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

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

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

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

Brand: [e.l.f. Skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/brands/e-l-f-skin)
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/best/moisturizers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with sensitive skin: redness, stinging, and reactions to new products. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for sensitive skin; other moisturizers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Suitable for normal skin, this cream provides moderate hydration and plumping effects for you due to glycerin and sodium hyaluronate, with squalane offering emollient benefits.
- While it offers general skincare advantages, it does not directly target your specific concerns of redness and irritation as it lacks specialized anti-inflammatory ingredients.
- The formulation is safe for your sensitive skin, containing no harsh or prohibited substances that could cause irritation.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Sodium Hyaluronate, Niacinamide, Peptides, Squalane, Glycerin

## 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/))
- 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/))

## Why other moisturizers fit sensitive skin better

- Soaps containing betaine caused the least skin irritation compared to other tested soaps in twenty-eight healthy subjects, though irritation did not decrease with increasing concentrations of betaine. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12535284/))
- Cosmetic formulations containing 5% Centella asiatica extract showed the best efficacy in improving skin moisture and decreasing transepidermal water loss, while also exhibiting antiinflammatory properties in 25 volunteers compared to baseline measurements. ([Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/))

## What reviewers say

This cream is highly praised for providing deep hydration without a heavy or greasy feel, making it ideal for combination and oily skin types. It is frequently noted for creating a smooth canvas for makeup. Some users with very dry skin found it insufficient, and a few experienced issues with the scent in the original formulation or eye irritation with the SPF version.

- Liked: Excellent makeup base (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Deeply hydrating (often mentioned)
- Liked: Lightweight & non-greasy (often mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle & non-irritating (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Eye irritation (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Jar packaging (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Not rich enough (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Scent issues (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this soothing AM and PM routine every day to keep your normal skin calm. Always remember to apply SPF in the morning after your moisturizer.
- Apply your moisturizer after your toner in the morning, and after your serum in the evening. This step locks in hydration and protects your skin.
- Gently press a small amount of the moisturizer evenly across your face. Avoid rubbing to keep your sensitive skin happy and calm.
- You can apply this gentle formula on dry or slightly damp skin for the best comfort. It works wonderfully on clean skin to soothe redness and irritation.
- Do a patch test before your very first use to check your skin's reaction. Avoid getting the product directly into your eyes .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Face Cream work for sensitive skin?

This cream works decently for sensitive skin, providing moderate hydration and keeping skin soft and smooth through glycerin and squalane. However, because it lacks specialized calming ingredients, it does not directly target redness and irritation. A moisturizer for this skin needs soothing ingredients like fermented Centella Asiatica or cica ceramide to calm redness while hydrating the skin.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

This cream is a safe fit for sensitive skin because it contains gentle ingredients like squalane and glycerin, though it lacks specialized calming ingredients to directly target redness. A moisturizer for this skin needs soothing ingredients like Centella Asiatica and ceramides to calm irritation and strengthen the skin barrier.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Hyaluronic acid helps calm and hydrate sensitive skin while supporting the skin barrier to keep it soft and comfortable. Clinical studies show it improves surface moisture and reduces dryness, roughness, and redness without irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41037531/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29356277/)

### What does Niacinamide do for sensitive skin?

Niacinamide helps calm sensitive skin by strengthening the skin barrier and reducing redness and irritation. It is very well tolerated and may improve overall comfort and resilience with regular use.
Sources: [Cutis, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16209160/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17147561/)

### Where does it go in a skincare routine for sensitive skin?

This moisturizing treatment goes at the end of your evening routine, after your cleanser, soothing toner, and treatment. It is safe for sensitive skin, though a product for this skin needs specialized anti-inflammatory ingredients to target redness and irritation.

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

You can use this cream alongside retinol, applying it after your retinol treatment to help keep your skin comfortable and hydrated. This type of sensitive skin needs a moisturizer with soothing ingredients like ceramides or calming plant extracts to keep redness and irritation at bay.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/)

### How often should I use it?

You can use this moisturizing treatment twice daily to maintain hydration and keep your skin soft and smooth. Daily application of moisturizers of this type helps improve skin moisture and supports the skin barrier, though sensitive skin requires a formula with specialized anti-inflammatory ingredients to calm redness and irritation.
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 sensitive skin?

This cream is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for sensitive skin because its formulation is safe and free of harsh substances that typically cause irritation. To fit sensitive skin even better, this type of product needs specialized anti-inflammatory ingredients to target redness.

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

You can use this moisturizing treatment around your eyes and on your body, as its formulation has a safe profile for sensitive skin. However, because it lacks specialized anti-inflammatory ingredients to target redness and irritation, sensitive skin of this type needs a product containing soothing botanical extracts and calming barrier-repair agents.

### 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 sensitive skin

- [belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/belif/the-true-cream-aqua-bomb/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — €36.14 at Amazon
- [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — €13.67 at Amazon
- [The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-ha/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — €11.50 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €39.99 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [SKIN1004 Centella Asiatica Toning Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/skin1004/centella-asiatica-toning-toner/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €19.89 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [Torriden DIVE-IN Mild Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/torriden/dive-in-mild-sunscreen/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €18.00 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## 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, 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-skin/holy-hydration-face-cream/for/sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-face-cream/for/sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-face-cream/for/sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-face-cream/for/sensitive-skin (this page)
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-face-cream/for/sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-face-cream/for/sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-face-cream/for/sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-face-cream/for/sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-face-cream/for/sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-face-cream/for/sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-face-cream/for/sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-face-cream/for/sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/e-l-f-skin/holy-hydration-face-cream/for/sensitive-skin