# Elta MD AM Restore Moisturizer for combination skin

**Lovi Fit: High fit for combination skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: High · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/elta-md/am-restore-moisturizer/for/combination-skin

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

Brand: [Elta MD](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/brands/elta-md)
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/best/moisturizers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with combination skin: an oily T-zone, enlarged pores, and dry cheeks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A great choice for combination skin; a few moisturizers fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Offers excellent moisturizing for your combination skin due to the presence of hyaluronic acid and glycerin, which hydrate and plump effectively, while niacinamide and willow bark extract offer moderate benefits for oily shine by helping to control oil and refine pores.
- Allantoin and bisabolol provide soothing effects, contributing to a comfortable experience for your skin.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the inclusion of soothing components.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/elta-md/am-restore-moisturizer/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/elta-md/am-restore-moisturizer/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/elta-md/am-restore-moisturizer/for/combination-skin): High (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/elta-md/am-restore-moisturizer/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/elta-md/am-restore-moisturizer/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/elta-md/am-restore-moisturizer/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/elta-md/am-restore-moisturizer/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/elta-md/am-restore-moisturizer/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/elta-md/am-restore-moisturizer/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Niacinamide, Willow Bark Extract, Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin, Dimethicone

## 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/))
- A botanical face cleanser with hops and willow bark extract continuously reduced skin sebum levels without reactive seborrhea after treatment in 21 healthy volunteers compared to a sodium laureth sulfate cleanser, with neither cleanser causing skin irritation. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/))
- A topical gel containing chitosan, chlorhexidine, allantoin, and dexpanthenol significantly reduced postoperative pain, trismus, swelling, and analgesic consumption, while improving wound healing after third molar surgery compared to a placebo. ([Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32683390/))
- 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/))
- Bioactive lipid nanocarriers co-loaded with willow bark or ivy leaf extracts and UV-filters provided pronounced UVA photoprotection up to an SPF-equivalent value of 13 and a maximum in vivo skin hydration effect of 97% when prepared with pomegranate oil. ([Nanomaterials, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35889587/))
- A topical serum containing 0.5% salicin applied twice daily reduced visible signs of skin aging, including wrinkles and tactile roughness, in 30 female subjects over 12 weeks compared to baseline. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20883292/))
- A novel emulsion containing niacinamide, lens esculenta seed extract, and white willow bark extract effectively improved acne, blackheads, and conspicuous facial pores in 30 subjects with oily skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38140770/))
- 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/))
- Wearing an N95 mask alone compared to using dimethicone cream or hydrocolloid dressing caused more adverse skin reactions among 73 military health care workers, with no significant differences in fit test failure rates between groups. ([Military Medicine, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38771104/))
- Treatment with a moisturizer containing dimethicone and glycerine increased epidermal thickness by 0.019 mm, improved barrier function by decreasing transepidermal water loss by 13%, decreased melanin intensity, and induced keratins 6 and 16 in fifteen women with moderately photoaged forearms. ([Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17137484/))

## What reviewers say

This lightweight, oil-free moisturizer is widely praised by users with oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin for its ability to hydrate without clogging pores or causing irritation. While it effectively improves skin texture and tone using niacinamide and willow bark extract, those with very dry skin often find it insufficiently moisturizing on its own and may need to layer it with other products.

- Liked: Lightweight & non-greasy (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Good for sensitive/acne-prone (often mentioned)
- Liked: Excellent under makeup (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Improves skin texture (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Not moisturizing enough (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Price vs. quantity (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Rare breakouts (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this moisturizer in your AM and PM routine every day to control shine. Always pair with SPF in the morning.
- Apply this moisturizer after your cleanser and toner, right before your morning SPF.
- Gently press a small amount of the moisturizer into your skin and avoid harsh rubbing. Let it ⏳absorb for a minute.
- Apply the moisturizer on slightly damp skin to help it lock in moisture better. This keeps your combination skin balanced.
- Avoid the eye area when applying the moisturizer. Do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/2f72f5d69f07beeafc30237f829efbff.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Elta MD AM Restore a great fit for combination skin?

Elta MD AM Restore Moisturizer is a great fit for your combination skin because hyaluronic acid and glycerin hydrate and plump effectively, while niacinamide and willow bark extract help control oil and refine pores. Allantoin and bisabolol soothe your skin, and the formula has a very safe profile with no harsh ingredients to cause irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/)

### Which ingredients make this moisturizer a good fit for combination skin?

Hyaluronic acid and glycerin make this moisturizer a great fit for your combination skin by keeping it hydrated and soft, while niacinamide and willow bark extract help control oily shine and refine pores. Allantoin and bisabolol also provide calming effects to keep your skin comfortable with virtually no risk of irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/)

### What does Niacinamide do for combination skin?

Niacinamide helps balance oily areas by reducing excess shine and pore size while keeping dry patches hydrated and smooth. It also works to calm redness and even out skin tone, making it very suitable for combination skin.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12100180/), [Antioxidants, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34439563/)

### What does Willow Bark Extract do for combination skin?

Willow bark extract helps balance oily areas by reducing excess oil and calming redness without drying out the skin. It also supports smoother, softer texture and helps keep pores clear across different facial zones.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/)

### Where does this moisturizer go in a skincare routine for combination skin?

This moisturizer goes as the third step in your morning routine after a cleanser and a hydrating toner, and as the final step in your evening routine after a treatment. It keeps your skin balanced by hydrating effectively while helping to control oil and refine pores.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/), [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31461548/)

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

You can use this moisturizer with retinol to help keep your skin comfortable and smooth. Applying the moisturizer first may also help your skin adjust to the retinol while lowering the likelihood of irritation.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/)

### How often should I use this moisturizer?

You can use this moisturizer twice a day as part of your morning and evening routine to keep your combination skin hydrated and comfortable. Daily application helps improve moisture levels and skin barrier function while keeping oily shine under control.
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 it clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for combination skin?

This moisturizer is unlikely to cause breakouts or clog pores on combination skin, as it has an excellent safety profile without harsh ingredients. Reviewers only rarely mention breakouts, and soothing components like allantoin and bisabolol help keep your skin comfortable and calm.
Sources: [Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32683390/)

### 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 gentle ingredients are well-suited for thinner skin areas. Hyaluronic acid and glycerin help hydrate delicate skin, while soothing components like allantoin and bisabolol minimize the likelihood of irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/)

### Is this moisturizer 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 combination skin

- [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €18.99 at Amazon
- [Anua Heartleaf 78% Soothing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/anua/heartleaf-78-soothing-cream/for/combination-skin) — High fit — €35.21 at Amazon
- [ANUA Heartleaf 70% Soothing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/anua/heartleaf-70-soothing-cream/for/combination-skin) — High fit — €35.21 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €56.86 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [La Mer The Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/la-mer/the-tonic/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €115.30 at Amazon
- Pre-Cleanser: [Pyunkang Yul Deep Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/pyunkang-yul/deep-cleansing-oil/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €22.67 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Cetearyl Alcohol, Dimethicone, Squalane, Hyaluronic Acid, Tocopheryl Acetate Vitamin E, Panthenol, Allantoin, Bisabolol, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Cyclopentasiloxane, Ethylhexyl Isononanoate, Lauryl Peg-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone, Willow Bark Extract, Sodium Chloride, Piptadenia Colubrina Peel Extract, Caffeine, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Dimethicone Peg-10 15 Crosspolymer, Butylene Glycol, Capryloyl Glycine, Undecylenoyl Glycine, Disodium Edta, Sodium Hydroxide
## 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/elta-md/am-restore-moisturizer/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/elta-md/am-restore-moisturizer/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/elta-md/am-restore-moisturizer/for/combination-skin (this page)
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/elta-md/am-restore-moisturizer/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/elta-md/am-restore-moisturizer/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/elta-md/am-restore-moisturizer/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/elta-md/am-restore-moisturizer/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/elta-md/am-restore-moisturizer/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/elta-md/am-restore-moisturizer/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/elta-md/am-restore-moisturizer/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/elta-md/am-restore-moisturizer/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/elta-md/am-restore-moisturizer/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/elta-md/am-restore-moisturizer/for/combination-skin