood
Propanediol is used as a solvent and skin-conditioning agent. It enhances the absorption of other ingredients. It is generally considered safe and non-irritating.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.
Benefits
Improves skin feel and enhances ingredient absorption.
Tocopheryl AcetateGood
Tocopheryl Acetate is a form of Vitamin E used for its antioxidant properties. It helps protect the skin from free radical damage. It also provides moisturizing benefits.
Risks
Rarely, it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.
Benefits
Protects the skin from oxidative stress and provides moisture.
Salicylic AcidGood
Salicylic Acid is a beta hydroxy acid used for its exfoliating and acne-fighting properties. It helps unclog pores and reduce acne. It is effective in improving skin texture and clarity.
Risks
May cause irritation or dryness in sensitive skin.
Benefits
Exfoliates the skin and helps reduce acne.
Aqua / WaterNeutral
Water is a common solvent used in cosmetics to dissolve other ingredients. It helps in the application and absorption of the product. It does not have any direct benefits or risks.
Benefits
Provides a base for the formulation and helps in hydration.
Isononyl IsononanoateNeutral
Isononyl Isononanoate is an emollient that provides a silky feel to the skin. It helps in spreading the product evenly. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Benefits
Improves skin texture and product spreadability.
Hydroxyethylpiperazine Ethane Sulfonic AcidNeutral
This ingredient is used as a buffering agent to maintain the pH of the product. It ensures the stability of the formulation. It does not have direct skin benefits or risks.
Benefits
Helps maintain product stability and pH balance.
CarbomerNeutral
Carbomer is a thickening agent used to stabilize and thicken formulations. It helps in achieving the desired consistency of the product. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Benefits
Stabilizes and thickens the formulation.
Butylene GlycolNeutral
Butylene Glycol is a solvent and conditioning agent that helps in product absorption. It is generally well-tolerated and non-irritating. It enhances the texture and feel of the product.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in sensitive skin.
Benefits
Improves product absorption and texture.
ChlorphenesinNeutral
Chlorphenesin is a preservative used to prevent microbial growth. It is effective in low concentrations. It is generally considered safe but can cause irritation in some individuals.
Risks
Potential for skin irritation, especially in sensitive skin.
Benefits
Prevents microbial contamination, extending product shelf life.
Caprylyl GlycolNeutral
Caprylyl Glycol is a skin-conditioning agent and preservative booster. It helps in moisturizing the skin and enhancing the efficacy of preservatives. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Benefits
Enhances skin moisture and preservative efficacy.
DimethiconolNeutral
Dimethiconol is a silicone-based polymer used for its conditioning properties. It provides a smooth feel and forms a protective barrier on the skin. It is non-comedogenic and widely used in skincare.
Risks
May cause build-up on the skin with prolonged use.
Benefits
Provides a smooth application and protects the skin.
Sodium HydroxideNeutral
Sodium Hydroxide is used to adjust the pH of cosmetic formulations. It ensures the stability and effectiveness of the product. It is used in very low concentrations to avoid irritation.
Risks
Can cause irritation if used in high concentrations.
Benefits
Helps maintain product stability and pH balance.
Xanthan GumNeutral
Xanthan Gum is a thickening agent used to stabilize and thicken formulations. It helps in achieving the desired consistency of the product. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Benefits
Stabilizes and thickens the formulation.
Pentylene GlycolNeutral
Pentylene Glycol is a solvent and humectant that helps in product absorption. It is generally well-tolerated and non-irritating. It enhances the texture and feel of the product.
Risks
May cause mild irritation in sensitive skin.
Benefits
Improves product absorption and texture.
Tetrasodium EdtaNeutral
Tetrasodium EDTA is a chelating agent used to improve the stability of cosmetic formulations. It binds to metal ions, preventing them from affecting the product. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Benefits
Improves product stability and shelf life.
MenthoxypropanediolNeutral
Menthoxypropanediol is used for its cooling and soothing properties. It provides a refreshing sensation on the skin. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
May cause irritation in sensitive skin.
Benefits
Provides a cooling and soothing effect on the skin.
Pseudoalteromonas Ferment ExtractNeutral
This extract is used for its moisturizing and skin-conditioning properties. It is derived from marine bacteria and is considered safe for use in cosmetics. It helps improve skin texture and hydration.
Benefits
Improves skin hydration and texture.
Biosaccharide Gum-1Neutral
Biosaccharide Gum-1 is a moisturizing and skin-soothing agent. It forms a protective film on the skin, enhancing hydration. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Benefits
Enhances skin hydration and provides a soothing effect.
SarcosineNeutral
Sarcosine is an amino acid derivative used for its skin-conditioning properties. It helps improve the texture and feel of the skin. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Benefits
Improves skin texture and feel.
DimethiconeBad
Occlusive silicone film-former — flagged under clean-beauty doctrine.
Risks
May cause build-up on the skin with prolonged use.
Benefits
Provides a smooth application and prevents moisture loss.
PhenoxyethanolBad
Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.
Risks
Potential for skin irritation, especially in sensitive skin.
Benefits
Prevents microbial contamination, extending product shelf life.
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