# Kiehl's Ultra Facial Moisturizer for combination skin

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

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

Works for combination skin; other moisturizers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate moisturizing for your combination skin, as squalane and glycerin provide hydration and enhance barrier resilience without overwhelming oily areas.
- While it offers general skincare benefits, it lacks specialized ingredients to directly address your oily shine.
- The product is safe for your combination skin due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the presence of soothing components like squalane and glycerin.

## Fit by skin type

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

## Key ingredients

Squalane, Glycerin, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Oil, Avocado Oil, Butylene Glycol

## 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/))

## What reviewers say

Users find this moisturizer to be a rich, fragrance-free lotion that deeply hydrates, benefiting dry, combination, and sensitive skin, especially in winter. Many appreciate its ability to repair the skin barrier. However, a notable number of reviewers mention it can leave a greasy or sticky residue if not fully absorbed, making it less ideal for very oily or acne-prone skin.

- Liked: Deeply hydrating (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle and fragrance-free (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Greasy or sticky (often mentioned)
- Liked: Key ingredients (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Value and longevity (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Not for oily (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Expensive price (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Texture issues (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

### How well does Kiehl's Ultra Facial Moisturizer work for combination skin?

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Moisturizer provides moderate moisture for combination skin, helping hydrate without overwhelming oily areas. It is safe for this skin type, but lacks specialized ingredients to directly address oily shine. A product of this type needs brightening and balancing ingredients to control excess oil while keeping skin hydrated.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Squalane and glycerin make this moisturizer a good fit for combination skin because they provide hydration and strengthen your skin barrier without making oily areas feel heavy. To work even better for this skin type, a product of this type needs ingredients that target oily shine while offering safe, balanced hydration.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Squalane do for combination skin?

Squalane helps keep combination skin soft and smooth by locking in moisture without feeling heavy or greasy. It supports the skin barrier and provides lightweight hydration that works well for both dry and oily areas.
Sources: [Skin Health and Disease, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39355739/), [Journal of Nanobiotechnology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40001122/)

### What does Glycerin do for combination skin?

Glycerin helps keep combination skin soft and smooth by pulling moisture in and keeping it there. It improves hydration and supports your skin barrier, which is unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18510666/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

This moisturizer goes after your hydrating toner in the morning and after your treatment step in the evening, as it helps lock in hydration without overwhelming oily areas. Because this product offers only moderate moisturizing for combination skin, a product of this type needs lightweight hydrators like glycerin and squalane alongside oil-controlling ingredients like niacinamide or salicylic acid to properly balance both dry and oily zones.
Sources: [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32239984/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Yes, you can use this moisturizer with retinol by applying the retinol first and following it with the moisturizer. This routine helps reduce dryness and irritation while supporting your skin barrier, though combination skin also needs specialized ingredients to control oily shine.
Sources: [Cutis, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17121065/)

### How often should I use this moisturizer?

You can use this moisturizer daily in the morning and evening as part of your routine. Daily application helps maintain skin moisture and supports the skin barrier.
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 moisturizer clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for combination skin?

This moisturizer is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts on combination skin because it avoids harsh ingredients, though a product for this skin works best when it also includes targeted oil-control ingredients to help keep shine under control.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

Yes, you can use this moisturizer around the eyes and on the body because its ingredients suit thin skin and body skin well. It is generally safe and unlikely to cause irritation when applied to these areas.

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol. Myristyl 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/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $15.50 at Amazon
- [Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/drunk-elephant/protini-polypeptide-cream/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $49.95 at Amazon
- [The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/natural-moisturizing-factors-ha/for/combination-skin) — High fit — $12.50 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $28.08 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $25.60 at Amazon
- SPF: [CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/am-facial-moisturizing-lotion-spf-30/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — $14.97 at Amazon

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Squalane, Glycerin, Peg-100 Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate, Butylene Glycol, Triethanolamine, Phenoxyethanol, Sorbitan Oleate, Carbomer, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Stearic Acid, Alba Beeswax Cera, Myristyl Alcohol, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Sweet Almond Oil, Prunus Armeniaca Apricot Kernel Oil, Tocopherol, Persea Gratissima Avocado Oil
## 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-moisturizer/for/combination-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-moisturizer/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-moisturizer/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-moisturizer/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-moisturizer/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-moisturizer/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-moisturizer/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-moisturizer/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-moisturizer/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-moisturizer/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-moisturizer/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-moisturizer/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/kiehl-s/ultra-facial-moisturizer/for/combination-skin