# Dr. Althea Barrier Cream for combination skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/dr-althea/barrier-cream/for/combination-skin

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

Brand: [Dr. Althea](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/brands/dr-althea)
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/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 weak match for combination skin; the moisturizers alongside fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate moisturizing for your combination skin, as Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil and Persea Gratissima Fruit Extract hydrate and enhance barrier resilience, though these ingredients are not specifically targeted for oily shine.
- The formula provides general skincare benefits, with ingredients like Camellia Sinensis Seed Oil offering emollient action that is supportive but not optimal for managing excess oil.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation for your combination skin due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/dr-althea/barrier-cream/for/oily-skin): Low
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/dr-althea/barrier-cream/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/dr-althea/barrier-cream/for/combination-skin): Low (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/dr-althea/barrier-cream/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/dr-althea/barrier-cream/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/dr-althea/barrier-cream/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/dr-althea/barrier-cream/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/dr-althea/barrier-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/dr-althea/barrier-cream/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Low

## Key ingredients

Paeonia Albiflora Flower Extract, Avocado Fruit Extract, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil

## What the research says

- Topical application of an argan oil NLC-based hydrogel formulation increased skin hydration in healthy volunteers over a one-month period through a synergistic effect of NLC occlusion and argan oil hydration. ([International Journal of Nanomedicine, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25143733/))
- Tea seed oil makeup remover successfully removed foundation and eyeliner without causing skin irritation in 20 human volunteers, with the 60% formulation showing superior foundation removal compared to other formulations and an olive oil benchmark. ([Annales Pharmaceutiques Francaises, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27988044/))
- Self-assembled cubic liquid crystalline nanoparticles loaded with paeonol reduced skin irritation compared to commercial ointment, serving as a promising transdermal delivery system. ([Medical Science Monitor, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26517086/))
- Partially purified paeoniflorin protected human keratinocytes and mouse skin from UV-induced DNA damage and reduced facial wrinkles in human volunteers. ([Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16676123/))
- Paeonia suffruticosa callus extract downregulated inflammatory factors, alleviated DNA damage, and increased total collagen content in in vitro and in vivo evaluations. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40079176/))
- Topical application of Paeonia lactiflora root extract and paeoniflorin significantly decreases melanin content by 23% to 30% in reconstructed pigmented human epidermis compared to vehicle control. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26826350/))
- A combination cream of stimu-tex AS and saccharide isomerate reduced erythema, increased skin capacitance, and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to placebo in 20 subjects after fractional CO2 laser procedure without causing serious adverse events. ([Lasers in Medical Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41134387/))
- Incorporating allantoin into argan oil enriched liposomes improved its accumulation in the dermis (~8.7μg/cm(2)) and permeation through the skin (~33μg/cm(2)) compared to conventional liposomes, water dispersion, and a commercial gel. ([International Journal of Pharmaceutics, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27063848/))

## What reviewers say

This cream is highly regarded for its ability to repair damaged skin barriers and calm irritation, making it a favorite for dry and sensitive skin types. Users frequently praise its deep, long-lasting hydration and its unique ointment-gel texture that absorbs well without greasiness. Some users with oily skin find it too rich, and a few have noted issues with the packaging and price point.

- Liked: Repairs skin barrier (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Pleasant texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Soothes irritation (often mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle formula (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Provides hydration (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Too heavy for oily (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Difficult packaging (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Expensive price point (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (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

### Why is Dr. Althea 345 Relief Cream a weak match for combination skin?

Dr. Althea Barrier Cream is a weak match for your combination skin because, while it provides moderate moisture and is very safe with no irritation risk, its oils and extracts are not specifically targeted for managing oily shine. A moisturizer for combination skin needs effective brightening and hydrating ingredients that reduce shine without excess heaviness, along with soothing agents and antioxidants.
Sources: [International Journal of Nanomedicine, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25143733/)

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

This cream is a weak match for your combination skin because its oils provide moderate moisture and softness without helping to manage oily shine. A product of this type needs brightening and moisturizing ingredients that reduce oily shine while providing hydration, along with soothing agents and antioxidants.
Sources: [International Journal of Nanomedicine, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25143733/)

### What does Peony Flower Extract do for combination skin?

Peony Flower Extract helps calm inflammation and reduces redness in combination skin while keeping it balanced and smooth. It may also provide antioxidant benefits that protect your skin from daily stress and irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41098144/), [International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40079176/)

### What does Avocado Fruit Extract do for combination skin?

Avocado Fruit Extract helps keep combination skin feeling soft and smooth by delivering nourishing plant compounds. It is unlikely to feel heavy, making it a gentle option for balancing both dry and oily areas.

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

This moisturizer goes as the last step of your morning routine before sunscreen, and after your evening treatment step at night. While it is safe and gentle, a moisturizer for combination skin also needs lightweight hydrators and ingredients that help manage oily shine without weighing your skin down.

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

You can use this cream with retinol by applying the retinol first and following with the moisturizer. This cream is unlikely to irritate your skin, but a moisturizer for combination skin also needs ingredients that help balance excess oil and shine.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/)

### How often should I use it?

You can use this moisturizer twice a day, in the morning and evening, as part of your routine. Daily application helps keep your skin soft and supported, though combination skin needs lightweight, oil-controlling ingredients rather than heavy oils to manage shine.
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 cream is unlikely to cause irritation for your combination skin since it lacks harsh ingredients, but it may feel too heavy for your oily areas. A moisturizer for this skin needs lighter hydrating ingredients that soften dry spots without adding extra shine or clogging pores.

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

Yes, you can safely use this cream around the eyes and on your body because its gentle formula has no harsh ingredients that cause irritation. Argan oil and avocado fruit extract help keep dry body skin soft and hydrated.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/)

### Is it fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-ha/for/combination-skin) — High fit — €13.02 at Amazon
- [Anua Heartleaf 78% Soothing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/anua/heartleaf-78-soothing-cream/for/combination-skin) — High fit — €25.29 at Amazon
- [ANUA Heartleaf 70% Soothing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/anua/heartleaf-70-soothing-cream/for/combination-skin) — High fit — €25.29 at Amazon

## Routine for combination skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [Dr. Althea Amino Acid Gentle Bubble Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/dr-althea/amino-acid-gentle-bubble-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €16.50 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €36.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Centella Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/skin1004/centella-cream/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €19.20 at Amazon
- SPF: [make p:rem UV Defense Me Blue Ray Sun Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/make-p-rem/uv-defense-me-blue-ray-sun-cream/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €33.70 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €11.83 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [Dr. Althea Amino Acid Gentle Bubble Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/dr-althea/amino-acid-gentle-bubble-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €16.50 at Amazon
- Cleansing Toner: [Medicube Zero Pore Pad 2.0](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/medicube/zero-pore-pad-2-0/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €16.99 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €86.59 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Centella Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/skin1004/centella-cream/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €19.20 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €11.83 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [Dr. Althea Amino Acid Gentle Bubble Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/dr-althea/amino-acid-gentle-bubble-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €16.50 at Amazon
- Cleansing Toner: [Medicube Zero Pore Pad 2.0](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/medicube/zero-pore-pad-2-0/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €16.99 at Amazon
- Cleansing Mask: [VT Cosmetics Cica Purifying Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/vt-cosmetics/cica-purifying-mask/for/combination-skin) — High fit — €15.72 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €36.00 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €86.59 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.nl: €12.98 (https://www.amazon.nl/dp/B0FXG9L86Q?tag=lovi-care-web-product085-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Lookfantastic: €18.75 (https://www.lookfantastic.nl/p/dr.-althea-147-barrier-cream-50ml/17008067/)
- Notino: €21.50 (https://www.notino.nl/dr-althea/147-barrier-cream-voedende-creme-voor-versterking-van-de-huidbarriere/p-16315836/)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 5 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Paeonia Albiflora Flower Extract, Avocado Fruit Extract, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, Camellia Sinensis Seed Oil, Tocopherol, Artemisia Princeps Leaf Extract, Persea Gratissima Fruit Extract Avocado Fruit Extract, Brassica Oleracea Acephala Leaf Extract
## 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/dr-althea/barrier-cream/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/dr-althea/barrier-cream/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/dr-althea/barrier-cream/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/dr-althea/barrier-cream/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/dr-althea/barrier-cream/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/dr-althea/barrier-cream/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/dr-althea/barrier-cream/for/combination-skin (this page)
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/dr-althea/barrier-cream/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/dr-althea/barrier-cream/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/dr-althea/barrier-cream/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/dr-althea/barrier-cream/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/dr-althea/barrier-cream/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/dr-althea/barrier-cream/for/combination-skin