# e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Face Cream for dry skin

**Lovi Fit: High fit for dry skin.**
Dry Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: High · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/e-l-f/holy-hydration-face-cream/for/dry-skin

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

Brand: [e.l.f.](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/e-l-f)
Category: [Sunscreens and SPF moisturizers](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/best/sunscreens)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dry skin: flakiness, tightness, dehydration, fine lines, and wrinkles. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A great choice for dry skin; a few sunscreens fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Highly suitable for your dry skin as glycerin and squalane provide excellent humectant and emollient actions, respectively, addressing dryness and flakiness effectively.
- Niacinamide and panthenol further support skin barrier function and hydration, enhancing the overall moisturizing benefits for your skin.
- The formula is safe for your dry skin, containing no harsh or prohibited ingredients that could cause irritation.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/e-l-f/holy-hydration-face-cream/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/e-l-f/holy-hydration-face-cream/for/dry-skin): High (this page)
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/e-l-f/holy-hydration-face-cream/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/e-l-f/holy-hydration-face-cream/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/e-l-f/holy-hydration-face-cream/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/e-l-f/holy-hydration-face-cream/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/e-l-f/holy-hydration-face-cream/for/mature-skin): Superior
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/e-l-f/holy-hydration-face-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/e-l-f/holy-hydration-face-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Sodium Hyaluronate, Peptides, Niacinamide, Squalane, Trehalose

## 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/))
- Topical application of 0.1% hyaluronic acid formulations of different molecular weights led to significant improvements in skin hydration and elasticity, with low-molecular-weight formulations also significantly reducing wrinkle depth in seventy-six female subjects compared to a vehicle control. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/))
- Topical application of hyaluronic acid in conjunction with free gingival graft significantly reduced donor site postoperative pain until day 7 compared to normal saline, with no significant differences in graft dimensions or patient satisfaction. ([Clinical Oral Investigations, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34623507/))
- Treatment with a hyaluronic acid-containing mouth rinse or topical gel led to significant lesion reduction, pain relief, and normalization of lesion color in adult patients with minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis, with the gel formulation showing an earlier healing onset at 3 days. ([BMC Oral Health, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31311529/))
- Topical post-laser application of human adipocyte-derived mesenchymal stem cell media combined with niacinamide significantly improved wrinkle index, melanin index, patient satisfaction, and investigator esthetic improvement scores compared to vehicle cream in patients with aging skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33103316/))
- Topical nicotinamide prevented solar-simulated UV-induced immunosuppression in healthy volunteers, and men experienced immunosuppression at solar-simulated UV doses three times lower than those required for women. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17882270/))
- Topical 5% niacinamide applied twice daily for 12 weeks reduced fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmented spots, red blotchiness, and skin sallowness, and improved skin elasticity compared to vehicle control in 50 female white subjects with facial photoaging. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16029679/))
- Squalane at 0.005-0.015% counteracts UVA-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and collagen metabolism inhibition while stimulating fibroblast migration in human dermal fibroblasts. ([Molecules, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40363772/))
- Plant-derived squalane protected human dermal fibroblasts against UVA-induced damage by counteracting ROS formation, suppressing apoptosis-related proteins p53, caspase-3, caspase-9, and PARP, and restoring the pro-survival p-Akt/mTOR pathway. ([Antioxidants, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40722956/))
- Sodium trehalose sulfate decreased transepidermal water loss and increased stratum corneum water content in participants with low stratum corneum water content when applied for 4 weeks compared to placebo. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38606717/))
- Topical chloramphenicol-betamethasone combined with sodium hyaluronate/trehalose/carbomer gel compared to chloramphenicol-betamethasone alone reduced most subjective symptoms at 1 week but increased blurred vision at 4 weeks following strabismus surgery in 31 patients, with no significant differences in conjunctival inflammation between treatments. ([Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31298607/))
- Topical treatment with Thealoz Duo significantly improved dry eye disease symptoms, tear break-up time, and restored tear lipid layer functionality by reducing inflammatory response proteins in moderate to severe dry eye patients over 56 days. ([Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40807147/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this moisturizer is widely celebrated for delivering deep hydration with a lightweight, non-greasy feel that rivals high-end luxury creams. It is generally praised for smoothing skin texture and working well under makeup. Some users with acne-prone skin experienced breakouts, and others found the scented version too overpowering.

- Liked: Effective hydration (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Lightweight & fast (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Excellent value (often mentioned)
- Liked: Makeup compatible (often mentioned)
- Liked: Beneficial ingredients (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Strong fragrance (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Greasy residue (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Not for dry skin (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging concerns (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Apply this moisturizing sunscreen daily in your AM routine. Use it every morning as the final step of your skincare routine.
- Apply after your moisturizer and before putting on makeup. This ensures proper sun protection for your skin.
- Gently spread an even layer over your face and neck. Avoid rubbing too hard to keep your dry skin happy.
- Apply on completely dry skin for the best coverage and protection. Make sure your face is clean before application.
- Avoid the immediate eye area during application. Do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/53e9a436d82fca2a189dd08aa21de2fd.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Face Cream a great fit for dry skin?

e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Face Cream is a great fit because glycerin and squalane work to lock in moisture and soften dry, flaky skin. Niacinamide and panthenol help support your skin barrier for lasting hydration 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 dry skin?

Glycerin and squalane make this cream a great fit for dry skin by quenching dryness and flakiness. Niacinamide and panthenol also help lock in moisture and support a healthy skin barrier.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Hyaluronic Acid do for dry skin?

Hyaluronic acid draws moisture into dry skin, giving an immediate and lasting boost in hydration that helps smooth out fine lines and soften rough patches. It is very gentle and unlikely to cause irritation while improving overall skin smoothness and plumpness.
Sources: [Dermatology and Therapy, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34176098/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/)

### What do Peptides do for dry skin?

Peptides help dry skin by supporting skin barrier health and improving moisture retention. Regular use may also enhance skin firmness and smooth out the texture of dry skin over time.
Sources: [Advanced Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39783908/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41311286/)

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

This cream goes in the morning routine after a cleanser and hydrating toner, right before your sunscreen. In the evening, apply it as the final step after your cleanser and treatment. Using a moisturizer helps lock in hydration and significantly improves clinical scores and visual dryness.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/)

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

You can use this cream with retinol by applying the moisturizer either before or after your retinol treatment to help keep your skin comfortable. Using a moisturizing cream alongside retinol is unlikely to cause irritation and may support your skin barrier as it adjusts.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22648223/)

### How often should I use this cream?

You can use this cream every morning as part of your regular routine to keep your dry skin feeling soft and comfortable all day. Applying it daily helps lock in moisture and supports your skin barrier, reducing dryness and flakiness over time.
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 dry skin?

This cream is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for your dry skin. The formula is safe and free of harsh ingredients, though a small number of reviewers have reported breakouts.

### 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 dry skin

- [La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer SPF 30](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-double-repair-face-moisturizer-uv-spf-30/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — CA$31.00 at Amazon
- [ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Marine Cream SPF 30](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/elemis/pro-collagen-marine-cream-spf-30/for/dry-skin) — High fit — CA$154.00 at Amazon
- [No7 Protect & Perfect Intense Advanced Day Cream SPF 30](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/no7/protect-and-perfect-intense-advanced-day-cream-spf-30/for/dry-skin) — High fit — CA$33.18 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — CA$20.19 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Dear, Klairs Supple Preparation Unscented Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/dear-klairs/supple-preparation-unscented-toner/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — CA$27.99 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Tata Harper Repairative Moisturizer](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/tata-harper/repairative-moisturizer/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — CA$162.00 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.ca: CA$16.98 (https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B07ZQZVMRX?tag=lovi-care-web-product01-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Shoppers Drug Mart: CA$17.99 (https://www.shoppersdrugmart.ca/e-l-f-cosmetics-holy-hydration-face-cream-spf-30-sunscreen/p/BB_609332815704?variantCode=609332815704)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 1 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Isohexadecane, Stearyl Heptanoate, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Isopropyl Isostearate, Niacinamide, Cetearyl Olivate, Trehalose, Squalane, Dimethicone, Stearic Acid, Aluminum Octenylsuccinate Starch, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Silica, Sodium Hyaluronate, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Panthenol Vb5, Sorbitan Olivate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, Peg-100 Stearate, Polyethylene, Disodium Edta, Polyacrylate-13, Polyisobutene, Polysorbate 20, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Parfum, Carbomer
## 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/e-l-f/holy-hydration-face-cream/for/dry-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/e-l-f/holy-hydration-face-cream/for/dry-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/e-l-f/holy-hydration-face-cream/for/dry-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/e-l-f/holy-hydration-face-cream/for/dry-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/e-l-f/holy-hydration-face-cream/for/dry-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/e-l-f/holy-hydration-face-cream/for/dry-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/e-l-f/holy-hydration-face-cream/for/dry-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/e-l-f/holy-hydration-face-cream/for/dry-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/e-l-f/holy-hydration-face-cream/for/dry-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/e-l-f/holy-hydration-face-cream/for/dry-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/e-l-f/holy-hydration-face-cream/for/dry-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/e-l-f/holy-hydration-face-cream/for/dry-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/e-l-f/holy-hydration-face-cream/for/dry-skin