# Sulwhasoo Essential Firming Cream EX for dry sensitive skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/sulwhasoo/essential-firming-cream-ex/for/dry-sensitive-skin

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

Brand: [Sulwhasoo](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/sulwhasoo)
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/best/moisturizers)

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

Works for dry sensitive skin; other moisturizers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate hydration for your dry and sensitive skin, as glycerin and betaine provide humectant benefits while camellia sinensis seed oil and apricot kernel oil offer emollient support. The inclusion of honey and licorice root extract further aids in soothing and retaining moisture, complementing your skin's needs.
- The formula is highly suitable for dry skin due to the emollient properties of camellia sinensis seed oil, sesamum indicum seed oil, and prunus armeniaca kernel oil, which help to nourish and soften the skin.
- The product is safe for your skin, containing no harsh ingredients and featuring soothing components like glycerin and honey to minimize irritation.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Glycerin, Cyclopentasiloxane

## What the research says

- A combination of Aloe barbadensis leaf extract and trimethylglycine in a 1:1 mass ratio synergistically increased aquaporin 3 expression by up to 380% in keratinocytes and safely improved skin hydration in healthy volunteers. ([Molecules, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38611819/))
- Tea seed oil makeup remover successfully removed foundation and eyeliner without causing skin irritation in 20 human volunteers, with the 60% formulation showing superior foundation removal compared to other formulations and an olive oil benchmark. ([Annales Pharmaceutiques Francaises, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27988044/))
- 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/))
- 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/))

## What reviewers say

This rich cream is highly praised by users with dry and mature skin for its deep hydration and plumping effects, often resulting in a healthy glow. While many enjoy the luxurious, velvety texture and calming herbal scent, some find the fragrance overpowering or the cream too rich and heavy, occasionally leading to greasiness or breakouts, particularly for those with oily skin.

- Liked: Deeply hydrating (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Luxurious texture (often mentioned)
- Disliked: High price point (often mentioned)
- Liked: Calming scent (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Visibly firms skin (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Scent too strong (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Too heavy / greasy (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Could be used as part of your AM or PM routine. Start using this moisturizer 3 times a week and move to daily use if your dry skin tolerates it well.
- Apply this moisturizer after cleansing and toner in the morning, or after your serum in the evening. Always pair it with SPF in the morning.
- Gently press a small amount of the moisturizer into your skin. Avoid rubbing it harshly to protect your sensitive skin.
- Apply the moisturizer on slightly damp skin to help with hydration absorption. This also works well for dry and flaky skin types.
- Do a patch test before your first use. Avoid the eye area to prevent any irritation.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Sulwhasoo Essential Firming Cream work for dry sensitive skin?

Sulwhasoo Essential Firming Cream EX works as an average fit for dry sensitive skin, offering moderate hydration and soothing benefits through ingredients like glycerin and plant oils. To work best for this skin type, a moisturizing treatment needs deeply nourishing ingredients and rich moisture-locking agents that provide maximum hydration and support the skin barrier without causing irritation.

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

Glycerin and betaine help draw moisture into dry skin, while camellia sinensis seed oil and apricot kernel oil soften and nourish it. To best fit dry sensitive skin, a moisturizer of this type needs rich hydrating agents and soothing components that support the skin barrier without causing irritation.
Sources: [Molecules, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38611819/)

### What does Water do for dry sensitive skin?

Hard water increases soap deposits and dryness, making dry sensitive skin more prone to irritation and flare-ups. A product of this type needs gentle cleansers and soothing ingredients to calm the skin and protect its moisture barrier against hard water minerals.
Sources: [The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28927888/), [Clinical and Experimental Allergy, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33259122/)

### What does Glycerin do for dry sensitive skin?

Glycerin helps dry sensitive skin by drawing moisture into the skin and keeping it there, making the skin soft and smooth. It is very gentle and unlikely to cause irritation while improving how well the skin holds onto water. This type of skin needs ingredients that boost hydration and repair the barrier without causing stinging.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18510666/)

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

This moisturizing treatment goes in the evening routine after your toner and before your moisturizer. Dry sensitive skin needs rich moisturizers with hydrating ingredients like glycerin, calming agents like honey, and nourishing plant oils to lock in moisture and soften the skin.
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 alongside retinol by applying the cream after your retinol step to help soothe and soften dry sensitive skin. A product of this type needs rich oils and soothing plant extracts like those found in this cream to keep skin calm and hydrated when using strong actives.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/)

### How often should I use this cream?

This cream works as an evening treatment in your routine for dry sensitive skin, applied once a day. Daily application helps improve skin moisture and barrier function.
Sources: [Health Science Reports, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34141902/), [Dermatology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14571069/)

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

This cream is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for dry sensitive skin, as reviewers rarely report this issue. However, dry and sensitive skin needs a product with a light texture and non-greasy moisturizing ingredients to keep pores clear while maintaining comfort.

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

You can use this moisturizing treatment around the eyes or on the body, as it has a very safe profile and is unlikely to cause irritation on sensitive skin. To better care for dry and sensitive skin, a product of this type needs rich moisturizing oils and soothing plant extracts to deeply soften and calm the area.

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. Cetearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for dry sensitive skin

- [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Enrich Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-probio-cica-enrich-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$30.98 at Amazon
- [Obagi Hydrate Luxe Moisture-Rich Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/obagi/hydrate-luxe/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$103.73 at Amazon
- [The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-ha/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$16.20 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$20.19 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$49.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [d'Alba UVessence Mild Waterfull Sun Cream SPF 50](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/d-alba/uvessence-mild-waterfull-sun-cream-spf-50/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$38.00 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.ca: CA$168.00 (https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B09VNZMZQ5?tag=lovi-care-web-product01-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Sephora: CA$168.00 (https://www.sephora.com/ca/en/product/essential-comfort-firming-cream-P518211?skuId=2902443)
Prices checked 29 Oct – 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Cyclopentasiloxane, Butylene Glycol, Hydrogenated Poly C6-14 Olefin, Cyclohexasiloxane, Betaine, Dimethicone, Cetearyl Alcohol, Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Glyceryl Stearate, Peg-100 Stearate, Cetearyl Glucoside, Stearic Acid, Palmitic Acid, Dimethicone Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Peg-10 Dimethicone, Acrylates C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Tromethamine, Disodium Edta, Ethylhexylglycerin, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Paeonia Albiflora Root Extract, Rehmannia Glutinosa Root Extract, Lilium Candidum Bulb Extract, Polygonatum Officinale Root Extract Rhizome, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Honey, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract Licorice Root Extract, Angelica Acutiloba Root Extract, Pueraria Lobata Root Extract, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Zingiber Officinale Root Extract, Citrus Unshiu Peel Extract, Nelumbo Nucifera Flower Extract, Camellia Sinensis Seed Oil, Sesamum Indicum Seed Oil, Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil Apricot Kernel Oil, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Squalane, Tocopherol
## 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/sulwhasoo/essential-firming-cream-ex/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/sulwhasoo/essential-firming-cream-ex/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/sulwhasoo/essential-firming-cream-ex/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/sulwhasoo/essential-firming-cream-ex/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/sulwhasoo/essential-firming-cream-ex/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/sulwhasoo/essential-firming-cream-ex/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/sulwhasoo/essential-firming-cream-ex/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/sulwhasoo/essential-firming-cream-ex/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/sulwhasoo/essential-firming-cream-ex/for/dry-sensitive-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/sulwhasoo/essential-firming-cream-ex/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/sulwhasoo/essential-firming-cream-ex/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/sulwhasoo/essential-firming-cream-ex/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/sulwhasoo/essential-firming-cream-ex/for/dry-sensitive-skin