# NIVEA Soft Moisturizing Cream for combination skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-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 Canada.

Brand: [NIVEA](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/nivea)
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.

A poor match for combination skin; the moisturizers alongside fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate moisturizing for your combination skin due to glycerin and jojoba seed oil, which hydrate and enhance barrier resilience, but the presence of mineral oil and petrolatum may feel occlusive on your oily shine.
- While the formula is generally safe and free of harsh irritants, the occlusive nature of mineral oil and petrolatum might not be ideal for managing excess oil on your combination skin.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/oily-skin): Warning
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/combination-skin): Caution (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/acne-prone-skin): Caution
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/dark-spots): Low
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Caution

## Key ingredients

Glycerin, Mineral Oil, Jojoba Seed Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate, 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/))
- Topical application of jojoba wax reduced LPS-induced secretion of IL-6, IL-8, and TNFα by approximately 30% and increased the synthesis of pro-collagen III and hyaluronic acid compared to untreated skin in an ex-vivo human skin organ culture model. ([Frontiers in Pharmacology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38344180/))
- 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/))
- Repeated application of concentrated water-in-oil emulsions over four weeks caused no skin irritation, positively affected skin properties, and delivered almost 50% of the applied fluorescein sodium, with isopropyl myristate showing superior penetration performance compared to liquid paraffin in healthy volunteers. ([International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31525444/))
- Clay jojoba oil facial masks reduced total skin lesions by a mean of 54% after 6 weeks in 133 participants with acne-prone, lesioned skin and mild acne compared to baseline. ([Forschende Komplementarmedizin, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22585103/))
- Topical jojoba oil application in male mice decreased exercise-induced pro-inflammatory gene expression (Il-1b and Il-6 in soleus, Il-1b in gastrocnemius) compared to untreated exercised mice. ([Biomolecules, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41154623/))
- Nanolipidgel formulations with argan or jojoba oil and humectants demonstrate good sensory attributes, instrumental properties, and moisturizing efficacy for cosmetic application. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24772476/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant serum containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented particulate matter-induced degradation of extracellular matrix components, inflammation, and oxidative stress in the skin of 15 female volunteers compared to untreated controls. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40642809/))
- Dermatological products containing d-alpha tocopheryl acetate showed non-comedogenic potential with less than a 50% increase in microcomedones in 12 healthy male subjects compared to octyl palmitate. ([Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34471722/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant mix containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented PM and UV-induced skin barrier perturbation, lipid peroxidation, inflammatory markers, MMP9 activation, and Type I collagen loss in 15 healthy females compared to untreated exposed skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590207/))
- 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

Based on a very large amount of data, Nivea Soft Moisturizing Cream is a highly praised lightweight and fast-absorbing daily moisturizer that effectively hydrates normal to dry skin on the face, hands, and body, leaving it smooth and supple. A recent formula change has caused frustration among long-time users, and those with acne-prone or highly sensitive skin report occasional issues with breakouts and irritation.

- Liked: Deeply hydrating (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Lightweight and fast-absorbing (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Versatile all-over use (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Disliked new formula (often mentioned)
- Liked: Good under makeup (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Causes acne breakouts (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Irritates sensitive skin (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

### Why does Lovi advise caution with Nivea Soft Cream for combination skin?

Lovi advises caution because the mineral oil and petrolatum in this cream may feel too heavy and occlusive on the oily areas of combination skin. A moisturizer for this skin type needs safe hydrating ingredients that reduce oily shine and deliver moisture without causing heaviness or irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Mineral oil and petrolatum make this cream a poor fit because they may feel heavy and trap extra oil on combination skin. A moisturizer for this skin type needs targeted hydration and brightening ingredients that reduce oily shine without causing irritation or heaviness.

### 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/)

### What does Mineral Oil do for combination skin?

Mineral oil helps keep combination skin soft and smooth by locking in moisture and supporting the skin barrier. Because it sits on the surface without penetrating deeply, a product of this type for combination skin needs a lightweight texture and balancing ingredients to avoid feeling too heavy in oily areas while hydrating dry patches.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22994201/)

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

This cream is used as a moisturizer in both your morning and evening skincare routines. However, because it contains heavy ingredients like mineral oil and petrolatum, it may feel too heavy and cause unwanted shine on combination skin. A product for this skin type needs lightweight hydrating ingredients like glycerin and hyaluronic acid to provide moisture without clogging pores or feeling greasy.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [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, and applying it after your retinol treatment helps keep your skin soft while managing any dryness. Combination skin of this type needs a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid to prevent extra shine.

### How often should I use this cream?

You should use this moisturizer with caution on your combination skin, as ingredients like mineral oil and petrolatum may feel too heavy and cause oily shine. Combination skin needs lighter, breathable hydrators that balance moisture without clogging pores or adding excess oil.

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

This cream may cause breakouts or clog pores on combination skin because ingredients like mineral oil and petrolatum can feel heavy and trap excess oil. Combination skin needs a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer with hydrating and balancing ingredients that keep the skin soft without adding extra shine.

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

You can use this cream on your body, but it is best to use lighter, specialized formulas around the eyes because the skin there is much thinner. This product provides moderate hydration through glycerin and jojoba seed oil, but heavy ingredients like mineral oil and petrolatum may feel too heavy in delicate areas.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/)

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

It has no fragrance and contains drying alcohol (alcohol denat).

## 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

## Routine for combination skin

### AM

- 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
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — CA$29.98 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

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [Pyunkang Yul Deep Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/pyunkang-yul/deep-cleansing-oil/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — CA$23.99 at Amazon
- 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
- Cleansing Toner: [Medicube Zero Pore Pad 2.0](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/medicube/zero-pore-pad-2-0/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — CA$31.99 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/niacinamide-10-zinc-1/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — CA$6.60 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — CA$29.98 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [Pyunkang Yul Deep Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/pyunkang-yul/deep-cleansing-oil/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — CA$23.99 at Amazon
- 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
- Enzyme Powder: [Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/dermalogica/daily-microfoliant/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — CA$29.50 at Amazon
- Cleansing Mask: [Origins Original Skin Retexturizing Mask with Rose Clay](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/origins/original-skin-retexturizing-mask-with-rose-clay/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — CA$50.00 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
- Serum or Treatment: [The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/niacinamide-10-zinc-1/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — CA$6.60 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.ca: CA$13.49 (https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B01CPLIC9M?tag=lovi-care-web-product01-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Shoppers Drug Mart: CA$15.97 (https://www.shoppersdrugmart.ca/nivea-soft-all-purpose-moisturizing-cream-face-hand-body/p/BB_056594010123?variantCode=056594010123)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 2 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Myristyl Alcohol, Mineral Oil, Butylene Glycol, Alcohol Denat, Stearic Acid, Petrolatum, Myristyl Myristate, Glyceryl Stearate, Hydrogenated Coco-Glycerides, Dimethicone, Jojoba Seed Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate, Lanolin Alcohol, Polyglyceryl-2 Caprate, Carbomer, Sodium Hydroxide, Phenoxyethanol
## 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/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/combination-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/nivea/soft-moisturizing-cream/for/combination-skin