Lightweight nighttime moisturiser with niacinamide and ceramides. Less heavy than the tub Moisturizing Cream, more barrier-focused than most lotions — excellent as a finishing layer over retinoids or acids.
The verdict
What this is good for
✓ Great forDamaged BarrierDrynessOiliness
The formulation
Ingredient stack
Each ingredient is listed in descending concentration. Above the 1% line the order is regulated — below it, brands can list in any order.
Ingredients above the dashed gold line are dosed above 1% (the regulatory threshold) — these are what the formulation is really built on.
The most versatile and universally tolerated skincare active. Inhibits melanin transfer (fading dark spots), reduces sebum by up to 68%, strengthens the skin barrier via ceramide synthesis, calms inflammatory pathways to reduce redness, and visibly minimises pores over 4–8 weeks. Works at any pH and pairs with virtually every other active.
Lipids constituting ~50% of the stratum corneum intercellular matrix. Together with cholesterol and free fatty acids, ceramides form the lamellar bilayer structure preventing transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and shielding against irritants and pathogens. Levels decline with age, dry skin conditions, eczema and UV exposure. Robust clinical evidence for barrier restoration and eczema management.
A glycosaminoglycan naturally present throughout the body, holding up to 1000x its weight in water. The most powerful naturally occurring humectant. Multi-weight HA (high, medium and low molecular weight) delivers hydration at different skin depths. Production declines significantly with age.
The closest active-matched alternative is the CeraVe Moisturizing Cream (85% active overlap). We found 6 options that share this product’s hero actives.
Skin Stacker is independent and receives no payment from any brand. Ingredient analysis is based on publicly disclosed INCI lists and the peer-reviewed literature. Formulations change — always re-check the label on your specific batch before using.