# Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream for sensitive skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-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 Ireland.

Brand: [Kiehl's](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/brands/kiehl-s)
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/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 excellent moisturization with glycerin and squalane, which hydrate and support barrier function, though these ingredients do not directly address your redness and irritation.
- The formula offers general skincare benefits that enhance skin hydration and resilience, but lacks specific actives to target your primary concerns.
- The product is safe for your sensitive skin, as it contains no harsh ingredients and includes soothing components like glycerin and squalane.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Glacial Glycoprotein, Squalane, Glycerin, Apricot Kernel Oil, Avocado Oil

## 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/))
- 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/))
- Topical cream containing saffron extract and avocado oil improved wrinkle grading, reduced nasolabial fold area and volume, and increased skin elasticity in twenty healthy volunteers over 12 weeks without allergic reactions. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31957954/))
- Topical treatment with SSFAO 50% or avocado oil increased wound contraction, reepithelialization, collagen density, and tensile strength while showing anti-inflammatory activity compared to petroleum jelly in rats. ([Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23573130/))

## Why other moisturizers fit sensitive 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/))
- Topical dexpanthenol acts as a moisturizer, improves stratum corneum hydration, accelerates wound healing and epidermal regeneration, reduces erythema, and improves symptoms of skin irritation compared to vehicle or no pretreatment. ([American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/))
- A dexpanthenol-containing cream accelerated skin barrier repair, increased stratum corneum hydration, reduced skin roughness, and decreased skin redness compared to vehicle and untreated controls in sodium lauryl sulphate-irritated skin. ([The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19753737/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this moisturizer is widely celebrated for restoring the moisture barrier, particularly for those with dry, sensitive, or dehydrated skin in harsh winter climates. Users consistently report that it provides deep, long-lasting hydration without feeling heavy. A minority with oily or acne-prone skin experienced breakouts or found it too rich for humid weather.

- Liked: Deep, long-lasting hydration (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle for sensitive skin (often mentioned)
- Liked: Lightweight, non-greasy texture (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Expensive price point (often mentioned)
- Liked: Excellent makeup base (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Improves skin barrier (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Too greasy for oily skin (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Unhygienic jar packaging (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Causes breakouts/stinging (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Not rich enough (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 Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream work for sensitive skin?

This cream works for sensitive skin, though other products fit it better because it lacks specific ingredients to calm redness and irritation. This type of skin needs soothing components like fermented Centella Asiatica and Cica Ceramide to properly target redness and strengthen the barrier.
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?

Glycerin and squalane make this cream a good fit for sensitive skin by boosting hydration and keeping the skin barrier comfortable. Because it is an average fit, a moisturizer for this skin needs soothing ingredients like fermented Centella Asiatica and cica ceramide to calm redness and irritation.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Glacial Glycoprotein helps keep sensitive skin hydrated and protected against dryness. It supports the skin barrier so it stays calm and comfortable throughout the day.
Sources: [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37699769/)

### What does Squalane do for sensitive skin?

Squalane helps calm sensitive skin by defending against everyday irritation and keeping it smooth and soft. It is unlikely to cause irritation and supports your skin barrier so it stays comfortable and hydrated.
Sources: [International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29280987/)

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

This cream goes at the end of your evening routine, after your cleanser, toner, and treatment. It is safe for your sensitive skin and helps keep it soft and hydrated, though a product for this skin also needs soothing ingredients that directly calm redness and irritation.
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?

You can use this cream with retinol by applying your retinol treatment first, letting it dry, and then smoothing on this moisturizer. A moisturizer like this helps keep your skin soft and comfortable while you use strong treatments, though sensitive skin dealing with redness and irritation needs a soothing product with specific calming ingredients to target those concerns.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/)

### How often should I use this cream?

You can use this moisturizing cream daily in your morning and evening routines. Regular application helps keep your skin hydrated and supports its natural barrier.
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 cause breakouts or stinging on sensitive skin, as it contains no harsh ingredients and is well tolerated. However, a moisturizer of this type needs soothing ingredients and gentle hydrators to calm redness and irritation without clogging pores.

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

You can use this cream on the body and around the eyes, as it is safe for sensitive skin and provides good general hydration with glycerin and squalane. Because the skin around the eyes and on various body areas differs in thickness and sensitivity, a suitable product for these regions needs gentle, barrier-supporting ingredients like glycerin and plant oils to maintain moisture without irritation.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/)

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. Stearyl alcohol and cetyl alcohol are fatty alcohols, which soften the skin.

## Alternatives for sensitive skin

- [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Enrich Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-probio-cica-enrich-cream/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €17.84 at Amazon
- [COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cosrx/advanced-snail-96-mucin-power-essence/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €14.07 at Amazon
- [COSRX Advanced Snail 92 All in One Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cosrx/advanced-snail-92-all-in-one-cream/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €22.87 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €56.86 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [SKIN1004 Centella Asiatica Toning Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/skin1004/centella-asiatica-toning-toner/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €21.81 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [Clinique Mineral Sunscreen Fluid for Face SPF 50](https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/clinique/broad-spectrum-spf-50-mineral-sunscreen-fluid-for-face/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — €39.35 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.ie: €35.50 (https://www.amazon.ie/dp/B07CNNK52C?tag=lovi-care-web-product02-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Lookfantastic: €18.11 (https://www.lookfantastic.ie/p/kiehl-s-ultra-facial-cream-various-sizes/12916102/)
- Notino: €82.50 (https://www.notino.ie/kiehls/ultra-facial-cream-gift-set-for-women-7060394/p-16307594/)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 4 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Cyclohexasiloxane, Squalane, Bis-Peg-18 Methyl Ether Dimethyl Silane, Sucrose Stearate, Stearyl Alcohol, Peg-8 Stearate, Myristyl Myristate, Pentaerythrityl Tetraethlhexanoate, Prunus Armeniaca Apricot Kernel Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Persea Gratissima Avocado Oil, Glyceryl Stearate, Cetyl Alcohol, Oryza Sativa Rice Bran Oil, Olea Europaea Olive Oil Fruit, Chlorphenesin, Stearic Acid, Palmitic Acid, Disodium Edta, Acrylates C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Carbomer, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Sweet Almond Oil, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Hydroxide, Tocopherol, Glycine Soja Soybean Oil, Pseudoalteromonas Extract Ferment, Myristic Acid, Hydroxypalmitol Sphinganine, Bht, Salicylic Acid, Citric Acid
## 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-cream/for/sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-cream/for/sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-cream/for/sensitive-skin (this page)
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-cream/for/sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-cream/for/sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-cream/for/sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-cream/for/sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-cream/for/sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-cream/for/sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-cream/for/sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-cream/for/sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-cream/for/sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-cream/for/sensitive-skin