# Kiehl's Facial Fuel Energizing Moisture Treatment for Men for dry skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/kiehl-s/facial-fuel-energizing-moisture-treatment-for-men/for/dry-skin

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

Brand: [Kiehl's](https://lovi.care/skincare/brands/kiehl-s)
Category: [Moisturizers and moisturizing serums](https://lovi.care/skincare/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.

A weak match for dry skin; the moisturizers alongside fit it better.

## Why this fit

- This product offers excellent moisturizing due to glycerin and panthenol, which hydrate and enhance barrier resilience for your dry skin, but it is moderately unsuitable due to alcohol denat and menthol potentially causing dryness.
- While it provides general skincare benefits, the lack of specialized humectants or emollients in significant concentrations means it won't fully address your dry or flaky skin concerns.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/kiehl-s/facial-fuel-energizing-moisture-treatment-for-men/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/kiehl-s/facial-fuel-energizing-moisture-treatment-for-men/for/dry-skin): Low (this page)
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/kiehl-s/facial-fuel-energizing-moisture-treatment-for-men/for/combination-skin): High
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/kiehl-s/facial-fuel-energizing-moisture-treatment-for-men/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/kiehl-s/facial-fuel-energizing-moisture-treatment-for-men/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/kiehl-s/facial-fuel-energizing-moisture-treatment-for-men/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/kiehl-s/facial-fuel-energizing-moisture-treatment-for-men/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/kiehl-s/facial-fuel-energizing-moisture-treatment-for-men/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/kiehl-s/facial-fuel-energizing-moisture-treatment-for-men/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Ascorbic Acid, Vitamin E, Chestnut Extract, Caffeine

## What the research says

- 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/))
- Topical application of 5% vitamin C cream significantly improved global clinical scores, increased skin microrelief density, and induced elastic tissue repair in photoaged skin compared to excipient control in healthy female volunteers. ([Experimental Dermatology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12823436/))
- Ascorbic acid 2-glucoside gel significantly reduced gingival melanin pigmentation after 4 weeks compared to placebo in 73 subjects with symmetric pigmentation. ([Journal of Periodontology, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19186973/))
- Topical application of VC-IP cream twice daily for 8 weeks reduces periorbital wrinkles in female subjects compared to a placebo cream. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34910367/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant serum containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented particulate matter-induced degradation of extracellular matrix components, inflammation, and oxidative stress in the skin of 15 female volunteers compared to untreated controls. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40642809/))
- Dermatological products containing d-alpha tocopheryl acetate showed non-comedogenic potential with less than a 50% increase in microcomedones in 12 healthy male subjects compared to octyl palmitate. ([Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34471722/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant mix containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented PM and UV-induced skin barrier perturbation, lipid peroxidation, inflammatory markers, MMP9 activation, and Type I collagen loss in 15 healthy females compared to untreated exposed skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590207/))
- Topical application of a cosmetic cleanser containing Diospyros kaki folium, Polygonum cuspidatum, and Castanea crenata var. dulcis extracts reduced skin oil content by 77.3%, pore number by 24.83%, and pore size by 71.43% in healthy volunteers compared to a control cleanser. ([Biomedical Reports, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26137233/))
- A Castanea sativa spiny burs extract-loaded topical emulsion improved skin hydration, skin elasticity, and reduced periorbital wrinkles in 30 days in healthy human volunteers compared to placebo without altering skin barrier function, sebum, pH, or erythema. ([Pharmaceutics, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34683927/))
- An antioxidant surfactant-free topical formulation containing Castanea sativa leaf extract demonstrated stable physical and microbiological properties, a release rate of 610 ± 70 µgh(-0.5), and a significant in vivo moisturizing effect lasting at least 4 hours. ([Drug Development and Industrial Pharmacy, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24188328/))
- A topical cosmetic slimming product containing tetrahydroxypropyl ethylenediamine, caffeine, carnitine, forskolin and retinol significantly reduced body circumferences and improved skin aspect compared with placebo in 78 women over 12 weeks. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21564138/))
- Topical sunscreen formulations containing caffeine combined with UV filters increased in vivo anti-UVB protection by approximately 25% and showed higher SPF values compared to caffeine-free sunscreen, while being well tolerated by the skin of healthy subjects. ([Frontiers in Physiology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31130869/))
- Caffeine gel combined with choline geranate showed high skin permeation capacity and superior clinical results in cellulite treatment compared to caffeine gel without ionic liquid. ([AAPS PharmSciTech, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33796955/))

## Why other moisturizers fit dry skin better

- Topically applied menthol produced a subjective cooling effect and increased transepidermal water loss in 18 subjects, but it did not affect thermal or pain thresholds, nor did it alleviate histamine-induced itch magnitude or duration compared to alcohol and control sites. ([Archives of Dermatological Research, 1996](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8738567/))
- 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/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this daily moisturizer is frequently praised for its fast-absorbing, lightweight, and non-greasy formula that provides a refreshing sensation, making it ideal for normal-to-combination skin. Some users find it insufficient for very dry skin and note that it offers basic hydration without advanced anti-aging benefits. A low number of reviews mention a strong menthol tingle or a premium price point.

- Liked: Fast absorbing (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Lightweight texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Refreshing sensation (often mentioned)
- Liked: Easy to use (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Lacks deep hydration (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Basic functionality (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Premium price point (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Strong menthol tingle (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

### Why is Kiehl's Facial Fuel a weak match for dry skin?

This product is a weak match for dry skin because it contains alcohol denat and menthol, which may cause dryness, alongside a lack of concentrated specialized humectants or emollients. To properly care for dry skin, a moisturizing treatment needs effective soothing ingredients, rich moisture-retaining agents, and emollients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin that provide deep hydration and skin barrier support without any risk of irritation.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/)

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

Alcohol denat and menthol make this cream a poor fit because they may cause dryness and irritation on dry skin. A moisturizing treatment for dry skin needs rich, nourishing ingredients and heavy moisturizers like hyaluronic acid and glycerin to provide deep hydration and protect the skin barrier.

### What does Vitamin C do for dry skin?

Vitamin C helps dry skin by boosting moisture and keeping the surface smooth and soft. It may also improve skin hydration and support the outer protective barrier over time.
Sources: [Skin Research and Technology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19159387/), [Experimental Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18503551/)

### What does Vitamin E do for dry skin?

Vitamin E helps dry skin feel softer and smoother by increasing moisture, keeping hydration locked in, and improving overall skin barrier function. It may also calm redness and reduce roughness over time with regular use.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38268219/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35274433/)

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

This moisturizing treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before your main moisturizer. Dry skin needs rich hydrators like heavy emollients and strong humectants to lock in moisture and fully repair flaky areas.
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, but apply your retinol first and follow with this moisturizing treatment. Because this product contains alcohol denat and menthol, it may cause dryness on dry skin, so a product of this type needs richer emollients and humectants like ceramides, shea butter, or hyaluronic acid to properly soothe and hydrate flaky areas.

### How often should I use this cream?

This cream is a weak match for your dry skin because alcohol denat and menthol may cause dryness, though it does contain hydrating glycerin and panthenol. To properly care for dry skin, a product of this type needs rich, specialized humectants and nourishing emollients without drying alcohols to fully soothe flakes and lock in moisture.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/)

### 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, though alcohol denat and menthol may cause dryness or irritation. To properly care for dry skin, a product needs rich emollients and heavy humectants that deeply hydrate and repair the skin barrier without drying ingredients.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/)

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

This cream is generally safe to apply on the body, but you should use caution near the eyes because the skin there is much thinner and more sensitive. It is unlikely to cause issues if your skin tolerates it well, but dry skin of this type needs richer moisturizers with stronger emollients and gentle humectants.
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, limonene, linalool, and citral) and drying alcohol (alcohol denat).

## Alternatives for dry skin

- [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Enrich Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-probio-cica-enrich-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — $22.00 at Amazon
- [Obagi Hydrate Luxe Moisture-Rich Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/obagi/hydrate-luxe/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — $85.00 at Amazon
- [The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-ha/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — $12.50 at Amazon

## Routine for dry skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-hydrating-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — $19.99 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Pyunkang Yul Calming Deep Moisture Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/pyunkang-yul/calming-deep-moisture-toner/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — $16.99 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Enrich Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-probio-cica-enrich-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — $22.00 at Amazon
- SPF: [d'Alba Piedmont Waterfull Mild Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/d-alba/piedmont-waterfull-mild-sunscreen/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — $15.99 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — $21.70 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-hydrating-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — $19.99 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — $39.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Enrich Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-probio-cica-enrich-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — $22.00 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — $21.70 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-hydrating-gentle-cleanser/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — $19.99 at Amazon
- Nourishing Mask: [MEDIHEAL Vita Essential Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/mediheal/vita-essential-mask/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — $22.00 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — $39.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Enrich Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-probio-cica-enrich-cream/for/dry-skin) — Superior fit — $22.00 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Cyclohexasiloxane, Alcohol Denat, Glycerin, Propanediol, Dimethicone, Zea Mays Germ Oil, Panthenol, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Triethanolamine, Phenoxyethanol, Glyceryl Linoleate, Polyperfluoromethylisopropyl Ether, Polyacrylamide, Dimethiconol, Glyceryl Oleate, Carbomer, Cetyl Alcohol, C13-14 Isoparaffin, Parfum, Acrylates C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Glycine Soja Oil, Soybean Oil, Caffeine, Tocopherol, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Chestnut Seed Extract, Benzophenone-4, Menthol, Limonene, Peg-100 Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate, Pentylene Glycol, Laureth-7, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Disodium Edta, Glyceryl Linolenate, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Juice, Juice, Lemon Juice, Linalool, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Benzoate, Citral, Potassium Sorbate, Ci 42090, Blue 1, Ci 14700, Red 4
## 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/facial-fuel-energizing-moisture-treatment-for-men/for/dry-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/kiehl-s/facial-fuel-energizing-moisture-treatment-for-men/for/dry-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/kiehl-s/facial-fuel-energizing-moisture-treatment-for-men/for/dry-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/kiehl-s/facial-fuel-energizing-moisture-treatment-for-men/for/dry-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/kiehl-s/facial-fuel-energizing-moisture-treatment-for-men/for/dry-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/kiehl-s/facial-fuel-energizing-moisture-treatment-for-men/for/dry-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/kiehl-s/facial-fuel-energizing-moisture-treatment-for-men/for/dry-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/kiehl-s/facial-fuel-energizing-moisture-treatment-for-men/for/dry-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/kiehl-s/facial-fuel-energizing-moisture-treatment-for-men/for/dry-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/kiehl-s/facial-fuel-energizing-moisture-treatment-for-men/for/dry-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/kiehl-s/facial-fuel-energizing-moisture-treatment-for-men/for/dry-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/kiehl-s/facial-fuel-energizing-moisture-treatment-for-men/for/dry-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/kiehl-s/facial-fuel-energizing-moisture-treatment-for-men/for/dry-skin