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

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for oily skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: Low Risk.

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

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

Brand: [e.l.f.](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/brands/e-l-f)
Category: [Sunscreens and SPF moisturizers](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/best/sunscreens)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with oily skin: shine, enlarged pores, blackheads, and blemishes. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for oily skin; other sunscreens fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate moisturizing for your oily skin, with glycerin and sodium hyaluronate providing hydration and plumping effects, while niacinamide helps with seboregulation.
- Squalane and panthenol offer general skincare benefits that support hydration, though the formula is not specifically targeted to address oily shine concerns.
- The product is generally safe for your oily skin, with a low risk of irritation primarily from fragrance.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Sodium Hyaluronate, Peptides, Niacinamide, Squalane, Trehalose

## 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/))
- Treatment with a combination of niacinamide and hyaluronic acid improved skin aging signs and demonstrated a senomorphic effect by decreasing SASP and autocrine signaling genes in women. ([Scientific Reports, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39009698/))
- 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/))
- Sodium trehalose sulfate decreased transepidermal water loss and increased stratum corneum water content in participants with low stratum corneum water content when applied for 4 weeks compared to placebo. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38606717/))
- Topical chloramphenicol-betamethasone combined with sodium hyaluronate/trehalose/carbomer gel compared to chloramphenicol-betamethasone alone reduced most subjective symptoms at 1 week but increased blurred vision at 4 weeks following strabismus surgery in 31 patients, with no significant differences in conjunctival inflammation between treatments. ([Journal of Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31298607/))
- Topical treatment with Thealoz Duo significantly improved dry eye disease symptoms, tear break-up time, and restored tear lipid layer functionality by reducing inflammatory response proteins in moderate to severe dry eye patients over 56 days. ([Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40807147/))

## Why other sunscreens fit oily skin better

- Topical application of tocopherol succinate ethosomal gel decreased erythema, melanin, and sebum levels while improving moisture content and skin elasticity in 34 human women. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38268219/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this moisturizer is widely celebrated for delivering deep hydration with a lightweight, non-greasy feel that rivals high-end luxury creams. It is generally praised for smoothing skin texture and working well under makeup. Some users with acne-prone skin experienced breakouts, and others found the scented version too overpowering.

- Liked: Effective hydration (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Lightweight & fast (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Excellent value (often mentioned)
- Liked: Makeup compatible (often mentioned)
- Liked: Beneficial ingredients (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Strong fragrance (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Greasy residue (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Not for dry skin (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging concerns (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this moisturizing sunscreen daily in your AM routine. Reapply every two hours when exposed to direct sun.
- Apply this moisturizing sunscreen as the final step of your morning routine after your moisturizer.
- Smooth an even layer of the moisturizing sunscreen over your face and neck, avoiding harsh rubbing.
- Apply the moisturizing sunscreen onto clean, dry skin for the best protection and even coverage.
- Avoid the immediate eye area and discontinue use if any irritation occurs.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/53e9a436d82fca2a189dd08aa21de2fd.mp4

## Questions and answers

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

This cream works moderately well for oily skin, providing hydration and helping control shine, though it is not specifically targeted for oily skin concerns. Oily skin needs a product that controls shine, hydrates without clogging pores, feels lightweight, and avoids extra oiliness.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [Scientific Reports, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39009698/)

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

Glycerin, sodium hyaluronate, and niacinamide make this cream a good fit for oily skin by providing hydration while helping control excess oil. A moisturizer for oily skin needs lightweight ingredients that hydrate effectively without adding grease, manage shine, and keep pores clear without causing irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [Scientific Reports, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39009698/)

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

Hyaluronic acid helps oily skin by reducing extra oil and sebum production without causing irritation. Clinical studies show it successfully balances oil levels while keeping the skin comfortable.
Sources: [The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28163068/)

### What do Peptides do for oily skin?

Peptides help support skin health and may improve the look of oily skin, but this type of skin needs formulas with ingredients that balance oil production and keep pores clear.
Sources: [Advanced Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39783908/), [International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40565185/)

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

This cream goes in the morning step of your skincare routine after your hydrating toner and before your sunscreen. Oily skin needs a moisturizer that provides lightweight hydration with oil-controlling ingredients like niacinamide to keep the skin balanced without extra shine.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31461548/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

You can use this cream with retinol, applying it after your retinol treatment to help soothe your skin. Using a moisturizer with retinol is unlikely to cause issues and helps keep your skin comfortable while managing any dryness.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/)

### How often should I use this cream?

You can use this moisturizing spf every morning as part of your regular routine. Daily application helps keep your skin hydrated and supports the moisture barrier, though oily skin may still need oil-control ingredients to best manage shine.
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 oily skin?

This cream is generally safe for your oily skin, though reviewer complaints and the formula show a low risk of causing breakouts. A product for oily skin needs lightweight ingredients that balance oil and hydrate without feeling heavy.

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

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (parfum). Cetearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for oily skin

- [CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cerave/am-facial-moisturizing-lotion-spf-30/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €15.64 at Amazon
- [Olay Regenerist Whip Face Moisturizer SPF 40](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/olay/regenerist-whip-face-moisturizer-with-sunscreen-spf-40/for/oily-skin) — High fit — €64.62 at Amazon
- [Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream SPF 30](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/olay/regenerist-micro-sculpting-cream-face-moisturizer-with-spf-30/for/oily-skin) — Average fit — €22.57 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €21.45 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €19.99 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — €16.50 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.ie: €16.00 (https://www.amazon.ie/dp/B07ZQZVMRX?tag=lovi-care-web-product02-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 6 Nov 2026.

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