e.l.f. SKIN Holy Hydration! Face Cream - 1.8oz: Moisturizing, Paraben-Free, Vegan, For All Skin Types
Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This moisturizer features a clean formulation with beneficial ingredients like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, squalane, and peptides, which are known for their hydrating and anti-aging properties. The absence of harmful chemicals such as parabens, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances contributes to its high rating. The product's focus on natural and effective ingredients with minimal processing enhances its safety and efficacy for all skin types.
Key ingredients 12
SQUALANEVery Good
Squalane is a lightweight, non-greasy oil that mimics the skin's natural oils, providing excellent hydration. It is known for its ability to improve skin elasticity and texture. It is highly regarded for its moisturizing and anti-aging properties.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with squalane.
Benefits
Squalane helps in maintaining skin moisture and improving skin suppleness.
PEPTIDESVery Good
Peptides are short chains of amino acids that help in building proteins in the skin, such as collagen and elastin. They are known for their ability to improve skin firmness and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Peptides are highly valued in anti-aging skincare for their regenerative properties.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though some peptides may cause irritation in sensitive skin.
Benefits
Peptides help in enhancing skin elasticity and reducing signs of aging.
VITAMIN B5Very Good
Vitamin B5, also known as panthenol, is a humectant that helps in retaining moisture in the skin. It is known for its soothing and healing properties, making it beneficial for sensitive and irritated skin. It is widely used in skincare for its hydrating and calming effects.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with Vitamin B5.
Benefits
Vitamin B5 helps in improving skin hydration and soothing irritated skin.
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. It is considered safe and beneficial for most skin types.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though it may cause irritation if used in high concentrations.
Benefits
Glycerin helps in maintaining skin hydration and improving skin barrier function.
NIACINAMIDEGood
Niacinamide is a form of Vitamin B3 that offers multiple skin benefits, including improving skin tone and reducing inflammation. It is known for its ability to strengthen the skin barrier and improve the appearance of enlarged pores. It is highly regarded in skincare for its versatility and effectiveness.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though it may cause mild irritation in very sensitive skin.
Benefits
Niacinamide helps in reducing redness, improving skin elasticity, and enhancing overall skin health.
HYALURONIC ACIDGood
Hyaluronic acid is a powerful humectant that attracts and retains moisture in the skin. It is known for its ability to hydrate and plump the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines. It is highly valued in skincare for its hydrating properties.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though it may cause irritation if used in very high concentrations.
Benefits
Hyaluronic acid helps in maintaining skin hydration and improving skin texture.
WATER (AQUA)Neutral
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 provide direct benefits or risks.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with water in cosmetics.
Benefits
Water helps in hydrating the skin by providing moisture.
ISOHEXADECANENeutral
Isohexadecane is a lightweight emollient that provides a silky feel to the skin. It is often used to improve the texture of cosmetic products. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with isohexadecane, though it may cause irritation in very sensitive skin.
Benefits
It helps in creating a smooth application and enhances the texture of the product.
STEARYL HEPTANOATENeutral
Stearyl heptanoate is an ester used as an emollient and thickening agent in cosmetics. It helps in improving the spreadability of the product. It is considered safe for use in skincare products.
Risks
There are no significant risks associated with stearyl heptanoate.
Benefits
It provides a smooth and soft feel to the skin, enhancing the product's texture.
BUTYLENE GLYCOLNeutral
Butylene glycol is a solvent and conditioning agent that helps in improving the texture of skincare products. It is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics. It enhances the penetration of other ingredients.
Risks
There is a low risk of irritation, especially for sensitive skin types.
Benefits
It helps in maintaining moisture and improving the spreadability of the product.
ISOPROPYL ISOSTEARATENeutral
Isopropyl isostearate is an emollient that helps in softening and smoothing the skin. It is used to improve the texture and feel of cosmetic products. It is considered safe for use in skincare.
Risks
There are minimal risks, though it may cause mild irritation in sensitive skin.
Benefits
It provides a smooth application and enhances the skin's softness.
CETEARYL OLIVATENeutral
Cetearyl olivate is an emulsifier derived from olive oil, used to blend water and oil components in cosmetics. It helps in creating a stable and smooth formulation. It is considered safe and non-irritating for most skin types.
Risks
There are minimal risks associated with cetearyl olivate.
Benefits
It helps in maintaining the stability and texture of the product, providing a smooth application.
Processing
Processed Foods
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