# Kiehl's Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel Cream for dry skin

**Lovi Fit: Warning fit for dry skin.**
Dry Skin Fit: Low · Effectiveness: Superior · Safety: Risky.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-oil-free-gel-cream/for/dry-skin

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

Brand: [Kiehl's](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/brands/kiehl-s)
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/best/moisturizers)

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

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

## Why this fit

- Offers excellent moisturizing due to high concentrations of glycerin and sodium hyaluronate, which hydrate and plump the skin, but is moderately unsuitable for your dry skin because alcohol denat can be drying and there's a lack of sufficient emollient ingredients to counteract this effect.
- While the product provides general skincare benefits like hydration and soothing, it lacks specialized ingredients in concentrations that would significantly address your dry or flaky skin concerns.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-oil-free-gel-cream/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-oil-free-gel-cream/for/dry-skin): Warning (this page)
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-oil-free-gel-cream/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-oil-free-gel-cream/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-oil-free-gel-cream/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-oil-free-gel-cream/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-oil-free-gel-cream/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-oil-free-gel-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-oil-free-gel-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Micronized Amino Acid, Glacial Glycoprotein, Imperata Cylindrica Root Extract, Glycerin, Salicylic Acid

## 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/))
- 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/))
- Cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen achieved a higher cure rate (39%) than salicylic acid (24%) and a wait-and-see approach (16%) for cutaneous warts at 13 weeks in primary care patients. ([CMAJ, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20837684/))
- A moisturizer containing licochalcone A, 1,2-decanediol, L-carnitine, and salicylic acid significantly reduced noninflammatory, inflammatory, and total acne lesion counts compared to a vehicle control in Thai patients during a 12-week maintenance phase. ([BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/))
- Treatment with 2% supramolecular salicylic acid hydrogel resulted in a regression and markedly improvement rate of 51.01% compared to 43.10% for Adapaline gel in patients with mild to moderate facial acne vulgaris, showing no significant difference in efficacy. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590107/))

## What reviewers say

This lightweight gel moisturizer is highly recommended for oily and combination skin, providing hydration without greasiness or pore-clogging. Users frequently praise its oil control and refreshing feel, making it ideal for warmer weather. However, individuals with dry skin often find it lacks sufficient moisture, and a small number of sensitive users have reported stinging or a sticky residue.

- Liked: Lightweight & non-greasy (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Excellent oil control (often mentioned)
- Liked: Hydrating for oily (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Insufficient for dry (often mentioned)
- Liked: Alcohol-free formula (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Cooling & refreshing (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price point (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Sticky/tacky finish (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Pilling issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Stinging sensation (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Could be used as part of your AM or PM routine. Start using it 3 times a week and work your way up to daily use.
- Apply your moisturizer after your toner and before your sunscreen in the morning. At night, use it as the final step after your serum.
- Gently press a small amount of the moisturizer into your skin. Avoid rubbing to keep your dry skin happy.
- Apply the moisturizer on slightly damp skin to help lock in extra hydration. This is great for soothing dry and flaky areas .
- Avoid the sensitive eye area and do a patch test before your first use .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

### Why does Lovi advise against the Ultra Facial Oil-Free Gel Cream for dry skin?

Lovi advises against this moisturizing treatment for dry skin because alcohol denat can be drying and there is a lack of sufficient softening ingredients to counteract this effect. A product of this type needs rich, nourishing ingredients and skin barrier support to keep dry skin feeling smooth and comfortable without irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

This cream is a poor fit for dry skin mainly because it contains alcohol denat, which can be drying, along with a lack of sufficient softening ingredients to counteract this effect. Moisturizing treatments for dry skin need rich, nourishing emollients and moisture-retaining ingredients that deeply hydrate and support the skin barrier without any risk of irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Micronized Amino Acid do for dry skin?

Micronized Amino Acid helps soothe dry skin by boosting moisture and improving skin hydration. It is unlikely to cause irritation while working to smooth and soften rough areas.
Sources: [Der Hautarzt; Zeitschrift Fur Dermatologie, Venerologie, und Verwandte Gebiete, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14749863/), [International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36362149/)

### What does Glacial Glycoprotein do for dry skin?

Glacial Glycoprotein helps dry skin stay soft and smooth by keeping moisture locked in. It is unlikely to cause irritation and works well to protect skin that feels tight or rough throughout the day.

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

This cream is not a good fit for dry skin because alcohol denat can be drying and it lacks enough rich, soothing softeners to lock in moisture. Dry skin needs a rich moisturizer packed with nourishing oils and butters to deeply soften flaky areas and protect the skin barrier.
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?

It is best to avoid using this cream on dry skin because alcohol denat can dry it out further, and it lacks enough richer ingredients to lock in moisture. Dry skin needs a rich moisturizer loaded with ceramides and oils to protect the skin barrier, especially when pairing products with retinol.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/)

### How often should I use this cream?

This cream is a poor match for dry skin because it contains drying alcohol and lacks enough rich smoothing ingredients to keep the skin soft. A moisturizer for this skin type needs plenty of hydrating ingredients and rich smoothing agents to lock in moisture and soothe flaky areas.

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

This cream is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts on dry skin, but it may feel drying because it contains alcohol denat and lacks enough rich softening ingredients. A moisturizer for dry skin needs rich oils, butters, or ceramides to lock in hydration and protect the skin barrier.

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

This cream is generally safe to use on the body, but the skin around the eyes is much thinner and may be easily irritated by alcohol denat and salicylic acid. A product for the eye area or body needs rich, nourishing oils and gentle hydrators to keep delicate or broader areas soft and comfortable.
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 dry skin

- [The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-ha/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €11.50 at Amazon
- [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €13.67 at Amazon
- [LANEIGE Water Bank Moisture Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/laneige/water-bank-moisture-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €56.63 at Amazon

## Routine for dry skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €8.85 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Resist Advanced Replenishing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/paula-s-choice/advanced-replenishing-toner/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €34.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [d'Alba First Spray Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/d-alba/first-spray-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €16.99 at Amazon
- SPF: [Purito Daily Soft Touch Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/purito/daily-soft-touch-sunscreen/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €12.98 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €10.97 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €8.85 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Poremizing Fresh Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-poremizing-fresh-ampoule/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €14.98 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [d'Alba First Spray Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/d-alba/first-spray-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €16.99 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €10.97 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €8.85 at Amazon
- Nourishing Mask: [Abib Rice Probiotics Overnight Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/abib/rice-probiotics-overnight-mask/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €15.30 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Poremizing Fresh Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-poremizing-fresh-ampoule/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €14.98 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [d'Alba First Spray Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/d-alba/first-spray-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €16.99 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.de: €23.71 (https://www.amazon.de/dp/B09DGF47WH?tag=lovi-care-web-product05-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Notino: €33.90 (https://www.notino.es/kiehls/ultra-facial-oil-free-gel-cream-cuidado-hidratante-para-pieles-normales-y-grasas/p-16118789/)
- Lookfantastic: €42.55 (https://www.lookfantastic.es/p/kiehl-s-ultra-facial-oil-free-gel-cream-various-sizes/12916137/)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Alcohol Denat, Dimethicone, Isononyl Isononanoate, Hydroxyethylpiperazine Ethane Sulfonic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Carbomer, Butylene Glycol, Chlorphenesin, Caprylyl Glycol, Dimethiconol, Sodium Hydroxide, Xanthan Gum, Pentylene Glycol, Tetrasodium Edta, Tocopheryl Acetate, Menthoxypropanediol, Pseudoalteromonas Extract Ferment, Biosaccharide Gum-1, Sarcosine, Salicylic Acid, Imperata Cylindrica Root Extract, Propanediol, Cucumis Sativus Cucumber Fruit Extract Juice, Sodium Hyaluronate, Citric Acid, Acrylates C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer
## 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/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-oil-free-gel-cream/for/dry-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-oil-free-gel-cream/for/dry-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-oil-free-gel-cream/for/dry-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-oil-free-gel-cream/for/dry-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-oil-free-gel-cream/for/dry-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-oil-free-gel-cream/for/dry-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-oil-free-gel-cream/for/dry-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-oil-free-gel-cream/for/dry-skin (this page)
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-oil-free-gel-cream/for/dry-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-oil-free-gel-cream/for/dry-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-oil-free-gel-cream/for/dry-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-oil-free-gel-cream/for/dry-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-oil-free-gel-cream/for/dry-skin