# The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + PhytoCeramides for acne-prone skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for acne-prone skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: High · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-phytoceramides/for/acne-prone-skin

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

Brand: [The Ordinary](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/the-ordinary)
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/best/moisturizers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with acne-prone skin: breakouts, blackheads, and post-acne marks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for acne-prone skin; other moisturizers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate benefits for your acne and blemishes due to the presence of amino acids like Arginine and Glycine, which support skin barrier function, alongside lipids such as Caprylic Capric Triglyceride and Phytosteryl Canola Glycerides that provide hydration.
- It provides excellent moisturizing due to ceramides and humectants that enhance barrier resilience, but lacks sufficient ingredients for optimal oil control on the oily areas of your combination skin.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation for your combination skin due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients, and presence of soothing ingredients like Glycerin and Hyaluronic Acid.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-phytoceramides/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-phytoceramides/for/dry-skin): Superior
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-phytoceramides/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-phytoceramides/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-phytoceramides/for/acne-prone-skin): Average (this page)
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-phytoceramides/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-phytoceramides/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-phytoceramides/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Superior
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-phytoceramides/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Moisturizing Factors, Phytoceramides, Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycerin, Urea

## What the research says

- Topical application of an emollient emulsion containing 15.0% caprylic/capric triglyceride doubled the amount of urocanic acid isomers and increased skin hydration with reduced transepidermal water loss in healthy subjects, though it did not prevent ultraviolet-induced urocanic acid isomerization. ([Life, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37109405/))
- A Tris/Arg-formulated cleanser significantly decreased noninflammatory and inflammatory acne and pore size with keratotic plugs compared to an AEC/AC cleanser in male Thai subjects with mild to moderate acne over 4 weeks. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31347768/))
- Ceramide and niacinamide-containing moisturizer combined with anti-acne treatment significantly improved non-inflammatory, inflammatory, and total acne lesions compared to hydrophilic cream in 40 patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris after 8 weeks. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38299457/))
- 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/))
- 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 40% urea cream achieved improvement in less time and showed superiority over 12% ammonium lactate lotion in skin roughness, fissure reduction, thickness, and dryness at day 14 in patients treated for moderate to severe xerosis. ([American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11978141/))
- Topical treatment with K101 achieved a significantly higher mycological cure rate compared to placebo in patients with ≤50% nail involvement (27.2% vs 10.4%), while showing early visible improvements in nail appearance and no safety issues. ([Mycoses, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22681227/))

## Why other moisturizers fit acne-prone skin better

- A panthenol-enriched mask improved skin hydration, regulated sebum, and reduced redness and TEWL across dry sensitive, oily sensitive, and oily acne skin subgroups with excellent tolerance and no adverse reactions. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38366684/))
- Co-delivery of paeonol and madecassoside via nanoemulsions improved transdermal delivery, promoted barrier repair proteins, inhibited inflammatory cytokine secretion in cellular and 3D models, and reduced transepidermal water loss and acne in human facial skin compared to free components. ([Molecules, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37446936/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this ultra-rich moisturizer is widely celebrated by users with dry, dehydrated, or mature skin for its ability to repair the moisture barrier and provide a plump, dewy finish. Users with oily or acne-prone skin frequently find the texture too heavy and greasy, with some reporting congestion or breakouts.

- Liked: Intense hydration (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Greasy finish (often mentioned)
- Liked: Barrier repair (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Rich texture (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Value for money (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Causes breakouts (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Scent (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Slow absorption (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your moisturizer twice a day in your AM and PM routines. Apply it daily to help keep breakouts under control.
- Apply after your cleanser and toner, and make sure to use your SPF right after in the morning.
- Gently spread a small amount of moisturizer over your face using soft motions. Let it absorb into the skin for a minute before getting dressed or applying makeup.
- Apply on slightly damp skin to help lock in extra moisture. This keeps your combination skin balanced without feeling heavy.
- Avoid the eye area and do a patch test before your first use. Stop using if you feel any irritation.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + PhytoCeramides work for acne-prone skin?

This moisturizer works moderately well for acne-prone skin, providing helpful hydration and barrier support while lacking sufficient oil control for oily areas. It is unlikely to cause irritation due to its soothing ingredients, but acne-prone skin needs a product that also provides targeted oil control and blemish-clearing actives.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38299457/), [Life, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37109405/)

### Which ingredients make this cream a good fit for acne-prone skin?

This cream fits acne-prone skin with amino acids like Arginine and Glycine that support the skin barrier, alongside hydrating lipids such as Caprylic Capric Triglyceride and Phytosteryl Canola Glycerides. To fit this skin better, a moisturizer of this type needs added ingredients for oil control on oily areas.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38299457/), [Life, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37109405/)

### What do Natural Moisturizing Factors do for acne-prone skin?

Natural Moisturizing Factors help keep acne-prone skin hydrated without feeling heavy or greasy, supporting a balanced skin barrier. They are unlikely to clog pores and may improve overall skin comfort.

### What do Phytoceramides do for acne-prone skin?

Phytoceramides help replenish key skin fats that tend to be low in acne-prone skin, which supports your natural barrier and keeps your skin calm. Using them alongside acne treatments may also reduce dryness, redness, and peeling while helping clear breakouts.
Sources: [Cureus, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40385800/), [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37276158/)

### Where does it go in a skincare routine for acne-prone skin?

This moisturizer goes in the morning and evening routine after cleansing and any toners or treatments, and before sunscreen in the day. It is unlikely to cause irritation for acne-prone skin.

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

You can use this cream with retinol by applying the moisturizer after your retinol treatment to help keep your skin calm and hydrated. Using a moisturizer alongside treatments like retinol is unlikely to cause irritation and may help reduce dryness.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/), [The Journal of Dermatology, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24930436/)

### How often should I use it?

You can use this moisturizer twice a day as part of your morning and evening routine, applying it after your toner or treatment. Daily application of moisturizers of this type helps keep skin hydrated and supports the skin barrier. To truly fit acne-prone skin, this type of product also needs ingredients that help control oil on oily areas.
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 acne-prone skin?

This moisturizer is a moderate fit for your acne-prone skin because it offers soothing hydration but leaves a greasy finish that reviewers frequently complain about. This type of rich formula may cause breakouts if it lacks enough oil-controlling ingredients to balance shiny areas.

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

You can use this moisturizer around your eyes and on your body, as its safe formula is unlikely to irritate thin or sensitive areas. A product of this type needs lightweight hydration and soothing ingredients to care for the thin skin around the eyes and larger body areas.

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for acne-prone skin

- [COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cosrx/advanced-snail-96-mucin-power-essence/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$24.99 at Amazon
- [Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/drunk-elephant/protini-polypeptide-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$95.99 at Amazon
- [belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/belif/the-true-cream-aqua-bomb/for/acne-prone-skin) — High fit — CA$49.99 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [B.LAB Matcha Hydrating Foam Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/b-lab/matcha-hydrating-foam-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$22.95 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Resist Advanced Replenishing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/advanced-replenishing-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$41.00 at Amazon
- SPF: [innisfree Daily UV Defense Mineral Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/innisfree/daily-uv-defense-mineral-sunscreen/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$24.50 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.ca: CA$26.50 (https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0C1WHLL1C?tag=lovi-care-web-product01-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Sephora: CA$12.80 (https://www.sephora.com/ca/en/product/the-ordinary-natural-moisturizing-factors-phytoceramides-moisture-rich-surface-hydration-P505136?skuId=2644169)
Prices checked 31 Oct – 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Isodecyl Neopentanoate, Glycerin, Propanediol, Polyglyceryl-6 Polyricinoleate, Hydrogenated Oil, Polyglyceryl-2 Isostearate, Isosorbide Dicaprylate, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Phytosteryl Canola Glycerides, Glycosphingolipids, Glycolipids, Linoleic Acid, Oleic Acid, Palmitic Acid, Stearic Acid, Arginine, Glycine, Alanine, Serine, Proline, Threonine, Glutamic Acid, Lysine Hcl, Betaine, Xylitylglucoside, Anhydroxylitol, Xylitol, Glucose, Maltose, Fructose, Trehalose, Sodium Pca, Pca, Sodium Lactate, Urea, Allantoin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Lecithin, Triolein, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Pentylene Glycol, Tocopherol, Hydroxymethoxyphenyl Decanone, Citric Acid, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Magnesium Sulfate, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Hydroxide, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin
## 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/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-phytoceramides/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-phytoceramides/for/acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-phytoceramides/for/acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-phytoceramides/for/acne-prone-skin
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- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-phytoceramides/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-phytoceramides/for/acne-prone-skin
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- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-phytoceramides/for/acne-prone-skin