# EltaMD AM Therapy Facial Moisturizer for combination skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/eltamd/am-therapy-facial-moisturizer/for/combination-skin

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

Brand: [EltaMD](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/eltamd)
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/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 benefits for your combination skin, as niacinamide and willow bark extract provide mild oil control and exfoliation, though they do not fully address your primary concern of oily shine.
- The product is highly suitable for your combination skin type due to these ingredients and also offers excellent moisturizing with sodium hyaluronate and glycerin.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation for your combination skin due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/eltamd/am-therapy-facial-moisturizer/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/eltamd/am-therapy-facial-moisturizer/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/eltamd/am-therapy-facial-moisturizer/for/combination-skin): Average (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/eltamd/am-therapy-facial-moisturizer/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/eltamd/am-therapy-facial-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/eltamd/am-therapy-facial-moisturizer/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/eltamd/am-therapy-facial-moisturizer/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/eltamd/am-therapy-facial-moisturizer/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/eltamd/am-therapy-facial-moisturizer/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Niacinamide, Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycerin, Allantoin, Willow Bark Extract

## What the research says

- A botanical face cleanser with hops and willow bark extract continuously reduced skin sebum levels without reactive seborrhea after treatment in 21 healthy volunteers compared to a sodium laureth sulfate cleanser, with neither cleanser causing skin irritation. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/))
- 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 hyaluronic acid filler serum combined with Botulinum toxin type A lengthened the duration of the toxin's effect in reducing wrinkles compared to Botulinum toxin type A alone. ([Dermatologic Therapy, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36200921/))
- Hyaluronic acid extracts are safe and efficacious products for skin repair when used in tissue regeneration alone or in combination with herbal or Western medicine. ([Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25877441/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Topical gel containing chitosan, 0.2% chlorhexidine, allantoin and dexpanthenol did not improve postoperative comfort regarding swelling and pain, but improved the wound's aesthetic appearance following impacted lower third molar extraction compared to no gel. ([Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27475700/))
- A topical gel containing chitosan, chlorhexidine, allantoin, and dexpanthenol significantly reduced postoperative pain, trismus, swelling, and analgesic consumption, while improving wound healing after third molar surgery compared to a placebo. ([Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32683390/))
- An overnight patch containing Allium cepa extract and allantoin safely promotes scar healing after dermatologic surgery, resulting in significantly greater reductions in observer- and patient-assessed POSAS scores compared to no treatment. ([Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29948103/))
- Bioactive lipid nanocarriers co-loaded with willow bark or ivy leaf extracts and UV-filters provided pronounced UVA photoprotection up to an SPF-equivalent value of 13 and a maximum in vivo skin hydration effect of 97% when prepared with pomegranate oil. ([Nanomaterials, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35889587/))
- A topical serum containing 0.5% salicin applied twice daily reduced visible signs of skin aging, including wrinkles and tactile roughness, in 30 female subjects over 12 weeks compared to baseline. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20883292/))
- A novel emulsion containing niacinamide, lens esculenta seed extract, and white willow bark extract effectively improved acne, blackheads, and conspicuous facial pores in 30 subjects with oily skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38140770/))

## What reviewers say

Many report improved skin texture and reduced redness due to the niacinamide content. However, those with very dry skin often find it insufficiently moisturizing on its own, requiring an additional layer or a heavier product.

- Liked: Lightweight & non-greasy (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Sensitive skin safe (often mentioned)
- Liked: Improves texture (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Makeup compatible (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Insufficient moisture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Price vs. quantity (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Lack of SPF (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (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 EltaMD AM Therapy work for combination skin?

EltaMD AM Therapy Facial Moisturizer works moderately well for combination skin, offering mild oil control and excellent hydration through ingredients like niacinamide, sodium hyaluronate, and glycerin, though it may not fully reduce oily shine. It carries virtually no risk of irritation. To better fit combination skin, a product of this type needs stronger oil control and brightening ingredients that target oily shine while keeping the skin hydrated.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/)

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

Niacinamide and willow bark extract help keep your skin calm and manage oily areas, while sodium hyaluronate and glycerin deliver deep moisture. A product of this type needs stronger oil-controlling and brightening ingredients to fully address oily shine while keeping your combination skin hydrated and balanced.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/)

### What does Niacinamide do for combination skin?

Niacinamide helps balance oily areas by reducing excess shine and pore size while keeping dry patches hydrated and smooth. It also works to calm redness and even out skin tone, making it very suitable for combination skin.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12100180/), [Antioxidants, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34439563/)

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

Hyaluronic acid is a great fit for combination skin because it quenches dry areas with a boost of hydration while keeping oily zones balanced. Regular use helps smooth out fine lines and makes your skin feel soft and plump without causing irritation.
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/)

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

This moisturizing treatment goes after your hydrating toner and before your SPF in the morning, and as the final step in the evening. It is very safe and unlikely to cause irritation for your combination skin, while sodium hyaluronate and glycerin help keep skin soft and well-moisturized. However, since it only offers mild oil control, a combination skin routine ultimately needs stronger oil-balancing ingredients like salicylic acid or niacinamide to fully manage oily shine.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/)

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

You can use this moisturizer with retinol by applying the cream first to help comfort your skin and lower the risk of dryness or irritation. Using a barrier-supporting moisturizer alongside retinoids helps keep skin smooth and improves your daily routine comfort.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/)

### How often should I use this cream?

You can use this moisturizing treatment twice daily to keep your skin soft and hydrated. Daily application helps improve skin moisture and barrier function while providing gentle oil control. To better manage oily shine, this skin type needs stronger oil-absorbing or mattifying ingredients.
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 for combination skin, as it has a very safe formula with no harsh or irritating ingredients. However, because it does not fully control oily shine, combination skin often needs extra oil-balancing ingredients like salicylic acid or clay to keep pores clear.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/), [Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25877441/)

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

EltaMD AM Therapy Facial Moisturizer is safe for the thin skin around the eyes and body, though a product of this type needs stronger oil control and deeper hydration to fully address oily shine and dryness in those areas. It is unlikely to cause irritation because it lacks harsh ingredients, and the eyelid skin is especially thin while body skin varies by region.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/drunk-elephant/protini-polypeptide-cream/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — CA$95.99 at Amazon
- [The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-ha/for/combination-skin) — High fit — CA$16.20 at Amazon
- [ANUA Heartleaf 70% Soothing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/anua/heartleaf-70-soothing-cream/for/combination-skin) — High fit — CA$40.53 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — CA$44.95 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — CA$37.60 at Amazon
- SPF: [CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/am-facial-moisturizing-lotion-spf-30/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — CA$20.96 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in Canada has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

## Ingredients

Water, Cyclopentasiloxane, Ethylhexyl Isononanoate, Niacinamide, Lauryl Peg-9 Polymethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone, Willow Bark Extract, Piptadenia Colubrina Peel Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycerin, Dimethicone, Allantoin, Caffeine, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Dimethicone Peg-10 15 Crosspolymer, Sodium Chloride, Butylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Capryloyl Glycine, Undecylenoyl Glycine, Disodium Edta, Sodium Hydroxide
## 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/eltamd/am-therapy-facial-moisturizer/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/eltamd/am-therapy-facial-moisturizer/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/eltamd/am-therapy-facial-moisturizer/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/eltamd/am-therapy-facial-moisturizer/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/eltamd/am-therapy-facial-moisturizer/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/eltamd/am-therapy-facial-moisturizer/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/eltamd/am-therapy-facial-moisturizer/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/eltamd/am-therapy-facial-moisturizer/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/eltamd/am-therapy-facial-moisturizer/for/combination-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/eltamd/am-therapy-facial-moisturizer/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/eltamd/am-therapy-facial-moisturizer/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/eltamd/am-therapy-facial-moisturizer/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/eltamd/am-therapy-facial-moisturizer/for/combination-skin