# Avène Hydrance Rich Hydrating Cream for combination skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for combination skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/avene/hydrance-rich-hydrating-cream/for/combination-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Australia.

Brand: [Avène](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/brands/avene)
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/best/moisturizers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with combination skin: an oily T-zone, enlarged pores, and dry cheeks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for combination skin; other moisturizers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate hydration for your combination skin, as glycerin and shea butter provide emollient and humectant benefits, though these ingredients do not directly address your primary concern of oily shine.
- While the formula is generally safe and free from harsh irritants, its focus on rich moisturization may not be ideal for managing excess oil on your combination skin.
- The product is safe for your combination skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/avene/hydrance-rich-hydrating-cream/for/oily-skin): Low
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/avene/hydrance-rich-hydrating-cream/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/avene/hydrance-rich-hydrating-cream/for/combination-skin): Average (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/avene/hydrance-rich-hydrating-cream/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/avene/hydrance-rich-hydrating-cream/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/avene/hydrance-rich-hydrating-cream/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/avene/hydrance-rich-hydrating-cream/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/avene/hydrance-rich-hydrating-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/avene/hydrance-rich-hydrating-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Low

## Key ingredients

Avène Thermal Spring Water, Glycerin, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter Shea Butter, Carthamus Tinctorius Seed Oil, Dimethicone

## What the research says

- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- Balneotherapy with thermal water altered specific skin microbiota at genus and species levels in healthy female volunteers compared to tap water, which produced no significant microbiome changes. ([Life, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36983902/))
- Malaysian thermal spring water as an adjunct to standard acne therapy improved skin hydration, reduced dryness and stinging, enhanced overall tolerability, and improved the acne disability index in patients with mild to moderate acne. ([The Medical Journal of Malaysia, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38553920/))
- A 2% Sphingomonas xenophaga ferment extract cream applied twice daily for 4 weeks significantly decreased facial vascular disorder scores compared to vehicle in 86 Caucasian female subjects, alongside dose-dependent inhibition of pre-kallikrein activity in vitro. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40545753/))
- The emollient V0034CR significantly reduced TEWL compared to vehicle and vehicle plus glycerol, and significantly increased corneometry scores compared to vehicle and vehicle plus petrolatum in healthy volunteers with dry skin, demonstrating combined barrier function improvement from petrolatum and hydration improvement from glycerol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31532576/))
- Ten days of treatment with a cream containing 20% glycerin significantly increased skin hydration measured by corneometer values in 17 healthy volunteers compared to a placebo cream, but showed no influence on transepidermal water loss or skin sensitivity to an irritating surfactant. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498456/))
- Niacinamide/glycerin body moisturizers provided better rapid and prolonged improvement of cosmetic xerosis through functional improvement of stratum corneum barrier function compared to no treatment and conventional moisturizers in female subjects. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22206073/))
- A combination cream of stimu-tex AS and saccharide isomerate reduced erythema, increased skin capacitance, and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to placebo in 20 subjects after fractional CO2 laser procedure without causing serious adverse events. ([Lasers in Medical Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41134387/))
- A skin barrier restoring cream with shea butter, silkflo, and vitamin E increased type I procollagen synthesis, enhanced antioxidant enzyme activity, decreased reactive oxygen species generation, and promoted hyaluronic acid production in H2O2-stimulated human keratinocyte cells compared to untreated cells. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39528438/))
- Safflower oil body-human epidermal growth factor microgel emulsions mixed with xanthan gum enhance transdermal absorption, regulate inflammation, accelerate angiogenesis, and promote re-epithelialization and remodeling in full-layer skin wounds in rats. ([International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36126813/))
- Wearing an N95 mask alone compared to using dimethicone cream or hydrocolloid dressing caused more adverse skin reactions among 73 military health care workers, with no significant differences in fit test failure rates between groups. ([Military Medicine, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38771104/))
- A dimethicone skin protectant lotion significantly decreased visual scoring and transepidermal water loss compared to vehicle control and SLS-only treated sites in 12 healthy humans exposed to sodium lauryl sulfate. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11428946/))
- Treatment with a moisturizer containing dimethicone and glycerine increased epidermal thickness by 0.019 mm, improved barrier function by decreasing transepidermal water loss by 13%, decreased melanin intensity, and induced keratins 6 and 16 in fifteen women with moderately photoaged forearms. ([Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17137484/))

## What reviewers say

Users frequently report deep moisturization that alleviates tightness and flakiness, leaving skin soft and comfortable without a greasy feel. Some users note a strong fragrance that can be irritating, and a low number of reviews mention the cream being too heavy or causing mild irritation.

- Liked: Deeply hydrating (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Soothes sensitive skin (often mentioned)
- Liked: Non-greasy texture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Strong fragrance (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Can cause irritation (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Too heavy (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this moisturizer in your AM and PM routine every day to control shine. Always pair with SPF in the morning.
- Apply this moisturizer after your cleanser and toner, right before your morning SPF.
- Gently press a small amount of the moisturizer into your skin and avoid harsh rubbing. Let it ⏳absorb for a minute.
- Apply the moisturizer on slightly damp skin to help it lock in moisture better. This keeps your combination skin balanced.
- Avoid the eye area when applying the moisturizer. Do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Avène Hydrance Rich Hydrating Cream work for combination skin?

This cream works moderately well for combination skin, as glycerin and shea butter provide good hydration, though it is a bit rich and does not directly help with oily shine. To work best for this skin, a moisturizer needs ingredients that target both hydration and brightness to reduce oily shine without causing irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Which ingredients make this cream a good fit for combination skin?

Glycerin and shea butter provide moderate hydration for combination skin, though this cream needs ingredients that reduce oily shine.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Avène Thermal Spring Water do for combination skin?

Avène Thermal Spring Water helps calm redness and keeps combination skin comfortable by soothing sensitive areas. It is unlikely to cause irritation and supports overall skin balance.
Sources: [Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32870553/), [Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21175867/)

### What does Glycerin do for combination skin?

Glycerin helps keep combination skin soft and smooth by pulling moisture in and keeping it there. It improves hydration and supports your skin barrier, which is unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18510666/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Where does this cream go in a skincare routine for combination skin?

This moisturizer goes near the end of your morning and evening routines, right before sunscreen in the morning and after treatments at night. Because it provides rich hydration without targeting oily shine, combination skin needs a lighter lotion or gel that balances oil and moisture.

### Can I use this cream with retinol, and in what order?

You can use this cream with retinol by applying it after your retinol treatment to help keep your skin soft and comfortable. This type of rich moisturizer works well with retinol, but combination skin also needs lightweight, oil-balancing ingredients to manage shine.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/)

### How often should I use this cream?

You can use this rich moisturizer daily in your morning and evening skincare routines to keep your skin hydrated. Daily application of moisturizers like this helps maintain skin moisture and supports the skin barrier.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32141711/), [Health Science Reports, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34141902/)

### Can this cream clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for combination skin?

This cream is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts on your combination skin because it is generally safe and free from harsh irritants. However, its rich moisturization may feel too heavy and does not help manage oily shine, so a combination skin type often needs a lighter, oil-free hydrator with balancing ingredients.

### Can I use this cream around the eyes or on my body?

This rich cream is safe to use around the eyes and on the body, though the skin around the eyes is much thinner than on most body parts. The formula provides good moisture with glycerin and shea butter, but a product for this sensitive area needs lighter hydration and ingredients that target specific concerns like puffiness or fine lines.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/)

### Is this cream fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (parfum). Cetearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — A$24.00 at Amazon
- [The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-ha/for/combination-skin) — High fit — A$19.90 at Amazon
- [Anua Heartleaf 78% Soothing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/anua/heartleaf-78-soothing-cream/for/combination-skin) — High fit — A$42.00 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — A$73.61 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — A$42.00 at Amazon
- Pre-Cleanser: [Pyunkang Yul Deep Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/pyunkang-yul/deep-cleansing-oil/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — A$30.99 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.com.au: A$25.69 (https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B000Q34PES?tag=lovi-care-web-product-22&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 3 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Avene Thermal Spring Water Avene Aqua Avene Aqua, Paraffinum Liquidum Mineral Oil, Glycerin, Isohexadecane, Dimethicone, Cetearyl Alcohol, Carthamus Tinctorius Seed Oil, Isocetyl Stearoyl Stearate, Triethylhexanoin, Glyceryl Stearate, Peg-100 Stearate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter Shea Butter, Cetearyl Glucoside, Benzoic Acid, Beta-Sitosterol, Bht, Disodium Edta, Parfum, Polyacrylate-13, Polyisobutene, Polysorbate 20, Sodium Hydroxide, Sorbitan Isostearate, Water, Xanthan Gum
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/avene/hydrance-rich-hydrating-cream/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/avene/hydrance-rich-hydrating-cream/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/avene/hydrance-rich-hydrating-cream/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/avene/hydrance-rich-hydrating-cream/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/avene/hydrance-rich-hydrating-cream/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/avene/hydrance-rich-hydrating-cream/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/avene/hydrance-rich-hydrating-cream/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/avene/hydrance-rich-hydrating-cream/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/avene/hydrance-rich-hydrating-cream/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/avene/hydrance-rich-hydrating-cream/for/combination-skin (this page)
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/avene/hydrance-rich-hydrating-cream/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/avene/hydrance-rich-hydrating-cream/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/avene/hydrance-rich-hydrating-cream/for/combination-skin