# Lancôme Hydra Zen Gel Cream for dry skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for dry skin.**
Dry Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/lancome/hydra-zen-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 Italy.

Brand: [Lancôme](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/brands/lancome)
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/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.

Works for dry skin; other moisturizers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate moisturizing for your dry skin due to the presence of glycerin and sodium hyaluronate, which hydrate and plump the skin by attracting and retaining moisture.
- While these humectants provide essential hydration, the formula may not deliver optimal results for dry skin as it lacks sufficient emollient and occlusive ingredients to fully seal in moisture.
- The product is safe for your dry skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/lancome/hydra-zen-gel-cream/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/lancome/hydra-zen-gel-cream/for/dry-skin): Average (this page)
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/lancome/hydra-zen-gel-cream/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/lancome/hydra-zen-gel-cream/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/lancome/hydra-zen-gel-cream/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/lancome/hydra-zen-gel-cream/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/lancome/hydra-zen-gel-cream/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/lancome/hydra-zen-gel-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/lancome/hydra-zen-gel-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Salicylic Acid, Glycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Aloe Barbadensis Extract, Panthenol

## 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 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 new topical panthenol-containing emollient significantly improved transepidermal water loss reduction, stratum corneum hydration, and intercellular lipid lamellae length compared with control in healthy subjects without negatively impacting bacterial viability. ([The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/))
- 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/))
- 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 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/))
- A cream combining propolis, tea tree oil, and Aloe vera reduced erythema scars, acne severity index, and total lesion count better than erythromycin cream in sixty patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris compared to placebo. ([Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/))
- Topical aloe vera gel significantly accelerated split-thickness skin graft donor-site healing compared to placebo in 12 patients, but showed no significant difference in pain relief. ([Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29649056/))
- Topical application of Aloe vera cream reduced postoperative pain at rest and during defecation, accelerated wound healing at two weeks, and decreased analgesic requirements in patients after open hemorrhoidectomy compared to placebo. ([Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20569031/))
- Moisturizer containing 5% panthenol, madecassoside, and copper-zinc-manganese decreased adverse reactions and downtime after ablative fractional carbon dioxide laser resurfacing with comparable efficacy to 0.02% triamcinolone acetonide cream in 20 subjects. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30945430/))
- Topical dexpanthenol formulated in lipophilic vehicles improved stratum corneum hydration and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to vehicle control in humans. ([Arzneimittel-Forschung, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10965426/))
- Hyaluronic acid, hyaluronic acid plus dexpanthenol, and isotonic saline nasal sprays all significantly improved dry nose symptoms over four weeks in 240 patients, with hyaluronic acid plus dexpanthenol providing superior nasal moisturisation compared to the other two. ([Auris, Nasus, Larynx, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32067777/))

## Why other moisturizers fit dry skin better

- 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/))
- Nanoemulsions containing Macadamia integrifolia seed oil successfully enhanced skin hydration and reduced wrinkles in human volunteers, outperforming conventional emulsions in skin hydration enhancement. ([Nanomaterials, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38668218/))
- Topical oil-in-water and water-in-oil emulsions containing glyceryl glucoside, natural moisturizing factors, and ceramide significantly improved skin hydration and barrier function while reducing visible dryness and tactile roughness in subjects with very dry skin compared to untreated sites and vehicles. ([The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22916312/))

## What reviewers say

This gel cream is highly effective for combination and sensitive skin, offering a cooling, lightweight hydration that absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue. Many users report that it successfully soothes redness, plumps the skin, and serves as an excellent base for makeup, though some find the fragrance or price point to be drawbacks.

- Liked: Good for sensitive skin (often mentioned)
- Liked: Lightweight texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Great makeup base (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Soothing and calming (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Strong fragrance (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Can be drying (rarely noted)
- Disliked: High price point (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Potential irritation (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

### How well does Lancôme Hydra Zen Gel Cream work for dry skin?

This moisturizer provides moderate hydration for dry skin using ingredients that draw in moisture, though it is unlikely to deliver optimal results because it lacks enough sealing ingredients to fully lock that moisture in. Dry skin of this type needs rich nourishing ingredients and protective oils to seal in moisture and support the skin barrier.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Glycerin and sodium hyaluronate make this cream work for your dry skin by attracting and holding onto moisture. While these ingredients provide helpful hydration, dry skin also needs rich softening and sealing ingredients to lock that moisture in.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Salicylic Acid do for dry skin?

Salicylic acid is generally not a good fit for dry skin, as it is meant to clear out pores and remove dead skin rather than hydrate. Because dry skin needs soothing and moisture rather than exfoliation, a product for dry skin needs nourishing ingredients like urea to lock in moisture and keep the skin soft.

### What does Glycerin do for dry skin?

Glycerin helps dry skin by drawing in moisture and keeping it locked in, which makes the skin feel much softer and smoother. It also supports your natural skin barrier to stop water from escaping easily. A product for dry skin needs extra ingredients like hyaluronic acid and soothing plant extracts to truly calm and hydrate dry patches.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18510666/)

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

In a routine for dry skin, this moisturizer goes in the morning after a hydrating toner and before your sunscreen, and in the evening as the final step after your treatment. Daily use of a moisturizer helps improve visual dryness and overall comfort by keeping the skin hydrated. Dry skin of this type needs rich creams containing heavy oils and butters to fully lock in moisture.
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 the retinol first, letting it absorb, and then following with the cream. This helps keep your skin soft and is unlikely to cause irritation.

### How often should I use it?

You can use this moisturizer daily in your morning and evening routines. It is safe for your dry skin and unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [Health Science Reports, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34141902/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32141711/)

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

This cream is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for dry skin. It has a safe profile with no harsh ingredients, though dry skin still needs richer, sealing ingredients to fully lock in moisture.

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

This moisturizer is safe to use on the thin skin around your eyes and on your body, though dry skin needs a richer cream with heavier smoothing and sealing ingredients to truly lock in moisture.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/)

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

It contains fragrance (parfum) and drying alcohol (alcohol denat).

## Alternatives for dry skin

- [The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-ha/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €13.11 at Amazon
- [COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cosrx/advanced-snail-96-mucin-power-essence/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €12.09 at Amazon
- [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €18.06 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €9.19 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Pyunkang Yul Calming Deep Moisture Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/pyunkang-yul/calming-deep-moisture-toner/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €15.16 at Amazon
- SPF: [Thinkbaby Safe Sunscreen SPF 50+](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/thinkbaby/safe-sunscreen-spf-50/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — €37.19 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Dimethicone, Alcohol Denat, Butylene Glycol, Peg-8, Propylene Glycol, Hydroxyethylpiperazine Ethane Sulfonic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Phenoxyethanol, Acrylates C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Adenosine, Caprylyl Glycol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Sodium Hydroxide, Disodium Edta, Parfum
## 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/lancome/hydra-zen-gel-cream/for/dry-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/lancome/hydra-zen-gel-cream/for/dry-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/lancome/hydra-zen-gel-cream/for/dry-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/lancome/hydra-zen-gel-cream/for/dry-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/lancome/hydra-zen-gel-cream/for/dry-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/lancome/hydra-zen-gel-cream/for/dry-skin (this page)
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/lancome/hydra-zen-gel-cream/for/dry-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/lancome/hydra-zen-gel-cream/for/dry-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/lancome/hydra-zen-gel-cream/for/dry-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/lancome/hydra-zen-gel-cream/for/dry-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/lancome/hydra-zen-gel-cream/for/dry-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/lancome/hydra-zen-gel-cream/for/dry-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/lancome/hydra-zen-gel-cream/for/dry-skin